Gscene March 2012

GSCENE 3

CONTENTS

MAR 2012 GSCENE magazine

BIRTHDAY BOY

www.gscene.com @gscene GScene.Brighton

BRIAN SNOW & THOMAS GEARY BECAME CIVIL PARTNERS LAST MONTH AT BRIGHTON TOWN HALL

PUBLISHED BY James Ledward 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 NEWS Hector Montalbo DESIGN Michèle Allardyce

BAR REVENGE WHERE’S WALLY?

LETTERS & NEWS

FRONT COVER

6 Letters To The Editor 8 News

MODEL Greg Cru thesaint27@wp.pl PHOTOGRAPHY Dean Stockings www.deanstockings.co.uk

SCENE LISTINGS

CONTRIBUTORS AJ, Jaq Bayles, Jo Bourne, Nick Boston, Suchi Chatterjee, Nick Douglas, Craig Hanlon Smith, Adam Highway, Neil Masey, Enzo Marra, Hector Montalbo, Rick Moore, Netty, Charles Nyereyegona, Carl Oprey, Kate O’Riordan, Eric Page, Marcus Patrick, Steph Scott, Del Sharp, Keith Sharpe, Gay Socrates, Glen Stevens, Craig Storrie, Mick Sykes, Jordan Thomas, Vron, Roger Wheeler, Mike Wall, Morham White, Rachael Woodgate, Kate Wildblood

32 Brighton Listings 48 Solent & Bournemouth Listings

ARTS 56 59 60 61

Arts News Art Matters Classical Notes Film Reviews

PHOTOGRAPHERS

REGULARS

Phil Bailey, Michael Hootman, James Ledward, Jack Lynn, Sam Milford, Hector Montalbo, www.realbrighton.com www.brightonmoments.co.uk

© GSCENE 2012 All work appearing in Gscene Ltd is copyright. It is to be assumed that the copyright for material rests with the magazine unless otherwise stated on the page concerned.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic or other retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior knowledge and consent of the publishers.

The appearance of any person or any organisation in Gscene is not to be construed as an implication of the sexual orientation or political persuasion of such persons or organisations.

LGBT HISTORY MONTH EVENT IN FOLKESTONE: VINCE LAWS, I AM A POEM

FEATURES 22 HOT STONE TAIZEN BATH THERAPY James Ledward finds out what all the fuss is about

24 GEMS & EASTBOURNE RAINBOW Flying the flag for elderly LGBT people in Sussex

25 I STILL LOVE AMSTERDAM James Ledward explains why he still loves this fascinating city

26 OLÉ JEREZ Roger Wheeler enjoys one or two in the home of sherry

30 NORMAN COOK

28 29 30 54 62 63 63 64 65 65 66 67 67 68 69 69 70 71 72

Charlie’s Kitchen Dine with Morham Dance Music Shopping Craig’s Thoughts Allsorts Geek Scene Sharp Words Homely Homily Positive Voices Changing Attitude Vron’s Voice Sexualities Network Charlie Says Netty’s World Queerying Queenie MindOut Trans Matters Suchi’s World

LEGENDS

Queen Josephine talks to Norman about Big Beach Boutique 5

58 PINK FRINGE

INFORMATION

Mike Hootman chats to the Brighton based LGBT arts organisation

73 Services Directory 76 Classifieds 78 Advertisers’ Map

72 YES! TO GAY MARRIAGE Says Stephanie Powell, Green Councillor and LGBT campaigner

6 GSCENE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR HAVE YOUR SAY!

LEGENDS I'm writing about our treatment at Legends club. We arrived as several groups from a restaurant in Hove after celebrating my partner’s 30th birthday.

After buying bottles of champagne from the bar and sharing them with friends I heard my friend Sarah had been refused entry. I went outside to see what was going on and spoke to her from the steps. Legends’ security staff approached me. They told me that I was not permitted to speak to my friend because she had been refused entry. I told them she had travelled from the other side of Hove in a taxi to be with us. She was not drunk, not loud or rude. She works for Brighton & Hove Council and is a very well behaved professional person. I believe the real reason was she had come in fancy dress and is straight! I was trying to arrange to meet her at a different venue. I was then told that I was not welcome to return to the club simply for talking to her! All I was doing was arranging an alternative for us all to be together in a different venue even though we didn't want to leave. I had just bought a bottle of Moet, which I was unable to finish, and ended up leaving on the bar! I was merely talking to someone, what is the crime in that?

As we left the security radioed around to the Bulldog as we said that's where we were going to, portraying us as troublemakers.

This is nothing more than spiteful and totally unnecessary. The doormen there were shocked that it was our group, as they know me well. We all were let in and had a great night.

I wrote a letter to Legends’ management and was told that they were satisfied their security team were doing their jobs

properly! I am far from satisfied.

I think they are rude mannered and talk to people like dirt. This kind of thing has long-term effects on business as people boycott venues for many years and tell their friends to also. I won’t be going there again until they have a polite friendly security team in place.

Julius Rost, Brighton

LEGENDS’ RESPONSE Having viewed the recorded security footage of the incident, the woman was behaving in an obnoxious manner therefore the door staff were right to exclude entry to the venue.

It should be remembered that the door staff are completely sober, and as the time of the incident was 2.20am they were probably dealing with someone who had already been drinking upwards of three hours. Having assessed the situation sober, the doors staff made a decision which clearly reflects their training and ability to acknowledge when someone is not suitable to come into the venue.

Mr Rost was not told to leave the premises, he stated that unless we let this woman in, he and his party would leave the venue. We cannot and do not operate an open door policy because under the law we have a duty of care to make sure that our venue is a safe place for customers to enjoy themselves.

Mr Rost had already contacted one of my managers who explained our door policy to him.

Unhappy with the answer he received he said that he would write to me personally, had he done so I would have probably suggested meeting up with him in person to discuss the situation.

In the event he didn’t contact me and decided to get his point

across by other means.

This means took the form of a blog from Mr Rost urging people to boycott Legends until the issues had been addressed and resolved, and with encouragement from other parties in the blog whipped up a hate campaign against Legends, the staff and myself. Indeed one vile woman started to make libellous, defamatory and absolutely disgusting comments against me personally and my family. Fifteen plus posts later one has to assume she must be obsessed with the venue and me personally, she also claims that she is a licensee and knows the law!

Some of the other bloggers objected to the fact that the door staff informed them that Legends is a gay venue, which is strange as it is a gay venue and has been for over twenty years.

There is a valid reason as to why our door staff do this, over the weekend Legends can have a through put of 1,800 to 2,000 people, so the door staff cannot be expected to recognise everyone. For example if a person reacts negatively after being informed that Legends is a gay venue then they would be excluded. From my thirty years of experience of being a licensee and running gay venues, if a person is let in unchallenged and finds that they are in the wrong venue they can become abusive or violent towards our customers.

Having invested £3.5 million in creating the present setup at Legends, I do not intent to allow it to be ruined by a minority of badly behaved people. Even though my staff and I strive to make Legends a comfortable, clean and safe place to visit, it is however unfortunately not possible to please everyone, but we are fortunate that in Brighton we have a diverse gay scene which caters for most people.

In conclusion, I do hope that the vile ranting woman, she knows who she is, sticks to her promise of avoiding Legends, then it’s bound to make it a better place for everyone.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supports Legends; we are continually trying to make your venue a safe and enjoyable place.

Tony Chapman, Legends

SHAME ON YOU ALL! Over the last twenty years I have worked at different times on Brighton Pride as co-chair, committee member and fund raiser. It was with horror I read about the present situation, Pride finds itself in. I know many of the people past and present who gave 100% of their time to making Brighton Pride the best Pride in the UK. This is all a slap in the face for them and for the LGBT organisations Pride should be raising money for.

Since 2009 the City Council have been kept informed of the concerns many had about the activities of some at Pride in Brighton & Hove. This event has been run by a bunch of nit wits with NO experience of how to stage such an event of this magnitude.

There has been a lack of communication between paid workers, trustees, Brighton & Hove Council and the community. All concerned in this fiasco and mismanagement should be brought to book. An investigation should be instigated forthwith which includes Prides accountants and if the police need to be called in, so be it. We need answers and quick.

A bunch of idiots have effectively destroyed an event with an international reputation, aided and abetted too many people who should have know better. Shame on you all!

Brian Ralfe, Brighton

NAME AND SHAME I am appalled at the response you ran from Brighton & Hove City Council regarding the plight of the homeless young man (Gscene February 2012). When a organisation commits to doing an investigation surely they should talk to all parties? On the basis of your reporting, that clearly did not happen. By running this response you have allowed the 'victim' to continue to be 'victimised' and effectively called a liar by the councillor.

If, as part of any investigation the council did not speak to the person that witnessed what was said to the 'victim', in this case an independent advocate, Councillor Wakefield's response whether written by herself or a housing officer, is shoddy and completely unacceptable.

GSCENE 7

HELP YOURSELF

OUT OF THE CLOSET HASTINGS

I was interested to read the homeless letter in December Gscene and the council response last month. I came to Brighton in the 1960s to be among my own people. It was the start of the hippy and flower people time, there were loads of people sleeping on the beach, so I bought a sleeping bag and joined them. I soon found I could sell my little body along the seafront. I met a lovely Irish boy who was doing the same, they called us rent boys, and we soon had enough money to rent a room, eventually we both got proper jobs. It never occurred to us to go to the council.

I'm in my 70s now. I had a bad time as a child but it got better.

Now I've got a council flat and I'm very happy. My advice to the homeless man is do it yourself, don't expect any help from anyone, just get on with it.

Best wishes to you and thanks for a great magazine.

Ashley Page, Brighton

LGBT HISTORY EVENT I'm writing to say how fantastic the Out Of The Closet, LGBT history month was last month.

The event held at the Stade Hall in Hastings, was brilliantly organised by Hastings Rother Rainbow Alliance and attended by many to hear moving accounts of local LGBT history.

It was a reminder that the

freedom and equality enjoyed by many, but not all, has been fought for by brave and admirable people before them.

And locally this couldn't be summed up better than by Alan Turing who grew up in Hastings, was the father of computer science and created the enigma code helping us to win the second World War, yet was persecuted and criminalised for being a homosexual man. It was a celebration of how far the LGBT movement has come, but also how much work there is left to do; speaking with people at the event, important work is ongoing to stamp out homophobic bullying in our schools, our sports pitches and our communities.

Sarah Owen, Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Hastings & Rye www.sarahowen.org.uk

HOW GAY IS YOUR VILLAGE? The phrase ‘ Kemptown Village’it’s not a phrase that I have ever found in the local history books.

Well not in the older ones anyway. My own thoughts are that it may be a phrase to use when adding value to a property - your estate agent might anyway. Living in Brighton for most of my 42 years, with some brief spells away, every time I return I feel like I’m coming back to somewhere inviting. I feel I’m coming back to somewhere in which I feel safe.

Kemptown epitomises this. I remember once I wrote about how even St James’ Street was a place where all stratums of society seemed happy with their lot, comfortable with each other.

Of course, such safety is not always in the physical realm - I would be a fool to suggest that.

The safety I speak about is one of cultural snugness.

Most Sunday mornings I take a walk from my tiny St Luke’s abode to St James’ Street. I’m not sure how this perennial ritual came about, but it somehow makes me feel complete. I like to pop into a well-known coffee house, sometimes to meet friends, other times on my own. The place gives me a sense of community even if I don’t speak to anyone. I can’t think of many environments which evolve a greater sense of liberal belonging.

St James’ Street generally has

much comfort in its diversity. A place where the drunk looks the priest in the eye, where the most disaffected feel secure with their lot. Dirty and dishevelled maybe, but full of dimensions, people of many dimensions. Hardly a canvass of inhabitants who are cast as a stereotypical, uniform image of inherited conditioning.

More colourful, uncomfortably comfortable.

There are few places in this country, such as Brighton, which can truly say that dwelling in them, and most attracted to them, are so many people who have such little interest in subscribing to urban conditioning, that great facilitator of the creative void, but every interest in exposing themselves to the experience of ‘the here and now’ - an experience best enjoyed without pre-conception or inherited judgement. Many seem to find their way to Kemptown, and as one of the indigenous breed it fills me with great pride and not the disdain of some.

Kemptown couldn’t be anywhere else. It is that much yearned for expression of identity. Unique.

Kemptown is also gay, yes, but in that all encompassing interpretation of the word.

I always think that how gay your village is determines how free your village is. This is not to suggest that every free thinker needs to move to Hebden Bridge to live with that blessed colony of ladies who like ladies, or start looking at the prices of downtown rentals in San Francisco, just to experience creative, liberated culture.

When so many people with cultural dreams, and so many potential victims of every ism and phobia thrive in one place, even though you can never feel totally safe in the physical realm, your mind can wander into its most creative and uninhibited quarter and your mouth and hands can engage with its output. Like the liberated construct you always wanted to be…

So how gay is your village?

IKD Fennell

SMALL SPLASH I think Michael Hootman did a little too much to insult 'A Bigger Splash' and one of our most important gay artists and pioneers of gay equality, David Hockney. His review totally ignores the important point that David’s work did much to encourage a healthy Californian attitude towards gay equality at a time when the modern gay liberation movement was doing much to promote equality.

His paintings are very important in this context as a historical record of the liberation he achieved from Pop Art and the Californian lifestyle which gives us the title A Bigger Splash.

DAVID HOCKNEY

Too often with housing issues, the council allows ‘perpetrators’ to remain in their homes, while 'victims' are moved on.

This should not be allowed to continue and housing officers should not be allowed to hide behind the corporate protection offered by the council. Name and shame them and make sure that vulnerable young people are never treated this way again.

John Bishop, Portslade

A Bigger Splash of colour, male beauty and homo eroticism, which was a total liberation in art terms at the time and is certainly so today with so much pride work being based round the pool and the erotic beauty of the male body. Even if this was alienating as the film suggests, Hockney is a great pioneer and important artist.

Michael Brown Michael Hootman responds: I'd agree with much of what Michael Brown says: Hockney is an important artist whose work did much to promote gay equality.

However, I wasn't reviewing the artist, or his contribution to society, but a film made about him. To give a counter example: Tim Burton's Ed Wood, a biopic about the man usually considered the world's worst director, is a truly great film. It has a nearperfect script, some of Hollywood's finest character acting and is one of the most weirdly feel-good films ever made.

If you accept you can make a great film about a terrible artist, I think it stands to reason you can make a lousy film about a great artist.

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

PRIDE REVEAL DEBTS OF OVER £200,000 DAILY NEWS UPDATES ON

The bad news was delivered to the City Council last month, by a Trustee of Pride in Brighton and Hove, who resigned after delivering the news.

Papers seen by Gscene Magazine reveal Pride has outstanding creditors of at least £184,000 and an outstanding loan from Brighton & Hove Council for £20,000, which brings their total debts to over £200,000.

It now appears from paperwork seen by Gscene that at that same meeting, when the decision was made to sideline the Reclaim Pride Community Bid, a bid which guaranteed £30,000 would be paid to local LGBT groups and charities, Pride in Brighton & Hove had debts of at least £68,000 rolled over from the previous year.

Pride (South East) Ltd's last set of accounts lodged with Companies House are dated October 31, 2010 and appeared 140 days late on the Charity Commission website.

On October 31, 2010, the last day of the accounting year, for Pride (South East) Ltd, their computer records show a credit note entry from a major creditor for £68,714.00.

On November 1, 2010, the first day of the new tax year, Pride (South East) Ltd computer records register a new invoice entry from the same creditor for £68,714.

In a briefing paper given to the Council, Pride indicated that previous positive information given to the Council, post Pride 2011, regarding Pride's trading position, were given in good faith and had been prepared from information provided by Pride's treasurer. The named treasurer has since told Gscene he resigned as treasurer before Pride 2011 and as a Trustee at the last Pride AGM in September 2011.

At a meeting in February 2011, chaired by the then Leader of The Council, to discuss rival bids to stage Pride in 2011 and attended by the leaders of all the political parties, senior council officers responsible for supporting the delivery of the event for the city, the Chair of Pride, the paid worker of Pride, representatives from the HIV charity Lunch Positive, the Women's Performance Tent organisers and Gscene editor James Ledward, the Council were asked by James Ledward if they had seen Pride's 'management accounts'. Senior officials present indicated they had. Three Pride trustees have now confirmed to Gscene they have never seen any management accounts, because non were kept.

At the meeting, James Ledward was asked if he could support Pride more through the pages of Gscene. He responded: “I will give Pride as much support as they need if I can see their accounts. It would be inappropriate for me to indicate to the community that Pride is on a firm financial footing, allowing them to run up debts with suppliers, without first being reassured that they are not throwing a party they cannot pay for.”

The Chair of Pride would not agree to Prides 'management accounts' being shown to Gscene, indicating they included “confidential information”.

This transaction effectively hid a loss in Pride (South East) Ltd’s 2010 accounts, allowing the charity to trade into 2011, running up further debts of £184,000 to a variety of creditors including the charities St John Ambulance, Same Sky and it has now emerged Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard who have been struggling for survival these last few months.

A spokesperson for Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “Pride is an important event for the city, not only for residents and visitors but also our economy. While Pride is not a council run event, we work closely with the police, the fire brigade, residents and local businesses to ensure this event is successful and safe. The changes that were made last year, in particular the fencing and ticketing and the different arrangements around the clean up, were in response to the calls from the police and fire brigade as well as our communities and residents. We understand Pride (South East) Ltd is in a difficult position financially which is extremely regrettable but it’s for the trustees to make their decision on a course of action. We are committed to continuing to work with the community and our partners to ensure the city continues to celebrate its unique equality and diversity through Pride.”

Cllr Geoffrey Theobald, leader of the Conservative group said: “Pride is a vitally important event for Brighton & Hove and I very much want to see it thrive and flourish in the future. In this respect, their current financial difficulties are both very sad and very worrying. Pride is an independently run community event and we have always taken the view that it would not be appropriate for the Council to interfere unduly in its running. However, as Leader of the Conservative Group, I am more than happy to offer any assistance I can to enable Pride to continue as one of the city’s key festivals.”

Cllr.Gill Mitchell, leader of the Labour and Co-operative group said: “The scale of these debts is very worrying. Pride is so important to the city and I hope that a viable proposal can still come forward that the council can support to enable Pride in take place this year.”

The last statement issued by Pride, dated February 7 said: “The Trustees recognise the anxiety the local community has regarding the future status of Pride and they have been working hard to reach a clarified position which could then be explained. This work has been hindered by the unhelpful release of documents which misrepresent Pride’s position by individuals no longer involved. In particular a draft statement has been published online, although this was never released by Pride and confuses the present situation. While the charity believes in transparency with all stakeholders, including the community, it is necessary to maintain a level of confidentiality when negotiating with suppliers and other partners. Work continues this week and details will be published once meetings have been completed."

RUSSELL ALLEN

Pride (South East) Ltd, the trading arm of Pride in Brighton & Hove, has combined debts of over £200,000. Despite an announcement in August 2011 that £4,000 had been raised for charity, no money has been distributed to local LGBT groups.

CLLR GILL MITCHELL

WWW.GSCENE.COM

CLLR GEOFFREYTHEOBOLD

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At the moment Brighton & Hove Council are considering two bids to stage Pride in 2012. The decision as to who will partner the Council and stage a Pride in 2012 will be made by former Pride Trustee, Councillor Geoffrey Bowden at a cabinet meeting on March 6, when he will announce who he has granted landlords consent to use Preston Park.

PRIDE SOUTH EAST CREDITORS INCLUDE Fisher Productions Ltd £129,106.08 Select Security & Stewarding £19,285.47 St John Ambulance £11,732.80 Berry Recruitment £7,089.61 Same Sky Charity £6,000.00 C3 Productions Ltd £2,371.50 PRS Performing Rights Society £2,027.72 Lion Security £1,629.00 Baron Management Ltd £1,232.84 TR Consultants £1,092.90 Brighton & Hove City Council £945.74 Firststar Limited £600.00 Viking Direct £474.00 Independent Print Ltd £400.00 Brighton & Hove City Cabs £192.00 JCF Contractors £150.00 Robertson Alarms Round Ltd £71.29 Sussex Alarms Limited £66.00 David de Ath £27.00 Brighton Paper Round £22.68 Dave Bettelley £10.00 __________ £184,527.06 Brighton LGBT Switchboard are also owed an unspecified amount in unpaid rent and legal fees.

DAILY NEWS UPDATES ON

Leader of the council, Cllr Bill Randall and Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett from Sussex Police will attend the next public meeting of the LGBT Community Safety Forum on Wednesday, March 23, at the Queens Hotel, at 7pm. Chris Cooke, Chair of the Forum, said: "It's great to have the support of both the Council and Sussex Police from the outset as we move forward with this new community led forum.”

In addition to the guest speakers, there will be a discussion on possible projects the community wishes the forum to undertake, as well as an opportunity in an ‘open session’ for the public to ask any questions they may have.

Count Me In Too researcher Dr Kath Brown is also attending to discuss how to move forwarded the community safety element from the Count Me In Too research, and find a mechanism for finding a base line indicator to measure the levels of trust and confidence between the LGBT community, Brighton & Hove City Council and Sussex Police. The council and police have agreed to fund this piece of work. Chris Cooke commented: "This new survey is exactly the type of project the Community Safety Forum should be commissioning, and I am pleased that the council and the police have given the group their backing.”

For any queries regarding the Community Safety Forum Chris can be contacted on: chrismartyncooke@yahoo.co.uk

BEAR PATROL RAISE OVER £17K FOR SUSSEX BEACON APPEAL

Social networking group, The Bear Patrol has raised a grand total of £17,002.29 from all their fundraising work throughout 2011 for The Sussex Beacon.

Kat Williams, Sussex Beacon CEO presented members and friends of The Bear Patrol with a special certificate in recognition of their fantastic achievement at a reception at The Beacon last month.

Juley Ayres, Fundraising & Communications Manager, said: “The Bear Patrol are a great example of how people can join together and find fun, sociable and creative ways of raising funds as well as supporting each other as friends. We are so grateful for their support. To raise this sum is really an incredible achievement.”

The Bear Patrol was founded by Danny Dwyer who created the group in order to bring people together and to enable them to meet friends in a happy environment free from attitude and stigma. The group share their social skills, contacts and bags of enthusiasm to raise funds for The Sussex Beacon.

Members of The Bear Patrol joined ‘Team Beacon’ to run the Brighton half Marathon to raise funds for The Sussex Beacon last month.

BON VOYAGE TO SIMON AT SUSSEX BEACON SHOP

Chris Cooke, (left), head of finance and fundraising at the Sussex Beacon wishes Simon Garland, retail manager at the Sussex Beacon shops, 'bon voyage' as he leaves the Beacon to enjoy a period of travel abroad. Chris who is pictured with Beacon volunteer, Lee Robson (right) and Simon (centre) said: "Simon has been extremely successful in running the two Beacon shops for the last three years and will be sorely missed."

WWW.GSCENE.COM AN LGBT FORUM FOR EASTBOURNE

BourneOut, the forum for Eastbourne’s LGBT community, was launched in June 2009. It came about through partnership working between Eastbourne Borough Council, Terrence Higgins Trust and local LGBT community people themselves and gives LGBT people a voice in the town.

The aim of the group is to break down any barriers that may exist, unite the diverse LGBT communities living in Eastbourne and to provide a voice and a platform for the community to promote, challenge, encourage, influence and shape equal opportunities.

Since its launch BourneOut has grown in significance and group members now have a voice at many decision making tables including Eastbourne Borough Council’s and Sussex Police.

Membership is also on the increase with over 100 members sharing their views and taking part in BourneOut activities and events.

Committee members recently staged a Literary Evening at Eastbourne Library during LGBT History month and will be presenting at Fiesta, a community fun weekend that kicks off with Eastbourne's Carnival on June 2.

More details of the activities BourneOut is involved in view: www.BourneOut.org.uk or email info@bourneout.org.uk or call 07708 258674 (text and answer service only).

BRIGHTON SAUNA NOW LICENSED

The Brighton Sauna at 75 Grand Parade are now fully licensed from 11am-1am on Sunday to Thursday and till 2am on Friday and Saturday.

Despite opposition from the police the licensing committee decided to grant a license for the sauna to sell alcohol immediately.

PETER TATCHELL TO SPEAK IN HOVE CHURCH ABOUT GAY MARRIAGE

Changing Attitude Sussex, an organisation which campaigns for LGBT inclusion in the Anglican church, is holding a public meeting on Equal Marriage at which veteran human rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell will be the keynote speaker. The event will coincide with the launch of the government's consultation on civil marriage for same-sex couples and takes place on Monday, March 26 at 8pm at All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, BN3 3QE. Dr Keith Sharpe, Chair of Changing Attitude Sussex, commented: “Some in the Church of England have already expressed their opposition to gay marriage. The Archbishop of York has said that Prime Minister David Cameron would be acting as a ‘dictator’ if he went ahead with plans to open up civil marriage to gay couples. He claims that it is not for the state to define or redefine marriage.

"For many in the gay community, however, his remarks about dictators are ill-chosen, insulting and offensive. There is not a single instance of a dictator legalising gay marriage.

There are many examples of dictators persecuting, torturing and executing gay people.

"Peter Tatchell has argued that the Archbishop is the real dictator, wanting to impose his personal opposition to gay marriage on a society that rejects Christian homophobic discrimination, and in which surveys show the vast majority of people support equality and the right of same-sex couples to get married. He believes that John Sentamu’s assertions about the ‘tradition and history of marriage’ being only between a man and a woman are the same as the kind of arguments used in the past to justify slavery, colonialism and the denial of votes to women.

"This is a timely and important meeting for the people of Sussex. It promises to be an exciting and stimulating event, and we anticipate a large turnout. There is no entry charge and everybody is welcome.”

PETER TATCHELL

CHRIS COOKE

POLICE AND COUNCIL CHIEF TO ATTEND FIRST PUBLIC MEETING OF LGBT SAFETY FORUM

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Equal Marriage public meeting, Monday, March 26 at 8pm at All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, BN3 3QE. More info: www.changingattitudesussex.com

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DAILY NEWS UPDATES ON

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ARE YOU THE VICTIM OF LGBT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND NOT BEING HEARD?

CATH MATTOS, BARRY NELSON AND JUSTIN MANNING

Crime-fighting charity Sussex Crimestoppers, together with Sussex Police, West Sussex County Council and Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, launched a campaign on Valentine’s Day at the AMEX stadium which aims to increase anonymous third party information relating to incidents of domestic violence in Sussex. Following guidance from the Association of Chief Police Officers, the local charity has created an innovative campaign designed to reach out to friends, neighbours and colleagues of victims of domestic violence to encourage these third parties to contact Crimestoppers anonymously if they suspect domestic violence is occurring.

Whilst domestic abuse in heterosexual relationships has received public attention for some years, domestic abuse within same-sex relationships has only recently been brought to public attention. Broken Rainbow UK, is the only national LGBT domestic violence charity working to raise awareness and support LGBT people experiencing domestic violence. Lesbians and gay men, who have experienced prejudice in a homophobic society, are less likely to report domestic abuse to the police. In 2003, a national survey estimated that one in four people in same-sex relationships experienced domestic abuse. Research by Broken Rainbow, Spectrum London and others, has shown that between 34-80% trans people have experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives. The campaign consists of radio appeals and promotional storyboards highlighting anonymous third party reporting.

Kathy Burke, Sussex Crimestoppers’ Chair, said: “On Valentine’s Day we normally think about our loved ones. This year we are asking you to think about those people, men and women, who are physically and mentally abused by someone they love and trust, something which is hard for most people to imagine.

We also need to consider the impact of domestic violence on the children living within these families. Domestic violence is one of the most harrowing crimes and these perpetrators must be brought to justice. If you know of anyone that is being abused or you know who the perpetrator of the abuse is, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or give information online at www.crimestoppersuk.org, to pass on any information you may have.”

A spokesperson for Sussex Police, said: “Due to changes in legislation, third party information can help build prosecution cases. If people feel unable to call the police directly to report abuse then by calling Crimestoppers they can do so without being asked their name. Remember, you still should call 999 in an emergency.”

If you have information on domestic violence, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or give information online at: www.crimestoppers-uk.org Broken Rainbow UK run a national LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline on: 0300 999 5428 (LGBT). Open Monday & Thursday 2–8pm; Tuesday & Wednesday 10am–5pm. Trans specific session every Tuesday from 1-5pm.

Email: help@broken-rainbow.org.uk; view: www.broken-rainbow.org.uk

DINE WITH THE STARS RAISES £2010 FOR SUSSEX BEACON

Justin Manning and Barry Nelson from the Queens Hotel hand over a cheque for £2010 to Cath Mattos from the Sussex Beacon to help towards their £150,000 appeal to keep their In Patient Unit open. The money was raised at a Dine with the Stars dinner staged last November at the Queens Hotel on Brighton seafront. Entertainment was provided by Dave Lynn, Lola Lasagne, Jamie Watson, Jennie Castelle, Sally Vate, Lady James, Miss Jason and hosted by Davina Sparkle and Pooh la May.

LGBT CARERS LUNCH AT THE CARERS CENTER

Are you lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender? Do you look after a partner, relative or friend who is ill or has a disability?

The Carers Centre are holding an LGBT Carers Lunch on Wednesday, March 28 from noon–2pm at Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, Dorset Gardens, Brighton, so carers can meet other LGBT carers in a friendly environment and enjoy a wonderful free three course lunch.

To attend the lunch you need to book a place by calling The Carers Centre on: 01273 746222 or email them on: info@thecarerscentre.org For more information on The Carers Centre view: www.thecarerscentre.org

PEER ACTION NEED VOLUNTEERS

Are you up for a challenge? If so help Peer Action to help you. Peer Action is looking for very motivated people living with or affected by HIV to become Peer Leaders. Peer Action is a community group which grew from the concerns of people living with HIV in Brighton & Hove. They welcome everyone living with or affected by HIV. Their aim is to encourage peers to take control of social activities and services to fit the needs of the community. This is especially important to those living longterm with HIV, reaching middle age and growing older.

If you want a challenge, working as part of a dedicated and passionate team get in touch now for an information pack and application form.

You know what strengths you have, so use your energy and ideas to inspire others feeling disengaged, isolated or just bored with the community and their lifestyle. Peer Action works in partnership with other community groups from time to time helping to make a difference to peoples’ lives.

Contact them via their website: www.peeraction.co.uk or email peeraction@yahoo.co.uk

TURNER PAINTING

A Turner painting of Brighton will go on public display for the first time in more than a century after being bought by the city's Royal Pavilion & Museums. The Royal Pavilion & Museums service, part of Brighton & Hove City Council, successfully bid for the watercolour, The Chain Pier at Brighton, at an auction at Christie's in New York. The painting was purchased for $352,500 (£225,000).

A significant grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) helped secure the picture for the city and the nation; along with an award from the Art Fund, the national fundraising charity for art, and a donation from the Royal Pavilion & Museums Foundation, a registered charity that raises funds to support the Pavilion & Museums.

The watercolour, believed to have been painted in 1824/5, has been in private hands and unseen by the public for more than 100 years. It will go on show at the Royal Pavilion soon after it arrives in the city and will be the star attraction of a new exhibition at the palace next year. The painting depicts Brighton from the sea, with the newly constructed chain pier on the right of the picture and the Royal Pavilion at the centre.

Cllr Geoffrey Bowden, Brighton & Hove City Council's cabinet member for Culture, Recreation & Tourism, said: “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to add a work of this significance to our public collections, and to present a piece of our nation's heritage to the city it depicts so well. Our Pavilion and Museums staff have worked hard to secure funding to buy this important picture at no cost to the council, and we’re extremely grateful to members of the public who have contributed through the Royal Pavilion & Museums Foundation, and to the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Art Fund for their generous grants, which have made this purchase possible.”

Jenny Lund, Curator of Fine Art at the Royal Pavilion & Museums, said: “The watercolour The Chain Pier, Brighton will be a tremendous asset for the Royal Pavilion & Museums and its fine art collection. It will highlight the international importance of the collection as it will strengthen our current holdings of artworks relating to the cultural history of the Pavilion and the historical development of Brighton & Hove. Its whereabouts were unknown for so long, and we didn’t want it to disappear into obscurity again."

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HONEYBEES THE MUSICAL DONATES £2,088 TO ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT

Honeybees - The Musical raised £2,088 for Allsorts Youth Project in Brighton. The show, with music and lyrics by Jean Fessey, and script by Cat Walker and Rebecca Duffy, tells of the dramas and dreams of the Brighton Honeybees Hockey team (loosely based on the real-life Brighton Honeybees hockey team!). It was performed to a full house for two nights in December at the Sallis Benney Theatre, and involved a number of young people from Allsorts in the production.

Jess Wood MBE, project director, said: “Our huge thanks to the Honeybees for putting on a wonderful event and raising such a huge sum of money (£2088!) for Allsorts Youth Project. This donation will enable us to fund special arts projects for LGBTU young people so that we can continue to support young people to use the arts to express themselves.”

The show was put on entirely by talented volunteers from the LGBT community in Brighton & Hove. Co-writer Rebecca Duffy said; “We’re delighted to support Allsorts. Thanks to all who bought tickets to see the show, and to the Chris Field Fund and the University of Brighton’s Community Partnership Project for their support.”

Stars from Honeybees - The Musical will be appearing as part of Diversity Role Models Benefit at the Komedia, Thurs 5 April, along with a fantastic line-up including the Short & Girlie Show and Hannah Brackenbury – don’t miss it!

Diversity Role Models Benefit: facebook.com/events/319069704798531; Allsorts Youth Project: www.allsortsyouth.org.uk; more info: honeybeestm@hotmail.co.uk

JESUS BIDS FAREWELL TO BRIGHTON

Jesus Devere arrived in England 42 years ago from the Philippines to train and work as a health professional in the NHS. Now retired he has decided to return home to the Philippines with his partner Andy Lundon to spend his retirement.

Friends joined the pair at a party organised upstairs at the Bulldog by Paul the manager to wish them good luck in the future and bid farewell to one of the Bulldog’s longest and most loyal customers. Entertainment was provided by Dave Lynn. Jesus said: “I am looking forward to going home to my country of birth, but will never forget the friends I have made in Brighton and the the happy times I have spent in the Bulldog.”

NEW LGBT RADIO SHOW

Scene and Heard is a new radio show coming to the internet-based Brighton & Hove Community Radio.

The aim of the show is to give LGBT people a chance to make radio programmes for themselves, talk about and profile events, issues, and promote the latest news from the Brighton LGBT scene. People are invited to submit their own program ideas.

No experience is required, just passion and reliability. The intention is to create opportunities and open doors for LGBT people to experience radio broadcasting over the internet, as well as using social media to market their work.

Anyone who wishes to take part need simply email Ian at office@bhcr.org.uk

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY EVENT

The Iambic Arts Theatre are holding an International Women's Day celebration and extravaganza on Thursday March 8 at 8pm to support the Brighton Women's Centre. There will be fabulous acts including women musicians, comediennes, poets, singers, performers and new talent never before seen in Brighton! Expect quality poetry, the ukelele ensemble, stand up comedy, gorgeous music and singing, as well as a mini excerpt for your pleasure from Vita and Virginia.There will be open mic slots and a chance to preview new work and surprise events!

The Iambic Arts Theatre is in Regent Street, behind Infinity Foods.

Entry £5 and £3. For more info see: www.womenscentre.org.uk and www.iambicarts.com/

MINDOUT RECEIVE COUNCIL GRANT

MindOUT, the LGBT mental health organisation have received a £3,000 grant from Brighton & Hove Council to help towards their work. On Friday March 9, they are staging a fundraising gala at the A-Bar on Brighton seafront starting at 7pm. Cat Harding will be compering, the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus will be singing and there will be surprise guests during the evening. MindOUT have 25 runners raising money for them in the 2012 Brighton Marathon. If you want to sponsor any of them view: www.everydayhero.co.uk/min dout_7

VAL’S SURPRISE 70TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

Val Brown, newsletter editor of Lesbian Link was given a surprise birthday party at the Brighton Tavern last month to celebrate her 70th birthday by her many friends.

BABY VAL

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GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 13

Courtlands Hotel

_______________________________

The Shelleys Hotel

19-27 The Drive Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3JE 01273 731055 • info@courtlandshotel.com

The High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1XS 01273 472361 • reservations@the-shelleys.co.uk

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Situated just 5 minutes walk from Hove Town Hall and just 5 minutes walk from the beach, The Courtlands Hotel is an Elegant Victorian building with very comfortable on suite bedrooms, discounted rates are offered to your guests as well as complimentary car parking space. Our beach hut is also available, perfect for wedding photographs and Champagne and canapes on the beach.

The Shelleys hotel offers the attractions of a quintessential English Country House, yet set in the heart of the County Town of Lewes, East Sussex. The Drawing room and the Summer house are licensed to hold Civil Partnerships. With 19 luxurious bedrooms and ample parking, The Shelleys can be hired exclusively for a private weekend of celebrations.

The Terrace room can sit up to 100 people and the Richmond Suite can sit up to 50 people, both rooms feature high ceilings, very elegant furnishings and crystal chandeliers. From traditional weddings to themed fantasy weddings, our inhouse Cake designer, Florist, Venue Stylist and Events Planer will be with you every step of the way to ensure that your day is enjoyable and extra special.

Our elegant Reception rooms overlook the beautifully landscaped garden, an ideal backdrop for a romantic wedding setting. Everything is on hand from an in-house Florist and Cake designer to a dedicated Event Co-ordinator who will be with you every step of the way to help you plan every detail of your very special day.

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CLLR GILL MITCHELL

MP SIMON KIRBY

CLLR IAN DAVEY

COUNCIL U-TURN ON PARKING CHARGE INCREASES FOR TRADERS FOLLOWING OUTRAGE FROM BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Proposed charges for annual trader permits have been lowered to £600 a year (from £750) and business permits to £300 a year (from £400). Cllr Ian Davey, cabinet member for Transport & the Public Realm, said: “As a result of consultation on our budget proposals, we have listened and lowered the proposed increases on permits. We understand the concerns of local businesses in the current climate and want to give businesses and traders a fair deal on parking.

We’re promoting the flexible payment options, taking away waiting lists for traders and listened to businesses on Madeira Drive to be included in the low tariff zone.

We’ve reviewed all parking charges with the aim of making the city’s parking system clearer, fairer and more consistent.”

Traders will benefit from the abolition of rationing for permits, which means that all traders who want a permit can have one.

This means they will be able to park anywhere in the city for under £2 a day and will open up the scheme to a further 399 currently on the waiting list. Traders can also take advantage of the provision to pay quarterly, to spread the cost.

A £1 charge for an hour will be available in most car parks during the week, with a proposal to reduce the rate for the first hour in some, for example The Lanes and Regency Square, car parks (down to £1 from £2.50). Outer car parks such as Regency Square, London Road and Trafalgar Street have lower charges than the centre to encourage more people to use them. This not only eases pressure on the city centre but people parking there are more likely to visit local high streets, supporting traders there.

Selective increases in parking charges have been used year on year as one way to manage demand, help cut down on traffic volumes in the city, and encourage residents and visitors to consider sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling and public transport. The proposed parking tariff structure will also support the city’s aims of improving traffic flow, reducing congestion and cutting down on pollution. The highest proposed tariff rises, for example in the city centre, reflect demand for spaces and are designed to encourage people to think about alternatives.

Cllr Davey said: “There are too many cars looking for too few spaces and nobody benefits from congestion. We would much rather people were out enjoying the city than stuck in traffic. We’ve joined up our pricing structure with our transport policy to rebalance our streets, making travel easier, safer and more comfortable for everyone to travel around. Two-thirds of journeys start and end within Brighton & Hove. We hope that people will choose other forms of transport for at least some of their journeys and therefore will not incur parking charges. Any surplus made as a result of the increases will be re-invested to give people real choice about how they travel.”

Simon Kirby, MP for Kemptown & Peacehaven, said: “The Green administration has come to recognise the damage that a parking charge hike will have on local business, hence their decision to amend the rate of the proposed increases. But clearly they’ve not gone nearly far enough as business owners and traders will still face punitive increases of £125 and £250.

“The Greens say that they’ve consulted with local businesses and they understand their concerns. If that were true then they would not be placing unnecessary strain on traders and small business owners through this stealth tax. These are tough economic times, and many businesses need all the help they can get to stay afloat.

“The Greens’ attempts to generate extra revenue for the council will come at great cost to the economy of Brighton & Hove. Their revised increases reveal that they have been found out, and I urge them to abandon the proposals altogether.”

Gill Mitchell, Labour's lead councillor for Brighton & Hove said; “The Greens have not gone nearly far enough to reverse their swingeing permit increases for city traders. These businesses will be caught in a price hike trap of paying hundreds of pounds more for an annual permit or even more for a quarterly one. They will have to juggle passing the costs on to their customers with the potential loss of business that could result while residents living in the city centre where parking is difficult will find it even harder to get work done.”

EQUALITY SURVEY

BY FRIENDS CENTRE

The Friends Centre in New England Street, Brighton is an independent adult education organisation where people can develop their knowledge, skills, understanding and creativity in a supportive environment are conducting an LGBT Equality Survey. They have been part of the Brighton & Hove community since 1945, providing community based education across a broad range of subjects for people who are looking to take up a new challenge in a leisure course, or are out of work or facing the prospect of redundancy. Each year around 1,600 people from different backgrounds come to learn together in a welcoming and supportive environment.

If you identify as LGBT please help Friends Centre improve their equality practice by filling in this short survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com /s/LPVLSS9

PEOPLE'S DAY SATURDAY, JULY 14

Brighton & Hove’s annual People’s Day this year will take place on Saturday July 14, as part of the city’s Olympic Torch Relay weekend festivities.The Olympic Torch is due to reach the city on July 16.

People’s Day is a celebration of the city’s diversity and offers an opportunity for community groups to unite to showcase their work and talents. Organisers are seeking participants to make this year’s event bigger than ever before. Activities will take place in the heart of the cultural quarter – focusing on New Road and the surrounding area. People’s Day will feature a mix of live music, dance performances, healthy living and digital interaction.

You can register now!

Community groups can apply for an information pack to find out how to be involved.

For more information about getting involved with People’s Day, as a community group or business partner, view: www.brightonhove.gov.uk/peoplesday

KREEPY KEMPTOWN GHOST WALKS

Actor and storyteller Adrian J Andrews (one of last year’s BBC Sussex 100 Lifers) is taking anyone who wants the willies put up them around 17 spooky locations in Kemptown three nights a week with his new Kreepy Kemptown Ghost Walk.

The tours take place every Thursday, ADRIAN J ANDREWS

WWW.GSCENE.COM

Friday and Saturday evening. Meet at 7.30pm outside Poison Ivy bar, (129 St James’ Street), tickets cost: adults £8, children £4, concessions £5. Adrian said: “The Ghost Walks start punctually at 7.30pm, so arrive early to get your tickets. After all, it isn’t nice to keep the dead waiting!”

For more info call Adrian on 07943 403740 or email: tripodsadrian@yahoo.co.uk. http://kreepykemptownghostwalks@web s.com

DINE WITH THE STARS FUNDRAISER FOR CANCER RESEARCH AND MENCAP

The Queens Hotel in Brighton are staging their next Dine With The Stars on Thursday, April 12. Money raised will be split between Cancer Research and Mencap. Tickets are £25 per person, £10 of which will be donated directly to the charities along with money raised from raffles and auction on the night. To make a reservation for the evening, call The Queens Hotel on 01273 321222.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

The evening will include a drinks reception at 7pm followed by a Gala dinner. Each table will be hosted during the three course dinner by one of the night’s star entertainers who will also perform later in the evening.

Confirmed stars for the evening include: Davina Sparkle, Krissie Du Cann, Dave Lynn, Jamie Watson, Pooh la May and Lola Lasagne.

DAVINA SPARKLE

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GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 15

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BRIGHTON COUNCIL FAILS TO KEEP EMPLOYEES PERSONAL INFORMATION SECURE

CHRISTOPHER GRAHAM

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Brighton & Hove City Council, breached the Data Protection Act (DPA) last year by failing to keep people’s personal information secure. Brighton was one of five local authorities with data breaches all related to incidents where the council failed to take steps to ensure that personal information was kept secure.

In July 2011, an employee of Brighton & Hove Council emailed the details of another member of staff’s personnel data to 2,821 council workers. A third party also informed the Information Commissioners Office of a historic breach which occurred in May 2009 when an unencrypted laptop was stolen from the home of a temporary employee. The council has now committed to ensuring that the personal information they process is secure, including making sure that all portable devices used to store personal data are encrypted.

Other breaches were reported by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council, Dacorum Borough Council, Bolton Council and Craven District Council.

ICO Commissioner Christopher Graham, said: “At a time when councils are increasingly working with community partners, when data is shared it is vital that they uphold their legal responsibilities under the Data Protection Act. Failures not only put local residents’ privacy at risk, but also mean that councils could be in line for a sizeable monetary penalty.

“We must also consider the detrimental impact these breaches continue to have on the individuals affected. Disclosing details about someone’s social housing status can be upsetting and damaging for those affected. To help tackle this issue I’ve submitted a business case to the government to ask for them to extend my compulsory audit powers.”

Full copies of the undertakings and enforcement notice can be viewed at: www.ico.gov.uk/what_we_cover/promoting_data_privacy/taking_action.a spx#undertakings A council spokesperson said: “Brighton & Hove City Council is constantly working to ensure sensitive information is kept safe. However in 2009 and 2011 there were failures to maintain our usual strict standards. On both occasions, we immediately recognised the seriousness of the different situations and took action to prevent similar instances in the future.

“There is a council policy to report incidents like these to the Information Commissioner’s Office for investigation and advice. We invited the ICO to visit to look at how we operate and will welcome the team back to assess our improvements later this year. Our security processes are constantly adapting to changes in technology and modern working patterns. We are currently implementing the ICO recommendations, along with our own methods, to ensure our continued commitment to keeping information safe.”

Cllr Jason Kitcat, cabinet member for Finances & Central Services, said: “Information security is a challenging and evolving area. We take our responsibility to protect personal data very seriously and will keep working with the ICO to improve wherever we need to.”

FOLKESTONE

LGBT HISTORY MONTH EVENTS From top down: Vince Laws, I am a Poem event in Folkestone; The Third Sex in the Third Reich exhibition at Jubilee Library, Brighton; Pride in Canterbury exhibition at Canterbury Public Library

BRIGHTON

CANTERBURY

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LYNNE FEATHERSTONE

RUGBY LEAGUE COMMITS TO TACKLING DISCRIMINATION

The Rugby Football League (RFL) has launched a new game wide Tackle IT Equality & Diversity programme which aims to increase awareness of issues such as racism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination and prejudice within Rugby League. The ‘Tackle IT’ campaign features seven promotional posters and a promotional DVD which will be made available to all professional and community clubs in the UK. The campaign sees the RFL become the first UK sports governing body to produce a resource that simultaneously tackles and celebrates all six key equality strands of; race, sexuality, gender, disability, age and religion.

The campaign is fronted by famous names from the sport of Rugby League such as former St Helens and Hull KR star Anthony Sullivan, whose father Clive became the first ever black captain of a British sporting side when he led Great Britain to World Cup glory in 1972, and Sarah Bennison, who became the first female ever to referee a game in the professional ranks in July 2011 when she took charge of Norway versus Germany.

Richard Lewis, RFL Chairman, said: “We are committed to making Rugby League one of the most open and friendly sports in the UK and the Tackle IT campaign is the latest step aimed at ensuring we can achieve that goal.

“The RFL has worked very hard in recent years to improve our equality programmes and encourage people from all walks of life to get involved with the game and we hope that this latest initiative will continue to boost the successes we have seen over the past few seasons. However, the challenge now is for us not to rest on our laurels but to continue working hard at improving our pathways and equality initiatives at all levels.”

The unveiling of ‘Tackle IT’ follows a successful 12-month period for Rugby League that began with the RFL becoming the first sporting organisation ever to enter the Stonewall Top 100 Equality Employers Index in 2011 before rising 40 places to reach 53rd position in the index in January 2012. Co-operative Championship club Sheffield Eagles broke new ground when they became the first UK sports club ever to wear a strip displaying an anti-homophobia message in March and they were joined by all 14 Super League clubs in signing up to the government’s Charter Against Homophobia in Sport in April.

Lynne Featherstone, Minister for Equalities, said: “The drive to tackle inequality in sport ultimately has to come from within sport itself and I am delighted to see the RFL leading the way. The 'Tackle It' programme will help everyone who loves Rugby League unite to kick prejudice out of the game.

“I applaud the RFL for being one of the first bodies to sign the government's Sport Charter when it launched last year. It's a rallying cry for fans to tackle abuse and discrimination, particularly that faced by LGBT people. It's great to see the RFL taking such positive steps to make the game welcoming for everyone.”

Building on this recent success, the RFL is also in the process of developing an educational resource to complement the ‘Tackle IT’ campaign which will be distributed to schools throughout the UK later this year.

Sarah Williams, RFL's Equality & Diversity Manager, said: “We hope that Tackle IT! will be a thought provoking programme that will encourage and support all those involved in our sport to continue reaching out to diverse communities to ensure Rugby League remains a truly inclusive and welcoming family sport.

“The RFL believes that sport can and should lead the way in terms of equality and diversity as sport is about fairness, identifying new talent, enabling everyone to reach their full potential and bringing people and communities together in a shared passion for their sport. Education is an essential part of this and is the most important tool for promoting a zero tolerance approach towards discrimination, prejudice and abuse, while also celebrating diversity in Rugby League and in the wider community.”

View the Tackle It DVD at: www.therfl.co.uk/equitydiversity/tackle-it

OLDER PEOPLE’S COUNCIL OPEN MEETING

Brighton & Hove Older People's Council are having an open meeting in committee room 1 at the Jubilee Library on March 20 at 10am. The theme for the meeting is Funding Social Care for Older People and a talk will be given

by Terry Parkin, the Strategic Director of People at Brighton & Hove City Council. More info www.olderpeoplescouncil.org

STONEWALL PUBLISH DRAFT MARRIAGE BILL

Last month, Stonewall, the LGBT lobbying organisation published a draft parliamentary bill for extending the legal form of marriage to gay people. The Bill outlines the legislative steps necessary to give effect to a policy now supported by all party leaders. Lynne Featherstone MP, Minister for Equalities, promised last September that formal consultation on extending the legal form of marriage to gay people would begin in March 2012. The proposal has been supported by David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband.

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: “We trust that the government will go ahead with its promised consultation by the end of March and that they will publish a White Paper, consulting on the detail of how to implement its proposal, and not a Green Paper which merely consults on the wider principle. This simple 2 page Bill of 5 clauses needn’t occupy a significant amount of parliamentary time. It could be included in the Queen’s Speech in May." The Scottish Government has already announced that it intends to extend the legal form of marriage to same-sex couples.

If it goes ahead, new legislation tabled in Westminster would only need to apply to England and Wales. The draft Extension of Marriage to Same-Sex Couples Bill 2012 is online: www.stonewall.org.uk/docume nts/stonewallmarriagebill.pdf

SWEDEN SET TO END STERILISATION OF TRANSGENDER PEOPLE

Following international pressure, Sweden is poised to end the forced sterilisation of transgender people. The conservative Christian Democrats who are members of the governing coalition in Sweden and have been the primary obstacle to ending the policy of forced sterilisations have dramatically announced the time has come to reverse their former position. A spokesperson for the Christian Democrats said: “It's time to abolish the requirement for sterilisation at sex change.”

The current law forces transgender persons in Sweden to undergo sterilisation before legally changing their gender. The surgery renders a person permanently infertile and unable to have children in the future.

Ulrika Westerlund, President of the Swedish Federation for LGBT Rights, said: “This is incredible news for Sweden: it means that anyone will be able to have their true identity recognised without having to be sterilised. It's crucial that the new law comes into place as soon as possible.”

The announcement comes after years of campaigning in Sweden followed by a massive international outcry coordinated by the AllOut.org website, a global alliance of over 850,000 straight and LGBT people in the last few months. The global campaign to stop forced sterilisation in Sweden was the largest online campaign in history supporting human rights for transgender people.

Andre Banks, Executive Director of AllOut.org, said: “Swedish activists have worked for years to lay the foundation for this victory and I’m so proud that AllOut.org could build the international momentum that finally pushed Prime Minister Reinfeldt and party leaders to end this cruel practice. It's a victory for Sweden, but also decisive for Europe.

AllOut.org members will continue to push online and in Parliament until each of these appalling laws are thrown out with the trash.”

Since January, the international campaign coordinated by AllOut.org has generated discussion on an issue that rarely receives coverage in mainstream media outlets with more than 50,000 Europeans calling on Swedish Prime Minister, Reinfeldt, to take a clear stand against forced sterilisation.

Surgery leading to sterilisation has been identified as a requirement in 29 member states of the EU. www.coe.int/t/Commissioner/Source/LG BT/LGBTStudy2011_en.pdf With no remaining obstacles, Sweden's repeal sets a new precedent for the 28 remaining European countries with laws requiring forced sterilisation.

ULRIKA WESTERLAND

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ÂŁ50 off complete glasses (until 18th March 2012) Terms & conditions apply. Coupon must be presented at time of sale and cannot be used retrospectively

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PHIL VICKERY

DO YOU CHECK YOUR BALLS? SURVEY REVEALS 25% OF BRITISH MEN DON'T

Rugby World Cup winner Phil Vickery has put his weight behind a unique onpack male cancer awareness campaign. The Bluebeards Revenge have joined forces with the charity, Orchid, to launch an innovative on-pack campaign to educate men on the three uniquely male cancers - and it has the backing of 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Phil 'The Raging Bull' Vickery. The iconic grooming brand’s eye-catching packaging will feature potentially life saving advice for men on the inside of all its cartons. It will encourage men to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of the three male specific cancers - testicular, penile and prostate – so they can seek advice from a GP as early as possible.

The campaign has been launched after a survey commissioned by Orchid revealed that three quarters of UK men (73%) recognise that a lump in the testes could be a sign of testicular cancer – but 25% still never check their testes. The survey of 824 UK adults aged 16 and over, carried out by leading market research agency GfK NOP, also found that nearly one in three (30%) are not even aware they can check themselves for lumps. This is in stark contrast to women, who are more likely to take their health in their own hands - only 7% of them say they don’t check their breasts.

Phil, former England prop, explained: “Male cancers don’t receive enough coverage and awareness and far too many men aren’t proactive enough in seeking help if they have any concerns. That’s why I’m backing Orchid’s awareness messages on The Bluebeards Revenge product range to promote life-saving checks and to encourage men to stand up and take action.”

Rebecca Porta, Chief Executive of Orchid, said: “We’re delighted to be working with The Bluebeards Revenge for 2012. This is a wonderful opportunity to encourage men across the UK to take a pro-active approach to their health and general well-being whilst raising funds and awareness of Orchid and male cancer.”

David Hildrew, Managing Director at The Bluebeards Revenge, added: “Our range is all about providing a great shave but we are also taking on the added responsibility of educating men on the early symptoms and signs of testicular, penile and prostate cancer. We are encouraging men to think inside their box.”

The unique awareness campaign will be rolled out across the UK over the next few months. Formed in 1996 by former testicular cancer patient, Colin Osborne, Orchid is the only UK registered cancer charity to focus entirely on male-specific cancers; prostate, penile and testicular. They offer support and information to people affected by or interested in male cancer through a dedicated medical research programme, education and awareness campaigns and a range of support services.

DERMOT OLEARY

DERMOT O’LEARY IS CATCH OF THE DAY FOR THT, LIGHTHOUSE AUCTION

Spend the day sea fishing with TV presenter, Dermot O’Leary, before cooking up the catch of the day together in Fishy Fishy, his Brighton restaurant. The lot is on offer at the Terrence Higgins Trust’s Lighthouse Gala Auction at Christies, London on Monday, March 19 from 6.30pm. The annual event will see an exciting range of items and ‘money can’t buy’ experiences - including dinner at The Goring with Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and a black cab tour of Fleet Street with queen of the media Janet StreetPorter. All go under the hammer to raise funds for the HIV and sexual health charity.

This year, the auction will include stunning artworks by Tracey Emin (who has donated one of her famous neons), Antony Gormley, Alison Jackson, Michael Craig Martin, and Rachel Whiteread. Luxury holidays to Los Angeles and the Maldives, a supporting artist role in the final series of Poirot, and a private screening of the new James Bond movie Skyfall on the same night as its London premiere are just a few of the other lots on offer.

Since its launch in 1997, the annual event has raised over £2 million for THT and is one of the highlights of London’s social calendar. It has attracted celebrity supporters including Tracey Emin, Neve Campbell, Jerry Hall, Tamara Ecclestone, Joan Rivers, and Jasmine Guinness. The auction takes place at Christies, 8 King Street, London, on Monday March 19 from 6.30pm.

THREE YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG

KINGS & QUEENS WALK FOR HIV

In May, the streets of London will see a royal walkabout unlike any other, as hundreds of Kings and Queens embark on a sponsored walk in support of people living with HIV. Terrence Higgins Trust is inviting crowned heads of all ages to take part in its annual Walk For Life fundraiser on Sunday, May 20. The event takes place two weeks before the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, with supporters voting for a fancy dress theme of Kings & Queens. Walkers are encouraged to put their own stamp on the theme, whether that means robing up as Queen Victoria, stepping into The King's blue suede shoes, or even pay homage to the Jubilee girl herself. Plain clothed royals are very welcome too. This year is the 23rd annual Walk For Life.

Walkers pay a small entrance fee and generate sponsorship through the event website, and the money they raise goes to support people living with HIV. Money raised goes towards the THT Hardship Fund, a project offering grants to people with HIV in severe financial need.

The 10km walk starts and ends at Potter's Fields Park on London's South Bank with a circular route over Tower Bridge, through the City, into the West End, south over Waterloo Bridge, following the river to the finishing line. The event begins at 11am and takes an average of two to three hours. Walkers are welcomed back to the park with food and drink stalls, and live entertainment.

Sonya Trivedy, Head of Fundraising at THT, said: “Walk For Life is the jewel in the crown of our community fundraising programme. We’re calling for pearly kings, prince charmings, and queens of every variety to sign up and help raise funds for people living with, and affected by HIV. However much you raise through sponsorship will make a real difference, so please sign up to the event.”

Register ( £15 per person) as an individual walker or part of a team at www.walkforlife.co.uk, or call 020 7812 1665.

Charles Childs arrived in Brighton ten years ago from Norwich, where he worked in the hotel trade and redeveloped properties. On arriving in Brighton he went to work at the Seattle Hotel, got back into property development and worked in an estate agents before going on to run Vavoom Bar for three years. It was at Vavoom that he developed the bug for bar work and late nights.

In 2009 he decided to go it alone and took on the responsibility of Dr Brightons on the seafront. The following three years have flown by and Charles will be celebrating the bars third birthday with friends old and new, on Saturday March 10.

DR BRIGHTON

20

Dr Brightons is now well established as a hot, pre clubbing venue. DJs Tony Button and Nick H get clubbers in the party mood every Friday and Saturday night. Mid week you can relax on leather chesterfield sofas drinking cocktails from the extensive cocktail menu or just play a relaxing game of pool.

Wayne Durrant and assistant manager Zaine Sereaton complete the management team.

The pub is undergoing a refurbishment before its third birthday party on March 10.

The floors are being stripped back to natural wood and the bar completely redecorated.

More comfy chesterfield sofas are being delivered and the outside of the building is having a complete re-paint job ready for the arrival of the sun and summer.

Dr Brightons terrace is small but perfectly formed, is a great place for post work drinks and holds the sun till very late during the summer evenings.

You can book the venue free of charge for birthdays. The front seating areas can be reserved and dressed to entertain a party of 20 people.

ANDY IS 21 AGAIN!

Andy Feest, landlord at the Queens Arms, the flagship on George Street, celebrates his 21st Annual 30th birthday party (it's his 21st one!!) at the Queens Arms, on Thursday, March 15 from 8pm. Top cabaret for the evening includes Sandra & Mary Mac, plus some special surprises even Andy knows nothing about at the moment. Arrive before 9pm and you get a complimentary glass of bubbly to go with the free buffet on offer.

22 GSCENE very soft and smooth. I weighed myself two days later and the weight had remained off.

The PR claims the treatment reduces acid levels in the body, improving your nervous system; improves blood circulation, allowing faster healing; improves oxygen levels in the body giving you more energy and eliminates fats, chemicals and toxins, reducing cellulite.

Well, all I can tell you is that I am a diabetic and suffer from very bad circulation in the feet. Within 24 hours the circulation in my feet had improved by 200% and I was considerably more mobile. I felt generally a little queasy for two days after the treatment but then enjoyed a very marked increase in energy for the next month. I found the treatment very beneficial in helping with my circulation and will continue to use it for that purpose. Obviously, if you are pregnant or recovering from serious illness its best to consult the therapist before you begin the treatment.

HOT STONE TAIZEN BATH THERAPY Taizen is a tradition therapy originating in Asia where locals have been indulging in the treatment for hundreds of years.

James Ledward finds out what all the fuss is about...

You strip down to your underwear and lie down in a stainless steel bath that is full of thousands of tiny stone balls containing vanadium, rubidium, zirconium, radon and titanium which when heated emit ‘Super Growth Energy’ the same life giving energy we receive from the sun. Stones cover your body completely except for your head.

Before you get in the bath is filled with scalding hot water, which heats the stones. The water is drained away and you lie submerged in the hot stones for between 15-20 minutes. I found the experience quite pleasant but I have spoken to people who found it a little claustrophobic.

The stones emit their energy and detoxify your body, while the attendant cools your forehead with a cold flannel. I suppose the longer you stay submerged the more benefit you get from the treatment.

When you leave the bath it fills again with scalding water, which cleans the stones leaving all the nasties that have come out of your body floating on the top of the water. I was staggered as to how much toxins came out of my body after such a short time under the stones.

The water then drains through a sophisticated filter system, is cleaned, and the bath is ready for the next customer. You retire to a side room to relax, cool down and get weighed. I recommend you take this part of the treatment seriously. I needed a good 30 minutes to cool down and for my body to stop throbbing.

This is not a beauty treatment, rather a weight loss and detox health improvement treatment. The PR claims that you will lose weight, burning over 900 calories in a single session and reducing your body fat by approximately 10%. In my session I lost 3lbs and my skin felt

The Shadi Danin Medi Spa is the first clinic in Europe to offer this treatment and only one of six in the world. Spa Director, Shadi Danin, an award winning dermatologist and trichologist said: “I have had great results with the Taizen Bath, with some clients reporting a weight loss of up to 3lbs per session. Clients report improved sleeping habits and a general improvement in health and wellbeing. I believe that the Taizen Bath will be the most influential development in detox and weight loss treatment in the coming years.”

SHADI DANIN MEDI SPA Shadi Danin Medi Spa also offers laser treatment, a variety of weight loss treatments, skincare treatment, hair treatment and a wide range of beauty treatments. For more details view: www.shadidanin.com/ Shadi Danin Medi Spa, 70 New Church Road, Hove, East Sussex Tel: 01273 777177 Follow on twitter @ ShadiDaninSpa

SPECIAL OFFER FOR GSCENE READERS The normal price for a Taizen Bath treatment is £120.

For Gscene readers the price during March is £80

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 23

FACE VALUE GET RID OF THOSE UNWANTED WRINKLES IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME!

CAMERON BISHOP

Some people feel self-concious about going to a clinic to have work done on their faces. Worry no more! You can now have a lovely man come and administer wrinkle relaxing treatments and dermal fillers in the comfort of your own home.

Cameron Bishop is a Ward Manager on a Cardiac Surgical Unit and has been working as a registered nurse since qualifying in 1997. He has a Bachelor of Nursing Degree at Central Queensland University, Australia. He has worked in both private and public hospitals in Australia, and for the last 9 years has worked for the NHS here in Brighton & Hove. He is a fully qualified Aesthetics Practitioner, trained and regulated by Medics Direct at Harley Street, London and he specialises in administering wrinkle relaxing injections such as Botox ® and dermal fillers to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles of the face such as crow’s feet, frown lines and lip volumising.

All products he uses are regulated and safe and priced competitively for the service offered. Call Cameron for an initial consultation over the telephone. He will then visit you in the comfort of your own home and carry out the treatment by appointment.

Botulinum Toxin such as Botox ®, Bocouture ® & Xeomin ® are powerful neurotoxins derived from the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum largely associated with food poisoning. In its purified form however, it is used for clinical use and has been for over 30 years. It was first discovered in 1946 and its first clinical use wasn’t until 1973 when it was used to treat severe muscle contractions. In 1983 it became more popular in its current use today, to soften lines and wrinkles in the face including around the eyes, forehead and neck. Botulinum toxin is very safe as is used in minute amounts for aesthetic purposes. It is extremely diluted before use so it poses no risk to the client and is proven to be very effective for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles and other aesthetic purposes.

Dermal fillers are used to give your skin a fuller and firmer appearance and to soften and contour lines around your mouth, eyes, nose and forehead. The most common forms of dermal fillers are made up of collagen and Hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a versatile molecule that exists naturally in living organisms. Approximately 56% of the body’s Hyaluronic acid is found in the skin. Hyaluronic acid also performs a lubricating function, and enables the skin to accommodate changes in shape and volume that occur when bones and joints move.

Dermal fillers are a biodegradable product which are progressively absorbed by the skin and turned into water. It is viscoelastic which means it maintains the skins elasticity. By introducing Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers into the skin it temporarily increases collagen production in the skin, adding to the skin firming effect.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR GSCENE READERS Call Cameron for your free no obligation consultation on 07717 130295. Quote Gscene at time of booking and receive 20% off your treatment price throughout March 2012. www.facevalueaesthetics.com

24 GSCENE

SUSSEX OLDER LGBT BRIGHTON GEMS: A DIAMOND BY ANY OTHER NAME

PETER OTTO

In the past issues affecting older LGBT people were often pushed into the background and ignored when planners discussed equalities. Older Lesbian and Gay people came together in Brighton in 1996 under the general umbrella of Age Concern and launched the Older Lesbian & Gay Men's Forum (OLGMF) in 1997. The purpose of the forum was to provide a safe space for older people to meet and socialise, offer help with housing, home helps, visits to doctors, dentists, shopping and to give general support when needed.

In 2002 women decided to go their own way, and left the forum. In 2003 the Gay Elderly Men's Society (GEMS) was born as an independent member of Age Concern. Like many LGBT organisations, this group blossoms because of the driving force of a single person. In this case, Peter Otto, GEMS’ advisor and fundraiser. Peter is ably assisted by Stephen Grainger who coordinates the group’s social events.

Peter and representatives from GEMS sit on many committees including Sheltered Housing and the Older Peoples Housing Support Group at Brighton & Hove City Council, the Pensioners Forum, the National Patient Safety Agency in London and they have an active presence with Age Concern Brighton and with the European Union through the European Gay Elderly Forum in Brussels. GEMS’ presence on those committees keeps the needs of older gay people in Brighton high on the local agenda 2010 was a very important year for GEMS when the organisation began the process for being considered for a Golden Jubilee Queens Award, the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary service. GEMS finally received the award in 2011 from the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Peter Field. This prestigious UK National Honour recognises outstanding voluntary contributions and sets a national benchmark for excellence in volunteering, with the work of those receiving an award being judged to be of the highest national standard. GEMS received the award for their “help and care for older gay men in the City of Brighton & Hove, helping them out of isolation and providing a meeting place in a safe environment”.

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE QUEEN INC LORD LIEUTENANT OF EAST SUSSEX, MAYOR OF BRIGHTON & HOVE, HIGH-SHERIFF OF EAST SUSSEX AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF BRIGHTON & HOVE COUNCIL JOHN BARRADELL ATTENDED THE CEREMONY TO AWARD GEMS THE QUEENS AWARD

The present Mayor of Brighton & Hove, Cllr Anne Meadows has been very supportive of GEMS and the work the organisation delivers. She entertained all GEMS members in the Mayor’s Parlour in January to thank everyone for their great work giving support to the city's older gay men.

GEMS provide a wide range of social activities for members, their partners and friends. They have regular monthly meetings, upstairs at Dorset Gardens Methodist Church from 7–10pm, on the last Friday of the month where members enjoy activities such as live concerts, musical shows, dinners, lectures and evening art exhibitions displaying the work of members. They also organise theatre visits, outings into the countryside to places of historical and local interest, movie and quiz evenings and trips to London where they visit the members of the London Gay Men’s Social Group.

To contact GEMS, visit: www.gems-bh.org.uk or email Peter Otto at: peterotto337@btinternet.com

EASTBOURNE RAINBOW ‘FLYING THE FLAG’ Eastbourne is a quiet town compared to Brighton. Amongst its many charms it has a lovely sea front promenade and easy access to the South Downs. This along with lower house prices than Brighton attracts many gay men and women to the town to enjoy a quieter lifestyle.

There is a small commercial scene, mainly a meeting point for younger people, otherwise you face a short trip along the coast to sample the ‘bright lights’ of Brighton. But what is there for the more mature gay person in Eastbourne? This is where Eastbourne Rainbow fills the gap, providing a safe environment for older LGBT people to socialise, make new friends and received help and support.

Eastbourne Rainbow is a social group for 50+ LGBT people who live and work in Eastbourne and the surrounding areas. Originally there was a group called Over the Rainbow, which was vibrant and attracted a good number of members. When the facilitator left, the group lost its momentum. However, last year with the help of Helen Kennett, the Wellbeing manager at Age Concern, ‘Eastbourne Rainbow’ was formed. Derek Andrews has now taken up the post of facilitator and with his enthusiasm and drive, together with friends and Age Concern, ‘Eastbourne Rainbow’ is rebuilding into a successful social group.

Derek said: “We all understand that being older and gay is not always easy if you are living in a closed community. You may have been lucky and had a long term relationship but then lost your partner. You may be single and not been so lucky to find a life partner or maybe your circumstances of work or where you lived did not allow you the freedom to be yourself. It may also be that you have only recently DEREK ANDREWS, moved to Eastbourne. Well JAY ASHWORTH AND Eastbourne Rainbow is here to PHILIP STANTON help.”

Derek continued: “So far we have made visits to both the Hastings & Rother Rainbow Alliance (HRRA) in Hastings and GEMS in Brighton. These two groups are well established and have large memberships. Their support for Eastbourne Rainbow has been invaluable and we have made some very kind and helpful friends who have come over to join in our meetings.”

Before Christmas the group went along to one of HRRA’s Sunday lunches held in the lower bistro of the Azur Restaurant in St Leonards. Derek said: “This was really pleasant and we were made to feel very welcome.

Peter Otto also invited us to join the GEMS Christmas Party in Brighton and we also joined them when the Mayor of Brighton hosted a reception in the Mayor’s Parlour at Brighton Town Hall. Again we were made most welcome.”

In the coming months, depending on member's interests they hope to arrange visits to the theatre, stage film shows, and visit the local countryside and places of interest further afield in East Sussex. They are also arranging for guest speakers to come to meetings to talk about their work and interests. As membership grows so will the activities.

All 50+ LGBT people are welcome, whether single or as a couple and because it can be quite daunting when joining a new group, let them know you are coming and they will arrange for someone to meet you in reception, show you to the meeting room and introduce you to the members. The centre is near the rail station and most bus routes.

Membership is free and tea and coffee are provided. Informal meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month from 2–3.30pm at Age Concern, The Venton Centre, Junction Road, Eastbourne, BN21 3QY. If you would like further information contact the facilitator: derek@eastbournerainbow.org.uk or call 07516 670654 and leave a message by text or voice mail. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively, view: www.eastbournerainbow.org.uk

GSCENE 25 For this trip I stayed at the five star Barbizon Palace Hotel (tel +31 20 6243353, www.nhhotels.com) at Prins Hendrikkade 59-72 situated opposite Central Station. Fantastic location and close to nightlife, trams and buses to get you around the city. The public spaces inside the hotel are first class and the breakfast which included champagne, was the best I have experienced for a long time.

I STILL LOVE AMSTERDAM James Ledward studied in Amsterdam in the early 1970s and has seen many changes to this fascinating city In the 1970s and 80s Amsterdam was the centre of the 'gay universe' but more recently the city has politely relinquished that crown to other European capitals such as London, and Berlin, leaving LGBT tourists to explore the cultural side of what the city has to offer.

Returning to Amsterdam for me is like visiting an errant child, who has grown up and blossomed. The city now profiles its culture and history while allowing the more traditional aspects associated with a visit to take a back seat.

For much of the last five years Amsterdam has been a work in progress. The building of the new metro system caused a fair amount of visible redevelopment on the main road and major buildings such as Central Station and the Rijksmuseum were under wraps while undergoing extensive renovation. The good news is that much of the work has been completed and the city is returning to its former glory.

The best way to see Amsterdam is on foot.

Most major attractions are easily accessible and you can stroll everywhere with ease. I tried the Amsterdam in World War II history walk, (www.historywalks.eu) which was fascinating. There is also a popular red light district tour and historic tour which takes in most of the major sights.

If you fancy seeing the city from two wheels you can hire a bicycle for the day. Mac Bike is the most famous rental brand and their main shop can be found at Stationsplein 5. If you prefer to have someone do the peddling for

you try Wielertaxi (www.wielertaxi.nl) which you will find on Dam Square.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a Canal Trip. I chose to cruise with Holland International (www.hir.nl) who operate one hour cruises from a variety of destinations round central station and take you past many of the city's must see tourists attractions.

The Rijksmuseum (www.rijksmuseum.nl) which features a magnificent selection of Dutch paintings from the Golden Age has been undergoing extensive renovations which will be finished in 2013. Pay and print your ticket online to avoid the long queues.

'Gay Amsterdam' remains popular as a destination for the LGBT tourist. The Thermos Sauna (www.thermos.nl) is as busy as ever as are the many traditional bars that have been serving the LGBT community for the last 30 years. Unlike many other gay European destinations, Amsterdam's gay commercial scene seems as busy as it has always been.

The new boy on the block is Bar Bump (www.barbump.nl) located on Kerkstraat 23.

The bar is located on two floors, has a dance floor, large smoking room, funky games room and in my experience has some of the best and most attentive staff I have ever seen working in a gay establishment. Cocktails are their speciality and the bar is open from 5pm on Wednesday to Sunday. Club Church (www.clubchurch.nl) is just along the street at Kerkstraat 52. It is open from Tuesday-Sunday and features regular naked and underwear parties. My favourite traditional bar remains the Spijkerbar (www.spijkerbar.nl) at Kerkstraat 4. Customers smoke openly and there is a fair amount of chomping at the bar.

One of Amsterdam’s busiest attractions is the Anne Frank Museum, www.annefrank.org).

Limited tickets are available online which fast track you past the daily queues.

Other must sees include the Royal Palace (www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en) and the magnificent Van Gogh Museum (www.vangoghmuseum.nl) which houses the largest collection of the artist’s paintings, anywhere in the world.

Finally after 30 years of visiting the city, this year I visited the Zoo (www.artis.nl/en) and what a treat it was. The zoo is integrated into a residential area, beautifully laid out with residential houses lining one side of the zoo and canals the other. The animal houses are spacious and I cannot recommend a visit more highly.

The best way to budget a trip to Amsterdam is to buy a City Card (www.iamsterdam.com) costing just 39 euros for 24 hours, 49 euros for 48 hours and 59 euros for 72 hours. The card gives you free entry to museums, free public transport, free canal cruises and 25% discount at many attraction and restaurants.

It is excellent value and a real money saver.

The card is available from the I Amsterdam Tourist Shop outside the main Central Station.

Dining in Amsterdam has improved beyond recognition during the last few years. We had dinner at Mazzo, Living Room of the Jordaan, (T: +31 20 3446402, www.mazzoamsterdam.nl) at Rozengracht 114. A modern stylish restaurant with an Italian twist. The food was delicious, service first class and friendly, the dining room quirky, comfortable and not too noisy. For lunch we tried Brasserie Harkema (T: +30 204282222, www.brasserieharkema.nl) at Nes 67. The Harkema is a contemporary version of a classic Parisian brasserie. The steaks were tender and tasty, the soups were traditional and quite delicious.

We visited Amsterdam for New Year. The celebrations were spectacular but it was very cold. No trip to Holland is complete without a visit to the flower fields at Keukenhof which are one of the most photographed places on Earth. The 32 hectares are open from March 24May 20. They are a real must see and one of Europe’s great treasures. www.amsterdam4gays.com

HOTEL JEREZ

26 GSCENE

many late bars tucked away on one of the plazas; it was full of small fountains, fascinating art and little courtyards, like nothing we had ever seen before.

Roger Wheeler discovers the delights of Jerez

Although it has 208,000 inhabitants it has the feel of a small intimate place, full of lovely little squares, beautiful architecture and literally stuffed with bars and restaurants.

It’s all very walkable as the centre is mainly pedestrianised. Of course to the Brits its biggest claim to fame is the fact that it’s the home of your mother’s favourite drink – sherry. Wine in this part of the world is basically sherry wine; it’s what they serve everywhere and at one time it was more popular than rioja.

Jerez, or Jerez de la Frontera to give it its full name, has all the usual attractions of a

major Spanish city: a magnificent cathedral, museums, a Moorish castle (the Alcazar), dozens of beautiful churches and they are all very close to each other making the old city centre very easy to walk round. There are 16 bodegas, where they make and store the wine, that are open to the public. We only went to two, Sandeman, which was a great experience as was the sherry and Tio Pepe which was a little like Disneyland with drinks.

This is wine growing, cattle ranch and horse rearing country with the world famous Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art at its heart. This is internationally recognised as the world’s leading school for horsemanship and makes for one of the highlights of a visit to the city. They put on an amazing show four days a week in an arena that seats 1,500 and it’s always full. The dancing stallions and displays of carriage driving are simply spectacular. Of course it’s designed for tourists and the riders are mainly professionals but nonetheless it demonstrates what all the fuss is about and it’s the pure bred Spanish Carthusian horses that are the SCHOOL OF EQUESTRIAN ART

Over the past ten years we have visited most of the cities in southern Spain: Malaga, Granada, Cordoba, Cadiz and Seville and have invariably loved them all; the climate, the food, the people and the atmosphere. We thought that we had seen all that there was until we discovered Jerez, which at just an hour from Seville and Gibraltar is one of the nicest Spanish cities that we’ve ever visited.

THE ALCAZAR

stars of the show. We had a very charming guide, Xavier, who confessed to a secret – he didn’t like horses but he loved his job!

Although the city was founded before the Romans it’s a very young place with the streets and squares thronging with people out enjoying themselves in the evening. There must be hundreds of tapas bars, all serving great little snacks and, of course, a glass of fino or amontillado. We visited one of the

We were lucky enough to be given a full guide of the city by Pedro, the chief of the local tourist office. We always use the tourist information centres wherever we are but didn’t expect this service, what a guy he was too. He was a walking encyclopaedia of the city, its history and its many attractions. There was no way we were going to miss anything.

FLAMENCO

OLÉ JEREZ

We chose to stay in the Hotel Jerez, a little way out of the centre. The buses were on strike but the taxis were very cheap, just 4€ (about £3) to take us right into the city centre. The Hotel Jerez is a large 1960s building with big bedrooms and most have balconies overlooking a huge pool. It seems to cater for the business community but with an enormous bar and very good restaurant we didn’t mind the men in suits. We ate on the hotel’s terrace restaurant, almost on our own, with terrific food and a wine list that was basically sherry and so that’s what we had. I had never thought of ordering a bottle of fino sherry with dinner, but we were assured it was the right thing to do and they were right.

Jerez is the birthplace and home of flamenco and Pedro insisted that we see the very best.

He took us to an out of the way bar and at around midnight (things don’t happen very early in Spain) we were treated to a demonstration of the genuine article. It was completely amazing, just three singers/dancers and two guitars made a sound that would fill the Albert Hall. It was explained that flamenco is a gypsy tradition and this troupe were gypsies whose art had been handed down through many generations. Flamenco may not be to everyone’s taste, but if you’re in Jerez, it’s something you have to see.

Jerez is a real find, we thought that we knew all the main sites of Andalusia, we couldn’t have been more wrong. Whilst the major cities all have a lot to offer, Jerez stands out above them all as a small, compact and simply stunning place, we can’t wait to go back.

28 GSCENE

CHARLIE’S

RECIPES FROM CHARLIE’S KITCHEN

KITCHEN

CHARLIE’S BEEF STROGANOFF This is one of my very favourite beef dishes. So simple to prepare and really delicious.

CHARLIE’S CHEF OF THE MONTH

Ingredients (Serves 2) • 2 good sized pieces rump steak • 1 large onion finely diced • 16 button mushrooms (finely sliced) • 1 tbsp butter • 2 large tbsp soured cream or thick Greek yoghurt • 2 tbsp dry sherry • Handful curly or flat leaf parsley • Squeeze of lemon juice • Salt & pepper to taste

BY CHARLIE NYEREYEGONA

JAMIE at THE REGENCY TAVERN, 32-34 Russell Square, Brighton, BN1 2EF, Tel: 01273 325652. I had recently heard good reports about the food at The Regency Tavern, so when I was invited by my good friend, Ritchie and courtesy of owners, Paul and Robin to do a chef’s interview and sample Sunday Lunch I couldn’t refuse!

How did you come to work at The Regency Tavern?

The head chef left and I took over the position.

What’s your favourite ingredient in the kitchen? (I noticed a delicious spiciness in the French Onion Soup, quite the best I have ever tasted, and the Guinea Fowl with stuffing, both delicious and cooked to perfection).

Spices are my favourite. I came from assisting the head chef at Madame Geisha where we used a lot of spices and I believe in properly seasoning food. So many chefs are afraid to season, I’m not.

Who influenced your cooking?

My mum. She is a very good cook and I helped her from a very early age and remember slicing off my thumb at the age of three, whilst cutting an apple. My four year old daughter, Aalaiya, also has the cooking bug and is always helping me!

What is your food philosophy?

Everything has to be fresh! Seasonal, simple and fresh. All our meat and poultry comes from Bramptons (voted best Butcher of the year) and we source everything from our flour to our vegetables as locally as possible. (Certainly our main courses of Sussex leg of lamb and the guinea fowl accompanied by delicious, light Yorkshire puddings, crisp roast potatoes, a freshly cooked dish of vegetables and a tasty boat of gravy was testament to this!)

Who assists you in the kitchen?

I cook during the week and Robin helps out on Sundays. He is brilliant with desserts. (The marmalade & syrup suet pudding and Rebecca’s spotted dick that we tasted were both original and yummy!) We also have another trainee chef, John, who shadows us.

What sort of food is on the menu during the week?

A mixture. Mainly English pub food like toad in the hole, bubble & squeak, but we also do curries, marinated Japanese beef… (Earlier Robin had told me that they even have a West Indian cook come in to cook her authentic jerk chicken!)

What’s in the future?

To develop the restaurant here as far as possible and produce consistently good, totally fresh, simple food. I’d also like to do a season at Glyndebourne cooking with the Master, Albert Roux.

If you had a dinner party who would you invite and what would you cook?

Mmmh... Definitely Gordon Ramsay, he’s amazing and Heston Blumenthal. I’d cook five courses, you’d have to wouldn’t you? Seared scallops with celeriac puree and a rosemary and red wine reduction would be one of the courses and definitely crème brûlée!

Jamie’s enthusiasm and passion for his food and kitchen are obvious.

This passion filters right through from owners Paul and Robin to lovely, professional waiters James and Simon. Sitting amongst the camp and glamorous splendour of chandeliers, red and gold Regency style wall paper and an amazing piano player, this felt like ultimate luxury in a wonderfully relaxed surrounding. I can recommend going along to The Regency Tavern to sample Jamie’s fresh cooking and Robin’s amazing desserts. I’d book a table though!

Method: Place the butter in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until the onion just begins to colour. Add the mushrooms and sauté for a further minute. Remove from the pan. Turn up the heat to high and in the remaining sizzling butter sear the steaks two at a time. 3-4 minutes each side. Remove from the pan and allow

to rest on a dish for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile return the onions and mushrooms to the pan over a low heat. Add the sherry and simmer for a minute. Add the sliced steak and gently spoon over the sherry juices. Remove from the heat and gently stir in the sour cream. Sprinkle over the parsley and serve immediately with potato croquettes or herb rice. Enjoy!

TUNA AND OLIVE CANNELLONI WITH CHEESE SAUCE Quick, easy delicious and easy to prepare Ingredients • 250g dried cannelloni tubes (3 tubes per person, 4 if very hungry!)

• 1 tin tuna chunks in spring water • 10 large green olives (pitted) • 10 cherry tomatoes halved • 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped) • ½ tsp Tabasco • 1 tbsp olive oil • Handful fresh basil • 200g grated parmesan cheese • ¼ pint milk • 1 tbsp clover butter • ½ tbsp plain flour • Squeeze of lemon • ½ tsp ground black pepper Method: Pre-heat the oven to 180ºC. For the sauce melt the butter over a low heat in a saucepan. Remove from the heat, add the flour and stir in gently to make a paste. Add about a tablespoon of the milk and return to the heat. Gently stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken. Continue slowly adding all the milk. When all the milk has been added and the sauce has thickened, slowly mix in the cheese. Finish off by adding the black pepper. Heat the olive oil over a medium heat and add the garlic. Drain the tuna and add with the olives and tomatoes. When the tomatoes begin to soften add the lemon and Tabasco. Fill the cannelloni tubes with the tuna mixture and lay flat in a lightly oiled oven dish. Sprinkle over the basil and cover the tubes with the cheese sauce. Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese sauce starts to turn a golden brown. Serve with hot garlic bread. Bellissimo!

GSCENE 29

COME DINE

WITH MORHAM

BY MORHAM WHITE

ARTISAN 63a Holland Rd, Hove, BN3 1BA, 01273 725701, www.eatartisan.co.uk The big chill is here and I need to venture out to meet my deadline. A bus ride to the Wick gets me nearer the action, but wasn’t that where someone got shot once? Best behave! I’d been given a recommendation from two separate sources and had separately declined an opening drinks do the previous week to an alternative venue, so where to go? As it turned out we only had one convenient choice so set off to French Retro Restaurant, Artisan, tucked behind Tesco Express, beneath a block of new flats with a fine view, west along Church Road. As yet the enterprise is new, so fairly quiet. A recent Saturday morning breakfast was a solitary affair, but once the music had been reduced and the cook got into gear it was really quite good. The space is semi-industrial with exposed block work, a massive extractor easing out of the basement kitchen, black slate style flooring, green walls and rows of tables for two. Outside when the sun gets round, a snack on the side walk would be very continental.

Artisan is open from 9am so you can indulge in coffee and croissant or full English. The La Formule lunch menu (available 12–6) offers two courses for £10.50 or three for £12.75. The Sunday Roast comes in at £9.95 or £14.50 for two courses and £17.50 for three with a choice of three starters, three mains and three desserts. Dinner is flagged as a la carte with no apparent deals available.

On arriving at 7.15pm on a Wednesday, things were very quiet as we took the corner seat. Luckily the music, mainly French in style, was not intrusive. The room in the evening is quite dark and moody, with globe down-lights and a predominant greenish grey décor.

The wine list is something else, with pages of offerings listed by grape type which is new to me! It took a while to find something suitable and reasonably priced (i.e. under £20) but I got there in the end with a passing comment to my partner, “all the waiter has to do is find it!”

It turned out that he couldn’t, so we were offered a Chilean Merlot at the same price (£18) which was very good. My concern for such a new venue is that it would be exorbitant to fully stock such an extensive list from the outset and that there were no obvious house wines available. Many of the wines listed are extremely expensive, several running into three figures…

48–49 ST JAMES’ ST BRIGHTON

01273 604060 www.brasseriepizzapasta.com

By the time we left there were another two tables taken. It takes time to get a new venture up and running and develop personality, perhaps the wine list needs refining to better assist the clientele.

THE BRASSERIE SET MENU

One Course £6.95 Two Courses £9.95 GSCENE OFFER

With a choice of five starters and five mains, we set off with a stylish marinated ruby beetroot salad with a goats cheese tower, red chard and pine nuts served on a slate platter; four elegant compositions in style and taste. For me it was a delicate mackerel & potato terrine with toast. Sir couldn’t resist the pork belly, with the crispest of crackling, potato and savoy cabbage (£13.75). I lashed out on Rib Eye Steak (£19), beautifully moist and tasty, with a stack of double fried chips, leaves and Béarnaise sauce (additional £1.50). With no crème brûlée (a first for any French brasserie I know!), Sir went with a warm pear frangipane tart with clotted cream (£4.75) and I had a mango & passion fruit trifle served in a dessert wine glass, simple and tasty, but at £5. The three course meal for two of us (no coffee) came in at £75…

Offer expires 31 March 2012

Terms and conditions: You can only use one offer per visit Offer excludes Saturdays and Bank Holidays

20%

OFF FOOD

when ordering from A LA CARTE MENU

30 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

DANCE

MUSIC

BY WILDBLOOD & QUEENIE

MARCH ALBUMS...

Thawed out yet? Feeling the gentle heat of spring in those dancing pants? Summer dear ones is almost here (say we, ever the optimists). To fuel our hope for sunny days and hot nights here's a pick of March’s finest.

I First check out Opto Nights Volume 1 on Opto and its tasty mix of house, techno and progressive. The acidic sounding Spank by Ponyfeet is a right marvel. I Another label that’s been spanking the competition recently is the brilliant Discotech and This Is What We Call Discotech Vol 3 is short but oh so sweet reflection of their creativity with Loonic’s New Man bringing a much needed bounce to springtime.

I If you’re desperate to feel the summer sand under your feet then Azuli’s Miami 12 Mixed by David Jones or the scorcher that is Defected in The House Miami ‘12 Mixed by Franky Rizardo, Treasure Fingers and Noir will ensure you’ll feel the heat. Speedos at the ready boys.

I There’s a definite warming theme developing this month and the rays get hotter courtesy of Cielo Sunrise Mixed By Nicolas Matar on Nervous Records.

Its sensual mix of deep house, nujazz, techno and disco classics will

enhance any hot action you have an eye on. I If you need it big room scorching get with Kid Massive’s program and his new album A Little Louder. Need a reason? One word. Peyton.

I And if you need it even louder check out the curveball that is FabricLive 62: Kasra on Fabric Records. Drum & bass has never been so quality.

As for this month's OMFG players it’s simple.

I First we have the Broadcast lead beauty of Late Night Tales Compiled & Mixed by Belle & Sebastian, a selection of quirky regal wonders. I Second there’s the bliss of The 2 Bears Be Strong, if you haven’t succumbed to the fellas in fur then shame on you. Finally it has to be the stereophonic stunner that is Soul Clap EFUNK on Wolf + Lamb. Sometimes the cool kids are right and sometimes music is about more than the bleeding obvious. Engage with Soul Clap and it will make your month complete. Promise.

For gigs and more check out katewildblood.wordpress.com or Facebook

WILDBLOOD & QUEENIE’S MARCH MARVELS

I STORM QUEEN Look Right Through (Jamie Jones Remix) Defected Love affair with Storm Queen begins again with Jamie’s heart pounder.

I BAH SAMBA Moonlight (Souldynamic Remix) Favouritizm Hot as hell soulful saucy house that delivers the right kinda wink.

I THE SHACK One and Only (Faze Action Mix) Faze Action One day all records will be made this way. Divine.

I VERSES Lessons In Daft Punk White Find them on Soundcloud for a cool lesson in spoken word electronica.

I MACEO PLEX Deez Nuts (Ellum Sleazy Riders Collection) Ellum Deep delicious clever and cool, Ellum deliver a warm embrace of an EP. I LOVEBIRDS ft STEVE DOWNES Want You In My Soul Winding Road We can feel the sunshine already. Roll on a summer soundtracked to this.

I TONY BARBATO Jump Favouritizm A simple discotech groove layered with love and perfection.

I JAMIE TRENCH She Said (She Spoke To Me In French EP) Kuhua Music A dictionary busting definition of decent dance music.

I FUR COAT ft CARI GOLDEN You And I Crosstown Rebels A beauty of a tune that will leave you wanting more and more and more.

I WAGON COOKIN’ Come Into the Light (Chus & Ceballos Remix) OM Who says house has lost its funk? It’s time to believe in Jack again.

NORMAN COOK This summer Big Beach Boutique 5 comes to Brighton. Queen Josephine caught up with the lovely Norman Cook AKA Fatboy Slim to talk tunes, playing under the stars and his never ending love for all things smiley.

You’re bringing Big Beach Boutique 5 to Brighton for two nights on 1st and 2nd June this year. Given your long association with Brighton & Hove Albion how much does it mean to you that you’ll be playing at The Amex Stadium?

110%. The gigs on the beach were all about my relationship with Brighton as it’s my home town, but then add my favourite football team into the equation AND a brand new stadium that’s never been used for raves or pop gigs before and well...it’s off the scale! It’s a wonderful stadium that’s right up there with Wembley if not in size but definitely in terms of equipment and sheer beauty, and there’s going to be a sort of ‘inside-outside’ vibe. The Amex has been built to keep the sound in so that when the football crowd are singing you can hear everything really well. Acoustically BBB5 is going to have the concentrated quadraphonic intensity of a nightclub but you’ll look up and be able to see the stars!

You’ll be playing both nights, who else will be joining you?

Friday night is house night featuring Carl Cox, Luciano, Maya Jane Coles and The 2 Bears. Saturday is all about bass and dubstep, an eclectic mix including Jaguar Skills, Nero, DJ Fresh, Doorly, Union and Annie Mac. You’re very loyal to Brighton, what’s so special about the city?

When I moved here as a student it became my home and I’ve always loved Brighton’s progressive attitude. It’s always been very open-minded and tolerant of alternative lifestyles. And let’s face it – it’s a haven for hedonists! Anyway, over the years I’ve had a dogged refusal to move to London. When Skint started up I didn’t have to use a London record company, I became more fiercely proud of Brighton and in turn Brighton became more fiercely proud of me. Then Zoe chose to move down here too which really tipped the scales.

Which tune encompasses all that is Big Beach Boutique?

I think I’ve played Right Here, Right Now at all four so far. But for me the quintessential moment was playing It Just Won’t Do by Tim Deluxe at the second one when the lyrics go My whole life’s buggin out and I looked up at the crowd and thought ‘actually this is crazy. This is brilliantly insane’.

Can we expect any new releases in the near future?

I’m incredibly busy doing gigs in Europe and Australia over the coming months which seem to take up all my time. There’s ‘Mama Do The Hump’ that I produced with Rizzle Kicks and hope to do some more stuff with them – keeping it local! But I haven’t got a bee in my bonnet about a record I’d like to make at the moment and I’m enjoying DJing immensely. Also after 25 years in the business you don’t feel you have to release a record every 3 years or so, you can just choose to do the bits that are turning you on!

As you are an ‘International Smiley Collector’, is there one bit of Smiley memorabilia that you’d love to own?

Ahhh, well I was just interviewed by Radio 4 for their documentary Smiley’s People and the interviewer brought round an original pin button badge from the early 1970s and said she’d try and get me one. That would be the jewel in my smiley crown!

Big Beach Boutique 5 is at The Amex: Fri 1st and Sat 2nd June 2012 For tickets and information contact fatboyslim.net

32 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM HONEY HUSH @ THE A-BAR

MARCH

LISTINGS

A-BAR

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (3) is 1950s rockabilly night HONEY HUSH with nautical visuals, sweet treats and unique cocktails served while DJ Lonesome M and guests spin r&b, rock & roll and rockabilly on vinyl from 9pm. Entry is free.

REGULARS: Live music every Fri from 9pm. Sat is PRE-CLUB MUSIC SPECIAL from 9pm with drink promos and shots from £1.50. Wed is QUIZ NIGHT from 9pm with bottles of wine for £9. Thur is COCKTAIL night; buy one get one free all day.

FOOD: served Wed–Sat from noon–9pm, Mon & Tue bar menu 11am–5pm & then Thai & Tapas from 6–10pm, Sunday lunch served noon–6pm.

OPEN: 11am from Mon–Sat & noon on Sun. A-Bar offers unrivalled sea view, large heated smoking terrace and all big sport events. Sauna closed. www.amsterdam.co.uk

THURSDAY 1 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; cocktail night; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Girls On Top Warm Up: DJ Smithy 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 BRIGHTON SAUNA Student & Under 25s Night: music & licensed bar 10pm BULLDOG St David’s Day Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thurs; opens 3pm ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Joan Bond, bar DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy, club DJ Ruby Roo 8pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11 PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11 QUEEN’S ARMS Betty & Sissy: karaoke & tunes; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Peter Davies & Mark Hodge Show: piano & song; food noon2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon REVENGE Girls On Top v Emergency Room: Level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifilicious & Alpha; Box Bar DJ Dulcie Danger 10.30pm STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon SUBLINE Leathered 9pm

VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am FRIDAY 2 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; live music 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Chill Out Fri: pianist Anthony Jackson Stubbs 7pm; Darren’s Mad House Karaoke 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Disco Bomb: Alpha DJ 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Lil Alex 10pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Cabaret: Lady La Rue 9pm; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Atomic: DJ Kool Hertz 10.30pm LEGENDS BAR Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH This is England: Skard 4 Lyf 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am

PROJECT 56 Pre-club: Uchoose; open 11 QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-9pm; live jazz: Honky Tonk; opens 11am REVENGE Lollipop v Mousetrap: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, Fifilcious & Ruby 10.30pm STAG INN Live music 8.30pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE Bear Balls: DJ Screwpulous & iTopia, bear or bare, all welcome 9pm VAVAVOOM Cheese: camp video jukebox; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm ZONE Stone & Street 9.30pm; open 11am SATURDAY 3 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Honey Hush: 50s rockabilly night, DJs 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Karaoke with Mimbo 5pm and Darren 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Kinky Classics: DJ King K 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Lee Harris 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Shot-tastic; open noon BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 9.30pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Fierce: DJs 9pm; food noon7.45pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Old School Sat: DJ Delimentary 10pm

BRIGHTON SAUNA

LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club: DJs 7pm; open 11 MARLBOROUGH Lick Me Up: DJ Dame Amy 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Party Night; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Sissy Sucks 4pm; Kamp Kevin’s karaoke & tunes 8.30pm; open 12 REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-6pm; opens 11am REVENGE Kinky Dangerous: Level 1 DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious; Box bar DJs Dulcie Danger & guests 10.30pm STAG INN Motown Disco & Karaoke 8pm; food noon; open noon STICKY MIKE’S FROG BAR Stay Beautiful: glitter, glam & trash disco; DJs Simon Price, David Ryder Prangley & Tux Inferior 10pm SUBLINE The Furnace 9pm VAVAVOOM Shake It Out: DJ Missy; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm ZONE Tammy Twinkle 9.30pm; opens 11am SUNDAY 4 A-BAR Sun lunch noon-6pm; open noon AQUARIUM Cabaret Break: chill out with Darren & Alex; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Sublime Sunday: Karaoke Queens LouBag & Smithy 8.30pm; Sunday roasts: new chef noon-7pm; opens noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Jaykey 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Piano sing-a-long: Colin or JB 5pm; Piano Bingo 6pm; open noon BRIGHTON SAUNA Free day for VIP members 10-1am; text 07786201096 to join BULLDOG Main bar: DJ Grant Knowles 6pm; top bar: karaoke 9pm; opens 11am

ONE FOR THE DIARY: The Brighton Sauna now runs a licensed bar 7 days a week; Sun–Thur from 11–1am and Fri & Sat from 11–2am; all alcohol £3, except cider £3.50.

Sun (4) is a free day for VIP members. Celebrate the sauna re-launch with new features and décor and enjoy a free glass of bubbly on arrival. Text VIP to 07786 201096 to receive a VIP member text, show this on the day to become a member.

REGULARS: STUDENT & UNDER 25S Night on Thur (1) with licensed bar, drink offers, club music from 10pm–5am, free entry for students & unders 25s, open 10pm–5am, text U25 to 07786 201096 for free entry, £2 drinks. Wed (14) is COCKS ‘N’ JOCKS from 7pm, licensed bar and mandatory dress code. Jocks for £10 available at reception. Wed (21) is WET ‘N’ WILD fetish night from 7pm with fully licensed bar. www.thebrightonsauna.com

PICS FROM THE BULLDOG

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 33

BULLDOG

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (17) is ST PATRICK’S DAY RUSH with DJ V John from 9.30pm, karaoke upstairs from 10pm, all drinks £1.50 when Irish folk music plays 1pm–midnight, Guinness £1.50 all day.

REGULARS: Thur is RELEASE with DJ Grant Knowles from 10pm. St David’s Day Release is Thur (1), with extended happy hour. Fri is DJ Lil Alex and karaoke upstairs from 10pm. Sat is DJ V John from 9.30pm, karaoke from 10pm. Sun is DJ Grant from 6pm, karaoke from 9pm. Mon is DJ MARCIA’S GLITTERBALL with 1970s/80s tunes from 10pm. Tue (27) is monthly REGGAE NIGHT with DJ Micklos.

Wed is RED LIGHT RUSH with DJ Marcia from 10pm.

HAPPY HOURS: Mon & Tue from 3–7pm & 11pm–midnight; Wed from 3–7pm & 10pm–2am, drinks £1.50 when music vid is played; Thur from 3–7pm & 9pm–midnight; Thur (1) all day; Fri from 3–7pm & all drinks £1.50 10pm–midnight; Sat from 10pm–midnight; Sun all day. Drinks include: pints from £1.95, double spirit & mixer from £2.30, bottles from £1.85 (Terms & conditions apply).

OPEN: daily from 11am–very late. www.bulldogbrighton CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Cabaret: Glam Jam 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Tammy Twinkle & Sally Vate 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sunday Roast noon-late; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Sun lunch noon-till gone; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Hang Over Therapy; open 1pm FISHERMAN’S REST Sunday Lunch Cabaret: 5 course lunch & coffee 4pm; Lizzie Drip 7pm; £21.50, bookings essential, 01273 323 888 FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Sandra 3.15pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Roasts 12.30pm-till gone; open noon POISON IVY Mimbo’s Karaoke 6pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Just Chill; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Lola Lasagne 6pm; Wesley Sebastian 9.30pm; Betty’s Karaoke till 1am; opens noon REGENCY TAVERN Jerome’s Piano Lounge; Sunday lunch noon-5pm; open noon STAG INN Sun roast noon-6pm; open noon SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Cabaret: Dave Lynn 8.30pm; open 11am

MONDAY 5 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Quiz With Liz 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Recovery; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Food noon-8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Quiz For All: prizes 8.30pm; food noon-2.30pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm ENVY Studio 150: NUS party 10.30pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm; open 11am MARLBOROUGH Dames Games Quiz 8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Bar snacks & karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Tony’s Fun Factory: karaoke, Wii & tunes 6.30pm; open 11am

34 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CHARLES STREET + ENVY

MARCH

LISTINGS

CHARLES STREET BAR

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (31) is THE FIERCE DRAG BALL 2 with DJs from 9pm. If you dare to drag, then polish that tiara, sharpen those heels or comb that beard to win prizes and glittery giveaways.

REGULARS: Thur is MAD COW over two floors from 8pm with hostess Miss Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & Leeroy play commercial dance in the bar, DJ Ruby Roo spins chart /pop favourites in the club. Entry £1 before 10pm, £2 after; drinks from £1.

FRIDAY FIX with DJ Leeroy playing dance/funky house, free entry, cocktails £3.50 each or jugs £6.99 from 9pm. SUNDAY CABARET at 7.30pm: Glam Jam (4), Rose Garden (11), Drag With No Name (18) and Mrs Moore (25); TRANNY ROCK & ROLL BINGO with Tammy Twinkle & Sally Vate from 8.30pm.

FOOD: served: Mon–Sat from noon–8pm; Sunday Lunch served noon–7pm, home roast beef/chicken/veggie for £5.95; 2-4-1 deals on all mains Mon; all gourmet burgers on Tue; all homemade pizzas on Wed. HAPPY HOURS: After work drink deals Mon–Sat from 5–9pm & Sun after the show till close: pints of Carling/Fosters/Strongbow £2, main line double spirit & mixer £2.50, bottles of wine from £6.99.

OPEN: daily from noon. www.charles-street.com

TUESDAY 6 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Afternoon Club 3pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Karaoke Unplugged: DJ Alpha & hostess AJ 8.30pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open 12 BULLDOG Opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Brassic Tues; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tues; opens 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open 12 MARLBOROUGH Student night; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; Mark Hodge’s Piano Bar; open 12 REVENGE Supersonic: DJ Trick 11pm STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE U Say We Play 7.30pm; open 11am

WEDNESDAY 7 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Quiz 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Open 3pm BAR REVENGE Open noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pulse: DJs Claire Fuller or Ben Castle 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Wine & Wisdom: quiz night & fundraiser 9pm; opens noon BULLDOG Red Light Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Local & unsigned bands & acts video screened all over the world 7.30pm; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Open Mic 8.30pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon SUBLINE Backlash 9pm

ENVY @ CHARLES ST

REGULARS: Thur is MAD COW over two floors from 8pm with hostess Miss Joan Bond; DJs Lil Alex & Leeroy play commercial dance in the bar, DJ Ruby Roo spins chart /pop favourites in the club. Entry £1 before 10pm, £2 after; drinks from £1.

Mon is student night STUDIO 150, £1.50 entry, bottles & singles £1.50. www.charles-street.com VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Reggae Night: DJ Micklos 8.30pm; opens 11am THURSDAY 8 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; cocktail night; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Girls On Top Warm Up: DJ Smithy 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thurs; opens 3pm ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Kamp Kevin’s Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Peter Davies & Mark Hodge Show: piano & song; food noon2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon REVENGE Girls On Top Spring Break Party: DJs Smithy, Fifilicious, Alpha 10.30pm STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon SUBLINE Leathered 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am

FRIDAY 9 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; live music 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Chill Out Fri: pianist Anthony Jackson Stubbs 7pm; Darren’s Mad House Karaoke 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Disco Bomb: Alpha DJ 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Lil Alex 10pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Cabaret: Krissie DuCann 9pm; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Love You Long Time Thais 4 Life Charity Night: Davina Sparkle performs, charity raffle, £2 entry to charity after 11pm; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon-2am DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Atomic: DJ Kool Hertz 10.30pm LEGENDS BAR Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Millions of Peaches: management b’day Peaches-themed fancy dress 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Pre-Club: u choose; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-9pm; opens 11am REVENGE Lollipop v Mousetrap: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, Fifilcious & Ruby 10.30pm

PICS FROM CROWN & ANCHOR, CHURCH STREET, DR BRIGHTONS + FISHERMAN’S REST

36 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

MARCH

CHARMAINE SAT (24)

DAVINA SPARKLE FRI (9)

LISTINGS

CROWN & ANCHOR

ONE FOR THE DIARY: THAIS 4 LIFE CHARITY WEEKEND: Fri (9) is Love You Long Time with Davina Sparkle, raffle, beer promos, food till 9pm bar till 2am, student discounts, entry £2 after 11pm for charity. Sat (10) is BH2M (Bin Here 2 Months) with the pie maker’s fave live band, drink promos, raffle, bar till 2am, entry £2 after 11pm for charity.

REGULARS: Mon is Quiz Night with prizes from 8.30pm.

Wed (7) local, unsigned bands/acts from 7.30pm, with their performances being screen all over the world. Sat (17) is St Patrick’s Day with Guinness & Irish whiskey and food offers all day, RBS Rugby in back room. Sat (24) is Comedy Night with Charmaine and local comedians from 8pm–midnight.

FOOD: Homemade pies served every day. Sun roasts served noon–till they’re gone.

OPEN: Function room: available in March for £50 all-in, call 077022 12951 for info.

Visit www.thecrownandanchorbrighton.co.uk for hotel room deals.

STAG INN Live band: Back Beat 8.30pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE GHot Fur? bear night 9pm VAVAVOOM Cheese: camp video jukebox; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm ZONE Cabaret: Jamie Watson 9.30pm; opens 11am

SUNDAY 11 A-BAR Sun lunch noon-6pm; open noon AQUARIUM Cabaret Break: chill out with Darren & Alex; open 3pm

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sunday (18) is a MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH from noon, with a free bottle of house wine, bookings only, call 01273 606864.

REGULARS: FRIDAY CABARET from 9pm: Lady La Rue (2), Krissie DuCann (9), Jason Lee (16), Pooh La May (23) and Jennie Castell (30).

FOOD: New £5 lunch menu served Mon–Sat and Richard’s Golden Handbag Award winning BIG SUNDAY LUNCH served from noon.

OPEN: Check out the secret beer garden - it’s perfect for a drink and a smoke!

BAR REVENGE Sublime Sunday: Karaoke Queens LouBag & Smithy 8.30pm; Sunday roasts: new chef noon-7pm; opens noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Jaykey 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Piano sing-a-long: Colin or JB 5pm; Piano Bingo 6pm; open noon BULLDOG Main bar: DJ Grant Knowles 6pm; top bar: karaoke 9pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Rose Garden 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Tammy Twinkle & Sally Vate 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sunday Roast noon-late; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Sun lunch noon-till gone; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Lizzy Drip 3.15pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH roasts 12.30pm-till gone POISON IVY Mimbo’s Karaoke 6pm; open 11 PROJECT 56 Cabaret: Maisie Trollette 7.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Davina Sparkle 6pm; CJ 9.30pm; Betty’s Karaoke till 1am; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Jerome’s Piano Lounge; Sunday lunch noon-5pm; open noon STAG INN Sun roast noon-6pm; open noon SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Carrie O’Kay karaoke 8.30pm; open 11

MONDAY 12 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Quiz With Liz 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Recovery; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Food noon-8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Quiz For All: prizes 8.30pm; food noon-2.30pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; opens 3pm ENVY Studio 150: NUS party 10.30pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm; open 11am MARLBOROUGH Dames Games Quiz 8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Bar snacks & karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Tony’s Fun Factory: karaoke, Wii & tunes 6.30pm; open 11am

DAVE LYNN SUN APRIL (22)

LIZZIE DRIP SUN (4)

SATURDAY 10 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Pre-Club Lounge; opens 11am AQUARIUM Karaoke with Mimbo 5pm and Darren 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Kinky Classics: DJ King K 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Shot-tastic; open noon BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 9.30pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Fierce: DJs on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Thai 4 Life fundraiser: Phil B.H.2.M, raffle, £2 entry to charity after 11pm, live band, open till 2am; food 12-9pm DR BRIGHTONS 3rd Birthday Party: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; opens 1pm

FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Krush Groove 10pm LEGENDS BAR Pre-club: DJs 7pm; open 11 MARLBOROUGH Lick Me Up: DJ Dame Amy 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Party Night; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Duckies B’Day Cabaret: Candi & guests 4pm; Kamp Kevin’s karaoke & tunes 8.30pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-6pm; opens 11am REVENGE Kinky Dangerous: Level 1 DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious; Box bar DJs Dulcie Danger & guests 10.30pm STAG INN Motown Disco & Karaoke 8pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE The Furnace 9pm VAVAVOOM Shake It Out: DJ Missy; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm WEST HILL Tonight We Fly: DJs Dominic & Verity play epic tunes 9pm ZONE Cabaret: Sally Vate 9.30pm; opens 11

CHURCH STREET

DR BRIGHTONS

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (10) is Doctor Brighton’s 3RD BIRTHDAY PARTY, under the current owners. Catch DJ Tony B bringing the party from 9.30pm, free entry.

REGULARS: FUNKY FRIDAY is with DJ Nick Hirst or Wayne from 9.30pm, free entry.

SEXY SATURDAY is with DJ Tony B from 9.30pm, free entry.

HAPPY HOURS: all day from Sun–Thur and from 1–7pm on Fri & Sat: pints of Fosters £2.75, large glass wine £3.75, large Smirnoff & mixer £3.60, 2 cocktails for £10.50. Free pool every day with every round of drinks purchased during happy hour.

OPEN: Mon–Thur from 3pm–midnight, Fri & Sat from 1pm–2am, Sun from 1pm–midnight. www.doctorbrightons.co.uk

FISHERMAN’S REST

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sun (4) is SUNDAY CABARET LUNCH with the the electrifying Lizzie Drip. Enjoy a delicious five-course lunch with coffee and entertainment for £21.50! Try their speciality slow roast belly of pork! Food orders are taken and served from 4–5pm, the show starts at 7pm. Bookings are essential, call 01273 323888 to reserve your place. Celebrate 4 years of Sunday Cabaret Lunches at the Fishermans Rest on April (22) with Dave Lynn. Keep your eyes peeled for the return of the spectacular Ceri Dupree on Fri (16) and Sat (17) June.

38 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR + LEGENDS BASEMENT CLUB

MARCH

LISTINGS

LEGENDS BAR

ONE FOR THE DIARY: SUN CABARET from 3.15pm: Sandra (4), Lizzy Drip (11), Topping & Butch (18) and Lady Imelda (25).

REGULARS: Miss Jason’s MONDAY MAYHEM from 9.30pm. Fri is FRIDAZED, two floors, DJ Claire Fuller plays chart/retro in the bar 8pm, Peter Castle plays chart/dance in the club 11pm, shots £1.5, get in touch via Facebook when it’s your birthday for free bottle of champers, ID required. Sat is PRE-CLUB DJs from 7pm.

DRINK DEALS: Mon–Thur: from 5–9pm drinks from £2, buy a bottle of wine and get second half price till 11pm.

OPEN: daily from 11am–5am. Free entry, sun-terrace. www.legendsbrighton.com

TUESDAY 13 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Afternoon Club 3pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Karaoke Unplugged: DJ Alpha & hostess AJ 8.30pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open 12 BULLDOG Opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Brassic Tues; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tues; opens 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open 12 MARLBOROUGH Student night; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; Mark Hodge’s Piano Bar; opens noon REVENGE Supersonic: DJ Trick 11pm STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox;

FUNKY FISH

opens 4pm ZONE U Say We Play 7.30pm; open 11am WEDNESDAY 14 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Quiz 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Open noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pulse: DJs Claire Fuller or Ben Castle 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Wine & Wisdom: quiz night & fundraiser 9pm; opens noon BRIGHTON SAUNA Cocks ‘n’ Jocks Night: licensed bar, mandatory dress code 7pm BULLDOG Red Light Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; live football; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Open Mic 8.30pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (3) is OLD SCHOOL, DJ Delimentary plays 1960s/70s/80s old school breaks/soul/Motown/hip-hop.

REGULARS: Fri is ATOMIC with drink promos and DJ Kool Hertz playing funky breaks, party jams, mash-ups and old school. Sat is KRUSH GROOVE with funk/raregroove/breaks/mash-ups. Entry free before 11pm, £2 after on Fri, £5/£6 every Sat. OPEN: FunkyFish Bar open daily at 11am; FunkyFish club open 10.30pm on Fri, 10pm on Sat. www.funkyfishclub.co.uk

BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS

FREE ENTRY: to the Basement Club every day.

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Fri is FRIDAZED over two floors, DJ Claire Fuller plays chart/retro in the bar 8pm, Peter Castle plays chart/dance in the club 11pm, shots £1.50, get in touch via Facebook when it’s your birthday for free bottle of champers, ID required.

REGULARS: FUSION with DJ Peter Castle on Sat, house/chart sounds. DJ Lee Harris plays (3). POP!CANDY on Sun with DJ Jaykey, pop tracks till 3am. Wed is PULSE with DJs Ben Castle or Claire Fuller playing crowd pleasers all night.

HAPPY HOURS: select drinks from £2.50 every Wed, £1.50 every Sun. OPEN: Doors open at 11pm. Legends will host your party from £150, call Matt on 01273 624462 for more info. www.legendsbrighton.com QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Backlash 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Reggae Night: DJ Micklos 8.30pm; opens 11am THURSDAY 15 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; cocktail night; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Girls On Top Warm Up: DJ Smithy 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thurs; open 3pm ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Landlord Andy’s 21st Annual 30th B’Day Party: Sandra, Mary Mac, free buffet & bubbly 8pm; open noon

REGENCY TAVERN Peter Davies & Mark Hodge Show: piano & song; food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon REVENGE Girls On Top Army Themed Party: DJs Smithy, Fifilicious, Alpha 10.30pm STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Leathered 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am FRIDAY 16 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; live music 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Chill Out Fri: pianist Anthony Jackson Stubbs 7pm; Darren’s Mad House Karaoke 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Disco Bomb: Alpha DJ 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Lil Alex 10pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon-3am 112 CHURCH ST Cabaret: Jason Lee 9pm; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Atomic: DJ Kool Hertz 10.30pm LEGENDS BAR Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; opens 11am

PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR + LEGENDS BASEMENT CLUB

I MARLBOROUGH Q&A 9pm; food 12.308.30pm; open noon I POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am I PROJECT 56 Pre-club: u choose; open 11am I QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Karaoke 9pm; open noon I REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-9pm; opens 11am I REVENGE Lollipop v Mousetrap: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, Fifilcious & Ruby 10.30pm I STAG INN Live band: Davesons 8.30pm; food noon; open noon I SUBLINE Bear Balls: DJ Screwpulous & iTopia, bear or bare, all welcome 9pm I VAVAVOOM Cheese: camp video jukebox; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm I ZONE Cabaret: Lady James 9.30pm; opens 11am SATURDAY 17 I A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Pre-Club Lounge; opens 11am I AQUARIUM Karaoke with Mimbo 5pm and Darren 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm I BAR REVENGE Kinky Classics: DJ King K 9pm; opens noon-6am I BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm I BEDFORD TAVERN Shot-tastic; open noon I BULLDOG St Patrick’s Day Rush: DJ V John 9.30pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am I CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon I CHARLES ST Fierce: DJs on rotation 9pm;

food noon-7.45pm; opens noon I 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon I CROWN & ANCHOR St Patrick’s Day: Guinness, Irish whiskey & RBS Rugby; food noon-9pm; opens noon I DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; opens 1pm I FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am I FUNKYFISH CLUB Krush Groove 10pm I LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club: DJs 7pm; opens 11am I MARLBOROUGH Lick Me Up: DJ Dame Amy 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon I POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am I PROJECT 56 Party Night; opens 11am I QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Auntie Robbie 4pm; Kamp Kevin’s karaoke 8.30pm; open 12 I REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-6pm; opens 11am I REVENGE Kinky Dangerous: Level 1 DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious; Box bar DJs Dulcie Danger & guests 10.30pm I STAG INN Motown Disco & Karaoke 8pm; food noon; open noon I SUBLINE The Furnace 9pm I VAVAVOOM St Patrick’s Day party; open 4pm I ZONE St Patrick’s Day: Irish-themed drinks & entertainment noon; opens 11am SUNDAY 18 I A-BAR Sun lunch noon-6pm; open noon I AQUARIUM Cabaret Break: chill out with Darren & Alex; open 3pm

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 39

PICS FROM PROJECT 56, POISON IVY + QUEENS ARMS

42 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

MARCH

FONDA COX SUN (18)

MAISIE TROLLETTE SUN (11)

LISTINGS

PROJECT 56

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Thursday (29) is the start of SHOWCASE, a night dedicated to local singers from 8pm. If you’re a soloist or duo and would like to perform for cash, call 01273 623399.

REGULARS: Fri is PRE-CLUB where you choose the music. Sat is PARTY NIGHT. CABARET every Sun, from (11), stars perform from 7.30pm: Maisie Trollette (11), Fonda Cox (18) and All Mouth & No Trousers (25). Tue, Wed & Thur it’s KARAOKE from 8.30–11pm.

HAPPY HOURS: drink deals from Sun–Thur.

OPEN: Sun–Tue from 11am–11pm; Wed & Thur from 11am–midnight; Fri & Sat from 11am–1am.

The upstairs function room is free to hire Sun–Thur, for hire on Fri & Sat call 01273 623399 to discuss. Full catering facilities available.

BAR REVENGE Sublime Sunday: Karaoke Queens LouBag & Smithy 8.30pm; Sunday roasts: new chef noon-7pm; opens noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Jaykey 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Piano sing-a-long: Colin or JB 5pm; Piano Bingo 6pm; open 12 BULLDOG Main bar: DJ Grant Knowles 6pm; top bar: karaoke 9pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Cabaret: Drag With No Name 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Tammy Twinkle & Sally Vate 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon7pm 112 CHURCH ST Mother’s Day Lunch: bookings only: 01273 606864 noon-finish; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Sun lunch noon-till gone; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1 FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Topping & Butch 3.15pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Roasts 12.30pm-till gone; open noon POISON IVY Mimbo’s Karaoke 6pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Cabaret: Fonda Cox 7.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Kitty Litter 6pm; Abbamia 9.30pm; Betty’s Karaoke till 1am; opens noon REGENCY TAVERN Jerome’s Piano Lounge; Sunday lunch noon-5pm; open noon STAG INN Sun roast noon-6pm; open noon SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Carrie O’Kay’s karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am MONDAY 19 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Quiz With Liz 9pm; open 12 BEDFORD TAVERN Recovery; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Food noon-8pm; open noon

112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Quiz For All: prizes 8.30pm; food noon-2.30pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; opens 3pm ENVY Studio 150: Student night 10.30pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm; open 11am MARLBOROUGH Dames Games Quiz 8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Bar snacks & karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Tony’s Fun Factory: karaoke, Wii & tunes 6.30pm; open 11am TUESDAY 20 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Afternoon Club 3pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Karaoke Unplugged: DJ Alpha & hostess AJ 8.30pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open noon BULLDOG Opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Brassic Tues; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tues; opens 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open 12 MARLBOROUGH Student night; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon

POISON IVY

ONE FOR THE DIARY: KARAOKE with Mimbo on Sunday from 6pm, £2 Jagerbombs.

REGULARS: KARAOKE at 7pm the rest of the week with: Spice on Mon, Tue & Thur, £1 drinks on Tue; Barbara Fella on Wed; Betty Swollocks on Fri & Sat. HAPPY HOURS: fun prices £1.99 11am–7pm from Tue–Sun & all day on Mon. OPEN: daily from 11am.

REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; Mark Hodge’s Piano Bar; opens 12 REVENGE Supersonic: DJ Trick 11pm STAG INN Food noon; karaoke; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE U Say We Play 7.30pm; open 11am WEDNESDAY 21 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Quiz 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Open noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pulse: DJs Claire Fuller or Ben Castle 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Wine & Wisdom: quiz night & fundraiser 9pm; opens noon BRIGHTON SAUNA Wet ‘n’ Wild: any fetish gear, licensed bar 7pm BULLDOG Red Light Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon

QUEEN’S ARMS

CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; live football; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Open Mic 8.30pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Backlash 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Reggae Night: DJ Micklos 8.30pm; opens 11am

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Thur (15) is Andy’s 21st annual 30th Birthday Party from 8pm featuring Mary Mac & Sandra, free buffet and free glass of bubbly before 9pm.

REGULARS: SAT CABARET from 4pm: Sissy Sucks (3), Candy & guests (10), Auntie Robbie (17), Krissie DuCann (24) and Gilly Bee as Pink (31). Sun is DOUBLE CABARET at 6pm and 9.30pm: Lola Lasagne & Wesley Sebastian (4), Davina Sparkle & CJ (11), Kitty Litter & Abbamia (18) and Mary Mac & Tammy Twinkle (25). Betty’s Karaoke follows till 1am. OPEN: daily from noon.

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 43

3rd BIRTHDAY PARTY

SAT 10th MARCH DJ TONY B from 9pm FREE ENTRY open till 2am

________________________

HAPPY HOURS SUN–THU ALL DAY • FRI & SAT 1–7pm • LARGE SMIRNOFF & MIXER £3.60 • FOSTERS £2.75 • ANY LARGE WINE 3.75 • 2 COCKTAILS for £10.50

213 PRESTON RD • 01273 559494 • www.thecrownandanchorbrighton.co.uk

thais 4 life

charity weekend friday 9th march

home made pies

"Love You Long Time“

An evening of fun and frolics with the one and only...

The chips and the staff are home made too!

Sunday Roasts served from noon till gone

function room available for hire

March OFFER £50 all inclusve rate Ideal for parties • weddings • gatherings • orgies, barmitzvah • dinner groups • watching sports events on the plasma screen (with waitress service) • Seats 50 or 100 standing ...FREE PARKING too!

Call for details

MISS DAVINA SPARKLE!

• charity raffle • beer promos • food available till 9pm • late bar till 2am • £2 entry after 11pm (for charity) • student discounts

saturday 10th march

BH2M ('BIN HERE 2 MONTHS!) Phil the Pieman has decided to let his non grey hair down with • live music from his favourite band • drink promos • charity raffle • late bar till 2am • £2 entry after 11pm (for charity) www.thais4life.com

kitchen open every day for lunch • tues to sun for dinner

44 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM QUEENS HOTEL, BAR REVENGE + REVENGE

MARCH

LADY JAMES SUN (29) APR

DAVINA SPARKLE SUN (25) MAR

LISTINGS

QUEEN’S HOTEL

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Davina Sparkle takes to the stage on Sunday (25) for a 3 Course SUNDAY CABARET Dinner & Coffee from 3pm, £19.95 pp, bookings essential, call 01273 321222. Look out for Lady James on Sunday (29) April.

THURSDAY 22 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; cocktail night; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Girls On Top Warm Up: DJ Smithy 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thurs; open 3pm ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Sissy Sucks’ Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Peter Davies & Mark Hodge Show: piano & song; food noon2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon REVENGE Girls On Top v Emergency Room: Level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifilicious & Alpha; Box Bar DJ Dulcie Danger 10.30pm STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Leathered 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am

FRIDAY 23 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; live music 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Chill Out Fri: pianist Anthony Jackson Stubbs 7pm; Darren’s Mad House Karaoke 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Disco Bomb: Alpha DJ 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Lil Alex 10pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Cabaret: Pooh La May 9pm; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Atomic: DJ Kool Hertz 10.30pm LEGENDS BAR Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH I <3 Electro 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Pre-Club: u choose; open 11 QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-9pm; opens 11am REVENGE Lollipop v Mousetrap: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, Fifilcious & Ruby 10.30pm

BAR REVENGE

ONE FOR THE DIARY: SUBLIME SUNDAY Karaoke Queens with Smithy & Lou Bag from 8.30pm.

REGULARS: Mon is QUIZ with Liz, cash and boozy prizes from 9pm. Tue is KARAOKE UNPLUGGED with DJ Alpha & hostess Alpha from 8.30pm. Thur is GIRLS ON TOP Warm-Up with DJ Smithy playing pop/chart hits from 9pm. Fri is DISCO BOMB with DJ Alpha playing r&b/pop/party tunes from 9pm. Sat is KINKY CLASSICS with DJ King K playing funky house from the past 5 years. Revenge discount passes available: Thur b4 11.30pm, Fri & Sat b4 midnight. Check out the new video jukebox.

FOOD: Check out the new chef and new menu with SUNDAY ROASTS served on Sunday from noon–7pm for £6.95.

HAPPY HOURS: All drinks (exc champers/cocktails/doubles) from £1.99 all day from Mon–Wed; £1.50 from 7pm on Thur; from £2.49 Fri–Sun; 2-4-1 cocktails 5–9pm from Mon–Sat; Sourz shots £1 with drink purchase on Fri & Sat. OPEN: daily from noon–2am & till 6am on Fri & Sat. www.revenge.co.uk STAG INN Live band: Z Dead Classic Rock 8.30pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE GHot Fur?: bear night 9pm VAVAVOOM Cheese: camp video jukebox; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm ZONE Cabaret: Maisie Trollette 9.30pm; opens 11am SATURDAY 24 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Pre-Club Lounge; opens 11am AQUARIUM Karaoke with Mimbo 5pm and Darren 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Kinky Classics: DJ King K 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm

BEDFORD TAVERN Shot-tastic; open 12 BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 9.30pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Fierce: DJs on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Comedy Night: Charmaine & 6 local comedians 8pmmidnight; food noon-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Krush Groove 10pm LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club: DJs 7pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Lick Me Up: DJ Dame

PICS FROM BAR REVENGE + REVENGE

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 45

MARCH

LISTINGS

REVENGE

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Thur is GIRLS ON TOP v EMERGENCY ROOM with DJs Smithy, Fifilicious, Alpha playing chart/pop/trash/r&b/party tunes; upstairs Dulcie Danger plays house anthems/future classics. Drinks from £1.50 (exc champers & doubles); free entry with flyer b4 11.30pm, £4 after, members & NUS free b4 11.30pm, £3 after.

Special Girls On Top theme parties: Spring Break party (8), Army party (15), REGULARS: Fri is LOLLIPOP v MOUSETRAP with DJs Alex Baker & Trick dropping upfront pop/r&b/chart remixes on main floor; Fifilicious & Roo play 3 decades of cheese/anthems; all drinks £2.50, Jagerbombs £2 b4 12; free entry with pass or VIP card b4 12 or £5 b4 12 without, £6 after, NUS £3 all night. Sat is KINKY DANGEROUS with DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious playing current/past chart on Level 1; DJ Dulcie Danger and guests play uplifting funky house in Box Bar; all drinks £2.50 (exc champers & doubles), Jagerbombs £2 b4 12; entry free b4 11pm with pass, £4 without, £6 b4 midnight, £8 after, £3 NUS. Tue is SUPERSONIC with DJ Trick playing pop/current/classic faves/house/r&b; all drinks £2, Jagerbombs £1.50 all night, entry £2 NUS, £3 others.

OPEN: 10.30pm on Thur, Fri, Sat & 11pm on Tue. (Closed Sun, Mon & Wed). www.revenge.co.uk Amy 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Party Night; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Krissie DuCann 4pm; Kamp Kevin’s karaoke 8.30pm; open 12 REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-6pm; opens 11am REVENGE Kinky Dangerous: Level 1 DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious; Box bar DJs Dulcie Danger & guests 10.30pm STAG INN Motown Disco & Karaoke 8pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE The Furnace 9pm VAVAVOOM Beach Party; opens 4pm

ZONE Cabaret: Sally Vate 9.30pm; opens 11am SUNDAY 25 A-BAR Sun lunch noon-6pm; open noon AQUARIUM Cabaret Break: chill out with Darren & Alex; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Sublime Sunday: Karaoke Queens LouBag & Smithy 8.30pm; Sunday roasts: new chef noon-7pm; opens noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Jaykey 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Piano sing-a-long: Colin or JB 5pm; Piano Bingo 6pm; opens 12 BULLDOG Main bar: DJ Grant Knowles 6pm; top bar: karaoke 9pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Cabaret: Mrs Moore 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Tammy Twinkle & Sally Vate 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sunday Roast noon-late; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Sun lunch noon-till gone; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Hang Over Therapy; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Lady Imelda 3.15pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Roasts 12.30pm-till gone; open noon POISON IVY Mimbo’s Karaoke 6pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Cabaret: All Mouth & No Trousers 7.30pm; opens 11am

QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Mary Mac 6pm; Tammy Twinkle 9.30pm; Betty’s Karaoke till 1am; opens noon QUEENS HOTEL Davina Sparkle’s Sunday Lunch Cabaret: 3 course dinner, coffee, show 3pm; £19.95pp, must book 01273 321222 REGENCY TAVERN Jerome’s Piano Lounge; Sunday lunch noon-5pm; open noon STAG INN Sun roast noon-6pm; open noon SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE 5th Birthday & Charity Fundraiser: Sally Vate, Jamie Watson, Janine, Gilly Bee, Lady James, Maisie Trollette & more raising money for St John’s Ambulance & Same Sky 4pm; open 11am MONDAY 26 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Quiz With Liz 9pm; open 12 BEDFORD TAVERN Recovery; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Food noon-8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Quiz For All: prizes 8.30pm; food noon-2.30pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm ENVY Studio 150: Student night 10.30pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm; open 11am MARLBOROUGH Dames Games Quiz 8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Food noon; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Tony’s Fun Factory: karaoke, Wii & tunes 6.30pm; open 11am TUESDAY 27 A-BAR Bar menu 11am-5pm; Thai & Tapas 6-10pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Gobby Gordon’s Afternoon Club 3pm; food 4pm; open 1pm

BAR REVENGE Karaoke Unplugged: DJ Alpha & hostess AJ 8.30pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open 12 BULLDOG Reggae Night: DJ Micklos; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon CROWN & ANCHOR Brassic Tues; food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tues; opens 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open 12 MARLBOROUGH Student night; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Karaoke: Kamp Kevin 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; Mark Hodge’s Piano Bar; opens 12 REVENGE Supersonic: DJ Trick 11pm STAG INN Food noon; open noon VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE U Say We Play 7.30pm; open 11am WEDNESDAY 28 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Quiz 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Open noon BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pulse: DJs Claire Fuller or Ben Castle 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Wine & Wisdom: quiz night & fundraiser 9pm; opens noon BULLDOG Red Light Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST After work 5pm; food noon8pm; open noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; live football; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Open Mic 8.30pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Karaoke 8.30pm; open 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Backlash 9pm

46 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM STAG INN, SUBLINE, VAVAVOOM + ZONE

MARCH

LISTINGS

STAG INN

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (31) is LIVE MUSIC with Jason Lee from 8.30pm.

REGULARS: LIVE MUSIC & free bar snacks every Fri from 8.30pm: Back Beat (9), Davesons (16) and Z Dead Classic Rock (23). Check with venue for confirmed acts.

Sat is Motown Disco & Karaoke from 8pm. KARAOKE through the day Mon–Sat. FOOD: Home cooked food served from noon. Sunday roast: pork/beef/chicken/lamb served noon–6pm, £5.50.

HAPPY HOURS: Mon–Thur from noon–7pm: all pints £2.50 & large branded spirit and mixers £3.

OPEN: Sun–Thur from noon–midnight, Fri & Sat from noon–2am.

VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Reggae Night: DJ Micklos 8.30pm; opens 11am THURSDAY 29 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; cocktail night; opens 11am AQUARIUM Food 4pm; open 3pm BAR REVENGE Girls On Top Warm Up: DJ Smithy 9pm; opens noon BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thurs; open 3pm ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy in bar, DJ Ruby Roo in club 8pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am

LEGENDS BAR Open 11am MARLBOROUGH Food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Showcase: local talent show 8pm; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Sissy Sucks’ Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Regency Review: piano & song; food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; opens noon REVENGE Girls On Top v Emergency Room: Level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifilicious & Alpha; Box Bar DJ Dulcie Danger 10.30pm STAG INN Food noon; open noon SUBLINE Leathered 9pm VAVAVOOM You Choose: video jukebox; opens 4pm ZONE Karaoke 8.30pm; opens 11am FRIDAY 30 A-BAR Food noon-9pm; live music 9pm; opens 11am AQUARIUM Chill Out Fri: pianist Anthony Jackson Stubbs 7pm; Darren’s Mad House Karaoke 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm

SUBLINE

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Friday (2, 16 & 30) is BEAR BALLS with DJ Screwpulous with DJ iTopia playing the hottest house/electro tunes. Bear or bare, all comers welcome.

REGULARS: Fri (9 & 23) is GHot Fur? bear night, £2.50 drinks and free entry for members till 11pm. Sat is THE FURNACE with £2.50 drinks and free entry for members till 11pm. Sun is COME IN YOUR PANTS underwear party with DJ N.U.D.E. Wed is BACKLASH, retro tunes and prices, selected £2.50 drinks for members.

Thur is LEATHERED with free lockers for those adventurously dressed.

HAPPY HOURS: selected drinks £2.50 for members on Wed, drinks £2.50 for members till 11pm on Thur, Fri & Sat. OPEN: Fri & Sat from 9pm–4am, Sun from 8pm–2am, Wed & Thur from 9pm–1.30am. Closed Mon & Tue. www.subline-brighton.com BAR REVENGE Disco Bomb: Alpha DJ 9pm; opens noon-6am BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fridazed: 2 floor party with DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; opens noon BULLDOG DJ Lil Alex 10pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon CHARLES ST Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon 112 CHURCH ST Cabaret: Jennie Castell 9pm; opens noon CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-2.30pm & 5.30-9pm; opens noon DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; opens 1pm FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am FUNKYFISH CLUB Atomic: DJ Kool Hertz 10.30pm LEGENDS BAR Fridazed: 2 floor party with

ZONE

VAVAVOOM

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (17) is ST PATRICK’S DAY with Guinness £2.50, Shamrock shooters £2.

REGULARS: Fri is CHEESE with all things cheesy and camp. Sat is SHAKE IT OUT with DJ Missy playing disco/remixes/electro/house. BEACH PARTY is (24) Fri & Sat is KARAOKE night in the upstairs lounge from 10.30pm. YOU CHOOSE the tunes from the video jukebox Sun–Thur till midnight. Free play every Tue & Wed. DRINK DEALS: 4 Jagerbombs for £10; shots from £1.50 on Fri. OPEN: Sun–Thur from 4pm–midnight & Fri & Sat from 4pm–2am.

HOTEL ROOMS: from £15pppn, call 01273 603010.

DJ Claire Fuller in bar 8pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; opens 11am MARLBOROUGH Back to the 80s: DJ Big G 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am PROJECT 56 Pre-Club: u choose; opens 11am QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Karaoke 9pm; open noon REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-2.30pm & 6-9pm; opens 11am REVENGE Lollipop v Mousetrap: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, Fifilcious & Ruby 10.30pm STAG INN Live music 8.30pm; food noon; open noon SUBLINE Bear Balls: DJ Screwpulous & iTopia, bear or bare, all welcome 9pm VAVAVOOM Cheese: camp video jukebox; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm ZONE Cabaret: Miss Jason 9.30pm; opens 11am

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sun (25) is the Zone’s 5TH BIRTHDAY celebration and fundraiser from 4pm with Sally Vate hosting an all-star cabaret line-up including: Janine, Jamie Watson, Gilly Bee, Lady James, Maisie Trollette and many more raising money for St John’s Ambulance & Same Sky. REGULARS: Mon is now TONY’S FUN FACTORY with karaoke, Wii and camp tunes from 6.30pm. FRIDAY CABARET at 9.30pm: Stone & Street (2), Jamie Watson (9), Lady James (16), Maisie Trollette (23) and Miss Jason (30). SATURDAY CABARET at 9.30pm: Tammy Twinkle (3 & 31), Sally Vate (10 & 24). Sat (17) is St Patrick’s Day from noon with Irish-themed drinks and entertainment. Check Facebook for more info. Sun (4) is cabaret with Dave Lynn from 8.30pm.

OPEN: daily from 11am.

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 47

SATURDAY 31 I A-BAR Food noon-9pm; Pre-Club Lounge; opens 11am I AQUARIUM Karaoke with Mimbo 5pm and Darren 10pm; food 4pm; open 3pm I BAR REVENGE Kinky Classics: DJ King K 9pm; opens noon-6am I BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm I BEDFORD TAVERN Shot-tastic; open noon I BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 9.30pm; top bar: karaoke 10pm; opens 11am I CAMELFORD ARMS Open noon I CHARLES ST The Fierce Drag Ball 2: drag dress code, DJs, giveaways & prizes 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; opens noon I 112 CHURCH ST Opens noon I CROWN & ANCHOR Food noon-9pm; opens noon I DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; opens 1pm I FUNKYFISH BAR Opens 11am I FUNKYFISH CLUB Krush Groove 10pm I LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club: DJs 7pm; opens 11am I MARLBOROUGH Lick Me Up: DJ Dame Amy 9pm; food 12.30-8.30pm; open noon I POISON IVY Betty Swollocks’ Karaoke 7pm; opens 11am I PROJECT 56 Party Night; opens 11am I QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Gilly Bee as Pink 4pm; Kamp Kevin’s karaoke & tunes 8.30pm; open noon I REGENCY TAVERN Food noon-6pm; opens 11am I REVENGE Kinky Dangerous: Level 1 DJs Alex Baker & Fifilicious; Box bar DJs Dulcie Danger & guests 10.30pm I STAG INN Cabaret: Jason Lee 8.30pm; food noon; open noon I SUBLINE The Furnace 9pm I VAVAVOOM Shake It Out: DJ Missy; karaoke upstairs 10.30pm; opens 4pm I ZONE Cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 9.30pm; opens 11am

48 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

BOURNEMOUTH

BAKERS ARMS 77-79 Commercial Road, BH2 5RT, Tel: 01202 555506 BAR VENTANA at CUMBERLAND HOTEL East Overcliff Drive, BH1 3AF, Tel: 01202 556529 www.cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk BRANKSOME ARMS 152-154 Commercial Road, BH2 5LU, Tel: 01202 552544 CUMBERLAND HOTEL East Overcliff Drive, BH1 3AF, Tel: 01202 290722 www.cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk DYMK 31 Poole Hill Road, BN2 5PW, www.dymk-bar.com SAUNABAR 140 Commercial Road, BH2 5LU, Tel: 01202 552654 www.gaysaunabournemouth.co.uk 2930 TRIANGLE 30 The Triangle, BH2 5SE, Tel: 0845 496 2934 www.2930thetriangle.com WHITE TIGER 27 The Triangle, BH2 5SE, Tel: 01202 554195 www.easytigerstore.com XCHANGE 4 The Triangle, BH2 5RY, Tel: 01202 294321

PORTSMOUTH

HAMPSHIRE BOULEVARD 1 Hampshire Terr, Southsea, Tel: 02392 297509 www.thehampshireboulevard.co.uk Open: Mon: 3pm-11pm, Tue: noon-1am, WedThur: noon-2am, Fri-Sat: noon-3am, Sun: noon-2am, cabaret bar and club

THURSDAY 1 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm OLD VIC Karaoke 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Cash In 10pm LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: DJ Tiny 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon FRIDAY 2 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Controversial till 3am; opens noon OLD VIC DJs 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Get Some: DJ Grammaphone, guests & giveaways 9pm LONDON HOTEL Cabaret: Rose Garden 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SATURDAY 3 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD My Transsexual Summer: meet & greet the cast 9pm; opens 5pm OLD VIC Opens 5pm SOUTHAMPTON EDGE The Big One with GaydarRadio Take Over: guest DJ Phil Marriott & residents; 3 bars, 2 dance floors 9pm

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.

TROPICS SAUNA 2 Market Way Tel: 02380 296100 www.tropics-sauna.com Open: Mon-Wed: 12-8pm, Thur-Sat: 11am9pm

SOUTHAMPTON

ENDEAVOUR 7 Simnel St Tel: 02380 211879 Open: Mon-Thur: 12-11.30pm, Fri-Sat: 12-12, Sun: noon-10.30pm. Traditional pub hosted by Miss Moss. Always a welcome and great food.

ISOBAR 100c St Mary’s St Tel: 02380 222028 Open: Sun-Tue: 2pm-11pm, Wed-Sat: 2pmmidnight. Modern bar, outside decked garden LONDON HOTEL 2 Terminus Terr Tel: 02380 710652 www.the-london.co.uk Open: Mon-Thur: noon-11pm, Fri-Sat: noon12.30am, Sun: noon-11.30am, cabaret & food.

EDGE Compton Wk Tel: 02380 366163 www.theedgesouthampton.com Open: Tue-Fri & Sun: 9pm-3am, Sat: 9pm5am. Stylish club on 2 floors with 3 bars.

PINK BROADWAY SAUNA 797/80 East St Tel: 02380 238804 www.pink-broadway.com Open: Sun-Thur: noon-10pm, Fri-Sat: noon2am LONDON HOTEL DJ Neil Sackley & His Guilty Pleasures 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SUNDAY 4 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: Sunday Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 79pm; cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke till 2am; opens 5pm OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE We Are 1: DJ Steve Francis 9pm LONDON HOTEL Cabaret: Lucinda Lashes 7.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon MONDAY 5 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Bar 150: DJ Ruby Roo 9pm OLD VIC Food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; open 12 TUESDAY 6 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH OLD VIC Bingo 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Tammy Twinkle’s Karaoke 9pm LONDON HOTEL Lucinda’s Lucky Numbers: games & a sing-song 8pm; food 6.309.30pm; opens noon

MY TRANSSEXUAL SUMMER SAT (3)

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH

HAMPSHIRE BOULEVARD PORTSMOUTH

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Saturday (17) is TA-RAR Divine Diva with cash balloon drops, DJs, foam, confetti & cocktails from 8pm. The first fifty people to arrive before 9.30pm get a free cocktail.

REGULARS: Fri is CONTROVERSIAL till 3am. Sat (3) is a meet & greet with the cast of My Transsexual Summer from 9pm. Mon is BAR 150 with DJ Ruby Roo playing commercial floor fillers/chart/cheese/pop/ r&b/pure funk from 9pm, £1.50 drinks, free entry till 10.30pm, £3 after. Wed is SALLY GOES WILD with hot tunes and drink offers from 5pm, free entry.

HAPPY HOURS: £1.50 drinks till 9pm, including: vodka, gin, Malibu, Archers, pints of Carlsberg & Strongbow, bottles of VK & VS. OPEN: 9pm–2am on Mon; 5pm–2am Sun, Wed & Thur; noon–3am Fri; 5pm–3am Sat. Closed Tue. Bring your party to the HB; ask at the bar for details and offers. www.facebook.com/pubhb

WEDNESDAY 7 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Oceana Ballroom: Showstoppers featuring West End songs old & new 9pm PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Sally Goes Wild: camp tunes & shows till 2am; opens 5pm OLD VIC Student Night 7pm; food noon3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Pete Kendall’s karaoke 9pm LONDON HOTEL Quiz 8.30pm; food noon3pm; opens noon THURSDAY 8 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm OLD VIC Karaoke 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Cash In 10pm LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: DJ Tiny 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon FRIDAY 9 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Controversial till 3am; opens noon OLD VIC DJs 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Get Some: DJ Lady Bex, guests & giveaways 9pm

LONDON HOTEL Cabaret: Boy George Experience 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SATURDAY 10 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Sarcasm: Divine Diva till 3am; opens 5pm OLD VIC Opens 5pm SOUTHAMPTON EDGE The Big One: resident DJs, 3 bars, 2 dance floors 9pm LONDON HOTEL DJ Dazza & JP Christian’s farewell to Sarah 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SUNDAY 11 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: Sunday Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 79pm; cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke till 2am; opens 5pm OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE We Are 1: DJ Steve Francis 9pm LONDON HOTEL Sunday Service: Dolly Partem 7.30pm; Cabaret: Dave Lynn 9.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon MONDAY 12 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am

GSCENE 49

CUMBERLAND HOTEL Bournemouth’s glitterati came out in force on two nights last month to be entertained by the classiest drag Queen, nay ‘gender illusionist’ in the business, Miss Ceri Dupree. Ceri played the Cumberland Hotel for two nights last month and brought back that good old fashions razzamataz to the Oceana Ballroom at the Cumberland Hotel. Great hotel, great entertainment, great night.

We could have been in Vegas darling!

50 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM THE EDGE SOUTHAMPTON

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH

EDGE SOUTHAMPTON

I ONE FOR THE DIARY: Saturday is THE BIG ONE with 3 bars and 2 dance floors: GAYDARRADIO TAKE OVER with DJ Phil Marriott & residents (3), resident DJs (10 & 31), ST PATRICK’S DAY GREEN PARTY with DJ Lee Harris & residents (17), ONE FOR THE GIRLS with DJ Lady Bex, Diamond & an all female line-up (24), entry to all £3/£5.

I REGULARS: Sun is WE ARE 1 with DJ Steve Francis, £1 drinks, free entry before 10pm, £2/£4 after. I Tue is TAMMY TWINKLE’S KARAOKE, £2 Jagerbombs, free entry. I Wed is BAR 150 with DJ Lady Bex & Cheeky Pete’s karaoke, all drinks £1.50, free entry/£2 before 10pm, £4/£6 after. I Thur is CASH IN held in the Loft Bar with a £50 bar tab up for grabs and free entry. I Fri is GET SOME with DJ Lady Bex, guests, huge giveaways, cheap drinks, entry £3/£5 before 11pm, £4/£6 after. 69-year-old DJ Grammaphone plays (2).

I OPEN: 9pm–3am on Tue, Wed & Sun, 10pm–3am on Thur, 9pm–5am on Fri & Sat. Closed Mon.I www.theedgesouthampton.com PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Bar 150: DJ Ruby Roo 9pm I OLD VIC Food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; opens noon TUESDAY 13 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I OLD VIC Bingo 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Tammy Twinkle’s Karaoke 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Lucinda’s Lucky Numbers: games & a sing-song 8pm; food 6.30-9.30pm; opens noon WEDNESDAY 14 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Sally Goes Wild: camp tunes & shows till 2am; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Student Night 7pm; food noon3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Pete Kendall’s karaoke 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Girls On Top: TV/TS & friends’ meeting; food noon-3pm; opens noon THURSDAY 15 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am

PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Karaoke 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Cash In 10pm I LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon FRIDAY 16 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Controversial till 3am; opens noon I OLD VIC DJs 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Get Some: DJ Lady Bex, guests & giveaways 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Cabaret: Sandra 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SATURDAY 17 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Ta-Rar DD: Divine Diva’s leaving do; cash balloon drop, DJs, foam, confetti, cocktails & more 8pm; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Opens 5pm SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE The Big One St Paddy’s Day Green Party: DJ Lee Harris & residents; 3 bars, 2 dance floors 9pm I LONDON HOTEL DJ Tiny & His Guilty Pleasures 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon-midnight

SUNDAY 18 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: Mother’s Day 3 course roast lunch £19.95 or 3 course candle lit lunch £26.95 12.30-2.30pm; bookings 01202 298 350; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke till 2am; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE We Are 1: DJ Steve Francis 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Sunday Service: Dolly Partem 7.30pm; Cabaret: Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon MONDAY 19 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Bar 150: DJ Ruby Roo 9pm I OLD VIC Food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; opens noon TUESDAY 20 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I OLD VIC Bingo 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Tammy Twinkle’s Karaoke 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Lucinda’s Lucky Numbers: games & a sing-song 8pm; food 6.30-9.30pm; opens noon

WEDNESDAY 21 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Sally Goes Wild: camp tunes & shows till 2am; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Student Night 7pm; food noon3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Pete Kendall’s karaoke 9pm I LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; opens noon THURSDAY 22 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm I OLD VIC Karaoke 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON I EDGE Cash In 10pm I LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon FRIDAY 23 BOURNEMOUTH I CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH I HAMPSHIRE BLVD Controversial till 3am; opens noon I OLD VIC DJs 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 51

PICS FROM THE LONDON HOTEL SOUTHAMPTON

52 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

LOLA LASAGNE SUN (18)

DAVE LYNN SUN (11)

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH

LONDON HOTEL SOUTHAMPTON

ONE FOR THE DIARY: Look out for these events at The London Hotel over EASTER WEEKEND in April: DJ Miss Penny & Miss Jason perform on Good Friday (6), DJ Lucinda Lashes & Saski perform on Easter Saturday (7) and Dolly Partem & Drag With No Name perform on Easter Sunday (8).

REGULARS: FRIDAY CABARET from 9.30pm: Rose Garden (2), Boy George Experience (9), Sandra (16), Helen Love (23) and Diamonds Are Forever Fundraiser for Countess Mountbatten Hospice (30). Sat is PARTY TIME from 8.30pm with DJs: Neil Sackley & His Guilty Pleasures (3), Dazza & JP Christian bid farewell to Sarah (10), Tiny & His Guilty Pleasures (17 & 24) and Bad Toad’s Final Gig (31). Sun is Dolly Partem’s SUNDAY SERVICE from 7.30pm, cabaret follows from 9.30pm: Dave Lynn (11), Lola Lasagne (18) and Son Of A Tutu (25). Dolly is away Sun (4), so Lucinda Lashes will be performing solo from 9pm. Tue is LUCINDA’S LUCKY NUMBERS from 8pm. Wed (7) is QUIZ NIGHT from 8.30pm.

Wed (14) is GIRLS ON TOP meeting for TV/TS and their friends. Thur is KARAOKE CRUISING from 9.30pm with DJ Tiny (1 & 8) and Pat Cruise (15, 22 & 29). Free pool on Mon & Tue. FOOD: served Mon & Wed–Sat from noon–3pm, Tue from 6.30–9.30pm, Sunday lunch from noon–3.30pm.

OPEN: daily from noon. www.the-london.co.uk

SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Get Some: DJ Lady Bex, guests & giveaways 9pm LONDON HOTEL Cabaret: Helen Love 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SATURDAY 24 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Opens 5pm OLD VIC Opens 5pm SOUTHAMPTON EDGE The Big One For The Girls: DJ Lady Bex, Diamond & all female line-up; 3 bars, 2 dance floors 9pm LONDON HOTEL DJ Tiny & His Guilty Pleasures 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SUNDAY 25 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: Sunday Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 79pm; cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE We Are 1: DJ Steve Francis 9pm LONDON HOTEL Sunday Service: Dolly Partem 7.30pm; Cabaret: Son Of A Tutu 9.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon

MONDAY 26 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Bar 150: DJ Ruby Roo 9pm OLD VIC Food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; opens noon TUESDAY 27 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH OLD VIC Bingo 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Tammy Twinkle’s Karaoke 9pm LONDON HOTEL Lucinda’s Lucky Numbers: games & a sing-song 8pm; food 6.30-9.30pm; opens noon WEDNESDAY 28 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Sally Goes Wild: camp tunes & shows till 2am; opens 5pm OLD VIC Student Night 7pm; food noon3pm; opens noon

SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Pete Kendall’s karaoke 9pm LONDON HOTEL Food noon-3pm; opens noon THURSDAY 29 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Karaoke; opens 5pm OLD VIC Karaoke 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Cash In 10pm LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon FRIDAY 30 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am

PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Controversial till 3am; opens noon OLD VIC DJs 8pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SOUTHAMPTON EDGE Get Some: DJ Lady Bex, guests & giveaways 9pm LONDON HOTEL Diamonds Are Forever Fundraiser for Countess Mountbatten Hospice 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon SATURDAY 31 BOURNEMOUTH CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, cocktails, wines & beers served all day & night; open 9am PORTSMOUTH HAMPSHIRE BLVD Opens 5pm OLD VIC Opens 5pm SOUTHAMPTON EDGE The Big One: resident DJs, 3 bars, 2 dance floors 9pm LONDON HOTEL Bad Toad’s Final Performance 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; opens noon

GSCENE 53

54 GSCENE

SHOPPING WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN

Ali Miller gilded UK map tea cup and saucer - as seen on Sherlock!, £25 (Edited, 3 Gardner St, Brighton, editedbrighton.com) Love and Hate Oven Gloves, £14.99 each (Pussy, 3a Kensington Gardens, Brighton, 01273 604861) French-made Butter Knives, £6.50 each (Utility, 28 North Rd, Brighton, 01273 626222)

Roger la Borde sketch pad, £6.99 (Pen To Paper, 4 Sydney St, Brighton, 01273 676670)

Dieux du Stade DVD £24; August DVD £14.99; British Guide to Showing Off DVD £15.99; new Armani Pants range from £20; Luminosity book £39.99 (Prowler, 112 St James' St, Brighton, 01273 683680)

New spring range of humour cards all £2.40 from Cardome (47a St James’ St, Brighton, 01273 692916) or shop online at www.cardome.co.uk

56 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

BRIGHTON CENTRE Kings Rd, Brighton, Box office: 0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk Music highlights include: THE WANTED (Mon 5); THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW (Tue 20); CHRIS REA (Thu 22); JOE BONAMASSA (Fri 23) award-winning blues rock star, guitar hero and singer-songwriter; X FACTOR LIVE TOUR 2012 (Tue 27). BILLY CONNOLLY (Thu 15–Fri 16) plays a stand-up set.

BEAR GRYLLS (Sat 24) shares his experiences of survival, his epic journey to the summit of Mount Everest, his life, behind the scenes of his hit show and stories from his bestselling book Mud, Sweat & Tears.

BERNADETTE CREMIN

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

NEW VENTURE THEATRE

ADRIENNE THOMAS

ARTS

multi-media, a celebration of the life and works of Bertolt Brecht in a unique and compelling theatrical experience. “It is difficult to imagine a more thorough and engaging introduction to Brecht's life and work ... This show instructs and entertains with the thrill of repeated insights” Time Out.

KOMEDIA

ELECTRO KIF

WIZZIE & MINCE (Fri 16). An evening of video, rehearsed readings, lecture and discussion – featuring local academic experts – taking a closer look at Jim Cartwright's The Rise and Fall of Little Voice.

NIGHTINGALE THEATRE Grant Central Bar, Surrey St, Brighton Box office: 01273 709709 CARP BLANCHE (Thu 15). The evening comprises three tales of the unexpected, merging puppetry CARP BLANCHE

ADRIENNE THOMAS

THE TABLE

Gardner Street, Brighton Box office: 0845 293 8480 www.komedia.co.uk It thens tell the story of the BRIGHTON LITTLE THEATRE BENT DOUBLE (Sun 4) An performers' lives, their everyday Clarence Gardens, Brighton irreverent night of fun and frolics hopes, fears, friendships and Box office: 01273 777748 hosted by if.comedy Best rivalries, played out across a www.the-little.co.uk Newcomer 2007 award nominee, typical day at college.

HEDDA GABLER (Tue 6–Sat 10). and as seen on BBC 2's Mock The THE TABLE (Thu 15). Blind Ibsen's play is the study of a Week and Michael McIntyre's Summit Theatre present an fascinating yet tragic and hateful Comedy Roadshow, Zoe Lyons. A woman ensnared in a stuffy middle award-winning show about a brew of comedic delight, this gay puppet stuck on a table.

Moses, a class environment and trapped in friendly night promises a fabulous a state of pregnancy in a loveless puppet with a cardboard head, is having an existential crisis at the line up every time. marriage, which her twisted FUNNY WOMEN (Sat 10). Join fastidious nature finds unbearably Funny Women to celebrate offensive. Returning from her International Women’s Day with honeymoon and already bored Award winning female comedy. with her marriage, Hedda finds Proceeds from this event go to herself caught between the local charity RISE, which supports brilliant but Bohemian dissolute those suffering from domestic Eilert Lovborg and the clutches of violence in the area. This special the predatory Judge Brack. As a showcase will feature past Winners shocking path of destruction and Finalists from 10 years of the hands of his puppeteers.

They take unfolds to an exciting nail biting Funny Women Awards. him (and you) on a hilarious climax, there can be only one visual journey of disembodied outcome. heads told entirely by pictures emerging from a briefcase. Using DOME the team's trademark extreme Church Street, Brighton puppetry style, this story Box office: 01273 709709 combines the dark humour of www.brightondome.org ELEKTRO KIF (Sat 10), take the Beckett and the flat-pack technology of Ikea. urban street-dance style 'electro' (a dazzling mix of breaking, disco, I, BERTOLT BRECHT (Fri 30–Sat 31). This is a fusion of cabaret, vogue, popping and locking) straight from the suburbs of Paris. drama, musical showcase and BACK TO BERLIN (Fri 16). Late 1920s Berlin was immersed in economic and political upheaval, as the licentiousness of the Weimar Republic with its massive inflation and sexual freedoms fell under the shadow of the emergent Nazi Party. This evening of Brecht & Weill songs recreates the atmosphere of the times, with vocalist Adrienne Thomas’ mature presence and passionately dramatic delivery, and Slater’s virtuoso guitar playing. Dress up to match the times and the feeling!

Bedford Place, Brighton Box office: 01273 746118 www.newventure.org.uk ALTERED EGOS (Thu 1–Sat 3).

This is a one-woman show written and performed by award winning poet/performer Bernadette Cremin. Six taut monologues reveal the lives of six troubled women 'surviving in the margins'.

Vulnerable characters – "undaunted in the face of everything life throws at them" – defined by love, loss, sex and mental and physical illness.

and film all encompassed within the setting of a 1920s silent movie. This wordless performance is narrated with beautiful text, music and an alluring French(ish) man.

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 57

MARIA JASTRZEBSKA

Hawth Avenue, Crawley Box office: 01293 553636 https://tickets.hawth.co.uk/public GREASE (Mon 26–Sat 31).

Skating legend Robin Cousins will swap the ice rink for the stage to guest star as Teen Angel in the smash hit musical alongside Danny Bayne (winner of ITV's Grease Is The Word) as Danny and Carina Gillespie as Sandy. “Grease is still the word” Sunday Telegraph.

MARIA JASTRZEBSKA

Carlisle Road, Eastbourne Box office: 01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk GISELLE (Thu 1–Sun 4).

Moscow City Ballet will be accompanied on tour by the Moscow City Ballet Orchestra who will provide a dramatic

soundtrack to this quintessential story of unrequited love. Giselle, an innocent young village girl, loves to dance in spite of the uncertainty of a weak heart, and enjoys a simple life in her village.

This story follows her through tender romance, betrayal, heartbreak, death and the afterlife, as she ultimately saves the life of a man who has betrayed her.

MOGADISHU

CONGRESS THEATRE

GISELLE

THE HAWTH

Red Roaster, St James St, Brighton www.pighog.co.uk PIGHOG POETRY night at monthly Red Roaster (Thur 29) features Polish born Brighton-based author, poet and playwright, MARIA JASTRZEBSKA and Liz Berry. Doors 7.30pm for 8pm show, tickets £5.

Maria co-founded Queer Writing South with another poet John McCullough. They run creative writing workshops and have edited two anthologies Whoosh!

Queer Writing South Anthology (Pighog Press) and Different & Beautiful an anthology of young LGBT peoples' writing from Allsorts Youth Project. Her last poetry collection was Everyday Angels (Waterloo Press) and a new book is on its way. Last year Maria’s play Dementia Diaries went on national tour. She won the Off_Press International Writing Competition in 2009 and her work appears in numerous anthologies and magazines.

“The shadow and tenor of two tongues, cultures, histories, and sexualities are deftly embedded in her poetry” Sudeep Senn.

For more info see www.south-pole.org.uk

she knows exclusion could condemn him to a future as troubled as his past.

But when Jason decided to protect himself by spinning a story of his own, Amanda is sucked into a vortex of lies in which victim becomes perpetrator. With the truth becoming less clear and more dangerous by the day, it isn’t long before careers, relationship and even lives are under threat.

ON GOLDEN POND (Tue 20–Sat 24). Stephanie Powers stars in the story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the forty-eighth year. They are

ON GOLDEN POND

LEGALLY BLONDE

emotions run high as young musicians Norman and Bobby compete to win a national song writing competition – and, more importantly, the attention of the gorgeous Sue. But when Bobby discovers that shy Laura is no slouch on the piano, love and rock 'n' roll fame beckons…

LEGALLY BLONDE - THE MUSICAL (Tue 13–Sat 24). Winner of seven major awards including Best Musical 2011 (Olivier Awards) this all-singing, alldancing romantic comedy is about knowing who you are and showing what you've got! Elle Woods can handle anything. So when her boyfriend, Warner, dumps her she decides to follow him to Harvard Law School and win him back.

With some help from new-found friends Paulette, Emmett, her

chihuahua Bruiser, she learns that it's so much better to be smart.

“Smart, sassy, spectacular” The Daily Telegraph “Hysterically funny” The Mail on Sunday.

RAMBERT'S SEVEN FOR A SECRET (Wed 28–Sat 31). Mark Baldwin's playful new work features a score by Ravel/McNeff, while Javier de Frutos' new work Elysian Fields is inspired by the life and work of Tennessee Williams.

GREASE

DREAMBOATS & PETTICOATS

New Road, Brighton Box office: 08448 717 650 DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS (Mon 5–Sat 10). Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds Of A Feather, The New Statesmen and Shine On Harvey Moon, this new feel-good musical production features classic tracks from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, and many more. In 1961

SEVEN FOR A SECRET

THEATRE ROYAL

DEVONSHIRE PARK THEATRE Winter Gardens, Eastbourne Box office: 01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk MOGADISHU (Tue 6–Sat 10).

When white secondary-school teacher Amanda is pushed to the ground by black student Jason, she’s reluctant to report him as

joined by their daughter and her fiancée, who leave their teenage son with Norman and Ethel while they travel to Europe. As the summer wanes, there is a realisation that time is against them...

58 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PINK FRINGE EVENTS

Tell me a bit about its history.

We've worked with some wicked people in the last few years, but it all started with Neil Bartlett and Bette Bourne who’ve both been great supporters of what we do, and paved the way for so many of the other artists we work with.

Bette is in fact back again this Fringe with a new show called A Right Pair with his partner Paul Shaw. Some highlights have been Timberlina, Stacy Makishi and the mega talented choreographer Gary Clarke, but we still feel like we have just scratched the surface. Culture Shock is a brilliant opportunity to bring even more new artists into Brighton, like the fabulous Fish & Game from Glasgow.

I'd imagine it hasn't all been plain sailing?

We've had some hairy moments, especially with Parade Protest Perform, an outdoor performance we produced during Pride 2011. A section of the performance was a dance outside the old BarFly building, which was council approved, and we’d told the neighbours about it.

Loads of people came out to watch, including the colourful local street drinkers who seemed to love a bit of contemporary dance, but still someone came and kicked over one of our speakers. Luckily everyone just thought it was part of the show...

Do you feel that as gay culture becomes more mainstream it runs the risk of becoming conservative?

Conservatism isn't just an issue for gay culture at the moment, that's for sure. I think the big thing we feel with Pink Fringe is about celebrating and preserving individuality, that is not just about Lady Gagas with big egos. The mainstream has picked up a lot of the things about Queer and LGBT culture that are consumable and marketable, but passes over things that are genuinely challenging and a bit controversial. Pink Fringe doesn't do intimidating events, but we do like to show people things that aren't run of the mill, or give their ideas a gentle nudge... things that are revolutionary and a bit sexy… or a bit anti-sexy.

What kind of shows would you like to include in future programmes?

There are absolutely tons of people that we’d love to work with. Frankly I think it's about time Taylor Mac came back to Brighton! He is a true original. Also Justin Bond (of Kiki & Herb). We always like to hear from people that we have never heard of, especially women. We have a shortage of women so please email us at info@pinkfringe.org.uk

WOUNDMAN & SHIRLEY

THE ADVENTURES OF WOUNDMAN & SHIRLEY (Fri 16–Sat 17) (N).

Shirley is a teenage boy with a girl’s name, growing up in suburbia and feeling like the weirdest kid in the school. Nothing makes much sense to him, and his heart belongs to a classmate who barely knows he exists. Wound Man is an unconventional superhero, sprung from the pages of a medieval medical textbook, with an alarming assortment of weapons sticking out from every part of his body. Wound Man has just moved into a house on Shirley’s street — and he happens to have a vacancy for a teenage sidekick... “A simple, unaffected piece of storytelling… you can't help but fall in love with it” The Guardian.

THE COSMOS, THE COSMETICS (Fri 23–Sat 24) (M). Nick Field's powerful, resonant and intimate story tells of the struggle to find a place to belong as the 20th Century offers a colourful swan song of underground culture, from the monochrome of Goth clubs to the day-glo of New Age raves. Woven with tales of an eccentric rural youth, lush poetic meditations on the nature of decorated and altered skin and delicious humour, this odyssey of discovery is Spoken Word theatre at its most thrilling.

BALL & OTHER FUNNY STORIES ABOUT CANCER (Thu 29) (M). Brian Lobel's performance goes beyond stories of cancer treatments to explore sexuality, gender and politics. Lobel challenges the stories of cancer survivors and cancer martyrs that have come before as he infuses the ‘cancer story’ with an urgency and humour which is sometimes inappropriate, often salacious and always, above all else, honest and open. “Endearingly brave” The Economist “A raw, powerful piece…deeply touching” The Guardian.

BRIAN LOBEL

FISH & GAME

What prompted you to set up Pink Fringe?

We set up Pink Fringe two years ago to be part of the Brighton Fringe because we felt that there was all this great work about Queer and LGBT people being produced around the country that didn't ever come to Brighton, which seemed really weird! So we thought that we’d create a focal point for it in the festival. Since then Pink Fringe has evolved into something all year round and we support artists to make and present new work wherever possible. The work isn't just about LGBT issues, whilst undeniably LGBT people experience stigma and we’re not afraid to broach this. Mostly we’re interested in unique viewpoints, cultural references that a lot of LGBT people share, but that can also encompass the delightful bonkerness of non-LGBT artists like Lorraine Bowen.

Culture Shock is about recognising that we all go through the same things in our lives, but we have different ways of dealing with them and this is a wonderful thing to share and talk about; Queer, LGBT or not.

JONNY WOO

Brighton-based gay arts organisation Pink Fringe are promoting shows at the Marlborough and Nightingale theatres. It aims to present the best in LGBT theatre, cabaret, comedy, dance, immersive art and entertainment. Michael Hootman talks to organisers David Sheppeard and Tarik Elmoutawakil.

PINK FRINGE at the Marlborough Theatre, Princes Street (M) and the Nightingale Theatre, Surrey Street, Brighton (N).

For tickets and information see: www.pinkfringe.org.uk THIS IS JONNY WOO (Fri 9–Sat 10) (M). London’s “Tranny Superstar’” (Time Out) presents a show of highlights and favourite pieces from his repertoire. Buckleup for a rollercoaster ride into the mind of one of London’s favourite club stars. Stories, raps, caricature and high fashion, what more could you want? “A cross between Kenny Everett and Marlene Dietrich” Sunday Times Style. “Woo Hoo – The icing on the cake” Vogue.

THE COSMOS THE COSMETICS

PINK FRINGE

STRANGE HUNGERS (Fri 30–Sat 31). Obscene inverts! Sexless termites! Hermaphroditic spinsters! Just some of the things your filthy hosts, Claude and Maud, have been called while touring the world with their lavender cabaret (read as: grubby lesbo freak show). In this show they root around history’s icons and dykons as they edu-tain you with shocking tales of cross-dressing, boarding school crushes, Boston Marriages and 'romantic friendships'. Part queer PowerPoint lecture, part titty-show, come indulge your Strange Hungers. “Glasgow’s live-art supergroup” Skinny. “As mad as snakes and at least as fascinating” Scotsman.

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 59

ART

M AT T E R S

BY ENZO MARRA

This month I have updates for you of my recent successes in the world of contemporary art.

SCHOOL OF LONDON

OPEN WEST Gloucester Cathedral, www.theopenwest.org.uk The OPEN WEST is an annual open competition and exhibition (Sat 3–Sat 31) and School of London is one of two of my works that have been selected for show. The 55 selected artists will be showing their work throughout the interior, the cloisters, the crypt and the internal gardens of this important site which has a reputation for showing ambitious contemporary work. The exhibition will be the first of its kind to show work of such diversity of medium and scale at the cathedral.

The selectors for 2012 were Daniel Chadwick, Iain Andrews, Lyn Cluer Coleman and Sarah Goodwin. Daniel Chadwick trained in engineering and worked at Zaha Hadid Architects (1987–1991). He has exhibited extensively in the UK and abroad, recently including Gallery Eleven, Pangolin, The Fine Art Society, the Kinetica Museum in London and in 2010 exhibited his White Mobile I in Crucible at Gloucester Cathedral. In 2008, he was short listed for the new World Trade Center buildings in New York City.

Iain Andrews was a selected artist in the open west 2011 and recipient of the Marmite Painting Prize 2011. Future and recent exhibitions include Jerwood Drawing Prize 2011 (touring UK), Contemporary Approaches to Watercolour (Mall Galleries, London), Polemically Small (Garboushian Gallery, Los Angeles) and We Are All In This Together (Bureau Gallery, Manchester). He currently works as an artist in residence and Art Psychotherapist at Trinity High School in Manchester.

The University of Gloucestershire has confirmed sponsorship of an Artist Award with two prizes of £500 to be awarded on the preview night and a further exhibition in 2012 will also be offered.

JAY COLLINS - BRIGHTON SEEN The New Steine Hotel, 10-11 New Steine, Brighton, www.newsteinehotel.com The New Steine Hotel’s current exhibition is BRIGHTON SEEN by local Kemptown artist Jay Collins (until Sun Apr 29). Jay graduated twelve years ago with a BA(Hons) Fine Art degree followed by a Certificate in Printmaking. Her paintings have been selected for prizes and for exhibitions including Sussex Open 2003, Chichester Open, Southern Open, Salon des Peintres de Bougival, France, Worthing Open 2006 and 2008 and by the BBC Year of the Artist programme and Meridian Television. She participated in an exhibition at the Burstow Gallery in 2006 and was short-listed for the national 50 Over 50 exhibition.

As a primarily urban landscape artist, her paintings and prints owe something to the influence of recent great painters such as Hopper, Lowry and Piper, whose work is imbued with atmosphere and rooted in their environment. As with Piper, there is architecture and colour, like Lowry there are the eccentricities of the English and like Hopper there is a certain melancholy. Jay opens her studio in Kemptown to the general public each year during the Brighton Festival so if you look out for the Kemptown Artists Open Houses trail in May you can see more of her paintings, woodcuts and silkscreen prints.

PALLANT HOUSE GALLERY

AUERBACH

NATIONAL OPEN ART COMPETITION

If you find yourself in Gloucester in March, or are tempted enough to navigate the national open website to find my work, I am sure you will enjoy mine as well as the many others you will discover along the way.

9 North Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex, www.pallant.org.uk KEITH VAUGHAN: A Centenary Celebration (10 March–10 June). An exhibition to mark the centenary of the birth of the British painter Keith Vaughan, born in Selsey, West Sussex. Largely self-taught, Vaughan formed friendships with the painters Graham Sutherland and John Minton during the war, becoming a leading Neo-Romantic artist in the 1940s and 1950s. Concentrating on the male nude in the landscape, Vaughan developed an increasingly abstract painterly style in later years.

THE ART OF THE THEATRE: 50th Anniversary of Chichester Festival Theatre (3 March–3 June). The theatre has long been both a source of inspiration for artists and place to experiment with innovative costume and set designs. To coincide with the Chichester Festival Theatre’s 50th anniversary this exhibition celebrates the paintings of artists including Walter Sickert, Laura Knight, Leslie Hurray.

ROBIN IRONSIDE: Neo-Romantic Visionary (until 22 April). This is the first museum exhibition of Ironside’s work for over 40 years and celebrates the centenary (1912-1965) of the self-taught painter of surrealist fantasies, designer for the theatre and writer on art who became Assistant Keeper at the Tate Gallery (1937-1946) and Assistant Secretary for the Contemporary Art Society (1938-1945).

KEITH VAUGHAN BATHERS BYGREEN BANK

www.thenationalopenartcompetition.com I have also been short listed for the NATIONAL OPEN ART COMPETITION so have been included in the 2011 GALLERY 2 section on the website with the oil painting Auerbach (available to purchase online). The judges for 2011 were Gavin Turk who was an original member of the Young British Artists group; Catherine Lampert who was a former Director of the Whitechapel Gallery and is a principal sitter for Frank Auerbach; Lisa Wright who lectures at University College Falmouth and is represented by the Beardsmore Gallery London; Francis Hodgson who is a photography critic for the Financial Times and the former Head of Photographs at Sotheby's in London, and Rosie Emerson who graduated in Fine Art from Kingston University in 2004, and has exhibited widely across the UK and internationally with much of her work held in private collections.

60 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

BY NICK BOSTON

tango music). There are some in 3D, (7pm, Mon 5 & 2pm, Sun enjoyable pieces here – I 11) at the Odeon in Brighton. You particularly liked Peregrino ORCHESTRA OF OPERA NORTH can also see ROMEO & JULIET by Paulos’ (1883-1921) Inspiración, have recorded Ludwig van PROKOFIEV – Kenneth and Julián Plaza’s (1928-2003) Beethoven’s (1770-1827) MacMillan’s ballet performed by Nocturna. But alongside the complete works the Royal Ballet, in a live Piazzolla classics, not many stood for piano and transmission (7.15pm, Thurs 22) at up in terms of individuality and orchestra. As the Duke of York’s in Brighton, interest. The performances are well as the five the Picture House in Uckfield, and generally strong, but with a slight Concertos, the the Picturedrome in Bognor Regis. air of precision to the playing – Choral Fantasia, www.roh.org.uk/cinema particularly the Piazzolla needs a and the Triple Concerto, they also FILM greater feel of abandon and include Beethoven’s arrangement Email feedback, reviews, events to: passion. An interesting exploration I The Royal Opera House screens of his Violin Concerto, a Rondo PUCCINI’s MADAME BUTTERFLY – nbclassical@hotmail.co.uk of the repertoire and a range of movement, and Shelley’s composers probably largely completion of a very early Concerto, for which Beethoven only unknown outside South America.

You can also find a number of left a piano part and some ST BARTHOLOMEW'S CHURCH performances by these guys on orchestration indications. We also Ann St, Brighton, 01273 709709, www.brightonticketshop.com YouTube.

Gramola 98925 get an engaging talk from Shelley I The Brighton Festival Chorus, about the connections between under James Morgan, are joined by I Brothers PAUL and HUW Beethoven’s Third Concerto and the BRODSKY QUARTET (9pm, Fri 2) WATKINS have recorded the Mozart. All neatly boxed, with for music by Tarik O’Regan, Mahler complete works excellent notes from Barry Cooper. and Golijov. for cello and As for the performances, one might piano by Felix find better performances of one or Mendelssohn two of the works here – the Fifth BRIGHTON DOME (1809-1847).

Concerto, the Emperor, could do Church St, Brighton, 01273 709709 www.brightondome.org This comprises with a little more majesty for me, I The BRITTEN SINFONIA (12pm, Sat 3), perform César Franck’s Piano two Sonatas, a set of Variations and the always problematic Triple Quintet, and a new work by Luke Bedford (Corn Exchange).

Concertantes, and a Lied ohne Concerto (where Shelley is joined I BRIGHTON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA conducted Worte (Song without words).

by Tasmin Little (violin) and Tim

by Barry Wordsworth (2.45pm, Sun 4), perform Bax, Appropriately, Mendelssohn wrote Hugh (cello)) has strong Vaughan Williams and Dvorak, and Elgar’s Cello performances, but fails to convince most of these works for his Concerto with Robert Cohen. overall. However, the performance younger brother, Paul, to play and I The BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY there is indeed an intimate, of the Fourth Concerto is ORCHESTRA (7.30pm, Sat 10), familial feel to the music, which particularly strong. So overall a conducted by Rui Pinheiro, perform the Watkins brothers definitely great collection, unrivalled in the Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, and Grieg’s capture. These works beautifully completeness stakes and with Piano Concerto with Freddy Kempf. combine Mendelssohn’s wonderful some great performances too.

I The LONDON PHILHARMONIC energy with his ability to produce Chandos CHAN10695(X) ORCHESTRA conducted by Fabien Garbel (7.30pm, Sat expressive, lyrical writing, ideally 17), perform Weber, Sibelius, Mendelssohn’s Violin suited to the cello. Great I Now tango, performed by DIE Concerto and Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending ÖSTERREICHISCHEN SALONISTEN. performances here, I particularly with Fanny Clamagirand (violin). liked the Variations, full of fun and These five classical musicians I The KUSS QUARTET joie de vivre, in which both players obviously enjoy (11am, Sun 18), perform shine. As ever, the Chandos the variety and Mozart and Tchaikovsky (Corn Exchange). recording is perfectly balanced. freedom this www.stringsattachedmusic.org.uk Chandos CHAN10701 South American I BRIGHTON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA repertoire end their season (2.45pm, Sun 25) with a I Something off the beaten track brings. Astor Piazzolla (1921concert including Debussy’s L’Apres Midi now, a compilation of French 1992) is the most well-known D’Un Faune, Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique and Rachmaninov’s ‘chanson’ from exponent of the tango, and is Piano Concerto No. 3 with John Lill (piano). many of the largely responsible for its wider greats – Édith exposure outside Argentina. Four SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE Piaf, Tino Rossi, of his pieces are here, including Mountfield Rd, Lewes, www.nyslewes.org.uk Georges the wonderfully dark Oblivión and I The Nicholas Yonge Society welcomes the bass, Sir JOHN Brassens and the yearningly sad Soledad. Of the TOMLINSON, accompanied by David Owen Norris (7.45pm, Fri 23), to Charles Trenet, amongst others. rest, I have to confess to having perform works by Britten, Wolf and Shostakovich.

The collection is titled Les plus never heard of the 12 other belles Prières de la chanson composers. All these pieces are ST BARTHOLOMEW'S CHURCH Française – the most beautiful arranged by Coco Nelegatti Ann St, Brighton, 01273 415384, www.ssomusic.co.uk prayers in French song. There are (b.1959) for the forces of violin, I The SUSSEX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA with Mark Andrew James guitar, bass, piano and bandoneón no programme notes, and just a (7.30pm, Sat 24) perform Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture, Britten’s brief description on the back of (a kind of concertina, essential to Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 3.

BRODSKY QUARTET

CONCERTS

ROBERT COHEN

I Howard Shelley and the

FANNY CLAMAGIRAND

REVIEWS

FREDDY KEMPF

NOTES

the CD, but this is an interesting survey of lesser known songs. Les Trois Cloches is perhaps one of the better known songs here, a hit for Piaf and Les Compagnons de la Chanson. There is a sequence of Christmas songs in the second half of the CD, including Douce nuit (Silent Night), and Tino Rossi with the French carol Il Est Né Le Divin Enfant. We even get a bit of Jacques Brel, although not singing, but reading the poem Dites, Si C’Était Vrai over accompaniment from André Popp and his orchestra. Jade 699738-2

KUSS QUARTET

CLASSICAL

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 61

FILM

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

THE KID WITH A BIKE Dir: Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne Stars: Thomas Doret, Cécile De France, Jérémie Renier Plot: Abandoned by his father, a young boy is left in a state-run youth farm. In a random act of kindness, the town hairdresser agrees to foster him on weekends.

Word on net: “An emotional roller-coaster ride about ordinary people, sometimes terrifying, often heart-rending and completely worth it.”

I “Depiction of a courageous fight for childhood boasts one of the best child performances in some time.” I “Comes and goes in 87 minutes, but its beauty and intensity stay with you long afterward.” I “Impossibly wise about childhood, human frailty, and moral responsibility.” disaster.” I “Proves as scary and unsettling as a slab of devil's food cake, only considerably less satisfying.” I “The race for Worst Film of the Year is going to be extremely competitive.”

IN DARKNESS Dir: Agnieszka Holland Stars: Robert Wieckiewicz, Benno Fürmann, Agnieszka Grochowska Plot: A dramatisation of one man's rescue of Jewish refugees in the Nazi-occupied Polish city of Lvov.

Word on net: “Suspenseful, horrifying and intensely moving.”

I “Harrowing, engrossing, claustrophobic and sometimes literally hard to watch.” I “Unsparing, unsentimental and unforgettable.” I “As many Holocaust stories as we've seen, this one still has a fresh and important lesson about heroism.”

I “A triumph of uneasy cinema... successfully drains the shock out of a frightening premise and delivers a keen observational thriller.” I “Bravely tackles a subject most filmmakers would shun, then fails to make any sense of the repugnant behaviour it portrays.”

TRISHNA Dir: Michael Winterbottom Stars: Freida Pinto, Riz Ahmed, Kalki Koechlin Plot: Loose adaptation of Hardy's Tess Of The D'Urbervilles in which the son of a property developer and the daughter of an auto rickshaw owner embark upon a tragic relationship.

Word on net: “Fascinating, intelligent... observes everyday Indian life rarely shown in glitzy Bollywood movies.” I “Pinto is superb, however the rest of the cast appear wooden and awkward.”

HUNKY DORY Dir: Marc Evans Stars: Minnie Driver, Aneurin Barnard, Danielle Branch Plot: Set in 1976 Swansea, a charismatic drama teacher tries to stage a rock-opera version of Shakespeare's The Tempest.

Hollywood specialises in, the kind which ought to be entertaining, but winds up a massive and chaotic drag.” I “Has a few moments of tension, but it adheres to a predictable heist formula hardly worth trafficking in.”

I “Contains an overbearing degree of misogyny that creates a thoroughly uncomfortable viewing experience.” I “Beautifully shot but fails to connect on right emotional level.”

CONTRABAND

Dir: Baltasar Kormákur Stars: Mark Wahlberg, Giovanni Ribisi, Kate Beckinsale Plot: To protect his brother-in-law Word on net: “Predictably, the from a drug lord, a former play serves as a catalyst to smuggler goes to Panama to score examine and solve some of the millions of dollars in counterfeit THE DEVIL INSIDE student problems, such as broken bills.

Dir: William Brent Bell families and burgeoning Word on net: “Contraband's sense Stars: Fernanda Andrade, Simon homosexuality.” I “Entertaining, if of humour is charmingly macho, Quarterman, Evan Helmuth schmaltzy and clichéd.” I “A real meat and potatoes stuff.” I Plot: A woman becomes involved wonderful slice of 1970s life...

“It's exactly the sort of movie that in a series of unauthorised entertaining, toe-tapping stuff.” I exorcisms in Italy during her “Earnest, joyful, but uneven and mission to discover what happened unsure.” I “Fairly entertaining to her mother, who allegedly Welsh answer to Glee.”

ALSO OUT...

I BLANK CITY looks at the independent movie scene in 1970s New York, when the city was ratinfested, crime-crippled, cheap and nasty. Music, art, fashion and filmmaking burgeoned, fueled by drugs, fads, feuds, and a fair helping of madness. I Marcia Gay Harden stars in Joan CarrWiggin's IF I WERE YOU as a woman who tries to outwit her husband's sexy young mistress.

Unexpected consequences include starring as King Lear in a very amateur production, with the mistress, an aspiring actress, playing The Fool. I John Cusak plays Edgar Allan Poe in THE RAVEN, a fictionalised account of his last days, in which the poet pursues a serial killer whose murders mirror those in the writer's stories. I $250m sci-fi epic JOHN CARTER, based on the Edgar Rice Burroughs novel, stars Taylor Kitsch as a Civil War vet transplanted to Mars where he discovers a lush planet inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians. I HOW TO RE-ESTABLISH A VODKA EMPIRE is a feature documentary where film director Dan Edelstyn tracks down his long lost Jewish Ukrainian heritage and attempts to relaunch his great grandfather's once glorious vodka empire.

FILM C O M P E T I T I O N

MICHAEL

murdered three people during her own exorcism.

Word on net: “From the amateur acting, writing and directing to an ending that is shocking only in its stupidity, film is unmitigated

Dir: Markus Schleinzer Stars: Michael Fuith, David Rauchenberger, Christine Kain Plot: A drama focused on five months in the life of pedophile who keeps a 10-year-old boy locked in his basement.

Word on net: “Strong performances and brilliant epilogue reminds us that even though Michael is an inhuman monster, he still has a mother and family that love him.”

I Based on Guy de Maupassant's novel, BEL AMI stars Robert Pattinson as a young journalist who rises to power in nineteenthcentury Paris via his manipulation of the city's most influential and wealthy women.

To win two tickets to the Odeon Brighton send the answer to the following question to Gscene Competition, 111 Western Road, Hove, BN3 1DD: Bel Ami co-star Kristin Scott Thomas recently starred in the West End in which Harold Pinter play?

FEBRUARY COMPETITION: Susan Black

62 GSCENE

CRAIG’S THOUGHTS DEAR ANNE...

AN OPEN LETTER TO FORMER MP Ms ANNE WIDDECOMBE FROM CRAIG HANLON-SMITH Dear Anne Widdecombe, With respect to this publication I fully appreciate that you may be speaking to much larger readership than I in your weekly column within The Daily Express. However, as you have taken advantage of the opportunity that this affords you, in response I am compelled to do the same.

You have recently written with an assumed, although may I say so naive concern for the “unhappy homosexual” whom you suggest is denied the chance, by gay activists, to investigate any possibility of seeing if he can be helped to become heterosexual. At this first juncture and with some experience in the field Anne, I can assure you that most homosexuals (although not all) have at some time in their lives investigated the opportunity of becoming heterosexual. I was at a very early age aware of my homosexuality; a gift, curse, genetic blessing or dysfunction (delete as appropriate) and made an informed decision that I would never, and I meant never succumb to the urges that I so painfully felt coursing through my veins. No-one would know that I was a homosexual for I would become a heterosexual.

I would, as you so articulately describe, love to say that the reason for my chosen sexuality was borne out of a preference to marry (a girl) and father or bear (were I a girl) children of my own but this would be a lie. A lie that can only be perpetuated by a member of society who has not experienced such internal torment and confusion, but also one who is ultimately not interested in the fortunes of others however well intentioned you may claim your ideals to be. My decision was much more selfish. I wanted to be heterosexual because I saw how people who were even perceived to be gay were vilified, beaten, spat upon and in the best of times verbally abused on a daily basis. At that time any homosexual who had sexual relationships with another homosexual under the age of twenty-one was also imprisoned. It was not a life I wanted.

“I wanted to be heterosexual because I saw how people who were even perceived to be gay were vilified, beaten, spat upon and verbally abused on a daily basis’ I wanted to be heterosexual because I saw how people who were even perceived to be gay were vilified, beaten, spat upon and in the best of times verbally abused on a daily basis.

For close to ten years, from the latter part of primary school and all the way through senior school, I lived in fear of just about anyone finding out my truth. Even without really knowing, the masses assumed and as a consequence punched, kicked and threw objects at me just because I might be. I was very much the “unhappy homosexual” Anne that you feel should be given the opportunity to find their way out of such an existence, and had I had the option to be therapied into happy heterosexual-dom I would have gladly taken it.

You see Anne, I grew up in a part of this green and pleasant land where to be even slightly out of the ordinary was to be hated and I do

not use that term lightly. I grew up in a part of the world where I lost friends because they objected to my buying music recorded by The Pointer Sisters or Diana Ross. Not for any suspicions that the lyrical content of I’m So Excited or I Want Muscle might betray my secret homosexual desires, but because the singers were black – it was just not allowed. I grew up in a world where if your trousers were pressed and your shirt was clean you would be tripped up, scruffed up or have your school blazer splashed with acid in the chemistry lab to bring you down a step or two. So to live with the secret of being gay? Not only was I an “unhappy homosexual” I truthfully thought that if anyone found out, I might be killed. For those of you who are wondering, I grew up in the United Kingdom.

As sensitively as I can manage Anne with reference to the Christian issues that you refer to in your article and your claim that the homosexual lobby has turned all its fire in that direction; I think it equally naive for any member of the gay community who might not be a Christian, to assume that Christian people are monstrous simply because they are Christian. I do however find your views monstrous Anne Widdecombe, but not because you are a Christian; because you see it as a sickness within the homosexual lobby to campaign against those who claim they can help turn us away from genetic and emotional structures we were born with. It would be a sickness not to.

I was brought up in a Christian family Anne, educated in a church school and at no time did anyone I came into contact with discuss hell fire and damnation in the direction of homosexuals – in truth, no-one ever went near the subject.

They didn’t need to – I went there all by myself.

In my desperate search to become heterosexual I used every opportunity I had in church to pray for Jesus to help me, turn me from this life of selfloathing and let me love a woman. Help me God to be just like everyone else, to want to play football and own countless copies of Penthouse like a normal boy. Hide from the world my fey characteristics that I seem unable to secrete and for one day, let people like me and ask all those kids at school not to hate me. Give me a friend Oh Lord and let me share with them the joys that everyone around me seems to indulge in so effortlessly. Needless to say that not God, not Jesus, not Mary, nor all the disciples together answered my prayers. And what’s an unhappy fourteen-year-old homosexual in that position to think Anne?

Perhaps Jesus hates me too.

The world is lucky that I didn’t kill myself. I proudly say lucky Anne because my happy homosexual adult self has contributed greatly to society. I have a five-year-old nephew whom when I arrive at his house, rushes upstairs to change so that he might delve through his wardrobe and look as much like me as possible. Students that I used to teach (all of them aware of my sexual orientation) have set up a Facebook page in my honour to thank me for the difference I made to them. I get to write in this magazine and have the strength to stand up and challenge the horrors that some more ignorant than I perpetuate in the media and on the street. And I hope that should one individual, young or old, male or female, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or indeed heterosexual who feels as horrible as I did find courage in my experiences, then I am proud to be a homosexual and thankful that God did not answer my prayers. A gay Christian might even say that he heard them, as did Jesus, Mary and all those disciples and they chose to ignore them on purpose. I was fine as I was.

You can follow Craig on Twitter @CHanlonSmith and Craig also appears on BBC Sussex & Surrey DriveTime at 17:45 every Friday with Sarah Gorrell.

GSCENE 63

YOUNG

PEOPLE’S VOICE

GEEK

SCENE

BY MEG LEWIS (LGBT YOUTH SUPPORT WORKER)

BY CRAIG STORRIE

THINKING ABOUT GETTING OLDER: FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF YOUNG PEOPLE

GAY GAMING & GADGETS

“As an LGBT person there seems to be a limit of thirty, and then there is nothing – it is a great unknown” (Young man, 16). The young people at Allsorts Youth Project have a while to go before they have to think about their retirement years but inevitably we all get older. At the drop-in this week, I asked the young people what they thought about ageing. Everyone asked agreed that having LGBT friends in their older years was of great importance. “I‘d like to still have a scene to go to, you don’t stop being LGBT when you’re old. Older people can be lonely and it would be good to have a group like Allsorts for older people” (Young woman, 17). Another suggested that LGBT people may have a greater need for like-minded friends than heterosexual individuals; “I think older straight people focus on time with their families but older LGBT people may rely more on their communities and friends, although I think when we reach retirement age there will be a lot more LGBT people with children“ (Young woman, 19).

Many of the young people stressed that they want the same things as their heterosexual and cis-gendered counterparts including children and legally recognised partnerships; “I have a great fear of growing old alone. It’s probably the thing I am most scared about,” (Young man, 16). In addition, most young people said that adequate pensions and LGBT-friendly care homes are very important in order for them to live content lives when they are older.

In reality, the current situation for older LGBT people is far from this ideal. Increasing numbers of LGBT people have lived their entire lives being open about their gender identity or sexual orientation. Not only have they lived their lives openly, but they fought for the right to do so. Thanks to their blood, sweat and tears, we’re no longer criminalised for being in same-sex relationships, schools are no longer censored by Section 28, LGBT personnel can serve openly in the forces and the age of consent is now equal for all people regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation. Sadly, despite these achievements which have benefited the lives of today’s young LGBT people, many older people are finding that they need to go back into the closet in their later years.

A report from the Older LGBT Network found that care providers and institutions are seen by LGBT people to assume heterosexuality at best or have homophobic practices in the worst cases. Older LGBT people often find that the definitions of ‘next of kin’, ‘family’ and ‘partner’ do not include same-sex relationships and families. Interest in sex or sexuality in general can be silenced in older people and seen as ‘inappropriate.’ This can be damaging for all older people but particularly for LGBT people who may believe that they might be seen as perverse if they disclose their sexuality. Furthermore, the report highlighted that older LGBT people fear discrimination and abuse from other older people in services, particularly when services do not take a lead in highlighting issues of equality and diversity.

In recent years the situation for LGBT people has improved dramatically, but as the research shows, the experience of older LGBT people often doesn’t reflect these achievements. As younger LGBT people, it’s our responsibility to stand by the older generation and try to improve service provision to be more inclusive. The youth of today are the older people of tomorrow so it’s our future we are fighting for.

ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT Allsorts Youth Project supports young people under 26 who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or unsure (LGBTU) of their sexuality and/or gender.

Allsorts Youth Project, Young People's Centre, 69 Ship Street, Brighton, BN1 1AE. Tel: 01273 721211 www.allsortsyouth.org.uk, www.facebook.com/allsortsyouth, twitter.com/allsortsyouth

Since Nintendo released the rather well received 3DS last spring, gamers everywhere have been wondering when Sony was going to release the next version of their own handheld system, the PSP. After the poor performance of the PSP GO (released back in October 2009) failed to set the world of gaming alight, Sony went back to drawing board to try and think up a machine that would rival not only the Nintendo DS/3DS but also the recent boom that has been mobile gaming. Well, after two and half years of development they seemed to have finally cracked it with the true successor to the PSP, the Playstation Vita. With a 5” screen and some powerful hardware, it is visually amazing. On top of this its screen is touch sensitive and also incorporates a touchpad on the rear of the system.

This is so your thumbs can stay in the gaming position whilst your little fingers do all the hard work for you, pretty nifty huh? You also have the added bonus of online capability built in so that you can carry on gaming with your mates wherever you go. Other little bonus features including a long battery life, built in GPS and Bluetooth, connectivity with your PS3 and finally dual analogue sticks. Something which the original PSP was sorely missing!

In celebration of the release of this stunning piece of kit, I thought we would take a quick look at some of my favourite games available on launch day to see if any of these titles will help you decided whether to take the plunge and get yourself one of these bad boys:

I UNCHARTED: GOLDEN ABYSS: Set before the events of the first game, this immersive adventure once again follows Nathan Drake as he goes in search of an ancient lost city. With stunning graphics, a deep story and intuitive control for handheld system, this game is a must buy for your new piece of kit.

I ULTIMATE MARVEL VS CAPCOM 3: With a roster of 40 characters and including all the features found on the home console versions, the port of this sometimes insane fighting game is as good as it can possibly be. It looks and plays like a dream and will be the best fighter on the system for a long time!

I TOUCH MY KATAMARI: If you have never heard of this series of games, then it’s time to remedy that! These games are challenging, funny and sometimes mental but always addictive. One for those puzzle heads out there.

This year should prove very interesting for the handheld gaming market. With two completely individual dedicated gaming systems now available, not forgetting the impressive success of mobile devices, gaming fans are definitely spoilt for choice when looking at investing in a fancy new handheld. The Playstation Vita was released on February 22 and comes in two versions, 3G (£279) and Wi-Fi (£229).

Send your feedback to Craig on Twitter: @skywalker540

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SHARP WORDS UNSUNG HEROES DEL SHARP ON RESPECTING THE PIONEERS OF GAY RIGHTS AND SUPERMARKET SNOGGING Wearing fingerless gloves indoors; pushing my way feebly to the front of the crowd at the supermarket reductions; muttering in the street after menacing youths in hoods have (safely) passed; fitful afternoon naps; eating thin soup while hunched over and peering blindly at a twenty-year-old television on an evening. No not a nightmarish vision of me in decades to come, but me yesterday, today and quite probably next week.

Just imagine how it could be when I’m actually properly old. Well I mean old with (hopefully) a pension and the no teeth thing rather than the forty something I am now, though I always think that I’m the same age as Kylie the goddess and no one says she’s old, do they?

Well only those who are half her age, and they don’t really count. No, the prospect of a bleak and lonely old age doesn’t appeal to me and I secretly hope that sympathetic friends will take me in and and at least do up a shed if there’s no spare room with en-suite available.

We still seem to be a long way off from any kind of gay retirement home system, although in Spain there have recently been the first plans approved for an NGO to form a co-op where residents will be able to enjoy a smart flat to live in safely and have ample facilities in the complex. For those who are old now it’s a good idea for such places to exist as there’s still a lot of bigotry and lack of understanding. Some people are never going to change their views and I wouldn’t want to be stuck somewhere with a wildly homophobic group of ninety-year-olds.

“Some people are never going to change their views and I wouldn’t want to be stuck somewhere with a wildly homophobic group of ninety-year-olds” It sounds a great idea and although there are some similar places around the world, it doesn’t seem to be catching on and suffers from lack of financial backing. Hmm, can’t some well-appointed gay hotels around here not miss a trick and look into it? You could still have a buzzing bar downstairs and all the upstairs floors filled constantly, and probably having a better time. Maybe in the years to come it will become a viable option for those of us still around and no ranch style bungalow to retreat to with furry friends. I can imagine that reminiscing about who had who while someone tinkles favourite vintage house anthems at the piano on an evening would be vaguely more entertaining than doing jigsaws.

There’s certainly nothing like recapturing your youth as long as there’s a certain amount of comfort involved. At a friend’s recent 50th birthday celebration our little crowd arrived so early the venue hadn’t yet opened and we fretted that our transport home which was booked for 1am might be too late for our aged selves. In between we sat on sofas well away from the speakers, paced ourselves with the drinks, and were effortlessly energetic on the dance floor in the safe knowledge that we could sit down afterwards. It was certainly the

best night out I’d had in years. Well the only one really. It was also good to see a range of ages in the club, some quite a bit older while others teenage.

The older women may well have first been going to clubs in the 1960s.

It seems a world away, let alone half a lifetime ago, when gay people went through the everyday fear of being found out, attempting to meet others who felt the same way, trying to live and love and then the wonderful release of a secret club night out. I can’t even imagine it - let alone could a teenager today, so I don’t blame them for perhaps not appreciating what went before them. After all, what was pioneered and lived out was really for those being there at that time to be able to live differently. It wasn’t intentional for the next generation of young people to live in a different way, but they didn’t realise how brave they were being and what they were able to start off.

So, fortunate for us of course because we are able to live as we do now. Only recently I was glancing, just slightly jealously, at a couple of women kissing in the Co-op, not that I would want to do that in there particularly, I mean anywhere would do, though if it had to be a supermarket then Waitrose preferably, (but hey a wink in Aldi would do the trick these days). But the thing is nobody was bothered, it doesn’t matter that I was the only one in the aisle, they just felt they could and that’s what’s important.

“I think some of the older people we might dismiss or try to get past on the pavement might be due a hug of thanks” I’m sure teenagers know how to look online about their gay history, they manage to look at everything else but I’m sure but a lesson or two for them and heterosexual kids wouldn’t go amiss, just to be aware of how much we have now and how far we’ve come. The first kind of a Pride in Brighton was a march by the Gay Liberation Front in 1972 and had 30 participants; now we moan about the overcrowding and big branded sponsors, often actively choosing not to go because “it’s too big”. I think some of the older people we might dismiss or try to get past on the pavement might be due a hug of thanks, and depending on what supermarket you’re in, a little kiss.

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HOMELY

POSITIVE

HOMILY

VOICES

BY GLENN STEVENS

BY MICK SYKES

CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

RECOGNISING THE ISSUES

I think most gay men have the conversation at some point in their lives, where they discuss how they wish to spend their twilight years. Just like fantasy football, talk will lead to how the group of friends will all be sitting on some veranda in rocking chairs, watching the sun set, reminiscing about their clubbing days, while being waited on by handsome male nurses.

Officially I do not qualify as an older gay man living with HIV. Rather, like internet dating we are judged by an age which has been set at 50+ to qualify for that auspicious accolade. However, I am happy to define myself as an older gay man. I relish the prospect of ageing and discovering the eccentricities and knowledge that our older peers have gained from life experiences.

Surprisingly, exclusive LGBT care homes have been put in place in both America and Germany. This was down to health professionals identifying that many older LGBT people entering the care system had found themselves going back in the closet for fear of being ostracised, persecuted or in some extreme cases, asked to repent for their sins against God; a very real issue that has been highlighted in Stu Maddux’ brilliant documentary Gen Silent.

Locally a new peer led group aimed at adults living with HIV meet on a regular basis to facilitate for the 45+ age group. It’s one of the reasons I like Brighton. We (the community) somehow always spot gaps in service provision and find an angle to buck the trend. It’s always refreshing to watch the birth of community led action support.

However, other government sources report that many LGBT elders did not wish to live in an exclusive LGBT care home, but prefer to be cared for by health professionals who understand and respect their chosen lifestyles. An issue taken up in Brighton & Hove’s 2009 report: “Research suggests that there is a need for specific services targeting the LGBT community but that staff training, displaying LGBT friendly signs, publicity and partnerships with LGBT organisations all improve access to advice.”

(Brighton & Hove Council. 2009) I’m not fully convinced that there isn’t a demand for an exclusive LGBT care home in Brighton, but the issue has more to do with the news that there is a UK deficit of half a billion pounds to fund the present UK care sector. Either way an issue that many LGBT elders speak of is that of isolation and a feeling of invisibility. For many older LGBT people, they either find themselves cut off from the community in general, either through loss of friends and family or loss of the confidence to get out and about as they used to.

“An issue that many LGBT elders speak of is that of isolation and a feeling of invisibility” A quick look through the internet did raise some hope on this issue, with Age UK dedicating a page of listings offering support, advice and links to other LGBT organisations, many of which leaving a small section of the LGBT community to once again step in and offer their much needed help. Groups like Gay Elderly Men’s Society (GEMS), a social group for gay men over fifty years of age, have been running for the last twelve years offering practical support, friendship, and entertainment to their members.

Other services like Life Lines, a volunteer service for everyone over fifty years of age, regardless of sexuality, offer a range of servicers and opportunities including a buddy service, where a volunteer (50+) befriends an LGBT elder person enabling them to join in one of the many LGBT groups and services Brighton & Hove have to offer. For more info visit: http://www.csvrsvp.org.uk/site/lifelines.htm

This is not a criticism, it’s a constructive comment. A growing number feel excluded from services aimed specifically for people affected by HIV. It’s a bizarre situation. It’s not been intentional, it happened by default. We have allowed services to dictate our needs and whilst community consultations do still occur they are less and less well attended. We should be asking ourselves why?

If I had any advice for our emerging LGBT youth it would be to encourage them to have a voice. We have a lot to learn from both young and old. Don’t be put off from giving your opinion or setting up your own groups. We should all work together. With funding for some key LGBT services reaching critical levels, the community may do well to be more proactive.

“I for one do not relish publicly taking antiretroviral medication with the prospect of facing stigma and lack of understanding in a generic care environment. Would you?”

I have recently joined Peer Action group, partly to improve my mental and physical health, but mainly because I value the companionship of my peers and look forward to exploring interests not defined by the ‘scene’ with like-minded people. It’s a pity that an action group had to be formed in the first place. If all services published clear pathways guides to the community, we may have picked up on some service provision gaps sooner. I still meet many people on and off the scene who urgently have need for support and just don’t recognise that services are aimed for the likes of you and me.

The challenges of our LGBT community having been devastated by a virus for the last 30 years and having said goodbye to some wonderful friends and characters along the way, I am now shocked at how many funerals I have attended in the last few years as a result of suicide. Am I not alone in thinking there are far too many in our community that are affected by long term drug, alcohol misuse and mental health issues?

Thankfully all our services are recognising these issues.

HIV prevention remains key, but with an increasing population of people living longer with HIV, we need to be concentrating on the future and accessing and supporting the new and existing services that provide care provision in a safe and secure environment. I for one do not relish publicly taking antiretroviral medication with the prospect of facing stigma and lack of understanding in a generic care environment. Would you?

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KEITH SHARPE

what is right and wrong. Biblical and theological underpinnings to his beliefs were difficult to elucidate. At one point he seemed to quote the story of Sodom in his condemnation of homosexuality. But he also referred to passages in Ezekiel and Matthew which make clear that the sin of Sodom was a failure to care for the poor, needy and strangers. As I have argued in The Gay Gospels (www.thegaygospels.com) not only does Sodom have nothing at all to do with homosexuality it is also the precursor to Jesus’ commandment to love your neighbour. When I put this to Jim he seemed stumped, and chuntered on about the evils of gay marriage.

RAVING LUNATICS KEITH SHARPE REPORTS BACK FROM THE TERRIBLE CHRISTIAN CONFERENCE ON ‘CURING HOMOSEXUAL LEPERS’

DOWNHILL ALL THE WAY… TO THE POSITIVELY BIZARRE The tedium of the morning was compounded by a desultory afternoon. A lawyer made absurd generalisations about the police being ‘antichristian’, a management consultant said homosexuality was caused by distant fathers, and a rather camp chap got up and said he had been ‘cured’ and was now an ex-gay (?).

As I reported previously in Gscene, a few weeks before Christmas 2011 a conservative evangelical group, Anglican Mainstream, announced its intention to stage a conference in London on January 27 to be called: ‘The Lepers Among Us: Homosexuality and the Life of the Church’. A number of us involved in Changing Attitude and the LGBT Anglican coalition were outraged by the implication that gay people can be likened to lepers, i.e. diseased, deformed and deserving of social exclusion and death unless ‘cured’. We felt such a public statement gave succour to every homophobe and gaybasher in the land. We spread the word and we estimate that as a result a dozen or so complaints were made to the police about the potential incitement to hatred that this conference represented.

“A lawyer made absurd generalisations about the police being ‘anti-christian’ and a rather camp chap got up and said he had been ‘cured’ and was now an ex-gay (?)”

I duly arrived with a gay friend at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster to find all of the doors locked and chained except one. Our way through this was blocked by two very large and muscled security men who gave us the once over, demanded to see ID, and then made us sign a ‘I will not disrupt the proceedings’ declaration. We entered the big main hall to discover not hundreds, not dozens but about just 30 people huddled at the front near the stage. As the day went on it became clear that many of these were not really conference participants as such but were people involved in the administration and delivery of the day who were part of the contributing organisations. If you take them out, and the four gay people including myself who were there for research purposes, the number of actual supporters was pitifully small, probably just in the teens, a very poor turnout for such a hyped up event in the capital.

LISA NOLLAND

A PITIFUL CONFERENCE TURNOUT

PATHETIC CONFERENCE CONTENT The chair opened proceedings in the manner of a dull and uninspiring headteacher, laying down the law yet again about ‘no disruptions’. And we were then quickly on to the star turn, Jim Reynolds, author of the book, The Lepers Among Us. Now Jim has a simple message. I had read his book so I knew this. I wonder if anyone at Anglican Mainstream really had. Jim’s message is this: the conservative evangelical churches in Texas where he lives treat gays like lepers. They exclude them. They send them off to psychiatrists and ‘healing ministries’ to get ‘cured’ before they will accept them. Jim thinks this is wrong. Jim thinks the churches should keep the lepers ‘among us’. The churches should do the ‘healing’ themselves. Jim works with men struggling with the sin of same sex attraction. Yes of course he thinks it is still definitely a sin, but by Texan standards his views count as ultraliberal, and Jim has suffered some ostracism at the hands of his coreligionists.

THE AFTERMATH This was a disaster for Anglican Mainstream. My full report is in the public domain at www.changingattitude.org.uk and it has been widely viewed. Anglican Mainstream have remained silent in the face of huge criticism even from their own side. Happily I doubt we will see anything like this again.

OPEN AND WELCOMING CHURCHES Changing Attitude Sussex is committed to telling the truth about Christian teaching on homosexuality, and works for the full inclusion of LGBT people in every province of the Anglican Communion and more widely in all Christian Churches. For more info please visit www.changingattitudesussex.com and www.thegaygospels.com

PETER TATCHELL

Jim is actually a really nice well meaning bloke. There were, however, three huge problems with his appearance at this conference.

• He was massively over-exposed. He was billed to speak for an hour before coffee and an hour afterwards. Then after lunch he was to speak again in conversation with a local vicar. Jim simply did not have that much to say and found himself repeating things over and over again.

We heard about his marriage difficulties in the 80s four times at least.

There simply was not three hours worth of structured material to deliver.

• The old adage about the US and the UK being two nations divided by a common language proved excruciatingly true in this case. Time and again Jim failed to understand questions that were asked of him.

• Jim’s whole approach is pastoral and full of homespun axioms about

And then we had a real treat: what can only be described as a lipquivering and blazing-eyed rambling rant from a certain Lisa Nolland about the evils of sex education. She seemed set on outdoing all previous speakers in the smearing of the LGBT community. We had already heard about gays as paedophile child molesters, gays as threats to the family and marriage, gays as spreaders of disease.

But now Ms N was going for gold with her bitter denunciation of LGBT organisations, and especially the Terrence Higgens Trust, for producing perverted and obscene curriculum materials intended to corrupt the innocence of children.

Apparently gay activists have conned their way into schools to tell kids that ‘eating faeces’ is great sexual fun and to teach them how to do ‘cock and ball torture’ really well. Ms Nolland seemed to be a world class scaremongerer, alarmist and demoniser. Her presentation was very ugly indeed. Methinks the lady doth protest too much.

Everyone is welcome at the next public meeting organised by Changing Attitude Sussex on Monday, March 26, 2012 at 8pm at All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, BN3 3QE when Peter Tatchell will speak about gay marriage. The title of his talk is Equal Love: Marriage Equality. This event will coincides with the launch of the government consultation on same sex marriage which starts in March.

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VRON’S

BRIGHTON & SUSSEX

VOICE

SEXUALITIES NETWORK ARISTEA FOTOPOLOU, ELIZABETH MILLS, ANA PORROCHE ESCUDERO

ONE IS NOT AMUSED

BODY MAPS AND DIGITAL STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS

I like to think of myself as being a reasonably sociable person. But there are times when I could happily hide away from the world. Not for too long - more a kind of mini-retreat to recharge my batteries when I sense them starting to run down. This feeling is heightened around January/February time, although (hopefully) by the time you read this, we shall be beginning to see the light a little earlier in the day.

During the V-Day Sussex 2012 season (Wed Feb 1–April Mon 30), we are not only concerned with raising awareness about the negative reality of violence against women and girls, but also with enabling and inspiring positive social scripts on campus in order to challenge those realities. V-Day is a global activist movement to end violence against women and girls. It is a catalyst that promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise money, and revitalise the spirit of existing anti-violence organisations.

“Hell is other people” the philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre once opined, and he had a point. His play, Huis Clos, illustrates this somewhat gloomy view. Claustrophobic in the extreme, it embodies a nightmarish vision of human relationships. I myself am not quite so pessimistic, but I reckon I have enough experience of the less appealing side of the human condition to understand pretty damn clearly where Sartre is coming from. Given the relentless diet of negative news bulletins across the airwaves, it would be all too easy to feel totally disenchanted with life in Britain in 2012. Fat-cat bankers with their massive bonuses, mendacious politicians, newspaper tycoons and phone hacking scandals… This of course is the bigger picture, and the list is endless. Then there is the daily drip-drip of relatively minor irritants to which each of us is privy, and on a scale designed to drive us to distraction, despair, or drink.

“Given the relentless diet of negative news bulletins across the airwaves, it would be all too easy to feel totally disenchanted with life in Britain in 2012” Among my own list of betes noires are those giant buggies which, on buses and pavements, seem to have acquired priority over absolutely everybody, however frail or ancient. Other pet hates include long queues (unless I’m in front); vehicles which leave their engines idling even on warm days; canned laughter on radio programmes; Simon Cowell; phone calls which involve wading through endless options before reaching a human being, then being asked: “Is it Miss or Mrs?” (Will they ever learn to use Ms?); jingling mobile phones (and well done you! to those stage actors who, when interrupted in this way, stop in mid-speech and give the culprit a bollocking); and shop assistants who seem to have replaced “Can I help you?” with a curt “You all right?” All these can, and do, wind me up big time.

And, from an informal straw poll among friends and acquaintances, I know I’m not alone. I now try to ration my current affairs coverage.

No late-night news programmes for me; instead, it’s off to bed with a book and a mug of camomile tea. That’s as exciting as my life gets these days… Never mind, there’s always Late Junction on Radio Three, or Book At Bedtime on Four. But Today In Parliament is strictly for insomniacs.

I was heartened the other day to read that no less a luminary than Joanna Lumley reckons technology is “a waste of life” and keeps her mobile phone switched off “at all times”. She prefers to interact with the real world, as opposed to the virtual one. And she opts for pencil and paper over texting and tweeting. All networking sites, Facebook included, are anathema to her. Good on you, Patsy! Indeed, when someone first told me about this new-fangled thing called Twitter, I honestly thought they were having me on. Twitter is what birds do, and I would prefer to keep it that way.

This year, dozens of motivated students, faculty members and staff on the Sussex campus are working to produce a benefit production of The Vagina Monologues. But performance is only the beginning, we are also designing complementary artistic, participatory and experiential workshops.

As part of V-Day Sussex 2012, and in conjunction with the LGBT History Month, Elizabeth Mills and myself will be running a series of body mapping and digital storytelling workshops, using various media ranging from paints and pens to digital art, film and music. We aim to work with a group of ten LBTQ women based at Sussex University to create these body maps and digital stories.

Body mapping can be understood as a form of visual storytelling; a narrative of one’s life. Through the first V-Day Sussex workshop (Fri Feb 24), body mapping will be used to narrate experiences linked to living in gendered bodies. In practice, body mapping entails tracing the outline of the body, and then using annotating this tracing to reflect on and narrate salient aspects of our lives Historically, body mapping has been used by activists to make the invisible visible, to bring hidden issues around health, illness, citizenship in to the public realm, explicitly and visually linking the personal with the political. In South Africa, body maps were developed by a group of HIV-positive people to challenge stigma and to highlight the importance of essential AIDS medicines in order to compel the government to provide anti-retrovirals through the public health sector. Subsequently, body maps have been used internationally as a tool for speaking the unspeakable, and for charting hopes, dreams and fears through colours, images and metaphors.

Taking this workshop a step further, in the digital storytelling session (Fri Mar 2) we will be working with digital media to create ‘digital body maps’. Through these maps. we will explore ways of storytelling using non-visual media, ways of mapping our body journeys across spaces and places, as well as issues of moderation, visibility and access. After the first two workshops participants will create and update their digital body maps on the platform for one month and then come together again for a final reflection session. Although in this pilot phase the workshops will only engage LBTQ women based at Sussex University, we hope to involve the wider community at a later date.

BRIGHTON & SUSSEX SEXUALITIES NETWORK (BSSN) The BSSN is an inter-university research network aimed at supporting research and researchers who work on issues of human sexuality within the Universities of Brighton and Sussex and the wider Sussex area. We consist of community members and academics who have an interest in knowing about current sexualities research. Our organising committee, which is open to all, meets about twice a year. A sub-committee organises our annual conference. Anyone can come to these meetings to suggest and organise events www.it.bton.ac.uk/bssn

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CHARLIE SAYS TAKE A STAND THE PINK DEMOGRAPHIC TIME BOMB BY CHARLIE BAUER PhD How are you going to spend your retirement? Sell up and buy an apartment in Sitges? Rent out the duplex and head for Manly Bay? Not realistic for all of us, but wouldn’t you think that after a lifetime of struggle and homophobia we deserve a break? My friends and I have often wondered about having an old rambling old nursing home in the country, full of friends, listening to retro handbag music, caring for each other and acting out our favourite Wood & Walters sketches. With ageing drag artists doing the rounds of the in-house panto at Christmas…

Okay, our world is different now and we have endless support groups and charities to support us (and us them) in equal measure. Now there are some strange noises about the effects of the gay demographic time bomb reaching us from the queer coastal waters of our North American brethren.

I’m sure that we’re all aware of the future costs of caring for an ageing population, God knows it’s rammed down our throats enough and we’re more than aware that the pot is becoming quite empty. But there are other issues which no one is exempt from, no matter how much cash you have stashed - something more sinister that is happening within the LGBT communities which I think its time we took note of.

My spies in the US have recently reported a spate of LGBT elders literally having to go back into the closet in order to maintain their order of care within institutions such as care homes and hospitals.

Don’t forget that these are the people who have lived through the McCarthy era (when they would have been in their 20s); they’ve dodged the Stonewall police batons and managed to survive a major health epidemic from the 1980s. This is the generation the instituted the changes that we now take for granted. And now many are in the position where their carers are literally putting down the spoon and telling them that they are on their way to hell because of their sexuality. And this is all within private health care.

“My spies in the US have recently reported a spate of LGBT elders literally having to go back into the closet in order to maintain their order of care within institutions such as care homes and hospitals” Other instances taking place are unscheduled religious meetings at the sick beds of these people, where out come the bibles as prayers are duly sent up for forgiveness of their souls or, in increasing amounts, for a definitive eleventh hour ‘cure’ of some sort - an absolution of a wayward life of sin and degradation. It is these elders who, up until the final moments of their lives had been abandoned by their disapproving family of origin and are then literally prayed upon in their final weeks and months.

This kind of victimisation reminds me of the mid-1980s when one would hear stories of couples who had been together for twenty years or so and if one contracted and died from AIDS, then it was legal that the family of origin, the ones who once cast them aside, who then delivered the final sucker-punch by taking over their dying wishes, as well as estates. I remember it very clearly; partners turfed out of their homes by the demands of an angry family accusing them of ‘turning’ the recently deceased, gay. Bank accounts were frozen and closed as power of attorney went to the ‘next of kin’. Sometimes bedside arrests were even carried out in front of the dying.

Another alarming issue within the US care system is that the ageing community are sometimes now refusing medical care in order not to prolong, not only the physical suffering but also the emotional anguish and isolation they are being forced into. Don’t forget that up until recently the ‘cure’ for sexual deviancy was electric shock therapy - now it takes a different form of mental torture.

“Up until recently the ‘cure’ for sexual deviancy was electric shock therapy - now it takes a different form of mental torture” Let’s not forget that LGBT elders also suffer a higher degree of isolation than most. More often than not they have no children of their own and are more likely than any other group in society to age alone and be estranged from their family of origin The fact is, the current generation of LGBT elders deserve a bit more than a pot to piss in and greater society has still not taken on board the special circumstances of an ageing gay community. This generation of elders will be the first to have witnessed the societal changes within their own community as well as the radical integration into the mainstream culture, irrespective of their age. They have been witness to sexual inclusivity as a direct result of their survival and been included and fetishised within the sexual practices (Hello Daddy!) Let’s not forget that up until recently Brighton was perceived as an old queens graveyard. Wonderful things have happened down the line, which is actually a celebration of everyone. So, let’s not forget the legislative needs of the LGBT elders and don’t forget that at our most vulnerable, we need someone to stand up for us when we are incapable of defending ourselves – from the crazy youngsters to the fabulous LGBT seniors.

Follow Charlie on Twitter: @CharlieBphd

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NETTY’S

QUEERYING

WORLD

QUEENIE

BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE

THE GOOD OLD GAYS

TOP 20 REASONS WHY I KNOW I REALLY AM KNOCKING ON A BIT...

I’m getting old. It’s a sobering thought that many forty-something straight women are long-term mums or even grannies. Most men have achieved career goals, in fact when Mozart was my age, he’d been dead for ten years.

As a lesbian with zero ambition who doesn’t believe that children are her future, time has flown by. I don’t have those natural life-markers straight society provides folk with to indicate what the hell they’ve been up to for the past twenty years. I’m turning into one of those lesbians I used to look at and think to myself “I wonder if you still have fun? I wonder if you still have sex? Is that cat hair on your jumper?” The answer is yes, yes, and probably.

It’s been a fashion for some time in wider western society to regard older people as senile, that ‘Wonga’ advert with the three grotesque puppets doddering around an office perfectly sums up the way mainstream advertisers depict elderly people. I fear the gay scene is equally as piss-taking and unappreciative of those who have lived longer and carved out a lot of the freedoms we now take for granted.

Don’t expect gratitude, and you wont be disappointed. That’s what I say to all the old trailblazers who have championed LGBT causes over the last forty years.

“It is my unending wish that by the time I’m elderly, homophobia will be a thing of the past like Spangles, The Bay City Rollers and white dog poos” I think the added fright for gay people about growing old is the fear they may not only end up in a nursing home, but that they may suffer homophobia from staff and even fellow patients. Once more they may be powerless surrounded by the hostilities many left behind when they came out and took charge of their lives. It is my unending wish that by the time I’m elderly, homophobia will be a thing of the past like Spangles, The Bay City Rollers and white dog poos.

Alternatively the grim future could feature some solace in the form of gay nursing homes where same sex couples could live out the remainder of their days together, and single gays could reminisce about nights out at ‘Heaven’ ‘The Hacienda’, ‘The Black Cap’, ‘The Vauxhall Tavern’, ‘Revenge’, ‘Legends’…ooh the list is endless! In fact I have gay life-markers in the form of wonderful scenes I‘ve had the pleasure of being a part of, my only regret is that I never got to go to ‘Gateways’ the club from The Killing of Sister George.

I recently spoke to a lesbian lady in her nineties who said she had been timid in her youth, worried in her forties, but in old age had become a tiger; “I’ve got nothing to lose, I don’t care what I look like, or what people think of me!” How liberating old age can be.

Yesterday, I came across a card given to me in the 1990s by my now Civil Partner. It said “Grow old with me, the best is yet to come.” So that’s where the last twenty years has gone! If happiness is about living in the moment, then us gays have nothing to fear.

1. It seems like about two months ago that Gscene last had a theme about Age although I’m reliably informed it was at least one year ago.

2. I cannot remember what the theme was two months ago.

3. I cannot remember what I did two hours ago.

4. I cannot see anything close up with my glasses on, yet cannot see anything far away without them. I am therefore constantly losing said spectacles as I whip them off to do something intricate then move off to do something else. Then I can’t remember where I left them or even see where they are. I then get cross in a grumpy old woman way about the amount of time I’m wasting searching for… um… This also doesn’t look so cool when I’m DJing. Keep thinking I should get glasses chains.

5. As predicted by Lulu I am now thinking that C&H Fabrics is indeed a lovely shop. Perhaps they sell glasses chains?

6. I have no idea what is Number One in the Hit Parade.

7. Wherever I park my arse I’m always sitting in a terrible draught.

8. Lollipop ladies seem to be getting younger.

9. I need the help of teenagers to make any of my phone’s features work.

10. The only hot meat I like now is in a lovely stew with dumplings.

11. I don’t shop in Beyond Retro, preferring instead to just rescue an old outfit from the loft. Several decades of ‘been there, worn it’ lurk in those dusty drawers!

12. I take more supplements than substances.

13. The age gap between me and the glorious missus seems to get wider and wider as she never ages and seems to get more stunning by the day.

14. Kate seems to have written the last one and I didn’t even notice as I was too busy looking at C&H Fabrics online and anyway, I can’t find my glasses.

15. I feel sad when I don’t have a nice period costume drama on TV to look forward to.

16. It’s a surprise to find a dark armpit hair.

17. I’ve got this ‘thing’ with my knees…can’t really explain it but when I walk up the hill or start climbing the loft ladder one or both of them go all weird, with unattractive limping accompanied by assorted owwwch noises the result. I’ve also started using the words ‘giving me gyp’ to describe this.

18. If I’d got pregnant with my first serious boyfriend (yes, I know!) my offspring would now be 33-bloody-years-old.

19. I refer to myself as an old bag on a regular basis and whilst kindly friends protest at the use of bag nobody seems to be pulling me up on the old bit anymore.

20. I love wearing my slippers and thermal underwear whilst having a ‘nice bit of fish’ for my tea.

Queenie xxx

70 GSCENE

“It amused her now to recall how she had gradually become the old dyke in the corner, overlooked, invisible as bisexual, invisible to the eye of anyone under 30” control of her own care made Sarah feel so much better about needing help: she didn’t feel apologetic, she felt very business like.

MENTAL HEALTH AND GETTING OLDER – HOW WILL WE KEEP HEALTHY? Who knew she would reach the dizzy heights of the grand age of 60 and counting? In her youth she had a vague notion of 30, 40 and then a bit blank. Oh the short sightedness of her younger days, oh the certainties she had lived with then! Of course she had not planned, plotted or foreseen what life as an older bisexual woman would entail. She was shame faced at her callow attitudes.

Sarah used to have so many lovely friends and lovers. The sadness of losing people, the grief of loved ones dying left her lonely for the first time in her life. Her own family were scattered and in some cases barely speaking.

Her one surviving sister had always harboured a moderate, religious homophobia, all condescending and patronising and she had long since reduced their contact to the odd distant phone call.

So who would be there for her in the end?

Sarah knew she was approaching the ghastly thought of needing care with everyday life.

Getting around the flat took her longer and longer each day, she had lost interest in cooking and knew she was skin and bone.

As for going out, that was major expedition these days. She had loved being out on the scene, for years she went out at least twice a week. It amused her now to recall how she had gradually become the old dyke in the corner, overlooked, invisible as bisexual, invisible to the eye of anyone under 30, and often not invited on to where everyone was going. But it had hurt at the time. Worse still the aggressive looks or laughing behind their hands. She knew it was just scoring cheap points, looking clever at her expense, but it left her feeling wretched and unwanted. Not that it had put her off – those pubs and clubs were hers as much as anyones. She had a perfect right to be in public, gay spaces, just as much a right as anyone younger, fitter, prettier or better dressed.

She had gone out less since Amelia had gone into the home. Having no-one to go out with took the fun out of it and it all seemed too much effort. Their relationship was reduced to three visits a week and the care staff had no idea they had been lovers. Amelia had always been very private about her sexual identity and was adamant about keeping it that way.

Sarah felt differently. If she needed care she wanted it on her own terms and being out was one of them. She decided the time had come to go to the doctor, to ask about help at home and she made sure the doctor was aware right from the start that being LGBT was one of the defining things in her life.

To her surprise and delight the doctor responded wonderfully. She suggested Direct Payments whereby Sarah had her own budget to employ carers to do tasks for her. She was able to recruit to her own requirements and found a couple of delightful LGBT carers who alternated through the week. Feeling in

Sarah told her GP about how lonely she was, how she was increasingly depressed and anxious. The GP suggested joining a peer support group. Sarah was sceptical: would the ‘peers’ all turn out to be too young, too different from her to understand, too hard to get to know, too wrapped up in their own problems?

The reality was so much better than that – a mix of ages, a mix of experience, a mix of wise words, a mix of tears and joy. Sarah found the groups invigorating, interesting, comforting, a good outlet for her fears and sadnesses, a lovely way to feel involved, to become important to other people. More important than she had felt in a long time. To give and receive is a great thing, whatever age you are!

DIRECT PAYMENTS • If you qualify for social care, you can apply for Direct Payments, whatever your age.

Ask your GP, care coordinator or social worker or ring Brighton & Hove City Council on 01273 295555.

• The Fed Centre for Independent Living has a Direct Payments support service, ring 01273 296747 or visit www.thefedonline.org.uk

MINDOUT MINDOUT PEER SUPPORT Bringing together people who have experiences of mental health issues in a safe, supportive service allows you to explore your own issues as well as offering support to other people.

MindOut have been running peer support groups for LGB&T people for over 10 years, we have a range of groups on offer, including a new women’s group for LGBTQ women.

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.

MINDOUT SERVICES 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.

All MindOut services are free, confidential and non-judgemental.

• 24hr confidential answerphone: 01273 234839 • Email: info@mindout.org.uk • New website: www.mindout.org.uk

GSCENE 71

TRANS

SUCHI’S

MATTERS

WORLD

THE FIGHT STILL GOES ON

UPS AND DOWNS

In the USA, trans people at Occupy Movement protests are being subjected to abuse and violence from police officers; in Washington DC, yet another of our sisters, Deoni Jones, a 23-year-old trans woman was murdered. America you have so much to answer for especially when Republican candidates struggle to treat the LGBT communities as people worthy of being allowed to vote.

Of late I have been feeling my age. I won’t see 21 again, come to think of it, I won’t see 41 again either. I would like to say I am growing old disgracefully but to be honest, I haven’t got the energy or the where-with-how to bother. My idea of fun now is a pint of tea, a pair of fluffy slippers on my feet as I watch reruns of The L Word and Queer As Folk on the telly; yep, I am getting old! Boring old f**t I hear my fellow campers yell out and you could be right. The spirit might be willing but the flesh has gone south for good and all my dangly bits are well… dangling!

BY STEPH SCOTT

Across the northern border in Canada, if your gender or passport photo don’t match at airport check-in they can refuse to allow you to fly! How many of us actually look much like our passport photos I wonder? After 9/11 the Canadian Government decided that would-be bombers will present themselves as different genders to their passports. In case you think this only applies to Canadians it could also affect people flying into Canada, so basically if you need to fly there whilst transitioning then be prepared to be turned back.

Now onto those bastions of free speech, the Swedish people, where everyone accepts everybody else especially the world’s LGBT communities. Well not if you are trans where the state forces you to be sterilised no matter what degree of change you want to affect. Those of you who thought that state sanctioned sterilisation disappeared decades ago are sadly wrong. By the way, things are no better in Norway either.

“In Canada, if your gender or passport photo don’t match at airport check-in they can refuse to allow you to fly!”

Even our own Leeds Gender Identity Service is being found to not know how they are supposed to treat their patients. A Freedom Of Information request to find out what guidelines they work to actually led to total confusion within their department. Their answers were just so wrong as to be laughable unless you are suffering under them.

Quoting sections and terms within guidelines that don't actually exist and being unaware that two sets of guidelines quoted were the same, just that the name had changed years ago.

Now we come to this government’s ideas on changing the NHS. Despite opposition from the doctors and nurses, who really run the NHS, the bean counters still see the need to replace an ailing but repairable NHS with investment from the private sector and GP consortium groups deciding who gets what treatment and when.

Lastly, this government introduces new housing benefit rules in March 2012. People under the age of 35 will only be able to claim a maximum that a person sharing a property would get. So trans people will be forced to move to cheaper, and worse condition, properties or share with others. Now imagine you are a young trans person forced into sharing with other people. You have to share a bathroom and toilet, which during transition is not very practical. Young trans people, in transition, are likely to be vulnerable, which is not being taken into account. Of course the right wing press will say that they should get a job but given that trans people are much less likely to get a job because of employers prejudice, just how are they supposed to do that?

BY SUCHI CHATTERJEE

A good friend of mine (who I won't name) recently asked me what I intended to do in my old age, other than taking my wheelchair and going off Beachy Head in a blaze of glory, (his words not mine!). As a singleton of slender means (money not waist!) I suddenly realised that other than my elderly parents, She Who Shall Be Obeyed (mother) and He Who Shall Be Ignored (Father) I am pretty much alone in the world.

“I would like to say I am growing old disgracefully but to be honest, I haven’t got the energy or the where-with-how to bother” Okay I have an older sister and younger brother who I love dearly but with whom I have nothing in common and I would not inflict myself upon them. You see my siblings are straight and conservative and a tattooed, bi sister in Boudica-style wheelchair is enough to drive them to drink, and emigration, in that order. As much as they love me, neither they nor I want to live with each other. We are poles apart in our lifestyles and when I become the oldest gay in the village, my beloved siblings will be long gone… to Australia I suspect!

So I have decided that I am going to set up a home for the LGBT elderly. It is going to be called Queens & Queers and it will be filled to the rafters with old queens, bad tempered lesbians, intellectual bis and well-dressed transgender men and women. It will be on a huge estate in the middle of nowhere, in a house that was once a stately home and we will dine on only the best food and sup the grapes of wrath to our drunken heart’s content.

My good friend (see above) rolled his eyes in horror when I told him of my ambition to open a home for elderly LGBT members; “Oh my God!” he gasped, “Twenty old queens, ten bisexuals, fifteen lesbians and five trans all at the same watering hole, are you nuts? It will be a bloodbath of tantrums and tiaras and that will before you’ve even had breakfast!”

I hadn’t thought of that but that is what makes all LGBT people so wonderfully diverse in my opinion. Nothing we ever do is boring, even growing old can and is done in style. So if any of you wonderful people out there want to reserve a place in Queens & Queers Home for those of the gay persuasion, then please email me at Gscene, I’m taking bookings as of this week!

72 GSCENE

GAY MARRIAGE? A Resounding “YES” explains Stephanie Powell I strongly believe I have the right as much as the next person to marry the partner I love.

In 2009, a poll commissioned by The Times, showed 61% of the public were in favour of gay marriage. A straight colleague said to me recently “Why are we even discussing this?

Surely gay couples should be allowed to marry by now?” Well, I’d like to think so.

After years of campaigning by the Greens, with party member and human rights activist Peter Tatchell and others, the Coalition Government has agreed to legalise gay marriage. A number of MPs have endorsed Tatchell’s Equal Love campaign, including our Brighton Pavilion MP, Caroline Lucas.

Some ask why make all this fuss? We’ve had same sex civil partnerships since 2005. The

answer is that we deserve the same rights as heterosexuals, and the special symbolic status that civil marriage provides.

So why is gay marriage still an issue for some people? Sadly, homophobia is everywhere. Our own gay-friendly city is no stranger to LGBT hate crime. From name-calling at school, to bullying in the workplace, to violence on our streets, LGBT hate crime is still very much evident in Brighton & Hove. There have been, and are, great moves to stamp it out. Allsorts for example, do fantastic work in schools; informing all young people that being gay is okay. Allsorts founder, Jess Wood, has been honoured this year with an MBE, another move towards acceptance in itself, for her tireless work with LGBT young people.

The religious argument plays a part in this discussion. Identifying as LGBT and having (some sort of) a spiritual belief don’t naturally go hand-in-hand, but for some people it does.

I probably fall into this category somewhere.

Note my horror when I saw this headline: “The government should not overturn centuries of tradition by legalising gay marriage, the Archbishop of York (Dr John Sentamu) has said.” This was the opening sentence of his recent article in The Guardian.

I was heartened to see Peter Tatchell respond to these damning words. He said: “The vast majority of the British people, including many Christians, support the right of same-sex couples to get married. Dr Sentamu is intolerant and out of touch. His stance colludes with homophobia…”

The truth is, the government is proposing that gay marriage be recognised by registry offices only, and not by the church (i.e. civil marriage). The Archbishop has no argument to make on any level. What it does demonstrate clearly however, is his rejection of equality, as well as his underlying message that being gay in his eyes, is wrong.

In Andrew Brown’s Guardian blog, he says that Dr Sentamu has already lost the argument on this debate. I agree. Gay marriage must happen. It will be a significant way forward for LGBT acceptance, for equality, and for the recognition that gay relationships are just as loving and loyal as straight ones.

Stephanie Powell, Brighton & Hove Green Councillor for Queen’s Park Ward and LGBT campaigner My first job after university was at Harrods, where I worked for a number of years and where I achieved my first management position. I enjoyed Harrods because I met some amazing people and learnt the very high standards required of working in such a high profile environment. I left to return to college, where I obtained CELTA in one of those intensive courses. Subsequently, I had a spell of teaching English at various schools in London during the evenings, but returned to retail to work in Selfridges and then Debenhams, gaining higher positions as I went along.

I decided to move to Brighton in 2004. Quite possibly the best decision I made. Brighton has so much to offer, and is a welcome break from the stresses of London life. I decided to let fate take a hand and took my first job in recruitment, which I really enjoyed. I did this for a good few years, until a job with Connexions, the careers service for young people, became available. I worked with a very large caseload of young people aged 1625, including those with Special Educational

Needs. My job was to engage with them, and to help them progress from NEET into EET: Employment, Education or Training. This role required a clear grasp of the kinds of issues that young people today face, and the range of options currently out there to meet their needs. It required patience, advocacy, and persistence and above all kindness.

May 2010, heralded the new Coalition Government. Along too came the cuts to services, the first being Connexions in Brighton & Hove. In the debate over saving Connexions, I became their media voice. I appeared on the BBC Spending Review and challenged the Prime Minister on the proposed cut to the service at the PM Debate in Hove in July 2010.

I was one of two UNISON stewards for our service. Together, we were instrumental in constructing the campaign to 'save our service', which included many hours of planning alongside our everyday job. Our efforts paid off and we saved an additional seven jobs, to the original proposal of just seven as put forward by the council, thus 14 people retained their jobs in the newlynamed “Employability” service.

I decided to join the Green Party because I believe they are the party of fairness. Caroline Lucas MP is the first Green MP in the country, and is a leader with integrity, energy and compassion. I began working with the Green Party whilst a UNISON steward, when I was asked to consider becoming a candidate for the local election in May 2011. And so began my political career in earnest...

5th May 2011 saw the election of the first Green-led council in Brighton & Hove, and the first Green Council in the UK. I am one of 23 Green Councillors (54 in total), with the responsibility of taking Brighton & Hove through the next four years; some of the most difficult years in living memory. We will do this by talking to local people, local businesses, the third and voluntary sectors, and the trade unions, and involve them in changing the way the council works, in order to deliver a fairer city to our residents in the face of harsh times.

I graduated from the Cambridge campus in 1995 when it was APU. I had a brilliant time at university and look back on my three years at Anglia with very fond memories indeed.

There's no doubt that it's played a major part in bringing me to where I am today.

GSCENE 73

SERVICES

DIRECTORY LGBT SERVICES ACCESS 4 ALL

LGBT disabled people’s forum. Safe and welcoming, support, activities, awareness.

Tel: 07981 170071 or access4all@fsmail.net

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

RAINBOW FAMILIES

Support group for lesbian and/or gay parents Tel: 07951 082013 or info@rainbowfamilies.org.uk www.rainbowfamilies.org.uk

VICTIM SUPPORT

ANYTHING BUT…

Practical, emotional support for victims of crime.

Tel: Brighton 01273 234009 or Hove 01273 439942

Youth social support group for LGB or unsure under 26, meets every other Wed. Tel: 01424 724150 or 01424 447033

HIV PREVENTION

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

BRIGHTON & HOVE POLICE

Report all homophobic and transphobic incidents to: • The Police 0845 6070999 (for emergencies 999) email: LGBT@sussex.pnn.police.uk tweet: @policeLGBT • Civilian LGBT caseworker Clare Brisco on 101 ext 50427 or 07769 162594 • or use True Vision self reporting pack

BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SWITCHBOARD Telephone Helpline, Hate Crime reporting, Counselling service, Proud2connect service (relationship counselling in partnership with Brighton Relate). www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton • Helpline from 5pm daily: Tel: 01273 204050 • Services info 01273009 • email brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk • or brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk

BRIGHTON OURSTORY PROJECT

Oral history projects including shows, exhibitions, books, support to researchers Tel: 01273 207757 or 01273 328592 or www.brightonourstory.co.uk

BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE

Info, counselling, drop-in space, support groups.

Tel: 01273 698036 or www.womenscentre.org.uk

FTM BRIGHTON

Social/support group for all female-to-male trans people.

Meets every 3rd Sat of month, 6–8pm, THT Office, 61 Ship St, Brighton, BN1 1AE. Tel: 07504 652129 or FTMBrighton@hotmail.co.uk

GEMS (GAY ELDERLY MEN’S SOCIETY)

Twice monthly meeting for over 50s Tel: 01273 884285 or peterotto337@btinternet.com www.gems-bh.org.uk

LESBIAN LINK BRIGHTON

Local social group offers friendship, social events Tel: 07594 578035 (eve) www.lesbianlinkbrighton.co.uk

LESBIAN & GAY AA

12 step self-help programme for alcohol addictions. Sun 7.30pm, Chapel Royal, North St, Btn (side entrance).

Tel: 01273 203343 (general AA line)

LGBT NA GROUP

Brighton based LGBT (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. Tel: NA Helpline 604604

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

TREATMENT & CARE SERVICES AVERT

Sussex HIV & AIDS info service, available by phone Tel: 01403 210202 or email confidential@avert.org

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

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

LAWSON UNIT

Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. Tel: 01273 664722

SUBSTANCE MISUSE SERVICE

CRI / Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust. Open Access Drop In, Assessment, support, advice, info on drug & alcohol issues Tel 01273 607575 An LGB&T worker is able to provide a confidential, non judgemental outreach service.

Offering support for people over 18 wishing to address their substance misuse Tel 07717 774 658

SUSSEX BEACON

24 hour nursing & medical care, day care.

Tel: 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST SERVICES

• 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, manage side effects, sex & relationships, understand meds, 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

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

WARREN BROWNE UNIT

Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Shoreham based. Tel: 01273 461453

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 BROKEN RAINBOW

LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline, Mon 2-8pm, Wed 101pm, Thur 2-8pm Tel: 08452 604460

LONDON FRIEND

LGBT bereavement helpline, Tues 7.30-10pm, Tel: 020 7403 5969

LONDON LESBIAN & GAY SWITCHBOARD Tel: 02078 377324

POSITIVELINE (EDDIE SURMAN TRUST) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm Tel: 0800 1696806

MAINLINERS Tel: 02075 825226

NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE 08005 67123

NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE 08007 76600 THT AIDS TREATMENT PHONELINE Tel: 08459 470047

THT DIRECT Tel: 0845 1221200

K e m p To w n /

118 St James’s Street, Brighton BN2 1TH

C it y /

111 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DD

H ov e/

178 Church Road, Hove BN3 2DJ

justinlloyd.co.uk £575,000

Marine Parade, Brighton Magnificent 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment, with lift, on 2nd floor of Grade II listed Victorian house on Brighton seafront. Double aspect drawing room, sea views. Listed building consent to convert to 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom.

£219,950

£525,000 OIEO

Church Road, Hove Grade II listed, 1st floor, 2 bedroom balcony flat.

Double aspect drawing room and sun balcony.

£400,000 OIEO

Brunswick Square, Hove Beautiful 1 bedroom garden flat in a Grade I listed Regency house in Brunswick Square, one of the city's most prestigious addresses located near Hove Lawns and the seafront. An ideal city flat or weekend retreat by the sea.

Connaught Road, Hove Contemporary 2 double bedroom triplex just off Church Road. Small patio garden.

info@justinlloyd.co.uk

01273 692424 £2,500 PCM

New Church Road, Hove Newly refurbished throughout, this substantial garden flat is arranged across the entire ground floor of a detached house. The accommodation includes a large reception room, 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.

You can now browse our properties on Facebook

£2,500 PCM

£1,300 PCM

£1,200 PCM

Glendale Road, Hove

Grand Parade, Brighton

Shirley Street, Hove

Fantastic 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom semi detached house. Ideal for family or professional couple.

Modern 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 4th floor flat overlooking the Pavilion. Balcony and lift.

Well presented 2 double bedroom ground and 1st floor maisonette with private garden.

76 GSCENE

MAR

CLASSIFIEDS CALL 01273 722457 BY 14TH MAR

2012

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BUILDERS, ELECTRICIANS, HANDY MAN, PLUMBERS, A PLASTERERS, PAINTERS & DECORATORS, RUBBISH CLEARANCE FRED’LL FIX IT

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07749 471497

CITB Qualifie d

Guaranteed Work carried out by Gay Professional Man •Painting & Decorating •Tiling •Kitchens/ Bathrooms fitted •General plumbing MOST OTHER TRADES UNDERTAKEN

All Aspects Of General Household Maintenance/Repairs

• Plumbing • Electrics • Painting • Bathrooms No Job Too Small Gay Man Central Brighton Part P Registered

07768 911043 www.fredllfixit.co.uk

PHIL HARRIS Carpentry, Joinery & Building Renovation Built-in furniture, Maintenance & General Building

Call Phil on

0793 1157822 philipbarryharris @hotmail.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

E L E Brighton C T Rbased ICAN For all your electrical requirements No jobs too small, rewire, phone points etc.

Call Barry for free advice on

01273 624610 / 07889 730640 barry.butcher2@ntlworld.com

Electrical Mechanical Services

p aintworks G AY P A I N T E R & D E C O R AT O R * * * *

Competitive Rates Interior / Exterior Artexing / Coving Quality & Reliability Guaranteed

HOME 01273 589329 MOBILE 07973 839214 over 15 years experience

SUSSEX DIVE CLUB TRY DIVE

£15

training courses & Gift certificates available

www.sussexdiving.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL REMOVALS

MT CARPENTRY & BUILDING • LOFT CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS • BRICKWORK • PAINTWORK DECORATING • INSURANCE REPAIRS

FREE ESTIMATES TEL: 01273 383767 MOB: 07939 581791

TO ADVERTISE IN GSCENE

CALL 01273 722457

GSCENE 77

MAR

CLASSIFIEDS CALL 01273 722457 BY 14TH MAR

2012

TO GUARANTEE ADVERT PLACEMENT

Ashtons Massage Holistic Naturist Tantric

07775 102593

www.m2merotictouch.com

COUNSELLING, MASSAGE, TREATMENTS + HEALTH SERVICES

RUSSELL 48 (VTCT Qualified) Holistic Body Massage Aromatherapy • Swedish Massage Sports Massage • Reflexology Indian Head Massage • Hot Stones Waxing • Shaving Kemp Town seafront (opp Naturist Beach)

07887 973399

Gary Mobile Holistic Massage Therapist VTCT Qualified

I am fully mobile so I am able to visit you in your own home • Swedish Body Massage • Aromatherapy Massage • Reflexology

07789 655102 www.thebrightonmobile massagecompany.com

HOLIDAY LETS

ESCORTS + CHATLINES

PATTAYA THAILAND

SEBASTIAN

Stunning Appartment Very Near Bars Good Transport & Shops Must See The Pics!!!

www.jomtien.net

WHILST EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF STATEMENTS IN THIS MAGAZINE WE CANNOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE VIEWS OF CONTRIBUTORS, ERRORS, OR OMMISIONS, OR FOR MATTERS ARISING FROM CLERICAL OR PRINTERS ERRORS, OR AN ADVERTISER NOT COMPLETING A CONTRACT

Saltdean In/Out Call Overnight

07003 755082

AN AD THIS SIZE COSTS £35 + VAT CALL

01273 722457

ADVERTISERS MAP HORE

HAM

RD

HOVEE STTATION

44 K DY

6

12 BASEMENT CLUB (below Legends) 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462

G ESTATE AGENTS

37 JUSTIN LLOYD (Kemp Town) 118 St James’ St, 315612 38 JUSTIN LLOYD (City) 111 Western Rd, Hove, 315613 39 JUSTIN LLOYD (Hove) 176 Church Rd, Hove, 315614

LEW ES RD

OLD STEINE

ST

ST JAM ES STR

MARIN E

EET

30 28

20

PARA DE

BRIGHTON TON ON PIER

EDWAR

D ST

HIGH S

T

DO R S ET G A R DE N

18

GEOR GE S T

ST

S

15

17 47

12

G FOOD

1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 40 THE BRASSERIE 48-49 St James St, 604060 3 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 8 CHARLES ST BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 41 FISHERMAN’S REST 123-125 Kings Rd, 323888 12 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 50 L’EGLISE 196 Church Road, Hove, 220868

13 THE LOOP 16 Marine Parade, 677944 31 NEW STEINE BISTRO 12a New Steine, 681546

ST JA MES ’A

V

24

31 29

G COMMUNITY

E

ST

13

7

ROCK PLAC

MARINE PARADE

1

NEW STEIN E

8

32 40

MADEIRA PL

3

46

23

CAMELFO RD

26

2

14

5

BROAD ST

22

CHARLES ST

OLD STEINE

MANCHESTER ST

ST JAM ES STRE ET 37 33

35 16 21

G SHOPS

32 CARDOME 47a St James’ St, 692916 33 PROWLER 112 St James’ St, 683680 34 SPECS 22 Kensington Gardens, 676796 35 SUSSEX BEACON Charity Shop 130 St James’ St, 682992 36 SUSSEX BEACON Charity Shop 83 George St, Hove

27 25

WES ST PIER

RD

43

EDWAR D

ST

10 49

CES

1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 28 AVALON HOTEL 7 Upper Rock Gardens, 692344 48 COURTLANDS HOTEL 19-27 The Drive, Hove, 731055 T 29 GULLIVERS HOTEL 12a New Steine, 695415 30 COWARDS HOTEL 12 Upper Rock Gardens, 692677 12 LEGENDS HOTEL 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 31 NEW STEINE HOTEL 10/11 New Steine, 681546 49 QUEENS HOTEL 1/3 Kings Rd, 321222 22 VAVAVOOM 31 Old Steine, 603010

41

PRI N

G HOTELS

KINGS R D

NO RTH WEST

8 ENVY (above Charles St Bar) 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 24 FUNKY FISH @ New Madeira Hotel 19-23 Marine Parade, 01273 698331 25 REBEL @ DIGITAL 187-193 Kings Road Arches www.aeonevents.co.uk 26 REVENGE 32-34 Old Steine, 606064 27 WILD FRUIT @ Project, West St, www.aeonevents.co.uk

RD

9

RD

19

GRAND P ARADE

RD QUEE NS

RD

4

WESTERN

ST

KINGSWAY

STEINE ST

1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 2 AQUARIUM 6 Steine St, 605525 3 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 4 BEDFORD TAVERN 30 Western St, 739495 5 BULLDOG TAVERN 31 St James’ St, 696996 6 BRIGHTON TAVERN 99-100 Gloucester Rd, 680365 7 CAMELFORD ARMS 30-31 Camelford St, 622386 8 CHARLES STREET BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 9 CHURCH STREET 112 Church St, 606864 10 DR BRIGHTONS 16 Kings Rd, 208113 11 GROSVENOR 16 Western St, 770712 12 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 13 LOOP 16 Marine Parade, 677944 14 MARINE TAVERN 13 Broad St, 681284 15 MARLBOROUGH 4 Princes St, 570028 16 POISON IVY 129 St James St 17 PROJECT 56 56 George St, 623399 18 QUEENS ARMS 7 George St, 696873 19 REGENCY TAVERN 32-34 Russell Sq, 325652 2O STAG INN 33 Upper Bedford St, 01273 780313 21 SUBLINE 129 St James St, 01273 624100 22 VAVAVOOM 31 Old Steine, 603010 23 ZONE 33 St James’ St, 682249

11

R PAV OYAL ILLI ON

G PUBS & BARS

38

ELIER

39

EELM M GROVE ISLI NGW ORD

34 NORTH

MON TP

PALME R SQUAR IA E

HOLLA ND RD

45

BRIGHTON STATION

48

CHURCH RD

1ST AVE

HOVE ST

50

SEVEN DIALS

THE DRIVE

GEOR GE S T

36

RD

RD

SACKVILLE RD

D

GOLDSMID

NEW CHURCH RD

G CLUBS

DON LON

ER

PORTLAND RD

46 BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE 72 High St, 698036 www.womenscentre.org.uk 47 LUNCH POSITIVE G SAUNAS Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, 43 BRIGHTON SAUNA 07846 464384 www.lunchpositive.org 75 Grand Parade, 689966 MINDOUT 44 TBS2 SAUNA Community Base, 113 Queens Rd 84-86 Denmark Villas, Hove, 723733 234 839 www.mindout.org.uk SWITCHBOARD G LEGAL & FINANCE Community Base, 113 Queens Rd 45 ENGLEHARTS 204050 (5–11pm) 49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, Hove, 204411