Gscene - May 2013

MAY 2013

CONTENTS

www.gscene.com @gscene GScene.Brighton

CHARLES STREE DRAG BALL

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

FRONT COVER

MISS JASON @ MARINE TAVERN BAKE OFF

GSCENE magazine

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MODEL Paloma Faith PHOTOGRAPHY Rebecca Pierce

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

NEWS 8 News

SCENE LISTINGS PIC CAP

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ARTS

Luis Cruz, Michael Hootman, James Ledward, Mr Moment Catcher, Drew Wilby, Sarah Haddow LEGENDS

© GSCENE 2013 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.

56 59 61 62

Arts News Art Matters Classical Notes Film Reviews

REGULARS 30 31 54 54

REVENGE

FEATURES 24 MENTAL HEALTH A round-up of mental health services for LGBT people in Brighton

28 RELIGION Keith Sharpe of Changing Attitude talks to Reverend Steve Chalke

60 T’PAU25 Craig Hanlon-Smith talks to the 80s pop star Carol Decker

74 RETURN TO ROUEN REVENGE

32 Brighton Listings 50 Solent & Bournemouth Listings

Roger Wheeler revisits Rouen

Charlie’s Kitchen Come Dine with Morham Dance Music DJ profile: Queen Josephine 55 The Man Who...

63 Geek Scene 64 Shopping 66 Craig’s Thoughts 67 Homely Homily 67 Vron’s Voice 68 Heart & Sole 69 Netty’s World 69 Queerying Queenie 70 Charlie Says 71 Duncan’s Domain 71 Trans Matters 72 Sharp Words 73 Suchi 73 TV Scene

INFORMATION 75 Services Directory 76 Classifieds 78 Advertisers’ Map

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t Pride's first ever 'Ambassador' has been selected to march at the front of this year's community parade.

Danny Dwyer, the organiser of BearPatrol, received the most nominations in the first selection round. Bear-Patrol is a social networking group for bears and their friends and in the short time they have existed have raised close to £50,000 for the Sussex Beacon and local good causes. Pride's second Ambassador will be announced in the June Gscene.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRIDE AT THE FRINGE WITH CERI DUPREE

t Brighton Pride are presenting a season of Pride Gala shows in the Ladyboys Sabai Pavilion on Pavilion Gardens as part of the Brighton Fringe 2013. Ceri Dupree, the Queen of female impersonators, gets the season off to a spectacular start on Sunday, May 5 with a glittering evening of witty, elegant and high energy entertainment hosted by the brilliant Lola Lasagne and featuring special guest stars including Dolly Rocket, West End star Wesley Sebastian and the outrageous Myra Dubois, winner of the best 'Drag Act' at the London Cabaret Awards.

PALOMA FAITH DOES BRIGHTON PRIDE

t The main stage returns to Brighton Pride this year as the focus of the Icons on the Park event with organisers promising the best lineup of stars ever seen at Brighton Pride. To get the ball rolling Paloma Faith will be following in the footsteps of Norman Cook last year and playing a DJ set on the main stage.

Paloma, has had major chart success with her singles Never Tear Us Apart, Picking Up The Pieces, New York and two top ten albums.

CERI DUPREE

DANNY DWYER

PRIDE'S FIRST 'AMBASSADOR' SELECTED

Other shows in May at the Ladyboys Pavilion include the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus on May 12; The Supreme Fabulettes and friends on May 19 and a double-bill with Gay Bingo, hosted by cult figure, Jonny Woo, featuring Ma Butcher and John Sizzle and the Charlie Hides Show on May 26. Charlie an internet sensation is celebrated internationally for his hilarious impersonations making him one of the top cabaret performers in the country, loved by the likes of Elton John. Charlie’s Cast of Divas show is bound to be one of the biggest hits of the Brighton Fringe.

Doors for each Pride Gala show open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Get to the Sabai Pavilion early to enjoy preshow food, nibbles, drinks and fabulous hosts to make a full evening of glittering entertainment, Pride style!

BOOKING FOR GALA SHOWS Online: (booking fee applies), www.whatsontickets.com Tel: 0871 705 8888 (BT/10p/min) (booking fee applies) Fringe box office: 01273 917 272 (booking fee applies).

Programming director Dulcie Danger, said: “Discussions are underway for some great performers to play on the main stage, and Paloma is the first of many big name acts to be announced throughout the summer. Tickets for the event go up to £17.50 from July 1, so make sure you get your tickets now while they cost just £12.50. All ‘early bird’ tickets at £8.50 have sold out.”

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IDAHOBIT DAY: FRIDAY, MAY 17

t Brighton & Hove marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on Friday, May 17, 2013 at 6pm with an event on Old Steine in central Brighton opposite Revenge nightclub.

May 17 commemorates the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental health diseases. In 86 countries globally, homosexual acts remain illegal while in many countries lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and those who identify as trans (LGBT) are often murdered simply for their sexuality or gender identity. This year’s theme is Mental Wellbeing.

The event will include: • Performances from an LGBT Chorus and local entertainer Krissie DuCann.

• A minute's 'noise' to remember the international victims of homophobic, bi and transphobic violence; (so bring a whistle, horn, bell, tambourine, trombone etc to make some noise!)

• A release of balloons symbolising our 'hope for change' Speeches will by made from key personalities within the LGBT communities, including members from the Student Unions, Gay Elderly Men’s Society (GEMS), local trans and gender identity organisations, the Sussex Beacon, Allsorts (younger peoples LGBT group), representatives from local BME (Black & Minority Ethnic) groups, Jason Sutton (Miss Jason), The LGBT Neighbourhood Policing Team and local activists.

The event will be officially attended and opened by Cllr Bill Randall, Mayor of Brighton & Hove, with speeches from the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne and Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion. The City Council will officially recognise IDAHOBIT by flying the rainbow flag from Brighton & Hove town halls.

Refreshments will be provided by The THT South, Outreach Service.

IDAHOBIT is this year organised by the Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum and is an open and inclusive event that all are welcomed to.

More information on other guest speakers will be published as they are confirmed at: www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com/events/idahobit/

NEW MAYOR PLANS A RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

t Homeless charity Off the Fence, The Martlets Hospice, The Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, Age Concern and The Argus Appeal have been chosen by the incoming Mayor of Brighton & Hove, Cllr Denise Cobb, as her charities for her mayoral year.

Cllr Cobb has been a Conservative member of Brighton & Hove City Council since 1999 and represents the Westbourne ward in Hove.

The decision to appoint her as the next Mayor was made by councillors at a meeting at Brighton Town Hall on Thursday, December 13.

Cllr Cobb said: “I’ve selected more charities than usual because I found it impossible to decide between them. They were all close to my heart in some way, and they benefit people from a range of backgrounds.

“I’ve a lot of first hand

BEAR-PATROL RAISE £9,560 FOR THE SUSSEX BEACON

t A team of 24 runners from Bear-Patrol, the networking group for bears and their friends, ran in the Brighton Half Marathon in February and raised a magnificent £9,560 for the Sussex Beacon.

2013 was the Brighton Half Marathon's 23rd anniversary. The race was originally started by local running clubs until the Sussex Beacon took over in 2004. How times have changed!

The race, which originally started in the Brighton Marina car park, with just 200 runners has grown over the last 16 years to over 10,000 entrants and is now the largest running event in the South East.

The Half Marathon is the primary fundraiser for the Sussex Beacon, a clinical care centre for men and women living with HIV.

LOCAL CHARITIES BENEFIT FROM THE VOICES OF ACTUALLY

t Following successful performances and fundraising throughout 2012 by both Actually Gay Men’s Chorus and Actually Gay Women’s Chorus, £1141.64 has been presented to local charities.

CLLR DENISE COBB

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FUNDING AWARDED TO STAGE CANDLELIT VIGIL

t Lunch Positive, the Brighton & Hove charity which provides a weekly lunch club for people with HIV, has been awarded £1,985 to help toward the costs of staging the annual World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil & Reading Of Names.

The event, which is held on World AIDS Day, December 1, is a public remembrance of people who have been lost to AIDS locally, and an expression of hope and solidarity for those who live with HIV/AIDS. Funding has been awarded by the Community Development Fund through the Communities First Queen’s Park Ward Programme and will be spent on providing equipment to stage the vigil, improving wheelchair access and promoting the event.

Lunch Positive supports World AIDS Day events as a member of the Brighton & Hove World AIDS Day Partnership which is formed from a wide range of local charities and organisations which include the Sussex Ecumenical HIV Chaplaincy, Sussex Beacon, THT South, CDO Sussex and Brighton & Hove City Council Community Safety Team.

If you would like to see more about the vigil and reading of names and find details of how to leave a name to be read at the vigil, view: www.facebook.com/worldAIDSdayBH/info

experience with these charities.

Age Concern delivers a lot of help to my mum, and I know how vital the support the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity provide is, because when my grandchild was born, he wasn’t in good health.

“I want this to be a record breaking year in terms of fundraising and I plan to work hard to make this happen. I’m keen to hear if residents have any ideas on how to help.”

The outgoing Mayor, Cllr Bill Randall supported Allsorts, the LGBT Youth Project among his charities during the last year.

This month Actually CIC presented Sussex Air Ambulance with £323.16, Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard with £498.16 and Brighton Women’s Centre with £320.32.

The money was raised from a Moulin Rougeinspired production, The Show Must Go On, and a very patriotic Pride event, Our Crowning Glory performed by Actually Gay Men’s Chorus whilst Actually Gay Women’s Chorus sang in their debut performance Showtime and both choruses joined forces in December for T’was The Night Before Christmas.

For further information about both choirs, view: www.actuallygmc.org

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THE BRIGHTON HALF MARATHON 2014

t The Brighton Half Marathon 2014 was officially launched at the Seattle Hotel in Brighton Marina on Monday, April 23. Registration is now officially open, for the 2014 race which will take place on Sunday, February 16, 2014, starting at 9am on Madeira Drive on Brighton’s seafront with a total of 11,000 places available for runners. The Brighton Half Marathon sold out in record time last year with all places gone by the end of September. The race is organised by and is the main fundraiser for the Sussex Beacon, a unique centre providing innovative services to meet the changing needs of people living with HIV. Now in its 24th year, the Brighton Half Marathon is one of the longest established and most popular seafront road race events in the UK and the first major half marathon of the new year. Perfectly suited as a warm up for all spring marathons, the race has been growing steadily over the last couple of years, attracting local club runners as well as beginners and seasoned runners who want to take part in an iconic race on the South Coast.

Partners for the 2014 race confirmed so far include the Seattle Hotel, Visit Brighton, Brighton & Hove City Council and Studio57 Clinic.

Cllr Bill Randall, the Mayor of Brighton & Hove, was in attendance along with members of the press, media, Green Party, sponsors and representatives of this year’s official charities including the Sussex Beacon, WaterAid and Rise.

Paul Bond, event manager, said: “We are very excited to launch the 2014 race and to announce that registration is open. The Brighton Half Marathon 2013 was a huge success with lots of positive feedback from the runners and everyone involved. We will be working on delivering an even bigger and better event in 2014 and on further improving the race day experience for runners and spectators. We expect that places will be selling faster than ever and are encouraging anyone wanting to be on the start line next February to sign up as soon as possible.”

A new website and new colour logo were unveiled at the launch event and registration officially opened for the 2014 race. Entry costs £30 for affiliated runners and £32 for non-affiliated runners which includes a goody bag and a medal at the finish. Charity packages are available.

Charities wanting to buy places should email: half.marathon@sussexbeacon.org.uk Or telephone: 01273 645697 To register for the race, view: www.brightonhalfmarathon.com/ See Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BrightonHalfMarathon Twitter: @BrightonHalf.

DEMENTIA AWARENESS WEEK

t The Alzheimer's Society, the charity leading the fight against dementia, will be hosting an open day for those living with dementia and their carers and professionals, at The Cornerstone Café, Church Road, Hove to coincide with the launch of Dementia Awareness Week on Saturday, May 18 from 2pm–5pm.

There will be sing-alongs, cupcakes, jive, massage, a screen show, crafts, light refreshments and practical support for those living with dementia, giving a taste of the dementia cafés staged regularly at Kemptown Café in the Crypt and Dyke Road Park Café. For more info, telephone: 01273 726266

HAVE YOU WRITTEN PEER ACTION YOUR WILL? EVENTS IN MAY

t Martlets Hospice, the Hovebased charity providing end of life care services to adults with terminal diseases, is now taking bookings for its 2013 Will Writing Fortnight, which runs from May 6–May 17. Fifteen local Will writers will donate their services in return for a suggested donation to the Hospice of £75 for updating a codicil, £110 for a single Will or £150 for a joint Will.

Gary Moyle, Hospice Legacies Officer, said: “This is a great opportunity to make or update your Will and support the Martlets at the same time. We hope too that some people will think about making a gift in their Will to the Martlets because we are dependent on gifts made in Wills for around 15% of our income. Using a professional Will writer ensures that your wishes will be carried out and the people and causes you care about will be remembered as you intend. Wills should be updated following significant family events such as marriage, civil partnership or the birth of children.”

Appointments are available to anyone who wants to make or update their Will. Bookings can only be made between April 8–May 3. Telephone Gary Moyle on 01273 747455; or email: gary.moyle@themartletshospic e.co.uk

NEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT MINDOUT

t MindOut, the LGBT mental health project, are looking for enthusiastic people who would like to support LGBT people with mental health issues. As a volunteer you will carry out a role as a Peer Mentor offering one-to-one support and/or as an online support volunteer.

Full training will be provided and travel expenses reimbursed.

Application deadline is May 31, 2013. For more details and to download an application pack: www.mindout.org.uk/news/new -volunteer-opportunities/

t Peer Action, the charity providing peer support to those living with HIV, are organising a programme of social activities, fundraising events and well-being sessions in May. These include: a trip to Eltham Palace, an art deco masterpiece bolted onto Henry VIII's Tudor mansion and a Eurovision Song Contest Party at the Camelford Arms with a sweepstake and raffle to raise funds on Saturday, May 18 at 7pm.

Other regular Peer Action activities include: • Phil's Mediation Group at the THT building on Ship Street on Sunday, May 4 and Sunday, May 19 at 11am, no booking necessary, £3 per session.

• Dan's Yoga Classes take place on Tuesday 7, 12, 21 and 28 at St Mary's Church Hall on St James' Street at 6pm, all abilities welcome, mats provided, £3 per session.

• For movie lovers, Mike's Movie Night is on Friday, May 10 at 8pm, movie chosen on the night, bring a bottle and snacks, see website to get involved.

• If you're feeling stressed or out of sorts try Peer Action's low cost therapy session on Saturday, May 11 at the THT building, Ship Street at 1.50pm, £5 per session.

• If you're feeling lucky, Ian's Bingo night is on Monday, May 13 at 6.15pm for early session, 7pm for main event, at the Gala Bingo, Eastern Road, admission £10.

• For swimmers, there's the lunchtime swimming club on Tuesday, May 14 and Tuesday, May 28 at the Brighton Swimming Centre on Eastern Road at 12.20pm, £4 per one-hour session.

• Grab a pint and gather a group at the Board Games night at The Barley Mow pub, George's Road, Kemptown on Wednesday, May 29 at 7.30pm.

For more information about Peer Action's activities, and how to book sessions, view: www.peeraction.co.uk

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We are an independent LGBT Forum working with the Community to address and improve safety issues in Brighton & Hove. We hold quarterly public meetings.

Please sign up for our news letter at: www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com/newsletter

INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA, BIPHOBIA & TRANSPHOBIA

IDAHOBIT FRI 17 MAY 2013 We invite you to join us on this important day

LGBT SAFETY FORUM AGM 6pm TUES 16 JULY 2013 The Queens Hotel, BN1 1NS www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com/meetings/agm/ For more information please visit:

lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com

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MASTER BAKERS AT THE MARINE TAVERN

BAKE OFF

t Local entertainer and drag queen extraordinaire, Miss Jason, was on hand to judge the Great Gay Cake Bake-Off at the Marine Tavern in Broad Street last month. Regulars at the Marine Tavern paid a fee to enter their cakes into the competition and afterwards slices were sold off to customers. Eleven cakes were entered and the winner was Paul Samuels who baked beautiful pink fairy cakes in the shape of ladies stiletto shoes.

Paul donated his cash prize winnings and along with the slices of cake sold, a total of £175 was raised for the LGBT mental health charity, MindOut. Miss Jason was joined in her judging duties by the landlords mother, Rose, and Sgt Alex Evans from Sussex Police.

STUDENTS STAGE BENEFIT FOR LGBT SWITCHBOARD

t LGBrighTon, Brighton University's LGBT society, are holding a charity event to benefit Brighton LGBT Switchboard at The Blind Tiger, Brighton on Wednesday, May 15, which features female punk from The Vulgarities; 5 piece band Tinder playing reggae to rock ballads; live performance from Battle of You; and 5 piece Brighton-based alternative rock band Devil in Detail, with DJs till 1am. All profits will be donated to Switchboard, The Blind Tiger, 52-54 Grand Parade, Brighton, Wednesday, May 15 at 7pm.

Tickets: £2 (all profits to Switchboard). For more info view: www.facebook.com/events/179317205554139/

SWITCHBOARD TO BENEFIT FROM PLAY OPENING NIGHT

t Author Bern Bowers will donate all the proceeds from the opening night of his play Return to Venice to Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard on Saturday May 4. Return to Venice is a new play based on the boy who inspired Thomas Mann's iconic novella Death In Venice. He returns to Venice as a grown man to unravel the mystery behind the chance encounter with the novelists, twenty-five years earlier. The play has been described as "a feast for the senses" and includes music by Gustav Mahler.

Bern, said: “Switchboard is a fantastic local charity and I'm pleased to be able to support them in this way.”

Maria Antonio, Switchboard trustee, said; “We’re very grateful to Bern, and we're all looking forward to seeing the play. It's a great way to kick off the Brighton Fringe Festival.”

Switchboard are also planning a raffle on the night, with prizes including a pair of tickets for a performance by the Actually Gay Men's Chorus.

You can buy tickets for Return to Venice (£12.50/£8 each) from Brighton Fringe Box Office on 01273 917272 or: http://boxoffice.brightonfringe.org

STOP HIV WITHIN A GENERATION

t Gay and bisexual men in England have the power to halt the spread of HIV in their community within a generation, according to a major new prevention campaign launched last month by HIV Prevention England (HPE). It Starts With Me will run until spring 2015, making it the largest-scale HIV prevention campaign to target gay men in this country to date. Created by Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and funded by the Department of Health, it will reach men through press and online adverts, posters in gay venues, and will be rolled out nationally through a wide network of organisations funded by HPE to promote the campaign in their local communities.

For the two year duration of the campaign, It Starts With Me will rotate between a number of health messages, providing men with information and advice on how to protect themselves and their partners from HIV. The campaign’s over-arching message is simple: every sexually-active gay and bisexual man in England can help stop the HIV epidemic in its tracks by: • Testing for HIV at least once every twelve months, and more frequently if they have taken a risk, or show symptoms of seroconversion illness.

• Taking the medication they need to stay fit and well, if they have been diagnosed with HIV. • Protecting themselves during sex by using condoms and finding other ways to avoid risk.

• Participating in community action by finding a way to support the campaign and spread the word to their friends and contacts.

Gay and bisexual men are invited to sign up to It Starts With Me by visiting www.startswithme.org.uk. From there, they can assess their sex life to find out when they should have their next HIV test, find the nearest place to take a test and order a free HIV postal testing kit. There will also be a dedicated Facebook page where people can join in the conversation, and share stories and online resources at www.facebook.com/startswithme and a Twitter feed at @startswith_me People will be encouraged to champion the campaign by sharing Facebook posts, tweeting stories and spreading the word among their local communities.

NEW SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICE

t Following consultation with local gay and bisexual men, Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and the Claude Nicol Centre for Sexual Health have launched a new sexual health clinic in Brighton.

Clinic M, which opened on April 10, will run every Wednesday from 5–8pm at the Claude Nicol Centre, and replaces the Wilde Clinic. The new service will be funded by the local NHS and delivered by trained NHS staff. The change to local services follows a consultation process by THT and the Claude Nicol Centre which found that some gay and bisexual men, particularly those who might be into the harder sex scene or who use recreational drugs during sex, may have additional or specific needs in supporting their sexual health. Clinic M will create a space where men can talk freely about these aspects of their sex lives so that they can make informed choices about their sexual health. The services available at the new clinic are specially designed to meet the needs expressed during the consultation process and will also cater for men who feel confident about their level of sexual health knowledge and test frequently, but would like quick and fuss-free access to screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Rapid HIV tests, self-administered swabs and a refined pre-testing discussion will all help to ensure men get a quick and accessible service.

Clinic M runs on Wednesday evenings from 5–8pm at the Claude Nicol Centre, Abbey Road entrance. Drop-in slots are available in the first hour of the clinic, from 5–6pm. Alternatively, men can call 01273 664 721 to make an appointment.

The clinic adds to the existing range of sexual health services available for gay and bisexual men in Brighton, including THT's rapid HIV testing service (including other STI tests) at THT centre at 61 Ship Street on Mondays from 6–8pm; the charity’s testing services at Brighton Sauna on Wednesdays from 6–8pm; and the main Claude Nicol sexual health service, which is available for appointments and walk-ins throughout the week.

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NEW ARTS VENUE FOR LONDON ROAD

LOCAL DRAG QUEEN GAYDIO RADIO GOES HI-TECH PARTNERS WITH

Emporium is also looking to revive the tradition of regional rep for audiences to experience the thrill of having ‘their own’ company to support and watch develop.

They will work to produce a deliberately eclectic, well-balanced programme of intelligent and entertaining work, as well as staging in-house productions within the venue and exploring the possibilities of tours and transfers.

Aside from theatre, the forming of an ‘industry hub’ will be at the core of Emporium, providing a venue, facilities and services for professionals and enthusiasts to learn, network and showcase. Studio facilities will be much in demand and the scope for regular classes and workshops is vast, including: ‘how to write a professional CV’, casting session mentoring from established agents and casting directors, stage and film combat, theatre clubs for children, young adults and adults, coaching on choosing and preparing audition pieces and songs, producing and financing independent projects and reduced-price headshot sessions with a professional photographer.

The canteen is open all day, every day serving a range of healthy snacks and indulgent treats and the bar is open every evening whether there is a show on, or not.

GARY BLAIR

Gary Blair, Venue Manager, said: “Emporium for me is a wonderful chance to bring together the storytellers and their audiences. Not only will be offering incredible spectacles and immersive experiences, but we also have the opportunity to support and encourage the professionals – actors, directors, writers, designers and the incredibly skilled technicians and craftspeople.

“I am excited by the prospect of creating a complete experience to our visitors: to be able to enjoy support, a show, a drink and then late night cabaret.

“Emporium is a chance for audiences to see, up close, examples of skill, talent and genius that goes into creating theatre and movies. And for the creators to learn, develop and explore new ways to tell the stories.

“I am very excited to be part of it, and I hope you will be too.”

Emporium is located in the old Methodist Church, 88 London Road, Brighton.

For more info, view: www.emporiumbrighton.com

REVENGE

t Club and Bar Revenge have signed a groundbreaking content and crosspromotional partnership with national gay radio station 'Gaydio' following the launch of the service on the London and Sussex Coast DAB digital radio multiplexes.

Manchester-based Gaydio started life as a community radio station serving Manchester's gay village on FM. Following the demise of GaydarRadio, Gaydio have taken over the GaydarRadio licenses in London and Brighton and intend to continue providing a radio service for the LGBT community on the digital radio dial providing an up-beat mix of entertainment and music Club Revenge has been serving the LGBT community in Brighton & Hove for over 21 years, with a top line-up of DJs as well as regular live performances from some of the best known names in pop.

The new partnership between the two ventures will see Club Revenge's DJs regularly appearing on the radio as well as Gaydio running events and promotions at Revenge and their sister bar, Bar Revenge as well as possibilities for live radio broadcasts in the future.

Jason App is a one-stop-shop for the cabaret artist, featuring weekly podcasts, videos, photos, social media connections, Miss Jason's Half Hour, and a section for fanuploaded photos.

To download the App for free from the Google Play Shop, view: https://play.google.com/store, search Miss Jason and get connected.

WILD WEST LINE DANCING IN HANGLETON

t LGBT Hangleton are promoting a Wild West Line Dancing event using their Healthy Neighbourhood Funding. The event is open to anyone over the age of 18, and all LGBT friends and family are welcome too. Go along on your own and make new friends or get a group of friends together.

Tickets are limited so get in touch with Lisa to book your place as soon as possible. Tickets are available on a first come first served basis.

The Healthy Neighbourhood Fund is all about supporting local events that benefit physical, mental and emotional health.

These dance routines are just what the doctor ordered and are about creating a safe place to be free and enjoy yourself.

To book your place email: lisa.touzel@ntlworld.com Or message LGBThangleton on Facebook.

You get two hours of a do-si-do and a heel grinds line dancing lesson.

Hangleton Community Centre, Harmsworth Crescent, Hove, Saturday May 15, 2-4pm, £2.50 a ticket - light refreshments provided.

Ian Wallace of Gaydio said: “We’re really pleased to be partnering with Revenge as one of the premier venues in Brighton.

Gaydio is on digital radio throughout Sussex and we’re committed to providing a service that local people can relate to. As well as being a supporter of Student Pride and Brighton Pride, several of our presenters are from or have strong links to the city. Working in partnership with venues such as Revenge will allow us to link the sound of the scene to the sound of the airwaves.”

ALEX BAKER

The spring 2013 calendar includes: Lucy Bundy's Fake Bush, an affectionate comic tribute to Kate Bush, from May 23–25; Candle-lit Arias with soprano Miranda Keys, a sumptuous evening to complement supper and drinks on May 26; and Pattern Cutting for Drag Artistes with Kevin Rowland from June 4–6. For the full spring programme, view: www.emporiumbrighton.com

FAKE BUSH

t Emporium, a new, professional theatre, cafe, canteen and creative hub based in Brighton, is aiming to produce and host high quality, professional theatre productions ranging from the classic to the contemporary; the traditional to the experimental. Located within the grandeur of the old Methodist Church on London Road, the venue has two performance spaces including the Main House, which houses approximately 250 people and the Warehouse Space, which houses 120 people, and will play host to opera, burlesque, comedy and plays.

t Miss Jason, Brighton cabaret star and current holder of the Golden Handbag Oscar for favourite entertainer, launched her new App last month. The Miss

Alex Baker, Marketing and Promotion Manager at Club and Bar Revenge, said: “We're really excited that Gaydio is now on the digital radio dial in Brighton, one of the UK's most iconic and vibrant cities. We're delighted to be providing the Gaydio team with the sound of Brighton's gay scene through regular guest mixes from our resident DJs, adding to the diverse content that makes Gaydio a truly national station.

We're also looking at collaborating on events this year, bringing Gaydio DJs to Brighton and also offering Gaydio use of our facilities as a base to broadcast from at some of the amazing events in Brighton's gay calendar.”

To tune in, view: www.gaydio.co.uk

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RITA ORA

COUNTDOWN TO AS ONE IN THE PARK - FINAL LINEUPS

t As One In The Park 2013, London's new LGBT festival is being held in Victoria Park, Hackney, London E9, on Bank Holiday Sunday, May 26 from noon to 11pm.

Presented by Orange Nation, As One In The Park is the first large-scale gay festival in London for over a decade, and brings the capital in line with other major European cities. Victoria Park is firmly established as a prime festival site, already playing host to events including Field Day. As One In The Park takes place the day after Field Day and will be using their infrastructure and production crew. Headlining is Albanian superstar Rita Ora who will be performing the three No 1 hits from her No 1 album; Hot Right Now, RIP, How We Do (Party) and others including her new single Radioactive. There are four large indoor arenas, five additional stages with over 100 artists, brands and DJs, which will be hosted by some of the world’s leading gay party brands. t FINAL LINEUP INCLUDES: • MAIN STAGE supported by GAYDAR & GAYDIO features Rita Ora, Katy B, Conor Maynard, Union J, Offer Nissim, with very special guest Holly Johnson and hosted by X-Factor finalist, Rylan.

• THE CIRCUIT in association with MANHUNT ARENA; presented by Matinee, We Party, The Week, Scream, Rapido; DJs: Lydia Sanz, Manuel de Diego, Jordi Lights, Paulo Pacheco, Pagano, Paul Heron, Ben Manson, Giangi Cappai, Fabio Luigi.

• BEST OF BRITISH ARENA hosted by Orange Nation, Orange, Beyond, Salvation, Wild Fruit, Aftershock; headlined by Roger Sanchez & Boy George (DJ set); live PA: Peyton; features: Steve Pitron, Gonzalo, D'Johnny, Fat Tony, Dulcie Danger, Nik Denton, Pier Morrocco.

• THE BEARRACUDA BEARS ARENA features: HIFI Sean, Done and Dusted (Louis Lennon & Alan X), Micky Galliano and Paul Coals • The FINDHRR GIRLS ARENA in association with G3 is headlined by Skin (DJ Set); features: Girl Action, Mint, Code, Girlie Circuit, Candy Bar, Short & Girlie, One Love, The Girls Next Door, L Fest, Planet London; DJs Nuria Scarp, Lil Jo, El Conchitas, Sista Cee, Lady Lola, Missy B; artists Heads.Hearts, Red & Pink, Girlesque, The Cut Outs, Jen Brister, Madge Hooks, Mae Martin, Hannah Brackenbury, Lara A King, Kosmic Kitchen • WOMEN'S COMEDY STAGE produced by Short & Girlie Show with Short & Girlie, Madge Hooks, Mae Martin, Hannah Brackenbury, Lara A King and Jen Brister.

• POPSTARZ BAND STAND, supported by National Student Pride, with Tommy Turntables and El Conchitas • DEELOODED SOUNDSYSTEM features: Jamie Head, Mike Dower, Rob Sykes, Jaime Ritchie, Maze & Masters, Frankel & Harper, hosted

by Daniel Lismore • THE MADAME JOJOS CABARET VILLAGE GREEN (supported by Eurocreme) The Joiners Arms, Sink The Pink, by Walt Utz is headlined by The Supreme Fabulettes and features: The Folly Mixtures Revue, Myra Dubois, Rose Garden, Sandra, Dusty O, Vicky Vivacious, Vanilla Lush, Maddison Lee; DJs: Tasty Tim, Lady Lloyd, Sam DMS, Matt Bogard, Miss Peppermint, Sherry Vine; Rockaoke Bingo with Timberlina; burlesque beauties Liberty Sweet, Ooh La Lou & Bettsie Bon Bon; the fire-eating Angie Silva; Silver Summer Eve • THE SHADOW LOUNGE VIP hosted by Gigolo and featuring DJs: Lee Harris, Zach Burns, MisWhite, Doug Silva, Marco Gee • KU BAR, RUPERT STREET & COMPTONS supported by Boyz, Prowler, G3 & Soho Gyms A limited number of VIP tickets costing £75 are still available. Benefits include: Fast Track Entry; Complimentary Glass of Champagne; Entry to Shadow Lounge’s exclusive VIP area (behind the main stage); VIP bar; Premium Spirits; Table Service; VIP Toilets.

AS ONE IN THE PARK, Bank Holiday Sunday May 26, noon–11pm, Victoria Park, Hackney, London E9 7DB. Nearest Tube/National rail: Mile End, Tickets £40, £75 VIP. For more info, view: http://asoneinthepark.co.uk Twitter: @AsOneInThePark; Facebook: facebook.com/AsOneInThePark

NEW MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR SUSSEX

t The Sussex Festival of Music, a new mid-summer musical festival, will be taking place at Sussex County Cricket Ground from Friday, June 21-Sunday, June 23.

JAMES DUGGAN & ADAM HIGHWAY

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ESCORT SERVICE LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

The weekend comprises of a series of musical events for all the family, including: • A jazz three-course supper featuring a tribute to Hot Club de France on Friday, June 21 at 7pm; • A mid-summer Classical Prom featuring The Sussex Harmonisers and The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra playing classics from Rossini, Strauss, Bizet, Verdi, and ending with Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and a fireworks display on Saturday, June 22 at 6pm

• A jazz breakfast with music at 10am, followed by a midsummer Musical Mix with Herbie Flowers & Friends, circus acts and face-painting on Sunday, June 23 at 1.30pm.

Food and entertainment are included in the price of certain events, with catering packages available for all others. Picnics are welcome at the open air events, where light refreshments and full bar will be additionally available.

For tickets and more information view: www.sussexf estivalofmusic.co.uk

t Brighton Boys, Brighton & Hove's only gay male escort agency launched their new website for professional and reputable escorts to meet clients discreetly and in safety last month at the A-Bar on Marine Parade at a social gathering of the Gay Business Forum.

Brighton Boys was founded in 2012 by two Brightonians, Adam Highway and James Duggan, to address the lack of any reputable agency for Brighton-based gay male escorts and their clients. Brighton Boys provides a smooth, seamless service, working only with highly discreet, reliable and professional gay male escorts.

For more information view: www.brightonboys.com

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FORMER COUNCIL LEADER CALLS FOR MARCH FOR ENGLAND TO BE BANNED NEXT YEAR

SIMON BURGESS

Sussex Police reported 19 arrests for offences ranging from affray to possession of an offensive weapon. More than 700 police officers from all over the country were drafted in to police the event with estimates of the cost coming into several hundred thousand pounds Simon, said: "I was proud once again to stand shoulder to shoulder with our city's diverse population to show the homophobic, transphobic and racist English Defence League (EDL) and MfE that we don't want their hate and prejudice here. The vast majority of people opposing their presence do so in a non-violent way but unfortunately violence takes place between some on both sides and there is a significant risk of innocent people being injured or abused not just at the march but over the whole weekend as evidenced by the extra police presence during that whole time.

Simon Kirby, MP for Kemptown & Peacehaven, said: “I believe that it is important to our democracy that we respect people’s right to free speech and peaceful demonstration, however abhorrent we find their views. I was pleased to see that a small number of racists who descended on the city were far outnumbered by rational people opposing bigotry.

"I do have genuine concerns about the impact of the march on tourism and local business, as well as the cost of security which is borne by residents of the city. That is why I think that in future a more appropriate location than the seafront may be found for the demonstration. I also spoke with the Policing Minister last night to raise the possibility of additional funding from central Government to help cover the cost of security.”

t For the second year running, John Bercow will join hundreds of Stonewall supporters on Bank Holiday Sunday, May 5 for the tenth annual Brighton Equality Walk. The 10k Walk raises funds for Stonewall’s Education for All programme, which helps schools tackle homophobia so they’re safe and supportive for children from all families.

Mike Weatherley, MP for Hove & Portslade, added: “Unfortunately our wonderful city has become a magnate for all kinds of protests. Given that Brighton & Hove has become the destination of choice – regardless of any actual link to the area – I believe that the Government should recognise that it is unfair that we should keep picking up the bill.

While I will be talking to my ministerial colleagues about setting up a special discretionary fund to help pay for the operational cost of policing these kind of marches, I don’t think that many people would think that it stifles free speech to stop those who are clearly intent on violence and disruption from coming to Brighton & Hove.”

EQUALITY WALK 2012

In 2012, the anti-fascists supporters, headed up by Unite Against Fascism (UAF), were able to block the route of the marchers causing chaos in the city centre. This year the police "for safety reasons" moved the march to Brighton seafront and bused the MfE protestors from Brighton Station to Brighton Pier where they marched along the seafront to Middle Street and back, bringing the seafront to a standstill all afternoon and decimating the business of seafront traders. The main march went off with few incidents but there were reports of violent incidents throughout the city centre late into the evening as small groups of fascists and anti-fascists clashed with each other.

“If the council calls on the police to implement a ban it will not shut down legitimate protest in this city. Barely any MfE marchers live in the city and both the level of threat to public safety and the disruption to local businesses is out of all proportion to the numbers coming here to march.”

SPEAKER JOINS STONEWALL’S EQUALITY WALK ON MAY 5

SIMON KIRBY MP

The city was brought to a standstill on Sunday, April 21 by a small group of supporters of MfE exercising their 'right' to bring their protest to Brighton & Hove to campaign for St George’s Day to be made a national bank holiday. It is the sixth year MfE have marched in Brighton & Hove and each year more local residents come out to join the groups of anti-fascist supporters opposing the presence of MfE in the city.

“I realise my call for a ban will cause concern but should we really put the right to come to our city to march above resident and visitor safety and our local economy? No, enough is enough. The MfE and EDL come here simply because they hate our diversity, almost none of them live here. In contrast, local protesters, for whom this is often their first protest, outnumber them by a factor of ten to one proving the city wants none of their message of hate.

MIKE WEATHERLEY MP

t Simon Burgess, former Labour City Council Leader is, in a personal capacity, calling on the City Council to end the ability of a small number of March for England (MfE) protestors to disrupt the city and run up enormous policing bills.

John has a long history of supporting gay equality and Stonewall. Along with wife Sally he raised over £1,300 by completing the Walk in 2012. He cut the starting ribbon and described Stonewall as “one of the most successful campaigning organisations in British political history”. They also attended Stonewall’s 2012 Equality Dinner, which raised nearly £400,000 for antihomophobia work. John has set up a JustGiving page for people who wish to support him at: www.justgiving.com/johnbercow John will join celebrity host Zoe Lyons at the Equality Walk’s starting line and Celebrity Big Brother winner Rylan Clark and X-Factor favourite Lucy Spraggan have also lent their support to the event, which attracted over 570 Walkers in 2012. Hundreds of people have already registered for this year’s Walk, which is supported by American Express and media partners g3, Out in the City and Out News.

Laura Doughty, Stonewall Deputy Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted that John is able to join us again for our tenth Brighton Equality Walk. It’s an incredibly important event for Stonewall and our supporters, helping raise money that really does make life much better for gay young people.”

To find out more, and your last chance to register, view: http://equalitywalk.org.uk Or telephone: 020 7593 1875

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ABE RESPETO

NEW GAY BAR IN CRAWLEY

MIKE CARDOME

t Abe Respeto arrived in the UK in 1998. He was an American in love with his partner of 18 years and the only way for them to be together was for Abe to pack his bags and emigrate to England.

Abe said: “I’ve always been an adventurous, friendly person but I struggled to find work when I arrived in England. Eventually, I came across this lovely chap called Mike, in a small shop on St James’ Street in Brighton. Actually, I was looking for a room deodoriser, not a job, but he started cracking jokes about the cards in his shop and we had a good laugh. About six months later I was back in the card shop which was called Cardome and Mike asked if I knew anyone looking for part-time weekend work. I said I could help him until he found someone more permanent. It was not to be. I so enjoyed the atmosphere in the shop and St James’ Street, I became Mike’s assistant and stayed for nearly five years. The job didn't pay much but working in Cardome is now one of my most precious memories, as I had the time of my life working with such an amazing person. Mike has gone but his spirit remains.”

Abe is continuing in Mike's footsteps and has opened an online card shop called the Brighton Alternative Card Shop so you can still buy those humorous, rude, glamorous, saucy and fluffy handmade cards that Mike took such pride in choosing himself to have in his shop.

Abe said: “And perhaps, if you are also looking for a room deodoriser, please get in touch!”

To check out Abe’s cards, view: http://brightonaltcards.co.uk/en/

ANGIE, TAMMY & CHRIS

BRIGHTON ALTERNATIVE CARDS

t At long last Crawley has its own modern gay bar. Co-owners, Chris Ickemeyer and Angie Andres have turned a former restaurant site in the town centre into a modern city centre gay bar on two floors. Bar 7 & The Lounge @ 7 have been a labour of love for Chris and Angie, who describes herself as a classy 'fag hag'. They have full-time jobs during the day running a plumbing and heating company called TCS Horley which has been very useful in the conversion and refurbishment of the building. They have also pulled in favours from friends and supporters all desperate to give Crawley a fantastic new gay venue of its own.

Downstairs in the lounge there are sofas for you to relax in and have a drink before you go upstairs into the main bar where cabaret happens and the dance floor is located and kept busy by resident DJ Patio. The air conditioning in particular is very effective, and I always judge a venue by its toilets and in this venue they are first class and spotless; in fact I would go so far as to say the best toilets in any venue I have visited for quite some time.

Decor throughout is modern and colourful and overall the venue has a friendly, homely feel to it. Not too large and not too small. I felt really comfortable on my visit, which was for one of their networking evenings designed to get customers in to see the bar and sample the cabaret, which was performed by a very energetic Tammy Twinkle. Weekends are very busy, and midweek numbers are increasing. Crawley is close to Gatwick Airport, meaning this venue is perfectly located for cabin crew who work at Gatwick and live locally. Crawley is easy to get to from all parts of Sussex.

Opening times from May are: Monday closed; Tuesday 6pm–12.30am, Happy Hour 6–9pm, party night; Wednesday 6pm–12.30am, drag bingo with Mary Hinge; Thursday 6pm–2.30am, DJ night and drinks offers; Friday 6pm–2.30am, DJ night and drinks offers; Saturday 6pm–2.30am, Guest DJs, theme nights and cabaret, which in the coming months includes Dave Lynn, Drag With No Name, Candi Kane Baxter and Son of a Tutu; Sunday 6pm–12.30am, karaoke.

Bar 7 & The Lounge @ 7, 7 Pegler Way, Crawley, RH11 7AG. Parking is available at the Barclays car park next door and there are two car parks opposite.

Check the website for when entrance charges apply. For more information, view: www.7crawley.co.uk

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Make your Civil Partnership or special celebration truly memorable • A choice of two hotels • The Courtlands Hotel a few minutes walk from the beach in Hove • The Shelleys, an English country hotel set in the heart of Lewes • Fully licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Packages designed to your own requirements

£500 off price on presentation of this advert

We offer Civil Partnerships and events to themed occasions for the more adventurous with our in-house Cake Designer, Florist, Venue Stylist and Events Planner ready to support you on your big day Please ask for Linda on

01273 738222 or visit: www.courtlandshotel.com or: www.the-shelleys.co.uk

24 GSCENE

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK May 13-19.

Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to think about mental health, take some steps to increase wellbeing, increase your knowledge, find out more about mental health, talk more about mental health, attend events about mental health, do something for your own and others mental health, get involved in community mental health… just for starters! All of those don’t have to be limited to a week, you could do them all month, all year, but start this week!

The theme for this year's campaign, which runs from May 13-19, will be ‘Physical Activity & Exercise’, highlighting the impact they have on mental health and wellbeing. For more info, view: www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Physical activity is often described as something we ‘ought to do’ to avoid developing health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. What's less often explained is the huge potential it has to enhance our happiness and quality of life and reduce mental illness. This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week aims to shift our motivation for physical activity to something we choose to do to increase our wellbeing.

Let us know what works for you – does physical activity help? How and what activities have you found most beneficial?

Yoga? Running? The gym? Swimming? Do other things help more?

Let us know what you did in Mental Health Awareness Week - did it help? Has it inspired you? Did you learn anything you didn’t know? We’d love to hear from you email: info@mindout.org.uk

MENTAL WELLBEING WHAT PEOPLE TELL US AT MINDOUT ABOUT WHAT HELPS MENTAL WELLBEING At MindOut we constantly gather ideas and experiences which people tell us are helpful for preventing, improving and maintaining their mental health, including what they would like us to provide. Seeing what other people do, and what other people would like to take part in, can be useful reminders and pointers for us all.

identify how MindOut might be able to support some of these needs through our new Wellbeing Project and through the types of workshops and activities that we might be able to offer.

We have invited people at two events recently to tell us more, our AGM last July and our Wellbeing Day in February. Though we can’t do everything people ask for, we have done and are planning to do, some of them.

At the AGM • People said they would like more activities, for example a walk in the woods at Harrison’s Rocks, which we were able to do at a picnic last summer • Lots of people said they would like to see a peer mentoring/buddying service set up, for which we now have funding (see accompanying article) • People wanted more support in evenings and at weekends – our new online support service will operate in the evenings and we have run events and workshops at weekends this year • People wanted more opportunities for creative projects such as photography, but we haven’t had resources to do this, yet.

We asked people: • What helps maintain good wellbeing • Top tips to look after your wellbeing • What wellbeing workshops people would like The most requested Wellbeing Workshops: • Self Confidence: we ran a four week self-esteem course in April, which we hope to repeat • Mindfulness Meditation: we ran a Mindfulness Day in April and are planning an eight week Mindfulness Meditation course starting in September • Challenging Stigma and Discrimination: we were part of a Human Library and are planning a four week Challenging Stigma course to run in June • Looking after ourselves and others, living well as an LGBT person • Getting older • Body image • Learning about food and mood • Creative writing/poetry exploring LGB&T mental health issues • Assertiveness skills at the GP: we held a similar course last year and might be able to repeat this

WELLBEING CONSULTATION In February, MindOut held an LGBT Wellbeing Event. During the event we held a consultation to learn about the wellbeing and mental health needs of the LGB&T communities in Brighton & Hove. The principle aim of the consultation was to

We plan to carry out some similar activities in East and West Sussex. If you have any views on whether needs are the same outside the city and how or where we could run events or courses, then we would love to hear from you. info@mindout.org.uk

TOP TIPS TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WELLBEING (FROM THE LGBT WELLBEING EVENT IN FEB) • • • • • • • • • •

Crafting Cycling Eat dark chocolate & nuts Cooking Walking on the sea front Being in nature Be kind to yourself Stop, breathe, continue Try to get 7-8 hours sleep a night Get information

• • • • • • •

Exercise/run first thing each day Make sure you talk to people Knitting Gardening Making music, listening to music No sugar Meditating when you can

• A painting a day • Engaging creative projects • Exercise/walking

• Rest when you need to, your health is more important than attending meetings • Deep breaths and time to be still • Stop and smell the flowers • Yoga • Remember that you are not alone • Asking for help

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MINDOUT A SERVICE USER’S EXPERIENCES AND VIEWS Here follows one person’s account of some of the support they have had from MindOut over the last 18 months. Joe has had a very positive experience of using MindOut services and found it very helpful.

I do hope his account will encourage people to contact us. His views do not necessarily represent everyone’s experiences as it very much depends on what each person needs and how much we are able to help at any given time.

“My name is Joe White and I have used MindOut’s open and closed groups since October 2011, alongside their advocacy service.

“I have found them both to be invaluable; having mental health difficulties is hard at the best of times. MindOut groups allow a safe environment to express my concerns and be listened to, empathised with and support each other. ‘MindOut for each other’ is a phrase that certainly speaks the truth.

“The group facilitators work extremely hard and have done with myself, to support continual mental health issues.

“The groups are varied and balanced. I have used open (drop-in) and closed.

MindOut carefully think of groups to suit individual needs, eg the under 30s group which I am currently in. Again, this is proving invaluable to my mental health.

“I’ve participated in events and interviews as well as wellbeing events.

These opportunities have boosted my selfconfidence and selfesteem” “MindOut do go above the ‘call of duty’ for LGBT individuals. I’ve participated in events and interviews as well as wellbeing events. These opportunities have boosted my self-confidence and self-esteem.

“I could well write an awful lot more as I have so much to be grateful for and appreciate from MindOut, but will end by saying…

“1 in 4 people will encounter mental distress in their lifetime, and this is even more for those who identify as LGB and/or T. MindOut is my saviour and long may it continue to be a fantastic service for people like myself.”

MINDOUT AND SWITCHBOARD START A NEW PARTNERSHIP PROJECT SOON! MindOut, the LGBT Mental Health Project, and Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard are delighted to announce funding for a partnership project starting soon. We were successful in a bid to NHS commissioners for local community mental health initiatives.

Starting from April we will be setting up the services outlined below, which will run alongside Switchboard’s helpline service which currently offers mental health support.

The primary aim of the project is to offer ways to prevent social isolation. Loneliness is a massive cause of mental distress and far more prevalent in LGB&T communities in Brighton & Hove than most of us realise.

The service will offer two new initiatives:

PEER MENTORING Peer Mentoring offers one to one support to people who have lived experience of mental health issues. Trained mentors will help people to: • Explore and identify personal goals • Offer support with activities to meet those goals • Improve and maintain good mental health and wellbeing The service will be delivered by trained volunteers who will act as peer mentors, many of whom will have personal experience of mental health issues. Peer mentors will be able to draw on their own experiences of mental health problems and recovery to positively support mentees with their personal goals and explore ways to improve and maintain wellbeing. Peer mentors and mentees may be matched with similar experiences, interests, identities, skills etc depending on what is important to the mentee. Each mentor/mentee match is time limited with clear, agreed goals.

Mentoring can be about supporting people to access training, develop social outlets and opportunities, go to cultural events, join classes etc, all the activities which can help mental wellbeing and help us to develop our

mental resilience. These could range from meeting for coffee through to preparing for a job interview.

ONLINE SUPPORT MindOut will also be providing a daily online chat service. This will be delivered by trained volunteers. The online chat facility will provide: • Out-of-hours support • Advice and information • Signposting to other services The daily online chat service will be provided during the evening. This service will be anonymous, by offering an accessible, confidential, impartial contact to complement the telephone support currently offered by Switchboard.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are recruiting volunteers to work on either or both parts of the Peer Mentoring project. If you have ever considered volunteering for MindOut, now is the time.

We need people who can offer at least three hours a week, for at least six months. You could offer to be a mentor one-to-one and/or to respond to contacts online. Full training and support will be provided. Please do contact us to find out more.

INFORMATION For further information and an application form please contact: info@mindout.org.uk or 01273 234 839 This service supports people with mental health needs to explore what they wish to achieve in their lives, providing practical advice and support to help them work toward their goals. Volunteers are trained as mentors and are supported to reflect on their own recovery and how their experiences can positively influence the support they give to mentees. Each mentor/mentee match is timefocused with the aim to reach agreed goals.

VOLUNTEERING AT SWITCHBOARD

I think would have made excellent ‘servants’ of Switchboard had they been able to stay; hopefully the new board will be more settled, which is best for the organisation as a whole.

After eleven years Mark Elsworth is leaving Switchboard. Mark reflects on what it’s meant to be a volunteer with the city’s oldest LGBT organisation.

Back in 2002, when I started working on Switchboard’s helpline, the LGBT community in Brighton & Hove wasn’t quite what it is now.

Switchboard was aimed predominantly at lesbian and gay people and the needs of bisexuals and transgendered people didn’t fit into the organisation’s ethos; helpline calls tended to reflect trends in the media (a spike in AIDS queries, for example, if there was something in the press about HIV) and we did

a lot of signposting to other organisations. In addition, the counselling service was in its relative infancy and felt divorced from Switchboard as a whole.

Eleven years on and this has all changed. The organisation has been renamed to become LGBT Switchboard; the counselling service is recognised as one of the larger providers of LGBT talking therapies outside London and the nature of calls has changed, with other specialist LGBT groups promoting themselves on the internet; and I have gone from being a helpline volunteer to the Chair of the board, standing down this month. The one constant is that Switchboard continues to provide its service through volunteers, although this is changing to reflect the new economic environment.

I got involved with the board in 2003; I had previous experience of working with a charity in London and wanted to use that here. The board has been through many iterations during my time, and, with the imminent departure of me and Derek Cooper, the treasurer, it is about to change again. There have been a number of trustees who have come and gone over the years, some of whom

As for me, I became Chair almost by default; my predecessor left suddenly and, with the manager advising that she was going on maternity leave, I had to take on the role. I agreed at the time to do it for a set period, no more than four years, which is why I am stepping down now. Derek is due to retire shortly and wants to have more leisure time with his partner.

Both Derek and I want to ensure that the handover is as smooth and as transparent as possible, which is why we have announced, several times and in public, when we are leaving. For close on a year we have worked closely with the trustees to plan for our succession and I will be involved in the recruitment of the new Chair. We want to leave the organisation in safe hands, having given over twenty years service between us, as well as having raised or donated substantial sums to keep it running.

Switchboard has been through crises and celebrations since I have been on the board.

Our significant financial crisis of two years ago almost saw the organisation fold, however, we were lucky in that, with the help of the community, we were able to raise funds and also helped by our landlord, Baron Homes, releasing us from the expensive lease of our old property. We also took on, as part of a

ANTI-DEPRESSANTS: THE DRUGS DON’T WORK?

By Miranda As I write this I’m struggling with living without anti-depressants having taken them continuously for five years. It’s a strange position to be in but in the end I just didn’t feel they were right for me. That it took me five years to come to that conclusion may seem unusual, but the reality is that I was always depressed, even on them and while the actual tablets and the doses did vary from time to time I remained on them throughout, mainly out of fear of whether I would cope without them.

Do they work? I didn’t think so but I suppose I’ll never know for sure. I might have not managed at all without them, but it would be nice to have more options. I do feel (as do others I’ve spoken to do) that the prescription of these drugs seems to be the default reaction of most GPs when confronted with a patient with depression. It seems to be ‘you are depressed, you take anti-depressants’; I think this is the GP version of ‘I think, therefore I am’.

Although I can see the logic in prescribing them it’s a sad reflection of the state of

mental health services that prescription alone is the normal go-to response, and indeed GPs are often not keen if you don’t want to be prescribed them. If you have a listening GP who refers you, maybe you could go to the back of the queue for some cognitive behavioural therapy but even with that you are expected to wrap up your issues in only a handful of sessions. You can’t refer yourself, once again the gatekeepers of NHS resources will defeat you if you try that one.

I accept that resources are scarce (especially in the current climate), but investing more in mental health services can actually save money in the long term. Let me give myself as an example. I currently hold down a full-time job, but due to my mental health this has become impossible and I will have to go parttime soon.

I’ve been off with depression so many times over the last few years that I’ve exhausted sick pay and now know that I’m forced to work regardless of my mental health to get money. If I don’t get support I crack, get fired, lose my flat, and end up (after 23 years

of continuous employment) having to go cap in hand to the Government for money.

So rather than my contribution to the system (which would be ensured if there was better support) I would be another person claiming benefits.

I recently applied for a certain benefit to assist me and my doctor’s attitude was extremely hostile; ‘you’ve got no chance of getting that because you work’ was their response.

Catch 22? Surely the time to help people like me is while they ARE working because being unemployed in the current climate is hardly going to help ease my depression, in fact it will have precisely the opposite effect, pushing me even further down! Likewise offer people more than just tablets so they can get back to a normal working life.

I appreciate this is very much a personal opinion but to surmise I would add my voice to the calls for greater investment in mental health services. An honourable mention must go to the voluntary sector providers such as

GSCENE 27 consortium, the management of the LGBT HIP project, and have recently taken on the sole management of the project. Throughout, we have had to rely on community awareness of who we are and what we do, and this has sometimes been something of a struggle. The board now have to address this: how best to promote all the services that Switchboard provides; how to develop the proposed changes to service delivery; the manager has become the director and, it is intended, will spend her time raising funds and managing the services through others; and how to demonstrate the relevance of the organisation in future.

I said that the one constant has been the volunteers, both the counsellors and the helpline operators as well as board members.

In order to attract new volunteers and to keep the existing ones the board now has to consider how the organisation will operate in future; whether one arm of the service will be grown at the expense of the other; or if it is viable to promote both service streams.

Perhaps more importantly, the board faces the challenges common to many small charities nationwide – that of basic survival.

It may be that merger with another LGBT service provider locally, with all that entails, is the best way forward.

Whatever they decide, I am confident that the board will make decisions that are in the best interest of the LGBT community as a whole. I wish them well.

MindOut who do great work but these should be to complement NHS services not, as they so often are, instead of.

And as for me? I’m trying to stay off the anti-depressants but it’s not easy, and increasingly I feel it’s a battle that I’m losing…

INFO For more information on depression, view: • www.depressionalliance.org • www.mind.org.uk/mental_health_az/7980_understanding_depression • www.mentalhealth.org.uk/helpinformation/mental-health-az/D/depression/ 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 your support, telephone 01273 234839 (24hr confidential answerphone); email info@mindout.org.uk; or view: www.mindout.org.uk

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE LGBT COMMUNITY - GENDER VARIANCE IN THE MEDIA

By Reuben Davidson As a member of the LGBT+ community, it doesn’t take much to realise that the world at large is not always the most accepting place. Sometimes it seems that every uneducated being has an opinion on our ‘lifestyle’ or who we fall in love with. For the trans* community, nothing reminds us more of how this ignorance can turn violent than the hundreds of stolen lives mourned at the Transgender Day of Remembrance.

Having been born with XX chromosomes but living my life as male, this prejudice has never felt so prevalent; I’ve been unapologetically stared at, shouted at in the streets and intimidated in toilets.

Unfortunately, this isn’t uncommon by any stretch for members of the Trans* community and these sort of experiences leave a lasting mark on even the strongest of spirits. Sensationalised headlines and demonising articles mean that the media often fuel this negativity and unfairly portray trans* people as abnormal. One of the most heartbreaking examples of prejudice that I’ve had to endure is the publication of the ‘hate rant’ by the self defined ‘militant feminist’ writer and journalist Julie Burchill.

“The media has influence over young people like never before and therefore have the ability to spark and perpetuate a cycle of oppression” Burchill excused the painfully transphobic content of her article Transsexuals Should Cut It Out by claiming she was commenting in defence of her friend Suzanne Moore after she had come in to dispute with Trans* people on Twitter. Burchill has yet to apologise for her disturbing article but it wasn’t her words, or The Observer’s decision that it was fit for public exposure, that I found the most disturbing.

While attending one of the regular FTM Brighton meetings, the raw emotions that surfaced during a discussion on the article was overwhelming. It was the reaction of other people in my community that I found the most difficult to come to terms with. It was then, after witnessing their tearful faces and hearing the stories of past emotional scars brought to the forefront of

their minds, that I truly felt the impact the article had on the lives and mental health of real people. My palms have become damp just thinking about it.

Trans* youth are especially vulnerable, often taking the first steps in the exploration of their own identities and world. The media has influence over young people like never before and therefore have the ability to spark and perpetuate a cycle of oppression. A recent survey by Brightonbased LGBTU youth charity, Allsorts, found that 66% of young trans people had contemplated suicide, 22% had attempted suicide and 33% had self-harmed (2012).

The backlash of Burchill’s article from the LGBT+ community and its allies was over powering, and The Observer was forced to remove the article. The silver lining of this awful (and in my opinion, criminal) act from Burchill is the way that the overall portrayal of trans* people in the media came under scrutiny and some improvement seemed inevitable. I can only hope that the positive will eventually outweigh the negative and that the resulting wounds will heal with time. It is organisations such as Trans Media Watch (who are dedicated to ending prejudice driven by the media) and the crucial voices of activists such as a personal hero of mine, Paris Lees, are shining examples of ways that attitudes surrounding the community can and will be changed for the better. I have no doubt that improved mental health will be a result for all those on the gender spectrum.

It seems that a wider acceptance of trans* people is slowly but surely developing, but crucial emotional aspects, including humanistic empathy for what being gender variant means for day to day living, is lacking. This is a necessity in order to achieve honest and whole-hearted legal and social equality. Navigating through life in what feels to me to be someone else's body is tough, and a reality that the majority of transgender individuals face at some time.

Despite the difficulties that come as a result of my identity, part of me rejoices with the personal notion that I’m part of the queer community and feel supported and protected by its unity, members and allies. For the near future, trans* people might not be understood by everyone, but I have total faith that it will happen in the end.

We’re all in this together - speak up and reach out.

given books and resources, invited on premarriage counselling, and all sorts of things to support his future marriage. But if you are gay you are on your own. You have a guilty secret.

“And often, if you have the courage to go to your church about it all you are told is 'don't take communion any more', 'don't work with children any more', 'don't talk about this because we don't want to know about it'.

Often gay people have been made to feel totally unwelcome in evangelical churches.

“Most people do not have the gift of celibacy and when it is enforced it leads to terrible isolation and guilt. Some evangelical leaders condemn the promiscuity of gay people and even say that AIDS is a judgement from God. Actually I think it is a judgement on us and the way we and I have been.

The Reverend Steve Chalke, radical evangelical and head of Oasis UK, talks to Keith Sharpe of Changing Attitude Sussex about his recent public statement in support of monogamous same-sex relationships The Reverend Steve Chalke is a high profile evangelical Christian leader. From his extremely successful and well attended church in central London he manages the Oasis organisation, a multi million pound charitable foundation which amongst other things runs many primary and secondary schools up and down the land. In evangelical circles they do not come much more prominent than Steve Chalke.

At the start of 2013, Steve, who is a happily married heterosexual man, wrote an article entitled A Matter Of Integrity saying that he no longer believed the evangelical claim that homosexuality is sinful. In fact he no longer believed that the Bible has anything to say about homosexuality as we know it, except to make clear that inclusion is at the heart of the Christian gospel.

And as a consequence he is now fully affirming of gay people and faithful gay relationships. In the article he admitted that he had already conducted a dedication and blessing service following the civil partnership of two gay men in his congregation.

All this of course is complete anathema to conventional conservative evangelicals, many of whom are outraged and appalled by Steve's actions. For them it is if Himmler had suddenly decided to welcome jews into the Third Reich. Steve has had thousands of letters, emails, texts, blogs and publications in response to his courageous stance.

This is truly a watershed development in evangelical Christian attitudes to gay people.

I had the good fortune recently to interview Steve and ask him about this astonishing stand against many of his fellow evangelicals.

As you will see from his responses below, the humane and moving testimony of this brave man represent a tectonic shift in evangelical thinking about gay people.

Why did you write this article?

“I felt compelled to write this article. I have come to understand that the principles of justice, reconciliation and inclusion sit at the very heart of Jesus' message. At Oasis we employ 3,000 people and next year we'll have 20,000 students in our schools and colleges. A percentage of those young people will be struggling with sexuality issues. I do not want any of these youngsters to grow up feeling that they are 'less than God's best'. I don't want anybody to have to feel at the very heart and core of their being, of who they are, there is something 'wrong'. That is such an important issue.”

People will say now that yo’re no longer an evangelical. How do you answer them?

“I have continued to grapple with the Bible, as I have done all my life. I believe the whole Bible, I believe the Old Testament is as important as the New Testament. I've reached these views through prayer, study and conversation with other Christians over many years.

“The Church extends a shield of care to heterosexual young people. My son, who is getting married next year, was automatically

“The evangelical churches' rejection of gay people is wrong. As an evangelical I believe that the heart of God is for faithfulness, for stability, for intimacy, for interdependence. We have a Christian responsibility to help nurture those virtues in every person, irrespective of sexual orientation.”

But doesn't the Bible condemn homosexuality?

“The Bible has a lot to say about the role of women, none of it very positive. In Oasis churches we have women in a wide variety of roles and leadership positions. But the New Testament is very clear: women should keep silent. St Paul says women should not speak because Adam was created before Eve and Eve deceived him. Paul thought women should be subordinate to men because this is built into the order of creation. How come then that so many evangelical churches have now moved to a different view of women and yet still claim that this is biblical?

“Or how about slavery? In the Old Testament we are even told in Leviticus how to trade slaves. In the New Testament St Paul tells slaves to serve their masters well. Even the most conservative Christian is in a different place from the New Testament on slavery and yet we still claim that we are biblical!

“Of course we say that in the Bible the teaching on women or slavery, it's just cultural. But that leads to a terrible slippery slope of relativism. Our ethics shouldn't be anchored to what's cultural but to what is Christ like. Conformity to Him is what should underpin our attitudes relentlessly and unchangingly. The Bible does not claim to be the Word of God; it says Jesus is the Word of God. A Christian should read both the Old and New Testaments through the lens of Jesus.”

“Jesus was perceived as a heretic because he would insist on including people who in the Old Testament were beyond the pale. It would be inconsistent not to see the issue of homosexuality through the same lens”

GSCENE 29 What is a Christ-like response to homosexuality?

“Jesus includes those who the religious leaders thought were excluded on the basis of their reading of the Old Testament. Jesus was perceived as a heretic because he would insist on including people who in the Old Testament were beyond the pale. It would be inconsistent not to see the issue of homosexuality through the same lens.

“God's nature is love, is faithfulness, is othercentredness. Therefore promiscuity, whether it is homosexual or heterosexual, is always wrong because it is not like God. And it is wrong for the Church to leave gay people in an isolated place and to refuse to admit them to the community place where they can be encouraged to have lifelong faithful loving relationships.”

“The pressing challenge for the church now is how can we properly include people who are gay?”

What about the specific biblical passages that evangelicals usually quote?

“The question is how do we understand and interpret them properly? Take for example, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh' (Genesis 2:24).

Does this mean all sexual unions should be exclusively heterosexual? Or is it simply a normative illustration? Is it like the norm of being right-handed, which never implies any failing in those who are born left-handed?

“Similarly, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is now understood to be about God's judgement on self-indulgence, inhospitality and social injustice, it is not about homosexuality. As for Leviticus, it also condemns physically disabled people and the wearing of mixed fabrics. Are we going to take that seriously? And the New Testament texts refer to wild exploitative extra-marital promiscuity which was common in Roman culture, not to loving and stable same-sex unions.”

Can we just ignore these texts then?

The whole Bible matters, both Old and New Testaments, in its entirety. We all know that some minority interpretations of Scripture have struggled for decades before eventually becoming accepted by the majority. For 1,500 years the Church believed the Earth was flat.

When Nicholas Copernicus discovered that the Sun, not the Earth, was the centre of the solar system Scripture was used to condemn him.

Luther quoted Joshua 10:13 and called Copernicus a fool. Other protestants recommended that 'severe measures be taken to silence' all those who dared to agree with him.

“A hundred years later the Catholic Church found Galileo guilty of heresy for 'following the position of Copernicus, which is contrary to the true sense and authority of Holy Scripture'.

The Church was wrong for all those years. In the current day and age with the internet and social media the Church cannot treat the Bible as its private book. It can't say that these Greek words in Romans or Corinthians mean that God condemns lifelong faithful same-sex relations when everyone knows that scholars have proved they don't. You're wrong, you're just wrong.

“I am an evangelical, I take the Bible very seriously and I believe rather than focussing on the exegesis of handful of texts we have to wrestle constantly with what it means to recognise our neighbour and to love them as ourselves. The parable of the Good Samaritan was shocking to Jesus' jewish audience. Jesus' point is that there is nobody who is not our neighbour. I'm challenged by the thought that today Jesus might have told the story in terms of evangelicals and gay people.”

What should the churches now do?

“We have created a situation in which if you are lesbian or gay you are much more likely to suffer from mental health issues, much more likely to feel alienated, much more likely to end up lying. Gay people feel they cannot say who they really are. We have stigmatised homosexuality and that is not like Christ.

“We need to welcome people in and find a role for them serving and leading in the Church as they faithfully follow Christ. We need to find ways of acknowledging and endorsing faithful loving commitments.”

Are you in favour now of gay marriage?

“In the article and in statements I have made I am not talking about gay marriage either in support of it or against it. It's an important issue and I am pleased that the debate is now happening. I want to be part of the discussion but I don't want to pre-empt it.

“It's complex around such issues as what is consummation? What is adultery? And the constitutional questions. What I was writing about was something much more important: inclusion.

“Some people have said my intervention on inclusion was badly timed because of the gay marriage debate. My response is that if only the Church had worked out its attitude towards homosexuality then at this juncture we could say we're wonderfully inclusive of gay people and we could find ways of their having self-respect and belonging and their relationships celebrated and supported, but we've got some questions about gay marriage.

“It's only because of our failure to address biblical issues that now this is all jumbled up together and whatever the Church says people will say 'they are the ones who were always against homosexuals and against civil

partnerships'. The pressing challenge for the Church now is 'how can we properly include people who are gay?'”

Do you fear negative consequences for yourself now that you have spoken out?

“I was scared of saying this to tell you the truth. I don't want to lose friends or relationships. That's why I have kept silent.

But all church leaders keep silent for the same reason: we're scared of losing our salaries, scared of losing our house, scared for our families of losing our livelihood. There has been a conspiracy of silence around this. I'm sorry for that. And all I ask is for an honest conversation and debate about this without demonising one another or anybody claiming that we have abandoned the Bible.

“Many people have responded to me on blogs and in articles, some agreeing others disagreeing. Steve Holmes, theological advisor to the Evangelical Alliance, says our attitude to gays has been a scandal, and the track record of evangelical churches has been appalling, we have swept it under the carpet and people's lives have been ruined. A huge number of people have said how pleased they are that we can talk about this openly now.”

“The good news of the Kingdom of God is about life and wholeness right here right now, for every individual, for every single person” Why does this issue matter so much to you?

“Negative definitions of Scripture have caused a great deal of unnecessary pain and, sometimes, terrible tragedy. Are people gay by nature or by nurture? I don't know and I don't trust the advice of other church leaders. But what I do know is that nobody chooses to be gay.

“When Hitler drove six million jews into the death camps what we too often forget is that he also sent hundreds of thousands of gay people too. Why didn't any of them put up their hand and say, 'well it's only a choice, I could live differently'? They faced death because they were gay in their very being.

“We have got to be far more biblical and thoroughly think through what the New Testament says about the acceptance of people who are gay. What being a Christian is about, what the Church is about, what the Bible is about, is life, embracing life, and living life well. We're for wellbeing, for holistic living. The good news of the Kingdom of God is about life and wholeness right here right now, for every individual, for every single person.”

30 GSCENE

CHARLIE’S KITCHEN

BY CHARLIE NYEREYEGONA delicious - rich flavours and warming on such a cold night!

When did you first become interested in cooking?

“I started at Harry’s in Hove 13 years ago chopping vegetables and worked my way up.

It wasn't easy, I spoke very little English and I was studying business at Brighton University, but I was determined and I did it.”

So you had no interest in food before this?

“No. It was only once I had been working at Harry’s for a while that I realised that I had a natural talent for cooking.”

CHARLIE'S CHEF OF THE MONTH Dan at the Camelford Arms, Camelford Street, Brighton, BN2 1TQ Some of you will have realised that the Camelford Arms has undergone some major changes in the last six months. New managers, Mark and Jay, and a new chef have been appointed and the kitchen has been renovated and moved to a more logical place upstairs. In addition the owner, Alistair, has added two new pubs to the business: The Three Jolly Butchers, 59 North Road, Brighton and The Paris House, 21 Western Road, Hove. New chef Dan cooks for all three pubs!

My friend and I sampled some of Dan's food off the menu: a perfectly cooked rib eye medium rare and a boeuf bourguignon, which my dining companion describes as simply

So how did you end up here?

“I took a break from Harry’s and went touring on my motorbike around South America. What an amazing place with such a selection of beautiful, fresh ingredients!

Unfortunately when I returned to Brighton, Harry’s had closed and so here I am.”

This must be a bit of a change from a restaurant like Harry’s?

“This place was a bit of a mess when I arrived but in the last six months, working with the new management, I’m successfully turning things around. I like a challenge and The Camelford has the same basic philosophy as Harry’s did: good, fresh, simple food with that home-cooked feel!”

Mark had told me earlier that food sales have increased significantly since Dan arrived so obviously his philosophy is working.

You are cooking for three pubs, how do you manage that?

“I’m changing the menu here. It was too large and I want to move away from preprepared foods and create my own fresh, simple, home-made dishes with my own

TOMATO BREAD SOUP Ingredients (Serves 4) • • • • •

RECIPES FROM CHARLIE’S KITCHEN Summer it is not unfortunately! This soup will warm you up, is simple and delicious, and is a good way to use up stale bread or rolls.

• • • • • • • •

½ large onion (finely chopped) 2 large cloves garlic (peeled, finely chopped) 400g tin chopped tomatoes 8 cherry tomatoes (halved) 250g passata (sieved tomatoes - available in any good supermarket) 250ml liquid vegetable stock Small handful fresh oregano Small handful fresh basil leaves Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste ½ teaspoon chilli powder 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small tub soured cream 2 stale slices of bread or bread rolls

twist. The specials at the moment (vegetarian chilli, boeuf bourguignon, chicken chasseur, pan fried salmon, and rabbit stew) are in line with what I am trying to achieve). The boeuf bourguignon has an addition of BBQ sauce for example! I prepare the same meals for the other two pubs at the same time and they’re delivered.

Neither of them has the facilities for preparing food. It’s all about being organised!”

Dan certainly is organised. The kitchen is immaculate with clean fridges with correctly labelled and dated containers of food, cleaning rotas and health and safety procedures on the walls and even a poster displaying the correct colour cutting boards for different produce. I watch the careful but fast co-ordination between fridge, hob, oven, and microwave as Dan gets out the evening meals with speed and precision.

Does anyone assist you?

(Laughs) “I’m training up a Spanish guy at the moment so we shall see.”

Raises his eyes and looks around the kitchen and smiles; “But for the moment it is just me. Today, Thursday is one of my busiest days as we have our £7.90 deal on burgers, pies, currys and bangers plus a free drink. In addition I’m making tomorrow’s dishes for the other pubs!”

So what can we expect to see on your new menu for the summer (should it ever arrive!)?

“Less sausages and some lovely fresh salads along with more of my home-cooked dishes.”

I have confidence in this new chef. Harry’s is a place that I very much enjoyed eating at and I can see that Dan has brought his passion and enthusiasm to The Camelford.

I’m certainly pleased that he is here at The Camelford and that the rather erratic cooking from previous chefs is to all accounts a thing of the past. As I leave the kitchen, Dan invites me to try his Sunday roast and I assure him that I will!

Method: Heat the olive oil over a medium heat and fry the onions and chilli powder until they start to colour. Add the garlic and the cherry tomatoes and soften for a couple of minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes and passata and mix well together. Add the fresh oregano and stock. Season the soup with salt and pepper and turn down to a low heat. Simmer for a further 20 minutes, crumble in the bread roll. Remove from the heat and allow to rest for a couple of minutes.

To serve: Divide into bowls, add a dollop of soured cream and a couple of basil leaves.

Guaranteed to become a favourite!

GSCENE 31

COME DINE

WITH MORHAM

BY MORHAM WHITE

space than was practical in such a modest area.

• Breakfast for 4 <£30, 11/20: Quality 3, Space 2, Staff Banter 1, Value 5. n The Royal George Pub on the Old

THE BREAKFAST CLUB This year the Saturday breakfast club has settled into a groove with a couple of regular haunts, but in the absence of my regular chauffeur we have wandered off piste in search of something new. Back in the 1990s there were emporia galore; now choice is more limited, though this could be due to later times of opening as we aim for a 9am weekend start. At the moment our two favourite haunts are: n Harrisons of Hove (11-13

Montefiore Road, Hove, between the Old Shoreham Road and Davigdor Road). The double unit sits opposite the old L&G Insurance building recently converted into a private hospital. With a smart makeover and neat ramp between rooms, the tables are well spaced, so plenty of elbow room with a westerly aspect onto a wide street; the space is bright and cheery, even though it’s done out in trendy dark grey. The Full Monty has 2 eggs, rashers, sausages, tomato, beans, mushrooms, chips and toast for £7.25 or you can build your own. The regular Full English affords fried egg, sausage, rasher, tomato, beans and hash brown with choice of brown or white toast. Mugs of filter coffee and tea are excellent. The boys working the tables are cheery and efficient, offering top-ups whilst clearing our empty plates.

• Breakfast for 4 usually <£40, 17/20: Quality 4, Space 4, Staff Banter 4, Value 5. n The Hub (118 Church Road, Hove). I

believe the operation has developed from providing coffee on Brighton station concourse. Hence the choice and quality of drinks are more than average and tea comes by the pot. The main alternatives are the Heavyweight Brekker at £8 which comes with the additions of an extra egg, black pudding, chorizo sausage, spinach and avocado, the regular Full English and for me the child’s portion (with an egg, sausage, rasher, tomato and beans at £5.60) is more than enough if I can also resort to a round of brown toast and marmalade. For me, quite the nicest sausage in town and beautifully cooked mushrooms, none of your rubber bullets here!

• Breakfast for 4 >£50, 18/20: Quality 5, Space 4, Staff Banter 5, Value 4.

Other recent trips have included St James’ Street, Old Shoreham Road and Eastern Road. n Little Miss Piggies (85 St James’ Street, opposite the Co-op), in a tiny unit, but with prices ridiculously cheap and possibly more table

Shoreham Road at the south east side of the roundabout that serves Shoreham’s mega Tesco and M&S. The self-service option; “all you can eat” fry up and toast, with drinks extra and a veritable sea of space, very competitively priced.

• Breakfast for 4 £28, 14/20: Quality 3, Space 3, Staff Banter 3, Value 5. n Mac’s Café in deep Kemptown (30 Arundel Rd, opposite Lidl) is on a

corner site and is a bit like a trip to the chippie with a queue to place your order, collect your “all-in” beverage and pay, taking a ticket to your tightly packed metal topped table. Sadly whilst busy there’s little in the way of character or repartee with anyone. The Special for £5.25 includes egg, rasher, sausage, tinned tomatoes or beans, a fried slice and hash brown with instant coffee or tea.

• Breakfast 9/20: Quality 2, Space 1, Staff Banter 1, Value 5.

Other venues available and tried, though not so recently are:

n The Regency on Regency Square where there’s a load of space and

you can sit out on a sunny day.

n Billies on Upper North Street next to The Hampton Pub is famous

for hashes and really heaving at weekends with queues up the street.

n Pavilion Café in East Park, (Wilson Avenue, Brighton) is best for its

sunny disposition, overlooking acres of playing field, a local haven for dog walkers. n Dyke Road Cafe in the Park with south facing terrace overlooking the gardens and the distant sea offers a student discount menu. n The Meeting Place, by the sea between Brighton & Hove lawns. n Neighbourhood, on St James Street with spacious 100 foot terrace at the back to sit and enjoy the sun, breakfasts and brunches.

32 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM A-BAR, BAR 56, BAR 7 CRAWLEY + BULLDOG

MAY

LISTINGS

A-BAR

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (31) is CABARET with a special guest at 9pm. n REGULARS: Fri & Sat is Pre-Club with drink promos. n Wed is the OPEN MIC Night with Mark Hodge; come and sing your favourite tune with Mark at the piano at 8.30pm. n FOOD: available Mon–Sat noon–7pm; Sunday roasts served noon–5pm, booking recommended, call 01273 696691. n DRINK DEALS: double up on spirits for an extra £1.50; house white/red/rose wine £10, all day, every day. Wed & Thur are cocktail nights from 9pm; buy one get other half price. n OPEN: Sun noon–midnight; Mon–Thur 11am–midnight; Fri & Sat 11–2am.

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

WEDNESDAY 1 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; bar food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Drag Bingo 6pm n BAR 56 Davina Sparkle’s School Night Challenge; open noon n BAR REVENGE Wine on Weds; pizza 59pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Mash-Up: DJ Lee Harris 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Buzz Challenge 8.30pm; open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Bears Night: bears, cubs & their admirers 7pm n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe

McJoe & Tammy Twinkle 10.30pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; open noon n CHARLES ST J’Lo Cabaret: Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am

n QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 2013 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Rockin’ Mark Vis & His Mobile Pub Piano 8pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz, cash prize 8pm; open 10am

Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Sandra’s Whorehouse cabaret with guests 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top Anthems: level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifi, Alpha; level 2 DJ Cheeks Du Rhythm 10.30pm THURSDAY 2 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm 11am n ZONE karaoke 8pm; open 10am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party 6pm n BAR 56 Discount karaoke 7pm; open noon FRIDAY 3 n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ n A-BAR Pre-club; food noon-7pm; open Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY UV Party: DJ Mary n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles Hinge 6pm 10pm; open 11am n BAR 56 closed for private party n CAMELFORD ARMS Big Cash Quiz Night n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, bar DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm; n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ open noon Peter Castle in club 11pm n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke noon 8.30pm; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, Ms Joan Bond, bar n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Sandra midnight; open 11am DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon 9pm; Bank Hol Friday Club 6pm; open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy

BAR 56

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (31) is GLAM FUNK DISCO with JP Christian spinning 70s/80s tunes at 9pm. n REGULARS: Wed is Davina Sparkle's SCHOOL NIGHT CHALLENGE. n Thur is DISCOUNT KARAOKE at 7pm. n Fri (24) is CABARET with Miss Jason at 9pm. n Sun CABARET at 9pm: Fonda Cox (5), Mark Inscoe (12), Sophie Causebrook (19) and Tammy Twinkle (26). n DRINK DEALS: Mon–Fri 4–7.30pm with Fosters, John Smiths & Strongbow £2.90; house spirit & mixer £2.50, double-up for £1. n OPEN: Mon/Tue noon–11pm; Wed/Thur noon–midnight; Fri/Sat noon–1am; Sun 1–11pm. Closed Fri (3) for private party.

BAR 7 CRAWLEY

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sat (4) is CABARET with Dave Lynn, £5 entry after 8pm. n REGULARS: Fri is LUST with DJ and drink offers; (3) is UV Party, (31) is St Trinians Theme Party, both with DJ Mary Hinge. n Sat is PARTY NIGHT with drink specials and DJs: Rob (11) & (25) and Claire Fuller (18). n Sun is KARAOKE, sing to win a shot. n Tue is PARTY NIGHT with happy hour 6–9pm. n Wed is DRAG BINGO with host Mary Hinge. n Thur is PROUD TO PARTY with drink promos. n OPEN: 6pm–12.30am Sun & Tue; 6pm–2.30am Thur–Sat. Closed Mon. www.7crawley.co.uk

PICS FROM THE BULLDOG

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 33

BULLDOG

n BANK HOLIDAYS: Open 87 hours Fri–Tue non-stop, with happy hour all day & DJ Marcia on both Bank Holiday Mondays n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Tue (29) is REGGAE Night with DJ Micklos at 10pm. n REGULARS: Tue is POPTASTIC with DJ Lee at 10pm. n Wed is DIVA RUSH CABARET with host Joe McJoe, DJ Marcia and performers at 10.30pm: Tammy Twinkle (1), Trudi Styles & The Pianoman (8); at 10pm: Dave Lynn (15), Drag With No Name (22), Wilma Fingadoo (29); all drinks £1.60 when selected artist is played and the traffic light turns to green, 10pm–2am. n Thur is RELEASE with DJ Grant Knowles at 10pm. n Fri CABARET is in the top bar at midnight: Sandra (3), Lizzy Drip (10), Davina Sparkle (17), All Mouth & No Trousers (24) and Lady LaRue (31); DJ Grant Knowles is downstairs at 10pm; Simon Blann joins him (31).

Sat is with DJ V John at 10pm, DJ Lil Alex at 3am, and Amy's karaoke upstairs at 10pm. n Sun is with DJ Grant Knowles at 8pm, Micky's karaoke is upstairs at 8pm.

Mon is DJ Marcia’s GLITTER BALL with 70s/80s tunes at 10pm. n DRINK DEALS: Mon–Thur 3–7pm & 10pm–midnight; Fri 3–7pm & drinks £1.60 10pm–midnight; Sat 10pm–midnight; Sun all day. include: pints from £1.95, double spirit & mixer from £2.30, bottles from £1.85 (Terms & conditions apply). n OPEN: daily from 11am–very late. n www.bulldogbrighton.com n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Jennie Castelle 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Bank Hol Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Comedy Showcase for Brighton Fringe: local comedians 7.30pm; Thank Funk It’s Friday 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floors, promo boys, free champers for early birds, free bottle of champers for birthdays 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris, Alex Baker, Smithy, regular live PAs 10.30pm n SUBLINE Steam 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Back Beat 9pm; open 10am SATURDAY 4 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open 12 n BAR 7@CRAWLEY cabaret: Dave Lynn 6pm

n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warmup: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Lee Harris 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN live music: Paul Murray 9.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; Amy’s karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Bank Hol Boys In The Bar: all male DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Bank Hol Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Trudi Styles & Pianoman 4.30pm; karaoke party till 2am; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am

34 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM WILD FRUIT + CAMELFORD ARMS

MAY

LISTINGS

BEYOND V WILD FRUIT@ DIGITAL

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sun (5) sees Orange Nation & Aeon Events present a Brighton Pride Fundraising event with BEYOND V WILD FRUIT at the As One In The Park Pre-Party with massive production and DJs Gonzalo, Fat Tony & Dulcie Danger spinning signature sounds at 10.30pm; entry £8 before midnight, £10 with flyer or ad, £12 on the door, £1 per head will be donated to Brighton Pride. Tickets available from: www.orangenation.co.uk. n On Sun (26) AS ONE IN THE PARK will take over Victoria Park, London from noon.

Full details, including DJs, can be found on page 17 or visit www.asoneinthepark.co.uk n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s a Guest DJ: DJ Adam Turner & residents 10.30pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 9pm; open 10am SUNDAY 5 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR 56 cabaret: Fonda Cox 8.30pm; open 1pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Bank Hol Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 8pm; Micky’s karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; Bank Hol Bear Bash 5pm; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Drag With No Name 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate, roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sun lunch 12-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon

n DR BRIGHTONS Bank Hol Hangover Therapy with Reflex: DJ Adam Rice, 80s night 8.30pm; open 1pm n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Topping & Butch 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Tina Sparkle 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 6pm; Misty Lee 9.30pm; Sissy Sucs’ karaoke 7.30pm & 11pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Sussex Beacon Bizarre Bazaar Fundraiser: fetish gear, play equipment, books, DVDs, outrageous drag-wear and more on sale 2-5pm; Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 25pm n WILD FRUIT & BEYOND@DIGITAL Beyond v Wild Fruit As One In The Park PreParty Brighton Pride Fundraiser: DJs Gonzalo, Fat Tony & Dulcie Danger 10.30pm n ZONE live music: Jennie Castelle 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 6 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm;

CAMELFORD ARMS

n BANK HOLIDAY: Fri (3) & (24) is Bank Holiday FRIDAY CLUB at 6pm. n Sun (5) is Bank Holiday BEAR BASH at 5pm. n Bank Holiday Mon (6) & (27) food served noon–9pm. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sat (18) is the EUROVISION PARTY & Peer Action Fundraiser with sweepstake & raffle at 7pm. n REGULARS: Sun (19) is the Bear Bash at 5pm. n Thur is the BIG CASH QUIZ at 9pm. n The Friday Club is at 6pm. n FOOD: home-cooked menu & manager's specials served Mon–Fri noon–3pm & 6–9pm; Sat noon–7pm; Sunday roasts & selected menu served noon–till gone! n OPEN: The Camelford is the most dog-friendly pub in town and has open fires, perfect for those chilly spring evening. Open from noon daily.

pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Mon club; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Bank Hol cabaret: Dolly Partem 7.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Bank Hol Studio 150: Student night 10.30pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Bank Hol cabaret: Dave Lynn 3.15pm; Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Bank Hol Cabaret: Lady

BRIGHTON SAUNA

Imelda 6pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE Music Mayhem: open mic, live music 8pm; open 10am TUESDAY 7 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY party night 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN musical evening; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12

n BANK HOLIDAY: Sun (5), open 24 hours into the bank holiday. n REGULARS: Wed (1) is BEARS NIGHT for bears, cubs and their admirers; drink offers, club music at 7pm. n Wed (8 & 22) is NAKED all day, no towels to be worn. n Wed (15) is mandatory UNDERWEAR NIGHT, thongs, briefs, speedos, at 7pm. n DRINKS: licensed bar 7 days a week; Sun–Thur 11–1am and Fri & Sat 11–2am. n OPEN: For future listings visit: www.thebrightonsauna.com

36 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CHARLES STREET + ENVY

MAY

LISTINGS

CHARLES STREET BAR

n BANK HOLIDAY: Sat (4) is Bank Holiday BOYS IN THE BAR with DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles & Leeroy on rotation at 9pm, free entry. n Mon (6) is Bank Holiday CABARET with Dolly Partem at 7.30pm. n Sat (25) is BEACH PARTY with hot tunes, DJs & hostess Ms Joan Bond at 9pm. n Mon (27) is the DRAG IDOL 2013 Brighton Heat with hosts Pat Cruise & Sally Vate, win £2,500 final prize and management at 7.30pm, application forms available at the bar. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sat (18) is the EUROVISION PARTY Fundraiser for THT with a sweepstake competition at 8pm. n REGULARS: Wed is J'LO CABARET, a night of high camp antics, with Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne at 9.30pm. n Thur (till 17) is MAD COW over two-floors with hostess Miss Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & Leeroy in the bar playing commercial dance at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1 b4 10pm, £2 after. n Thur (from 23) is THE MAD COW'S TEA PARTY with Alice in Wonderland décor, tea pot cocktails, 'drink me' shots, pumping tunes & hostess Ms Joan Bond at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1. n FRUITY FRIDAY FIX is with DJ Leeroy spinning the best in dance & funky house at 9pm; plus cocktails from £3.50 for a glass, £8.50 for a jug from 9pm–close, free entry. n Sat is THE BOYS IN THE BAR with an all-male DJ line-up including Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles & Leeroy on rotation at 9pm, free entry! n Sun CABARET at 7.30pm: Drag With No Name (5), Titti La Camp (12), All Mouth & No Trousers (19), Lizzy Drip (26); TRANNY ROCK & ROLL BINGO with Sally Vate and rolling jackpot follows at 8.30pm. n FOOD: Two for £7.95 on selected mains and 2-4-1 on all desserts, all day every day; Sunday Lunch: home roast beef, chicken or veggie served noon–7pm, £6.95. n DRINK DEALS: All drinks 1/3rd off Mon–Sat from 5–9pm, till 8pm on Thurs, on Sun after the show till close. All deals excl sparkling wine & cocktails & not in conjunction with other offers. n OPEN: daily from noon. www.charles-street.com n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop 11pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live music: The Pickin’ Circle 8pm n ZONE Dave Lynn’s Tue Night Take Away: games & cash prizes 8pm; open 10am WEDNESDAY 8 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge

8.30pm; food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Drag Bingo 6pm n BAR 56 Davina Sparkle’s School Night Challenge; open noon n BAR REVENGE Wine on Weds; pizza 59pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Mash-Up: DJ Lee Harris 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Buzz Challenge 8.30pm; open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Trudi Styles & The Pianoman 10.30pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST J’Lo Cabaret: Miss Jason &

ENVY @ CHARLES ST

n BANK HOLIDAY: Mon (5) & (27) is Bank Holiday STUDIO 150 with singles/bottles for £1.50, entry £1.50, open till 3am. n REGULARS: Mon is the STUDIO 150 student night with singles or bottles for £1.50 all night, entry £1.50. n Thur (till 17) is MAD COW over two-floors with hostess Miss Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & Leeroy in the bar playing commercial dance at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1 b4 10pm, £2 after. n Thur (from 23) is THE MAD COW'S TEA PARTY with Alice in Wonderland décor, tea pot cocktails, 'drink me' shots, pumping tunes & hostess Ms Joan Bond at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1. n www.charles-street.com Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food 12-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 2013 Semi-Final 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz, cash prize 8pm; open 10am THURSDAY 9 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party 6pm n BAR 56 Discount karaoke 7pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Big Cash Quiz Night

9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: Baga Chips MBE & Mini Diamond 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Sandra’s Whorehouse cabaret with guests 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top Geek Party: level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifi, Alpha; level 2 DJ Cheeks Du Rhythm 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE karaoke 8pm; open 10am FRIDAY 10 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open 12 n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ 6pm

38 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CHURCH STREET + DR BRIGHTONS

MAY

LISTINGS

CHURCH STREET

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sat (18) is the EUROVISION PARTY with host Mysterry. n REGULARS: Fri cabaret at 9pm: Jennie Castelle (3), Lola Lasagne (10), Krissie DuCann (17 & 31) and Pooh La May (24). n FOOD: food specials served Mon–Sat noon–late, buy two lunches for £10; Richard's Golden Handbag-winning Sunday lunches served noon–late. n OPEN: find the secret beer garden for some spring sunshine, it's the perfect place for a drink and a smoke! n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Lizzy Drip midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Lola Lasagne 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Thank Funk It’s Friday 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys, free champers for early birds, free bottle of champers for birthdays 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am

FUNKY FISH

n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris, Alex Baker, Smithy + regular live PAs 10.30pm n SUBLINE Dry Clean Only Suit Party 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Collusion 9pm; open 10am SATURDAY 11 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open 12 n BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ Rob 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warm-up: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Big Sat; open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; Amy’s karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: allmale DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon

n FESTIVAL: Fri (3, 17 & 24) is THE COMEDY SHOWCASE as part of The Brighton Fringe with the best up and coming comedy talent at 7.30pm, entry £7; THANK FUNK IT'S FRIDAY follows from 10.30pm. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (31) is DIRTY RETRO London club night with DJs spinning 1960s-80s funk/disco/electro rocking retro classics at 10.30pm, free entry. n REGULARS: Fri is THANK FUNK IT’S FRIDAY with funk/soul/Motown/disco at 10.30pm, free entry. OLD SKOOL SATURDAY with DJ Sean Quinn playing funky 70s/70s/80s/90s with a splash of recent tunes at 10pm, entry £5. n OPEN: The Funky Fish Bar is open daily from noon. www.funkyfishclub.co.uk

DR BRIGHTONS

n BANK HOLIDAY: Sun (5 & 26) is Bank Holiday REFLEX with DJ Adam Rice playing 1980s tunes & free shots at 8.30pm, free entry. n REGULARS: FUNKY FRIDAY with DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne is at 9.30pm, free entry. n SEXY SATURDAY with DJ Tony B at 9.30pm, free entry. n DRINK DEALS: from Sun–Thur all day and Fri & Sat from 1–7pm: Fosters & Carling £3.15 a pint, large Smirnoff & mixer £4, large Smirnoff & energy drink £5. Buy two cocktails for £11 from Sun–Thur. Free game of pool every day with every round of drinks purchased during happy hour. n OPEN: Mon–Thur 3pm–midnight; Fri & Sat 1pm–2am; Sun 1pm–midnight. n www.doctorbrightons.co.uk n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Misty Lee & guests 4.30pm; karaoke till 2am; open 12 n REGENCY TAVERN food 12-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, King K 10.30pm

n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Sally Vate 9pm; open 10am SUNDAY 12 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR 56 cabaret: Mark Inscoe 8.30pm; open 1pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon

42 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR + BASEMENT CLUB

MAY

LISTINGS

LEGENDS BAR

n BANK HOLIDAY: Mon (6) is CABARET with special guest Dave Lynn at 3.15pm; Mon (27) is CABARET with J LO (Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne) at 3.15pm; both events followed by MISS JASON DOES LEGENDS at 9.30pm. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sat (18) is the EUROVISION PARTY with the contest on the big screens at 8pm. n REGULARS: Mon is MISS JASON DOES LEGENDS at 9.30pm. n Thur is Mark Hodge's Comedy Night at 9.30pm. n FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE over 2 floors with Lady La Rue, DJ Peter Castle, promo boys, £1.50 shots all night, champagne promos, bottles of Becks £1.50 b4 1pm, and a free bottle of champers if it’s your birthday from 9pm. n PreClub DJ sounds every Sat at 7pm. n Sun CABARET at 3.15pm: Topping & Butch (5), Lola Lasagne (12), Lady Imelda (19) and La Voix (26). n FOOD: new summer menu, including gourmet burgers with chunky chips and relishes and other lunch options from £3.90, served noon–7pm Mon–Sat. Check out Legends' Facebook or website for food promos. n DRINK DEALS: Mon–Thur till midnight, buy any bottle from the quality wine list and get the second half price. n OPEN: daily from 11am–5am. Heated smoking area, free entry and all day sun-terrace. n www.legendsbrighton.com

n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 8pm; Micky’s karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Titti La Camp 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate & roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sunday lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n GROSVENOR lounge singer Ronnie Rialto 3pm n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Lola Lasagne 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Mary Gold 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: La Voix & host Misty Lee 6pm; karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon

n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 25pm n ZONE live music: Stone & Street 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 13 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Mon club; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am

LEGENDS BASEMENT CLUB

n FREE ENTRY: to the Basement Club every day. n BANK HOLIDAY: Sun (5 & 26) is Bank Hol POP!CANDY with DJ Claire Fuller and drinks from £2. n REGULARS: Wed is MASH-UP with DJ Lee Harris spinning a mix of latest chart tracks and anthems, £2 drinks all night, £1.50 shots. n FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE over 2 floors with Lady La Rue, DJ Peter Castle, promo boys, £1.50 shots all night, champagne promos, bottles of Becks £1.50 b4 1pm, and a free bottle of champers if it’s your birthday from 9pm. n Sat is FUSION with DJ Peter Castle house & chart sounds. Sat (4) is with DJ Lee Harris. n Sun is POP!CANDY with DJ Claire Fuller recent & classic pop, drinks from £2. n OPEN: Fri–Sun 11pm & Wed 10pm. Closed Mon, Tue & Thur. Legends will host your party from £150, call Matt on 01273 624462 for more info. www.legendsbrighton.com n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Wicked Mon Karaoke: win 2 tickets to see Wicked 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS karaoke, quiz & bingo 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE Music Mayhem: open mic, live music 8pm; open 10am TUESDAY 14 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY party night 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN musical evening; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am

n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop 11pm n ZONE Dave Lynn’s Tue Night Take Away: games & cash prizes 8pm; open 10am WEDNESDAY 15 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Drag Bingo 6pm n BAR 56 Davina Sparkle’s School Night Challenge; open noon n BAR REVENGE Wine on Weds; pizza 59pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Mash-Up: DJ Lee Harris 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Buzz Challenge 8.30pm; open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Underwear Night: licensed bar 7pm n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Dave Lynn 10pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; open noon n CHARLES ST J’Lo Cabaret: Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; food 12-8pm; open 12 n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 43

MAY

LISTINGS

MARINE TAVERN

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Tue is Nat’s Quiz at 9pm. n DRINK DEALS: Wed & Thur 7–11pm: pints of Carlsberg & Stowford Press £3, plus buy a single spirit and get the mixer free. n OPEN: Mon–Sat noon, Sun 1pm.

n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 2013 Grand Final: £1,500 prize 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Rockin’ Mark Vis & His Mobile Pub Piano 8pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz, cash prize 8pm; open 10am THURSDAY 16 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party 6pm n BAR 56 Discount karaoke 7pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Big Cash Quiz Night 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm

n ENVY Mad Cow: 2 floors, hostess Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lil Alex & LeeRoy 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live music: Remy Harris Trio 8pm; open 10am n POISON IVY cabaret: Benji Official 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Sandra’s Whorehouse cabaret with guests 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top: level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifi, Alpha; level 2 DJ Cheeks Du Rhythm 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE Tammy Twinkle’s Gameshow Fever 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 17 n A-BAR Pre-club; food noon-7pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon

n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Davina Sparkle midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Pooh La May 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Comedy Showcase for Brighton Fringe: local comedians 7.30pm; Thank Funk It’s Friday 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys, free champers for early birds, free bottle of champers for birthdays 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am

NEIGHBOURHOOD

n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris, Alex Baker, Smithy + regular live PAs 10.30pm n SUBLINE The Big Scrum: sports kit night 10pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Mark Inscoe 9pm; open 10am SATURDAY 18 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ Claire Fuller 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warmup: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Eurovision Party; open noon

n BAR: The Neighbourhood bar on St James’ Street is on two floors with a 100ft garden.

Ideal for lazy afternoons and warm summer evenings with great music and spirits menu, wine list, classic cocktails, non-mainstream high-end beer and cider on draft, all served at prices that won't hurt the pocket. n FOOD: The Neighbourhood kitchen offers two daytime brunch menus featuring breakfast classics, tasty lunches, light bites and kids menu. The evening menu leans towards American classics such as burgers, plus varied menu. Neighbourhood's interior brings a bit of individuality with a fine collection of objet d'art, industrial coverings and worn antiques. To make a reservation call 01273 673 891; party bookings can be made on 07787573610. n OPEN: 9am–11pm. n www.facebook.com/neighbourhoodbrighton

44 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM POISON IVY, QUEENS ARMS + PARIS HOUSE

MAY

LISTINGS

POISON IVY

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: n REGULARS: KARAOKE 7 nights a week with Drag hosts every night, including: Spice, Betty Swollocks, Misty Lee & Gloria Hole. n Tue is Bar 150 Karaoke. n Wed is KARAOKE COMPETITION with Gloria Hole, win £100! n Thur CABARET at 9.30pm. n Sun CABARET at 5.30pm. n HAPPY HOURS: 60 a week, including 11am–7pm Tue–Sat; all day Sun & Mon. n OPEN: daily from 11am. n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; Amy’s karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Eurovision Party & Peer Action Fundraiser: sweepstake & raffle 7pm; food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Eurovision 2013 THT Fundraiser & sweepstake competition 8pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST Eurovision Party: host Mysterry; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Eurovision: live on the big screens 8pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am

PARIS HOUSE

n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Auntie Robbie 4.30pm; Kamp Kevin’s Eurovision Party 8pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s a Guest DJ: DJ Zach Burns & residents 10.30pm n SPELLBOUND@KOMEDIA alt-80s night feat DJs Simon Price & Jenna Allsopp 9pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Sally Vate 9pm; open 10am

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Thur (16) is live gypsy jazz with the Remy Harris Trio at 8pm, free entry. n REGULARS: Sat is live jazz at 4pm, free entry. n FOOD: platter of French food to share & large carafe of wine £15. n OPEN: daily from 10am. www.parishousebrighton.com

QUEENS ARMS

n BANK HOLIDAY: Sun (5) is double CABARET with Tammy Twinkle at 6pm, Misty Lee & guests at 9.30pm; SUSSY SUCS' KARAOKE at 7.30pm & 11pm. Mon (6) is CABARET with Lady Imelda at 6pm; Misty Lee's karaoke follows till midnight. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Mon (27) is THE BIG CHARITY EXTRAVAGANZA for The Martlets and British Institute of Learning Difficulties with host Drag With No Name, acts Miss Jason, Dave Lynn, Mary Mac, Tammy Twinkle, Mzz Kimberley, Son of a Tutu, Jennie Castelle, Davina Sparkle, Lady LaRue, Cosmic Stars, Adora Dix, Misty Lee and appearance from Kate of TV's The Undateables at 5pm. See the QA Facebook for more. n REGULARS: Wed (1) is final heat of Q FACTOR 2013; (8) is Semi-Final; (15) is Grand Final with £1,500 prize; (22) is Finale Party with all 12 acts and judges performing at 9pm. n Wed (from 29) is Candi's Capers karaoke & gossip at 9pm. n Thur is Sandra's WHOREHOUSE CABARET with special guests at 9.30pm; (30) is Candi's birthday. n Fri is CAMP ATTACK including Flashback to 70s/80s/90s at 9pm. n Sat CABARET at 4.30pm & karaoke till 2am: Trudi Styles & Piano Man (4), Misty Lee & guests (11), Auntie Robbie & EUROVISION PARTY with Kamp Kevin & 5 screens at 8pm (18) and Cosmic BROADWAY TO BRIGHTON and disco/karaoke party with Corruption till 2am (25). n Sun CABARET hosted by Misty Lee at 6pm & karaoke till midnight: Le Voix (12), Dave Lynn (19) and double CABARET with Mzz Kimberley at 6pm, Lola Lasagne at 10pm with karaoke at 7.30pm & 11pm (26). n Mon is karaoke, quiz & bingo at 9pm. n Tue is LOLLIPOP KARAOKE with drink promos at 9pm. n OPEN: daily from noon.

SUNDAY 19 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR 56 cabaret: Sophie Causebrook 8.30pm; open 1pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 8pm; Micky’s karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; Bear Bash 5pm; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: All Mouth & No Trousers 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate & roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sunday lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon

n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Lady Imelda 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Andora Dix 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Dave Lynn & host Misty Lee 6pm; karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 2-5pm n ZONE live music: Terrie Anne 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 20 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Mon club; open noon

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 45

n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS karaoke, quiz & bingo 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE Music Mayhem: open mic, live music 8pm; open 10am TUESDAY 21 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY party night 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN musical evening; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop 11pm

46 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM BAR REVENGE + REVENGE

MAY

LISTINGS

BAR REVENGE

n REGULARS: SUNDAY FUNDAY with retro games at the bar, and KARAOKE QUEENS with LouBag & Smithy at 8pm.

Mon is QUIZ WITH LIZ with cash prizes at 8.30pm.

Tue is VIP KARAOKE with Harry & DJs Kelly & Fifi; win drinks, VIP cards and bar tabs in the club.

Thur is the Girls on Top Official Warm-Up with DJ Kelly L at 9pm.

Fri is the Shameless Warm-Up with DJ Alpha at 9pm.

Sat is the F@#ck Me! It’s Free Warm-Up with DJ Fifilicious at 9pm. n FOOD: served Sun–Fri 5–9pm & Fri & Sat midnight–6am; pizzas, sandwiches, burgers & more; buy a pizza & 4 drinks for £9.99 Mon–Fri. n DRINK DEALS: shots £1.50 all day, all night, every day; 2-4-1 cocktails Sun–Fri 5–9pm; drinks from £1.99 & get half price wines noon till late on Wed; from £1.50 Thur after 7pm; from £2.49 Fri & Sat; Jagerbombs £1.99 on Sat. n REVENGE PASSES: Free Revenge discount passes on Thur; buy a drink and get free entry into the club on Fri before midnight & Sat before 1am. n OPEN: daily from noon–2am & till 6am on Fri & Sat. n www.revenge.co.uk n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live music: The Pickin’ Circle 8pm n ZONE Dave Lynn’s Tue Night Take Away: games & cash prizes 8pm; open 10am WEDNESDAY 22 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Drag Bingo 6pm n BAR 56 Davina Sparkle’s School Night Challenge; open noon n BAR REVENGE Wine on Weds; pizza 59pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Mash-Up: DJ Lee Harris 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Buzz Challenge 8.30pm; open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Drag With No Name 10pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST J’Lo Cabaret: Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; food 12-8pm; open 12 n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12

n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Q Factor 2013 Finale Party: singers/judges perform 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz, cash prize 8pm; open 10am THURSDAY 23 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party 6pm n BAR 56 Discount karaoke 7pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Big Cash Quiz Night 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon

REVENGE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (24) sees The Freemasons take over level 1 alongside regular DJs, entry free/£5. n REGULARS: Tue is NAUGHTY POP with all the best 00s tunes; £1.50 shots, all other drinks £2, entry £2/£3.

Thur is GIRLS ON TOP lesbian night, Anthems-theme (2) and Geek Party (9), with allgirl DJs Smithy, Fifilicious, Alpha & Cheeks Du Rhythm playing chart/urban/old school/house; drinks from £1.50, entry free with pass or £3/£4.

Fri is SHAMELESS with live PAs & DJs Lee Harris, Alex Baker & Smithy playing the freshest tunes of 2013 v guilty pleasures; drinks £2.50 b4 midnight, double up for £1, Jagerbombs £2.50 all night, entry free with a pass or £5.

Sat is F@#K ME! IT’S STILL FREE with regular DJs, Adam Turner (4) & Zach Burns (18), all drinks £2.50 b4 midnight, Jagerbombs £2.50 all night, double up for £1 all night, free entry b4 1am with a pass, £5 after.

Sun (26) is the GIRLS ON TOP FOAM PARTY with regular DJs, entry free/£3/£4. n DRINK DEALS: All drink specials exclude champers & doubles (excl doubling up). n REVENGE PASSES: Free entry passes available through the week from Bar Revenge or from www.revenge.co.uk. n OPEN: 11pm on Tue; 10.30pm Thur/Fri/Sat & Sun (26).

n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: hostess Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor & tunes 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: hostess Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: TBA 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Sandra’s Whorehouse cabaret with guests 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top: level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifi, Alpha; level 2 DJ Cheeks Du Rhythm 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE Tammy Twinkle’s Gameshow Fever 8.30pm; open 10am

FRIDAY 24 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open 12 n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ 6pm n BAR 56 cabaret: Miss Jason 9pm; open 12 n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: All Mouth & No Trousers midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food12-3pm & 69pm; Bank Hol Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Pooh La May 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Comedy Showcase for Brighton Fringe: local comedians 7.30pm; Thank Funk It’s Friday 10.30pm

PICS FROM REVENGE

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 47

MAY

LISTINGS

n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJs Alex Baker, Trick, King K 10.30pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 9pm; open 10am

n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys, free champers for early birds, free bottle of champers for birthdays 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Freemasons Take-Over & resident DJs 10.30pm n SUBLINE Barcode Berlin Launch Party 10pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Stone & Street 9pm; open 10am SATURDAY 25 n A-BAR Pre-club; food 12-7pm; open 12 n BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ Rob 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warm-up: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Adam’s Birthday Garden Party 8pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; Amy’s karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Beach Party: hot tunes & hostess Ms Joan Bond 9pm; food 12-7.45pm; open noon

n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Cosmic Broadway to Brighton 4.30pm; karaoke & disco with Corruption till 2am; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food 12-6pm

SUNDAY 26 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR 56 cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 8.30pm; open 1pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Bank Hol Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 8pm; Micky’s karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Lizzy Drip 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate, roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon

n DR BRIGHTONS Bank Hol Hangover Therapy with Reflex: DJ Adam Rice, 80s night 8.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: La Voix 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Scarlette Diamante 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret hosted by Misty Lee: Mzz Kimberley 6pm; Lola Lasagne 10pm; karaoke 7.30pm & 11pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls on Top Foam Party: resident DJs 10.30pm n SUBLINE Spume Foam Party 8pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 2-5pm n ZONE live music: Ian Mark Burzio 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 27 n A-BAR bar food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Mon club; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food 12-9pm; open 12

48 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM SUBLINE + THE THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS

MAY

LISTINGS

n CHARLES ST Drag Idol 2013 Brighton Heat: hosted by Pat Cruise & Sally Vate, £2,500 final prize, apply at the bar 7.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Bank Hol Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Bank Hol cabaret: J Lo (Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne) 3.15pm; Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Big Cabaret Charity Extravaganza for Martlets & British Institute of Learning Difficulties with host Drag With No Name, performers Miss Jason, Dave Lynn, Mary Mac, Tammy Twinkle, Mzz Kimberley, Son of a Tutu, Jennie Castelle, Davina Sparkle, Lady LaRue, Cosmic Stars, Adora Dix, Misty Lee & an appearance from Kate of TVs The Undateables 5pm; open noon

THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS

n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE Music Mayhem: open mic, live music 8pm; open 10am TUESDAY 28 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY party night 6pm n BAR 56 open noon n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN musical evening; open noon n BULLDOG Reggae Night: DJ Micklos 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food 12-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon

n REGULARS: Sun is live jazz at 2pm, free entry. n Tue (7 & 21) is live bluegrass and old-time country with The Pickin' Circle at 8pm, free entry. n Wed (1), (15) & (29) is with Rockin' Mark Vis playing blues & boogie on his Mobile Pub Piano with plenty of sing-a-long at 8pm, free entry. n FOOD: served noon–3pm & 6–9pm; two burger meals £15. n OPEN: daily from 11.30am. Private function room available for parties call 01273 608571. n www.3jollybutchers.com

SUBLINE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sun (5) is The Sussex Beacon Bizarre Bazaar Fundraiser with fetish gear, play equipment, books, DVDs, outrageous drag-wear on sale from 2–5pm. n REGULARS: Fri (3) is STEAM; (10) is DRY CLEAN ONLY Suit Party at 5pm; (17) is THE BIG SCRUM at 10pm, entry £6 in kit/£8 otherwise; (24) is the BARCODE BERLIN Launch Party at 10pm. n Sat is The MEN'S ROOM with DJ Screwpulous, members get cheap drinks and free entry till 11pm. n Sun is COME IN YOUR PANTS underwear party with DJ N.U.D.E. Sun (26) is the SPUME FOAM PARTY at 8pm, entry £3 for members/£6 for guests. n Wed is BACKLASH retro tunes and prices, including selected drinks £3 all night for members. n Thur is LEATHERED with free lockers. n DRINK DEALS: Subline is now open from 5pm on Fri & Sat with £2.50 pints 5–9pm. n OPEN: Fri & Sat from 5pm–4am, Sun from 8pm–2am, Wed & Thur from 9pm–1.30am. Closed Mon & Tue. n www.subline-brighton.com n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop 11pm n ZONE Dave Lynn’s Tue Night Take Away: games & cash prizes 8pm; Transaction: TV/TS/TG night; open 10am WEDNESDAY 29 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Drag Bingo 6pm n BAR 56 Davina Sparkle’s School Night Challenge; open noon n BAR REVENGE Wine on Weds; pizza 59pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Mash-Up: DJ Lee Harris 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Buzz Challenge 8.30pm; open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Wilma Fingadoo 10pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST J’Lo Cabaret: Miss Jason & Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12

n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Candi’s Capers karaoke & gossip 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Rockin’ Mark Vis & His Mobile Pub Piano 8pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz, cash prize 8pm; open 10am THURSDAY 30 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party 6pm n BAR 56 Discount karaoke 7pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Big Cash Quiz Night 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: hostess Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm; open noon

PICS FROM THE ZONE

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 49

ZONE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Thur (from 16) is Tammy Twinkle's GAMESHOW FEVER with prizes at 8.30pm. n REGULARS: Fri is live music 9pm: Back Beat (3), Collusion (10), Mark Inscoe (17), Stone & Street (24) and Jennie Castelle (31). n Sat CABARET at 9pm: Tammy Twinkle (4) & (25) and Sally Vate (11) & (18). n Sun is live music at 4pm: Jennie Castelle (5), Stone & Street (12), Terrie Anne (19), Ian Mark Buscoe (26); karaoke is then immediately after. n Monday MUSIC MAYHEM is an open mic night at 8pm. n Dave Lynn's TUESDAY NIGHT TAKE-AWAY with games & cash prizes at 8pm; (28) is also TRANSACTION, a GQ/CD/TS/TV night. n Wed is Rachel's A Question of Music QUIZ with prize money at 8pm. n DRINK DEALS: all night Mon & Wed. n OPEN: daily from 10am. n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: hostess Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: TBA 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Sandra’s Whorehouse cabaret, guests & Candi’s birthday 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top: level 1 DJs Smithy, Fifi, Alpha; level 2 DJ Cheeks Du Rhythm 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE Tammy Twinkle’s Gameshow Fever 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 31 n A-BAR cabaret: special guest 9pm; preclub; food noon-7pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY St Trinians Party: DJ Mary Hinge 6pm n BAR 56 Glam Funk 70s/80s disco 8pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ

Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJs Simon Blann/Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Lady LaRue midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Krissie DuCann 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJs Nick Hirst or Wayne 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Dirty Retro 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys, free champers for early birds, free bottle of champers for birthdays 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack & Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris, Alex Baker, Smithy 10.30pm n SUBLINE Steam 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Jennie Castell 9pm; open 10am

50 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH

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

PORTSMOUTH

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

WEDNESDAY 1 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Quiz 8.30pm; food noon3pm; open noon

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

SOUTHAMPTON

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

n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Rue till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE The Big One FindHrr Launch Party: DJ Tim Sandford, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL DJ Neil Sackley’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm; open noon

SUNDAY 5 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: Sun Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; THURSDAY 2 open 9am BOURNEMOUTH n DYMK open noon n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & PORTSMOUTH Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n HAMPSHIRE BLVD Drag Idol till 2am n DYMK open 2pm n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon PORTSMOUTH SOUTHAMPTON n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n EDGE Fundays Bumper Edition: DJ Liam n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm Searle, £500 cash give-aways 9pm-5am SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 10pm Service 8pm; Lucinda Lashes 9.30pm; Sun n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon-midnight Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon MONDAY 6 FRIDAY 3 BOURNEMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2.30am n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Sally Vate till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am SOUTHAMPTON SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL bank hol chillout; food n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands & noon-3pm Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo TUESDAY 7 8.30pm; cabaret: Fanny Dazzle 10pm; food BOURNEMOUTH noon-3pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am SATURDAY 4 n DYMK open 2pm BOURNEMOUTH PORTSMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am

52 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM THE EDGE + THE LONDON HOTEL, SOUTHAMPTON

PAT CRUISE THUR (30) DRAG IDOL

CASSIDY CONNORS (10)

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH

LONDON HOTEL SOUTHAMPTON

EDGE SOUTHAMPTON

n ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (4) is THE BIG ONE FINDRR Launch Party with DJ Tim Sandford, regulars, 3 bars, 2 dancefloors and big deals at the bar, entry free–£6. n REGULARS: Sun is Fundays, with DJ Liam Searle, drink offers & entry £2; (5) & (26) is the Bumper Edition with £500 cash giveaway, £3 entry, open extra late till 5am. n Tue is BOMB IT with 3-4-2 Jagerbombs, free video jukebox & entry. n Wed is Bar 150 with DJ Lady Bex & Cheeky Pete’s Karaoke, £1.50 drinks, entry free–£6; (15) is the Smurf-themed party. n Thur is PURE POP! with DJ Neil Sackley playing pop tunes; discounts on cocktails & shooters, free sweets, entry £1. n Fri is GET SOME with DJs Lohands, Lady Bex, Rob Davies & huge give-aways, entry free–£6. n Sat is THE BIG ONE with resident DJs, guest Lee Harris (18), 3 bars with drink deals & 2 dancefloors, entry free–£6; (25) is GRINDR v FINDHRR with DJ Phil Marriott. n OPEN: Sun (12) & (19), Tue & Thur 10pm; Wed, Fri, Sat & Sun (5) & (26) 9pm. n www.theedgesouthampton.com n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo 8.30pm; cabaret: Cassidy Connors 10pm; food noon-3pm

n ONE FOR THE DIARY: Fri (17) is the FAIRYLEA FUNDRAISER for IDAHO featuring DJ Ruby Roo and cabaret artists Miss Jason, Pat Cruise, Rose Garden & Tammy Twinkle at 8.30pm. Thur (30) Drag Idol Southampton Heat with host Pat Cruise. n REGULARS: Wed (1) is monthly QUIZ Night with cash prizes at 8.30pm. n Thur is Pat Cruise’s Karaoke Cruising at 9.30pm. n Fri is Fairylea with DJ Ruby Roo at 8.30pm and cabaret at 10pm: Fanny Dazzle (3), Cassidy Connors (10), Samantha Solace (24) and Chloe Akam (31). n Sat is Guilty Pleasures with DJs & cabaret at 8.30pm: Neil Sackley (4), Tiny & guest Jacquii Cann's birthday party (11), Lucinda Lashes (18) and Pat Cruise (25). n Dolly Partem’s Sunday Service at 8pm, cabaret follows at 9.30pm: Lucinda Lashes (5), Mary Mac (12), Wilma Fingadoo (19) and Son of a Tutu (26). n FOOD: traditional pub food served Mon–Sat noon–3pm; Sunday lunch served noon–3.30pm. Chill out in one of the brand new lounge areas. n OPEN: daily from noon. n www.the-london.co.uk

Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2.30am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm TUESDAY 14 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 10pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Sally Vate till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea Fundraiser for IDAHO: DJ Ruby Roo & cabaret: Miss Jason, Pat Cruise, Rose Garden & Tammy Twinkle 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon-1.30am

SATURDAY 18 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm WEDNESDAY 8 PORTSMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Rue till 3am n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & SATURDAY 11 n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am BOURNEMOUTH WEDNESDAY 15 SOUTHAMPTON n DYMK open 2pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n EDGE The Big One: DJ Lee Harris & regulars, PORTSMOUTH Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n DYMK open 2pm Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n LONDON HOTEL DJ Lucinda Lashes’ Guilty n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm PORTSMOUTH n DYMK open 2pm Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Rue till 3am PORTSMOUTH n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Cheeky Pete’s n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am SUNDAY 19 karaoke 9pm SOUTHAMPTON n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm BOURNEMOUTH n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm n EDGE The Big One: DJs, 2 dancefloors, 3 SOUTHAMPTON n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & bars 9pm n EDGE Bar 150: Smurf-themed party, DJ Lady Brasserie: Sun Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; THURSDAY 9 n LONDON HOTEL cabaret: Jacquii Cann & Bex & Cheeky Pete’s karaoke 9pm-5am open 9am BOURNEMOUTH DJ Tiny’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noonn LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm n DYMK open 2pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & 3pm; open noon PORTSMOUTH Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am THURSDAY 16 n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n DYMK open 2pm SUNDAY 12 BOURNEMOUTH n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon PORTSMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & SOUTHAMPTON n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm Brasserie: Sun Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 10pm n DYMK open 2pm n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday SOUTHAMPTON open 9am PORTSMOUTH Service 8pm; Wilma Fingadoo 9.30pm; Sun n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 10pm n DYMK open 2pm n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON MONDAY 20 n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 10pm BOURNEMOUTH FRIDAY 10 SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & BOURNEMOUTH n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 10pm Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday n DYMK open 2pm Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am Service 8pm; Mary Mac 9.30pm; Sun lunch FRIDAY 17 PORTSMOUTH n DYMK open 2pm noon-3.30pm; open noon BOURNEMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2.30am PORTSMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Sally Vate till 3am MONDAY 13 Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am SOUTHAMPTON n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am BOURNEMOUTH n DYMK open 2pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm SOUTHAMPTON n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 10pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 53

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH TUESDAY 21 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 10pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm WEDNESDAY 22 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex & Cheeky Pete’s karaoke 9pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

FRIDAY 24 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Sally Vate till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo 8.30pm; cabaret: Samantha Solace 10pm; food noon-3pm

SATURDAY 25 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Rue till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON THURSDAY 23 n EDGE The Big One Grindr v Findhrr: DJ Phil BOURNEMOUTH Marriott & regulars, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL DJ Pat Cruise’s Guilty n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH SUNDAY 26 n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am BOURNEMOUTH n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & SOUTHAMPTON Brasserie: Sun Lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 10pm n DYMK open 2pm n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat PORTSMOUTH Cruise 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am

n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Fundays Bumper Edition: DJ Liam Searle, £500 cash give-aways 9pm-5am n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday Service 8pm; Son of a Tutu 9.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon MONDAY 27 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2.30am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm TUESDAY 28 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 10pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke 9pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm THURSDAY 30 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 10pm n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise plus Southampton Heat of Drag Idol 9.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon

FRIDAY 31 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ Sally Vate till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am WEDNESDAY 29 SOUTHAMPTON BOURNEMOUTH n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands & n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & Rob Davies 9pm Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo n DYMK open 2pm 8.30pm; cabaret: Chloe Akam 10pm; food noon-3pm

54 GSCENE

DANCE

MUSIC

BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE

REVIEWS

loveliness Mathew Jonson’s His Blurry Pictures on Crosstown Rebels. Intriguing rhythms and Well my darlings there’s plenty to get all hot and bothered about on enough sub-sonic booms to please the music front this month so join your woofers and tweeters. And me dancing round the maypole to (hopefully) piss off the neighbours. n Then throw open the windows to these fabulously fresh springtime let Defected’s For The Love Of wonders.

House Volume One flood thirty n Jimpster’s Porchlight & glorious classics out. Joe Smooth, Rockingchairs on Freerange. Late Mr Fingers and Everything But The night dubbed-up deep house and Girl are all here, and best of all bass-heavy down-tempo hold Kerri Chandler’s Bar a Thym, one of hands with each other on this house’s finest moments! warm and soul tinged album.

Definitely one to lift the spirits – n Don’t miss Slave To The Music plus it’s got a lovely dog (I think) Radio Slave’s remix of Balance 023 on Balance Music on two CDs. Disc on the sleeve.

1, White Skies, showcases the n The magnificent Electronic Slave’s distinctive, chugging tech Youth Artist Series Volume 8 on house and features Nina Kravitz Maquina Music. Every track is a and Larry Heard amongst others; winner on this quintessential collection of their discography so disc 2, Maestros & Memories, is far. I See You, Me & U, Soul Speaker more down-tempo and experimental, including Herbie and Don’t You Know are so good you’ll be clambering to the top of Hancock and Ryuchi Sakamoto.

Thoroughly recommended! that maypole rather than just skipping about round the bottom. n There is a froth of excitement in n Noschool by Ekkohaus on Moon anticipation of the release of Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories Harbour really has something to please everyone. From the romantic (May 21). Featuring Pharrell, Nile jazzy sax of the opener A Drive via Rodgers and Giorgio Moroder, it’s promising to be the album of the contrasting musical textures and summer and certain to be on lush melodies, with enough deep house, particularly Reparations, to permanent rewind. We cannot wait! keep those arses wiggling.

Catch Wildblood & Queenie on n I’d also suggest getting all Saucefm, Radio Reverb and DSD. wriggly with master of sonic

MAY TWELVE INCHES n UP YOURS London (ft Feral Is Kinky) Get Up Recordings

It’s Hifi Sean and Severino and it’s foot-stompingly brilliant.

n MICHELLE MANETTI Give It Up (Ruben & Ra Dub) Futurism

A dark little beauty, much like the marvellous Ms Manetti!

n LUDOWICK Get It Off (Moodymanc Mix) 22 Digit

DJ PROFILE What can we say about Queen Josephine that hasn’t been said already?

She’s one of Brighton’s finest and about to celebrate 50 glorious, golden and very camp years. As she heads towards her summer of jubilee celebrations (well a queen likes a good party) Gscene caught up with her majesty to chat tunes, celebrations and sky diving with bears. As you do.

First piece of vinyl you ever placed a stylus on? Mum and dad let me have their Dansette in my bedroom when I was eight as they had progressed onto a stereogram-doubling-up-as-a-sideboard in the lounge.

The first thing I played was Rockin’ Robin by the Jackson 5, my first single purchase (45p). I’m sure the neighbours were delighted as I sang along at the top of my voice whilst bouncing off the walls, over and over again!

If you could DJ with absolutely anyone (non-DJ) who would it be?

The Queen. We could share headphones and crowns!

Why Brighton? I came down for an interview at Brighton Poly in 1982 and the first thing I saw were two women holding hands along the sunny seafront. It was love at first sight.

Disco or techno? Disco. Loved it from day one. And besides, Dirty Sunset Techno just doesn’t sound right.

Deep or dirty? Deep AND dirty thanks.

Strings or bass? At the risk of annoying the missus, bass. I had my trousers shaken at many blues parties in my teens so it’s in my blood!

Cat or dog? Pussy of course.

Best ever gig? I’ve been lucky enough to play some very special parties with some very special people including the Wild Fruit Tent, DSD and Sunday Sundae on Pride weekends. But I still get all tingly when I remember Charles Street one Pride Saturday night, playing on the terrace for six hours (should have been two) to the most fabulous, happy people who loved everything. People were dancing on top of the bus stop!

Describe yourself in three words? I’m Still Thirty.

And three words your friends would use? Funny Little Thing.

Golden Jubilee year plans? I’ll be having my ‘official’ Golden Jubilee party at DSD on 16th August, so please come and join me and the crew for a gorgeous night of housey magic. My missus Wildblood and I will be celebrating our 20th anniversary this year too, so there will be lots of cake and carousing throughout the summer and we’re also starting up our Home Service show on Sauce FM in June. Oh, and I’ll be jumping out of a plane with Bear-Patrol in aid of the Sussex Beacon on 6th July… like a queen does. All sponsorship and support greatly appreciated: www.justgiving.com/queenjo

If you believe in love please get it on. Naughty naughty.

n RUEFUS Help Is On The Way (Electronic Youth Dub) Sexy Trash

Too deeply delicious for words! n AQUARIUS Heaven Parallela Mundi EP Circus Company Slow Love ft Miss Kitten, stands out sexily. n THOMAS GANDEY & ZEB WAYNE Breathe Nervous A massive house gem – with Thomas on vocals! n DAFT PUNK Get Lucky Columbia Gorgeous in every way. n MARCO FINOTELLO ft Sandy Spady Get Carried Away Favouritism Such perfect heartfelt soulfulness… summer’s a-comin’. n EDDIE KRYSTAL Mayan Groove EP MUM Pumping basslines to get you jumping. n JAYDEE Pulsate/Payback Ellum Audio Maceo Plex on Payback remix duty. Job done!

QUEENIES GOLDEN JUBILEE ALL TIME FAVES

n DONNA SUMMER I Feel Love Casablanca. Nothing else comes close! n HAMILTON BOHANNAN Disco Stomp Dakar. Chugga chugga genius. And

without this there wouldn’t have been How Soon Is Now by the Smiths

n SCRITTI POLITTI The Sweetest Girl Rough Trade. Timeless swoon-

worthy wonder

n DR KUCHO Lies To Yourself Work. AJ’s inspiration for DSD. When that

bass kicks in, all’s well with the world!

n THIRD WORLD Cool Meditation Island. Gorgeous desert island reggae

Catch Queenie at DSD @ Ohso, fortnightly Fridays from May 24 and also at Brighton Pride, Wild Fruit, Radio Reverb and on Sauce FM. www.facebook.com/queenjosephine

GSCENE 55 He steadied himself on the counter top.

“Can I please have a glass of water? I’m not feeling too good.” He pulled on his cap and made a few steps toward the door.

“Who the hell are you?” Sean said, moving away, holding the beer bottle behind his back. “Are you one of Alex’s boys? Because, he doesn’t do that shit any more.”

Michael held up his hands. “Look, let’s just forget it. I’m sorry.” He manoeuvred himself around the kitchen island and back towards the door. Sean slowly followed him. “Look, if he didn’t pay you then I will. Providing you leave.”

“Pay me?”

Sean reached into his wallet and pulled out what cash he had.

“You think I’m a prostitute or something?”

Michael said.

MONTHLY SERIAL BY CARL OPREY: EPISODE 8 Sean manoeuvred himself between Michael and Sean threw his briefcase and car keys onto the placed the box onto the kitchen worktop. Sean the apartment door and Michael tried to make his way around him, holding back from making kitchen area work surface and stuck his head pulled a ten pound note from his wallet and any body contact. inside their oversized American fridge. At the held it up between them.

“This isn’t anything to do with Alex. It’s not other side of the loft, Alex lay in the elbow of “It’s okay,” Michael said, “I just picked it up what you think, Sean.” Michael met Sean’s eyes the leather sofa in his boxer shorts, talking into outside, in the hallway. I was already in.” with his own. “It’s supposed to be about you his phone and tapping at the keys of his Michael took off his cap and smoothed down and me. But I’ve screwed it up again.” laptop. Behind him CNBC silently tickered his hair.

Sean held the beer bottle out in front of him financial data across the TV screen.

“I know you?” Sean said. It was a polite and shouted for Alex.

“There’s no food yet,” Alex shouted, holding question and answer rolled into one. Sean “I’m sorry,” Michael said. Alex swung open the the phone to his chest. Sean closed the fridge squinted and tilted his head back. bedroom door, holding his phone against his ear. door and placed a beer on the counter top. He “The wedding,” Michael said.

He stopped dead. “That’s the gatecrasher from saw that Alex was off the phone.

“The wedding… That’s right…” Sean hid his the wedding. What the fuck is he doing here?”

“What happened to your phone, Alex? Did the uncertainty, like when he couldn’t remember a Alex tapped into his phone. “I’m calling the power run out? You wouldn’t have hung up just patient’s name. “I can hardly recall a thing police.” to talk to little old me.” about that day. Family, right?”

“I was cut off. The New York office are freaking “Yes, family.” Michael took another look around Michael dodged Sean and wrestled with the latch, eventually opening the door, but Sean out again.” Alex tapped into his laptop. “And the enormous room until his eyes fell back pinned him against it. the groceries are late. Something about an again on Sean.

“Keep hold of him, Sean,” Alex shouted, then organic food crisis back at the factory.” Alex’s “And your name, again, was?” spoke into his phone. “Police. There’s an… phone rang again.

“Michael.” attacker with us, now.”

“Please, don’t answer that,” Sean said.

“Michael,” Sean echoed. There was another Michael wrestled the letter from his inside “It’s work, Sean.” awkward pause and Michael felt for the pocket and held it up into Sean’s face.

“Then take it in the bedroom or come and envelope inside his pocket. “So, Michael, you “UCH, 1989, right?” he said. Sean’s eyes watch 911 with me - cute men in leather want a beer or something?” narrowed. “What?” He loosened his grip and pants…” There was a second of indecision but “No thanks.”

Michael struggled enough so they were now Alex answered the phone and his voice changed “O-kay.” Sean smiled in the pause that holding each other face to face against the back to clipped, Ivy League tones. followed, squinting at Michael. apartment door.

“Alex Ganley speaking.”

“I’m from Uncle David’s side of the family,” “Hold onto him, Sean.” Alex opened a kitchen “In the bedroom, Alex,” Sean shouted, “or the Michael said. drawer, blindly searching inside as he held on fucking porn channel goes on in the “Really? Small world.” the line. Tears began to form on Michael’s background.”

Michael smiled and looked around the cheeks. He cleared his throat. “You’re donor 1.

Alex scuttled away, balancing his laptop and apartment again. “Nice place,” he said.

My birth father.” paperwork in one hand, with his mobile phone “Thanks.” pressed up against his ear. He slammed the “My place is the same. Not as big, or anything. Sean’s grip relaxed enough for Michael to slip out of his jacket and into the hallway. Sean tried bedroom door behind him.

We have the kitchen in the living room a bit As Sean lay on the sofa the entry phone like this. It’s a lot smaller, though. And messier. to follow him but sank to his knees, as he watched Michael disappear towards the buzzed. Who delivers groceries at eight in the My girlfriend’s pregnant, you see, she doesn’t emergency stairs. He picked up the letter and evening? Fucking morons. Sean dragged himself really get out that much. And when she’s in, read Tracy’s inscription. To Dad… and the off the sofa, walked to the apartment door and she doesn’t really clean up.” pressed the entrance button on the intercom.

“Sounds great,” Sean said, holding out his arm address of a website, Donor Families Reunited.

Sean could still hear the boy’s footfall by the “Hello?” The empty street faded onto the towards the door. “It’s been nice to see you time Alex reached him, but he did not hear or security monitor. “Please don’t go round the again, Michael…” back way, you idiot.”

“And Uncle David’s been to visit, too,” Michael feel Alex searching around his body, throwing away Michael’s jacket and feeling for a wound.

He slammed the handset down and opened the interrupted. Sean steadied himself on the “Are you OK? He didn’t stab you did he? Please apartment door. Michael Lucas stood in the counter with his outstretched arm. be okay, Sean…” Eventually, Alex relaxed and corridor with his baseball cap pulled down, “Really?” held onto Sean, sobbing gratefully into the pit holding a box overflowing with gourmet pasta “Yes. Only last week.” and glossy vegetables.

“Really?” Sean took a long swig of his beer and of his shoulder. Sean lay still, staring ahead, saying nothing.

“Hello. That was embarrassing,” Sean said. glanced briefly at the bedroom door.

“Sorry. You’re not a moron.”

“You don’t mean dead Uncle David, do you?”

Michael followed Sean into the apartment and Michael stumbled for words and began to sway. © Carl Oprey

56 GSCENE

EDDIE IZZARD

MICHAEL BALL

BRIGHTON CENTRE Kings Rd, Brighton, Box office: 0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk n MICHAEL BALL – BOTH SIDES NOW (Fri 3). Ball sings hits from West End and Broadway shows plus music from his recent album Both Sides Now. n RAT PACK LIVE (Sat 4). Tribute show featuring music made famous

by Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnr and Frank Sinatra. n LEONA LEWIS (Sun 5). Sings material from her Spirit, Echo and Glassheart albums. n EDDIE IZZARD: FORCE MAJEURE (Tue 7–Wed 8). “Comic genius... Entertainment incarnate!’ The Telegraph; “A National Treasure” The Guardian; “The Funniest stand-up I’ve ever seen... people are falling from their seats” The Sun. n MICKY FLANAGAN – BACK ON THE GAME (Thu 9–Sun 12). Stand-up from star of Mock The Week, Have I Got News For You and 8 Out Of 10 Cats.n THE BIG REUNION (Mon 13). Hits from 5IVE, Atomic Kitten, B*Witched, Liberty X, 911 and Honeyz. n McFLY (Thu 16). Tracks from their latest Memory Lane, plus early smashes like Star Girl, All About You and Party Girl. n MARK KNOPFLER (Sat 25). Celebrates 35 years in the biz and his first double album, Privateering. n HAPPY MONDAYS (Sun 26).

Madchester classics plus support from 808 Sound System.

BRIGHTON FESTIVAL & FRINGE HIGHLIGHTS FRINGE FESTIVAL: Box office: 01273 91 72 72

DUKEBOX THEATRE

BATTLE OF THE SEXES

Iron Duke, 3 Waterloo St, Hove www.wegottickets.com/thedukeb oxtheatre n THE MATERNAL INSTINCT (May 29–31 & Jun 1). Everything seems to be going well for Sarah and Lilian, until Sarah decides she wants a baby. Lilian, a geneticist and recovering alcoholic, is not interested. Monica Bauer's play asks what causes the maternal instinct? Can it be removed, or can it remain dormant until ‘the right time’?

n THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES (May 4, 5 & 23–25). Adam's Apple, a musical duo, give their unique slant on the ups and downs of relationships before and after marriage. This gentle battle of the sexes is waged with weapons of song, some hats and all the technology of a blackboard. n MY FRIEND LESTER (May 5, 19, 26 & June 2). Billie Holiday and saxophonist Lester Young played and recorded such achingly beautiful music together it was impossible for many to believe they were not lovers. This story tells the untold tale of their romance through some of their

octogenarian neighbour. He’s looking for love and a handful of guppies, not necessarily in that ST ANDREW’S CHURCH order. Karen wants a ballroom Waterloo Street, Hove dance partner, but will she settle n WOW WOMEN OF THE WORLD for a baker of wholemeal plaits?

(Fri 10). Inspired by women’s Her mother would like a knitting choirs from around the Globe, WOW pattern for a sleeveless pullover or Women Of The World will be a is that just a ruse to see more of cultural treat. Songs written by the taciturn Wool Shop Man? either female composers or Straight Stella hopes to be performed by a women’s choir, the sexually rampant with someone… diverse repertoire includes anyone. And what about Jean? traditional folk songs plus What does she hope for? contemporary pieces and ‘Lee writes with unfailing warmth arrangements. WOW explores the and wisdom about the comedy and process of song as a form of complexity of family life’ Sarah communication through sound, Waters. language and feeling. n I LOOK: I DIVINE (Tue 21–Thur 24). Once there were two brothers, born upon the same day. They were not twins. Although very different, the brothers had one thing in common - as the younger would discover. Mark Kydd, in his semi-autobiographical solo show, tells an old tale from a unique and intriguing perspective. This play is an exploration of similarity, difference, sibling rivalry and gay PURPLE PLAYHOUSE brothers, viewed through the prism Montefiore Rd, Hove of an obscure eighties novel with Box office: 01273 917272 a bad cover illustration. n RETURN TO VENICE (May 4–Jun n BETWEEN (Thu 23–Sat 27). Lost 2). A man relives events that happened 25 years earlier when, as a boy on holiday in Venice, he met Thomas Mann and became the inspiration for his masterpiece Death In Venice. A postmodern tale about a man who returns to Venice to unravel the mystery behind that chance encounter and, in the process, torn between Apollonian integrity and Dionysian pleasures of the flesh, discovers his true self. An epic tale full of sound and fury with visual operatic scale reminiscent of somewhere between love and lust; Visconti - a feast for the senses a man, a boy, a couple, a teacher and the spirit with music by and his student. Three separate, Mahler. yet suggestively interlinked, stories explore how love can MARLBOROUGH THEATRE transcend sexual boundaries.

Princes St, Brighton n NIGHT AFTER NIGHT (May 31, Box office: 0800 411 8881 Jun 1). Classic Neil Bartlett/ n LADY OF THE WILD WEST HILL Nicholas Bloomfield music drama (Fri 17–Sun 19). V G Lee's play exploring a shadow world of focuses on Jean Bushell and her longing both familiar and alien. friends. There’s Malcolm, Jean’s The year is 1958. The playwrights’ BETWEEN

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

RETURN TO VENICE

ARTS

own words and the songs they recorded together. Friends?

Soulmates? Lovers? The answers are in their music. n THE GREAT I AM (May 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29). Two new plays

by Natalie Audley performed back-to-back. The first play looks at the dire consequences of war and the second is the battle between God and the devil over the last human.

GSCENE 57

RALLI HALL

RAINBOW CHORUS

81 Denmark Villas, Hove http://boxoffice.brightonfringe.o rg/index.aspx?q=persuaded n PERSUADED (Sun 12 & 19) written by Claire Ramster and directed by Tori Bond and Kate Ellis, the play was a sell-out for three nights at last year’s festival.

Based on Jane Austen's Persuasion, the play is a modern, lesbian tale of love versus duty.

Career woman Sam Elliot must choose between her growing love for Kate Wentworth and her loyalty to her snobbish and challenging family. It is a bitter-sweet romance which keeps the audience guessing until the end. Tickets £9/£8 concs,

ST GEORGE’S CHURCH St George's Rd, Brighton n RAINBOW CHORUS SINGS OUT! (Mon 13). Rainbow Chorus, Brighton's very own LGBT choir, swing open the doors of St George's Church Kemptown for a free, informal showcase of contemporary hits, treasured favourites and choral classics.

BRIGHTHELM CHURCH North Rd, Brighton n BRIGHTON GAY MEN'S CHORUS DOUZE POINTS! (Fri 3 & Sat 4).

Amidst claims that Eurovision has had its day, Brighton Gay Men's Chorus imagine what might happen should Brighton attempt to stage an alternative song contest. What would be the highs and lows, the delights and disasters? Would it be a fabulous

folly or a scandalous success? Join them as they scale the musical heights and plumb the emotional depths.

THE SABAI PAVILION Victoria Gardens n BRIGHTON GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRIDE SPECIAL (8pm, Sun 12) Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus star for an evening of vocal highlights bringing their unique mix of rock and pop classics to the stage including Man In The Mirror, Islands In The Stream, Rolling In The Deep and Hung Up among many surprises! One of Whatsonstage.com’s “highlights of the Fringe 2012”.

JUDY IN PERSON NEW STEINE HOTEL 10 New Steine, Brighton, 01273681546 n JUDY IN PERSON (7.45pm, Thur 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 May; 8pm, Fri 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; 8pm, Sat 4, 11, 18, 25, 1 Jun; 5.30pm, Sun 5, 12, 19, 26 May & 2 Jun). Created and performed by Grégoire Aubert.

“Liza came home from school one day and said: ‘Why? What is this nonsense that I always hear at school that everybody knows you, Judy Garland?

Everybody knows Judy Garland.’ And Liza looked at me and she said: ‘Look, I don’t know you, Mama and nobody ever will…”

Gregoire talks about his work: “There is a mystery about Judy Garland, the way she lived, the way she died and, more than forty years after her death, she remains an icon to a very diverse audience. I’ve been fascinated by Garland since 2007. Of course I cherished The Wizard of Oz as a child, and cried when I first saw A Star is Born but it was only recently that I discovered the magnitude of her career, the ups and downs of her private and public lives, her amazing tenacity and the incredible human being she was. I decided to make a show, a tribute for the 40th anniversary of her death in 2009. I portrayed a fan in his bedroom, making up, imitating her and singing in memory of her. I got caught up by Garland and made a second show in 2010, this time as Judy, following her path from birth to death, intertwined with songs and quotes from people who knew her. And here I am in 2013 with a third show! Judy In Person focuses on her attempts to write her memoirs. Set as a press conference in a hotel, Judy reveals herself, her childhood in Vaudeville, how she became addicted to amphetamines and sleeping pills at the age of 14, her career at MGM, the concert years, her rebirth after an almost fatal illness, her TV series and the last years of errand, sublime successes and tragic failures. The main line of the press conference is diverted when flash backs, intimate recordings, songs and scenes from her films start to interfere. Behind the ‘so called Legend’ is shown the clever, unsure, hilarious Woman and Artist.”

Grégoire Aubert has lived and worked in Brighton since 2010. He graduated in Visual Arts at the University of Picardie and trained at the Theatre National de Strasbourg in stage direction. His first two shows, Judy and Judy Marvelous toured in Lyon, Paris and Lille. He performed, The Making Of A Woman, at the Brighton Fringe Festival 2012 and was nominated for the Latest Festival Award in the best male performance category. www.gregoireaubert.com, www.facebook.com/JudyInPerson

n LADY BOYS OF BANGKOK GLAMOROUS AMOROUS (May 3–Jun 1). The Lady Boys are back, dripping with diamante and sizzling new songs. Expect glamorous cabaret complete with flamboyant costumes, immaculate make up and show-stopping choreography. With an all new set list, they’ll be performing classic numbers from Saturday Night Fever to current hits from Cheryl Cole and even a bit of Gangam Style.

‘Escapism, lots of fun... one of the best value for money nights out” theatre company present the Derby Evening Telegraph. sequel to My Mother Was An Alien - Is That Why I’m Gay? directed by THE WARREN Louise Jameson.

Russell Place, Brighton

n CRUISING (May 12, 19, 26 & June 1, 2). In this new musical, the diva star of a cult sci-fi series is trapped on a cruise ship with her husband, 200 fans and her exgirlfriend! Nigel Fairs, Adam Rood and the award-winning 368

THE OLD COURTROOM Church St, Brighton n IN EXTREMIS (May 17-19, 30 & 31 & June 1, 2). On the night of March 24 1895, Mrs Robinson, a society palm reader, agreed to see Oscar Wilde in her London flat. It was one week before what is going to be billed as the 'trial of the century'. Neil Bartlett's play was first presented at The National Theatre to mark the centenary of Oscar Wilde's death.

TEMPLE BAR Western Rd, Brighton n KEVIN DEWSBURY OUT NOW (Thur 16–Sat 18). A few years ago at the age of 29, Kevin revealed

KEVIN DEWSBURY

PERSUADED

father and mother meet at a theatre in London's West End to celebrate the playwright's conception. They encounter a host of characters whose lives are linked to that of their unborn son in ways they could never imagine.

he is gay. Making up for lost time he immediately dived into the gay scene, learnt many new and exciting things, had great times but also ran into some trouble along the way. In this show he debunks the stereotypes, explores

58 GSCENE top DJs and live sets. Includes local graffiti, dance and circus artists and bespoke lighting installations.

prejudices, preconceptions, relationships, online dating, equal marriage and bigotry, and tries to define exactly what the word ‘gay’ means. Expect songs, jokes, stories and some tales of a rather graphic nature. Free event.

THE DOME

approaching middle age, the revolution has eluded their dreams. Caught between a culture that still has no place for them, and a younger generation indifferent to their contributions, the OWLs face an emotionally complex set of circumstances that have yet to be compassionately and truthfully addressed. Stars Guinevere Turner (Go Fish, The L Word), V.S. Brodie (Go Fish), Lisa Gornick (Tick Tock Lullaby) and Deak Evgenikos (The Itty Bitty Titty Committee). The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with the film's producer.

NOTORIOUSLY KINKY

BILLY SMARTS CIRCUS

PIERS & QUEERS

New Rd, Brighton n FANNY & STELLA (Sat 4). An extraordinary true tale of crossdressing and gay sub-culture in 19th century London is revealed in Neil McKenna’s new book, Fanny & Stella. His dazzling account of UPSTAIRS AT THREE & TEN the arrest and sensational trial of Steine St, Brighton Fanny Park and Stella Boulton – n GUILT AND SHAME (Fri 3–Sun scandalously revealed to be two 5). Sex, drugs, partying, young men – is a meticulous pornography, bestiality, Downton evocation of the underbelly of Abbey – we all have our addictions n PIERS & QUEERS (May, 4, 5, 11, Victorian society with a cast of but somehow comedy duo Guilt & 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 & June 1, 2). peers, politicians and prostitutes, Shame have managed to get them How did Brighton become the gay drag queens, doctors and all. They invite us to share our capital of Britain? This city on the detectives. Neil McKenna, author darkest secrets in the safe space fringe of Britain – literally and of group therapy. The problem is, metaphorically - has been a no space is safe when you’re in destination for those wanting to the company of Gabe and Rob. ‘escape’ for over 200 years. Piers & While allegedly reformed sex Queers, a walking tour during the addict Gabe is trying his hardest Brighton Fringe, follows in the to keep his unruly libido tamed, footsteps of some of the historical sobriety is not coming so easily to Brightonians who lived outside the Rob as he continues to be tempted norms of sexuality and gender. It by the allure of life on the dark looks at 200 years of the city’s side. Guilt & Shame embark on a queer past. On the way guide Ric journey to redemption that will Morris visits locations associated take them to heaven then drag with well-known names such as them straight back to hell using a Oscar Wilde, Dusty Springfield and pumping soundtrack as erratic as Lord Byron, each of whom had a of The Secret Life of Oscar Wilde, any good addict’s heart rate, crazy special relationship with the city. takes us into this fascinating dance numbers and inspirational He also visits the theatre where an secret world as he talks about his rapping transvestites with lessons Edwardian drag king performed, latest work. for us all. and the site of England’s first Civil n DAMIAN BARR (Sun 5). In his Partnerships. The tour also looks new book Maggie & Me, Barr at some lesser-known, but shows us how he discovers that extraordinary people. One Regency stories can save your life and – in surgeon was the first female-born spite of violence, strikes, AIDS and person to qualify as a doctor and Section 28 – manages to fall in performed the first successful love dancing to Madonna in caesarian in British medicine. But Glasgow’s only gay club. Now a because women were barred from journalist living in Brighton, he the profession, he passed his talks about his experiences. whole adult life as a man. Another couple became the first known DUKES AT THE KOMEDIA same-sex couple to marry in KOMEDIA Gardner St, Brighton Brighton – way back in 1923!

Gardner St, Brighton n THE OWLS (Thur 16 at 6pm). n NOTORIOUSLY KINKY (Thur Eyes Wide Open, the queer 9–Fri 10). Deviant diva Bernadette BRIGHTON FESTIVAL cinema project, presents a 'funny, Byrne and half-moustachioed Box office: 01273 709709 mysterious and humane musician Victor Victoria, are generational anthem' about the outrageously comical characters THEATRE ROYAL eponymous Older Wiser Lesbians performing their own risqué New Rd, Brighton who once embraced the utopian original songs, on an array of n BRITTEN: THE CANTICLES (Thur vision of Lesbian Nation. Now, instruments from the accordion to 9). The works explore the themes the musical saw. Known for their closest to Britten's heart: sexual intimate approach to audience love, the horror of war, spiritual interaction, the saucy pair have longing and the struggle for selfcaptivated and titillated crowds all acceptance. Using physical theatre, over the UK, Europe and beyond. dance and film, this bold reimagining of the series – originally composed as individual THE OLD MARKET concert pieces and spanning nearly Upper Market St, Hove 30 years of Britten’s career – n YOGA JAM (Wed 15). A fusion brings the Canticles together to of club night, show and community party that has sold out create a single dramatic evening.

Co-staged by Neil Bartlett; Ian across the globe. Yoga is offered instead of alcohol with dancing to Bostridge tenor.

PRESTON PARK Box office: 0844 415 5228 n BILLY SMART'S CIRCUS (May 21–Jun 2). Billy Smart is perhaps the most famous name in the circus world and his Big Top is one of the biggest travelling shows ever to have toured the UK. The performance will include a fantastic Australian flying trapeze act which has been the toast of the circus world, Desiree's handbalancing act in which she fires a bow and arrow - with her feet!, acrobats, jugglers, breathtaking aerialists and even a fireman who works his routine on a flaming ladder.

HOVE LAWNS

n NOFIT STATE CIRCUS'S BIANCO (May 14–Jun 2). Award-winning contemporary circus company NoFit State's new show is a return to the company’s roots and its iconic immersive, promenade work featuring world-class performers and an intoxicating live band.

Visual, physical, sensual, Bianco is an exhilarating journey through past, present and future and the beast that lies within ourselves.

This immersive promenade experience takes place above, behind and all around a standing audience. Features a constantly evolving narrative set to a pounding soundtrack performed by a live band.

GSCENE 59

ART

M AT T E R S

BY ENZO MARRA

In May there’s always so much happening, so I’ve selected some highlights to savour at your own pace when time and enthusiasm permits!

ARTISTS OPEN HOUSES

ENZO MARRA

http://www.aoh.org.uk/home At 122 Beaconsfield Villas there are artists from the Royal Academy of Arts to the prestigious John Moores Painting Prize, from the UK, France and Kenya.

With a gallery feel and a friendly atmosphere you can feast your eyes on the works on show from artists Enzo Marra (me!), Perdita Sinclair, Nick Carrick, Andrew McNaughton and Maguey Seyer. Open from 11am-5pm on all weekends from the May 4-26.

FABRICA 40 Duke St, Brighton, www.fabrica.org.uk THE BLUE ROUTE (till Mon 27), comprises of two newly commissioned sculptures by one of Finland’s leading artists, KAARINA KAIKKONEN, one at Fabrica and another at an outdoor site in the city. Working primarily in public and easily accessible places, Kaarina uses simple, everyday objects such as second-hand clothing, toilet paper and women’s shoes, to create large-scale installations that articulate the architectural or open space in which her works are sited. Though ambiguous in meaning, her works evoke associations of personal loss, collective memory, and local history.

BRIGHTON MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

OLE SKAUGE Artists Open House Festival, Venue 10, www.hovearts.com OLE SKAUGE produces vibrant abstract and figurative paintings. Many of his new works are inspired by the geometry of the built environment of Brighton as well as the landscapes of his adopted England. During the Artists Open House Festival, Ole Skauge will be exhibiting at 51 Wilbury Road - venue 10 on this year's Hove Arts Trail. www.oleskauge.eu

THE SILENCE IN THUNDER New Steine Hotel, Brighton Artists tap into thunder, like a conducting rod, and translate it into sounds and images. There’s not just thunder in PHILOMENA HARMSWORTH’s pictures, but also music, movement, languorous lines, light and colour, darkness and silence. The silence exists in the eye of the storm, the absence of light or sound between lightning and thunder, and the thrill of expectation. Philomena’s new exhibition (May 2–July 16), explores the dichotomy between thunder and silence.

Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton, www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk JEFF KOONS will be the first showing in England (outside of Tate) of Koons’ group of works in ARTIST ROOMS (fom Sat 11), a collection of modern and contemporary art acquired through the generosity of Anthony d’Offay by Tate and National Galleries of Scotland for the nation. Jeff Koons is widely regarded as one of the world’s most important living artists. Provocative and playful, his work reflects on the power of consumer industries and aesthetics and culture of taste.

DAVID WIGHTMAN

HOUSE www.housefestival.org This year HOUSE takes visitors on a journey to unknown landscapes across venues and spaces in Brighton & Hove.

The works range from Neudecker's images beamed in from the remotest parts of the ocean, observing pieces of a collapsed airship courtesy of artist collaborators Shipton and Fitton. Andrew Kötting with Anonymous Bosch, newly returned from their expedition to the French Pyrenees, transports us via pinhole image installation to a remote cave environment deep within The Mountain of Fear. Emma Critchley invites us into a sonic liquid landscape that will heighten the senses, and David Wightman's paintings seek to impart a sense of melancholy and failed beauty in an unknowable landscape.

MEMPHIS SOCIAL PROJECT www.beautifulfields.org/memphis-social-curatorial-statement Local artist ALEX DIPPLE is also exhibiting abroad (Fri 10–Sat 18) as part of the Memphis Social Project, which will present artists and arts and social collectives that will creatively frame and present such topics as aesthetics, ethics and social engagement. Alex will be showing paintings, a unique installation of padded cell components and working on a site specific piece during her time there.

She describes herself as a ‘method artist’. “I sketch and paint whilst immersed in the subject matter. Not until I am dreaming the images that I am painting do I feel it’s a success”. Her new series of musicians stem from an impromptu concert she was invited to; “I was in the front row and felt surrounded by, and part of, the music being created. My response was the painting First Violin.” Live events provide the inspiration, then in the studio she paints to music such as The Prodigy or Chopin, according to the mood she is recreating in the picture.

Philomena trained as a set designer and worked on films such as Sleepy Hollow and Band of Brothers. Her painterly journey via film and theatre has developed the cinematic themes evident in these recent works. The exhibitions are thematic in order to enhance the memory journey. Each genre evokes and awakens new thoughts.

Philomena Harmsworth, The New Steine Hotel, New Steine, Brighton (May 2–July 16). The Launch Evening, Sunday May 5, from 4–6.30pm. www.philomenaharmsworthart.co.uk

60 GSCENE

Bonnie Tyler is representing the UK at Eurovision and here you are with T'Pau25.”

Carol Decker talks to Craig Hanlon-Smith Carol Decker and T'Pau first appeared on the music scene in 1987 with the quadruple platinum album Bridge of Spies which spawned five hit singles including the US smash Heart and Soul which stayed on the Billboard charts for six months. China in Your Hand remained at the top of the UK charts for five weeks and the country went T'Pau mad. The albums Rage and The Promise followed as did sell out tours culminating in performances at Wembley Arena and Birmingham NEC. Having recently become a mainstay of Here & Now tours and Rewind festivals, Carol marks the 25th anniversary of T'Pau with a headline UK tour in April, May and June with cofounder Ronnie Rogers, and a new compilation CD/DVD The Story Behind The Tracks.

working since on a variety of 1980s line-ups and big 1980s weekenders.

“The live work is the thing, people want to see us in the flesh. Performing live has always been vital to what I do. I really enjoyed going to gigs myself, to be in the same room as the artist I admired was so exciting, so the smaller the gig the better from that point of view.

Having said that I do really get off on performing to vast crowds at festivals.

Live work is the mainstay of my career these days with the record companies having practically disintegrated and illegal downloading annihilating that part of our income stream. Being there on the stage is about the only part an artist can control.”

What are your memories of T'Pau's success?

“I can't believe it's been 25 years. Sometimes it seems like five minutes ago but then I catch an old T'Pau video and we all look like babies and I realise how long ago it was. I look at my daughter Scarlett who is now 14 and I see her face not mine in those videos. My memories range from reigning at number one in many countries to shaking hands with the great and the good: Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Elton John, Debbie Harry; singing for Charles and Diana; selling out arenas; tons of exciting show biz bashes like the Brits and the Ivor Novello Awards and of course when we misbehaved on tour!

“In the years immediately after, there seemed to be somewhat of an 1980s back-lash. It was a politically challenging time, the music and fashion were laughed off as uncool and lacking substance, but now we can't get enough of it.”

“We’ve bred a generation who think it’s their right to be famous on very little talent but there’s no easy way - it’s hard work”

What's your experience of that in/out cycle and why are we all 1980s crazy again?

For a time we were almost reviled as cheesy 1980s pop stars and I was totally out in the cold. It was incredulous to me as the 1980s was the most diverse, creative and imaginative decade for everything from technology to fashion and music, it was such an optimistic time. I think after the dirge of the 1990s people wanted to have fun again and so rediscovered us. I got a call in 2001 to do a Here & Now tour and I haven’t stopped

At the height of your success, there was a real surge in the presence and success of women in international music. What do you think inspired that female dominance of music or helped enable it?

“I don't know why that happened, I have always just done my own thing. I know I was inspired by all sorts of artists, male and female, I didn't only look at female role models but maybe the time was right for determined women like me to punch through.

I can't speak for the likes of Cher or Madonna's success any more than I can speak for Bon Jovi's. This is a tough business and you have to be wilful to get somewhere. You have to believe in your music and persuade the money men that you're worth a bet.

“In the entertainment world, women over fifty are/were sometimes seen as very much in the shadows, we're obsessed with the next ingénue and the eternal quest for youth. Recently Olivia Newton John played Brighton on her first UK tour since 1978, Cher and Agnetha from ABBA are about to release new material,

What do we want from the pop stateswomen that we don’t get from the younger crew?

“The young still like the artists of their own generation, that’s not changed. We older girls appeal to our original fan base and I think that the 40-something demographic wants to hear the music they grew up with and will spend money on going to a show. I think they like the fact that we are still doing it, respect us for it and I think my fans like my single mindedness as well as my music.

“If I’d listened years ago to all the nay-sayers who told me the odds were stacked against success I’d never have had a career so I don't listen to anyone who thinks I should hang up my mic. I'll do it when I want to.”

China in Your Hand featured on X Factor last year. What advice would you give young artists trying to make it in the music industry and would you have gone on that type show in your early career?

“I may well have gone down that route, why not? As long as you prove yourself, who cares how you get your break. Having said that I’m SO over reality shows - it's all a bit dull. I think these shows clog up the industry and it seems like it's the only way now. The whole point of being a musician is to not conform.

I was 28 when I got my record deal and 30 when China was number one and I was still totally overwhelmed by what happened to me.

Maybe I would’ve been even more so if I’d been very young, who knows? I don't blame kids for giving it a shot, the rewards seem so appealing, but we’ve bred a generation who think it’s their right to be famous on very little talent but there’s no easy way - it’s hard work.”

What can we expect at T'Pau25 live shows?

“We’ll be performing the big hits, favoured album tracks and a couple of 'ones that got away'. I have a rocking band and I’m so happy that Ronnie can to do the tour.”

What are your personal favourites from the T'Pau back catalogue?

“I love Heart & Soul from Bridge of Spies. It's hip and a cool groove and my favourite song as a writer. A Place In My Heart from The Promise album has a stadium rock feel and gets you up on your feet! Road To Our Dream from Rage is a story of endeavour, an everyman tale and I think most people connect with the idea that anything worth pursuing isn't always easy to achieve.”

T’PAU25

n Burgess Hill (May 3)

Box office: 01444 242888

n Camberley Surrey (June 1)

Box Office: 01276 707600

n For full 30 date tour including south coast

venues visit www.tpau.co.uk

n The Story Behind The Tracks CD/DVD

available from www.gnatfishrecords.com

GSCENE 61

BY NICK BOSTON

REVIEWS n Violinist TASMIN LITTLE and

pianist PIERS LANE play Violin Sonatas by Richard Strauss (1864-1949) and Ottorino Respighi (1879-1936), as well as three of Respighi’s Six Pieces (Sei pezzi). Strauss’ Sonata is

unashamedly romantic, composed when he was 23, and had met his future wife Pauline de Ahna. Little produces a luscious, warm tone, with full-bodied accompaniment from Lane. The beautiful central Andante has singing lines, with delicate filigree accompaniment, contrasting with the dark piano opening to the Finale, before both players let rip with swaggering abandon. In the Respighi, the violin is more forward – the piano part is still virtuosic, but more in response to or underpinning the extremes of the violin. The slow movement is introspective, with rhapsodic piano writing, building to a climax of torment before subsiding into calm. The Finale is a driven passacaglia, its 20 variations a real tour de force for both players. The Sei pezzi are smaller in scale, real salon music.

The Valse caressante in particular has a lilting, romantic feel, and Little & Lane really dance here. A delightful disc. Chandos CHAN10749 n Now for works

for viola and piano, from violist CHRISTIAN EULER, with pianist PAUL RIVINIUS. They begin their disc with the Sonata

by Arthur Bliss (1891-1975), launching straight into a swirling, turbulent opening movement, with only brief calm moments of respite. The movement ends rather suddenly and quietly, ushering in

the dark central Andante, particularly challenging for the viola, employing its uppermost registers. The Furiant finale is a real challenge, and both players carry it off with appropriate élan.

Arnold Bax’s (1883-1953) Sonata opens with glassy piano chords beneath a modal, celtic viola line.

The slow Finale has thick, heavy piano chords, sombre and impressionistic, yet with a surprisingly relaxed conclusion.

Ralph Vaughan Williams (18721958) composed his Suite originally for viola and small orchestra, but also arranged it for viola and piano. This is an enjoyable work, although I miss the greater variety of textures the orchestral version offers. These are fine performances, with only the occasional shrillness of tone in the viola’s upper registers.

MDG 9031796-6 n Clarinetist MICHAEL COLLINS

has yet another disc out, with the Swedish Chamber Orchestra, which he also conducts. They couple the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with Copland’s Clarinet Concerto, composed for the great jazz clarinetist Benny Goodman, and also a concerto work from Australian composer Elena KatsChermin (b.1957), entitled Ornamental Air, composed for

Collins. He uses a basset clarinet for the Mozart, and the KatsChernin piece was also written for this deeper clarinet with an extended lower range. Collins’ Mozart is incredibly smooth and silky, his obvious communication with the orchestra as soloist/conductor giving an intimate chamber feel. The Copland is also remarkably tight, with great life and perkiness.

Collins plays the central cadenza with ease – this incredible ease characterises the whole disc, with

CONCERTS BRIGHTON FESTIVAL www.brightonfestival.org My top recommendations: n PAUL LEWIS (Sun 5) plays Schubert, Glyndebourne. n I FAGIOLINI (Tue 7–Fri 10) sing Tallis and Josquin, with circus performance by Circa, All Saints, Hove. n THE ELIAS STRING QUARTET play Beethoven (Tue 7), Music Room, Royal Pavilion; (Sat 11 & Mon 20), St George’s Church, Kemptown. n IAN BOSTRIDGE, IESTYN DAVIES and others (Thu 9) give a staged performance (directed by Neil Bartlett) of Britten’s The Canticles, Theatre Royal. n THE NASH ENSEMBLE (Fri 10) performs music by composers imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp, Music Room, Royal Pavilion. n Pianist JAMES BAILLIEU with friends including Ailish Tynan and Bartosz Woroch (Wed 15, Fri 17 & Sat 18) perform chamber music by Poulenc and Hahn, All Saints, Hove. n THE BRITTEN SINFONIA (Sun 26) perform Chaâbi by Tarik O’Regan, Mozart’s Oboe Concerto with Nicholas Daniel, and Mozart’s C Minor Mass with Brighton Festival Chorus, conducted by Thierry Fischer, Concert Hall, Brighton Dome. n Lunchtime concerts: include pianist Alexandra Silocea (Mon 6), the Cavaleri Quartet (Tue 14) and cellist Brian O’Kane (Thu 23), Dome Studio Theatre.

I FAGIOLINI

NOTES

Silent Music, and comes from a poem by the sixteenth century Spanish mystic, San Juan de la Cruz. This collection of 28 short pieces was composed between 1959 and 1967, when the rest of the classical world were engrossed in electronics and serialism. These are a world away from that, perhaps closer to Eric Satie, with a touch of Ravel – not surprising since Mompou studied in Paris in 1911 and was close to ‘Les Six’, the group which included Poulenc, Honegger and Milhaud. These miniatures are almost all slow, yet somehow avoid monotony and the set builds to n Pianist STEFFEN create a beautiful dreamlike SCHLEIERMACHER’s recording of atmosphere. Schleiermacher’s the Catalan composer Federico sensitivity and variety of tone Mompou’s (1893maintained my interest throughout.

1987) cycle MDG 6131792-2 Música Callida is a real find. The Reviews, comments and events: title loosely nicks-classical-notes.blogspot.co.uk translates as Email: nbclassical@hotmail.co.uk

the blend between soloist and orchestra intuitive throughout. The rhythmic, 5/4 drive in the first movement of Kats-Chernin’s piece is reminiscent of John Adams, but slightly runs out of steam towards the end. A cadenza passage follows, leading to a bluesy take on Liszt.

The energy returns in the final movement, driving right to the finish. These are never showy performances, but respectful, and sensitive to the diverse musical styles, quite an achievement in this wide-ranging repertoire.

Chandos CHAN10756

BRIGHTON FRINGE www.brightonfringe.org

n Music with cellist Esther Ward-Caddle (Sat 18), and pianist Raija

BREMF

CLASSICAL

Walker (Sat 25), St Michael & All Angels, Brighton. n Music and wine with Musica 432 (Fri 10), the Hilser Trio (Fri 17) and the Lucina Harp Duo (Fri 31), St Luke’s, Brighton. n Lunchtime concerts: pianist Noriko Ogawa (Tue 7), violin and piano duo Lana Trotoskev and Yoko Misumi (Tue 21), Chapel Royal, Brighton. n Beth Evans and Howard Beach (Thu 9, Thu 16 & Wed 22) perform music exploring the Virgin Mary, with music by Hildegard of Bingen, Bach and Purcell, Friends Meeting House, Brighton. n BREMF Consort of Voices (Mon 27) perform music by Renaissance composer Gesualdo, St Bartholomew’s, Brighton.

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FILM

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

I’M SO EXCITED Dir: Pedro Almodóvar Stars: Cecilia Roth, Antonio Banderas, Penélope Cruz Plot: A plane faces mortal danger as it attempts a dangerous landing, the tension is at first diffused by the air stewards lacing the passengers’ drinks with mescaline and performing a comically choreographed version of the Pointer Sisters’ classic...

Word on net: “A return to the broad, transgressive comedies of his early work.” n “A hugely entertaining, feel-good celebration of human sexuality that unfolds as a cathartic experience for characters, audience and director alike.” n “Camp, kitsch, bright, breezy and frothy aircraft-set comedy littered with hilariously over-the-top moments.”

THE ABCS OF DEATH Dir: Various Stars: Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, Iván González, Kyra Zagorsky Plot: A 26-chapter anthology that showcases death in all its vicious wonder and brutal beauty.

Word on net: “At its best when merging shocks with social commentary.” n “An enormously impressive and massively indulgent cornucopia of 26 short films from all over the world.” n “An appallingly bad concoction of disgusting shorts that run through the alphabet but really should've stopped at 'A'” n “A repulsive and excessive excuse for blood-soaked entertainment.”

collection of brazen plot holes and late night cable cliches.” n “All so much turgid brooding, dialogue underlined with import, and leaden symbolism.” n “Dour little crime thriller that, in the end, proves more infuriating than intriguing.” n “While a mob thriller can be as nasty as it likes, what it can't be is silly.”

THE EYE OF THE STORM

in a conflict between his American Dream, a hostage crisis, and the enduring call of his family's homeland.

Word on net: “An emotionally vibrant story of the scourge of terrorism, the nightmare of fundamentalism and the dangers of zealotry and xenophobia.” n “Carefully manipulates the viewers' prejudices and forces us to take sides in a conflict more complicated than it first appears.” n “A sweeping and heartfelt tale of divided loyalties and reversion to type.”

Dir: Fred Schepisi Stars: Charlotte Rampling, Maria that an actor can be a miraculous Theodorakis, Geoffrey Rush thing in the right role.” n “A Plot: Elizabeth Hunter controls all sordid, bleak tale about two lonely in her life - society, her staff, her people drawn to each other like children; but the once great beauty ALSO OUT... colliding planets.” n “Beautifully n IRON MAN 3 stars Robert will now determine her most constructed, smartly scripted and defiant act as she chooses her time Downey Jr, Guy Pearce, Gwyneth very funny.” n “A superbly written to die. From the novel by Patrick Paltrow and pits its hero against a and lovingly told account of a formidable terrorist known as White. quirky slice of American crime Mandarin.

Word on net: “The project's history with a tender, bittersweet ambitions turn out to be greater ending.” than its ability to achieve them.” n “An intelligent, visually sumptuous drama that embraces the grandeur of the Australian literary classic upon which it's based.” n “A stodgy slog save for some sporadic moments of blunt n DEADFALL stars Eric Bana, force supplied by Judy Davis and Olivia Wilde and Charlie Hunnam Charlotte Rampling.” n “Blackly in a thriller that follows two funny, incisive and often moving, THE LOOK OF LOVE siblings who decide to fend for and the performances are Dir: Michael Winterbottom themselves in the wake of a spectacular.”

Stars: Steve Coogan, Anna Friel, botched casino heist, and their Stephen Fry unlikely reunion during another THE RELUCTANT Plot: The life of Paul Raymond, the FUNDAMENTALIST family's Thanksgiving celebration. controversial porn entrepreneur, n Euro-thriller A HIJACKING Dir: Mira Nair the King of Soho, who became focusses on the crew of a Danish Stars: Riz Ahmed, Liev Schreiber, Britain's richest man. cargo ship is hijacked by Somali Kiefer Sutherland Word on net: “Coogan's pirates who proceed to engage in Plot: A young Pakistani man is performance is consistently escalating negotiations with chasing corporate success on Wall amusing, but the poignant authorities in Copenhagen.

Street. He finds himself embroiled dimensions the director appears to be seeking don't quite come together.” n “Funny and touching, but feels like a missed n STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS has opportunity.” n “Entertaining, the crew of the Enterprise find an energetic tale of fame and unstoppable force of terror within debauchery.” their own organisation. Stars Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto and DEAD MAN DOWN Benedict Cumberbatch as Khan.

Dir: Niels Arden Oplev To win two tickets to the Odeon Stars: Colin Farrell, Noomi Rapace, Brighton send the answer to the Dominic Cooper following question to Gscene Competition, 111 Western Road, Hove, Plot: In New York City, a crime BN3 1DD: lord's right-hand man is seduced by In which supernatural TV series did Quinto play half of a ghostly one of his boss's victims, a woman gay couple? seeking retribution.

Word on net: “A derivative APRIL COMPETITION: Filth.

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

BERNIE Dir: Richard Linklater Stars: Jack Black, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey Plot: In small-town Texas, the local mortician strikes up a friendship with a wealthy widow, though when he kills her, he goes to great lengths to create the illusion that she's alive.

Word on net: “It's like nothing Black's done before and proves

GSCENE 63

GEEK

GAYMING

SCENE

BY CRAIG STORRIE

COMICS Ever since DC Comics rebooted their universe in 2011 after the Flashpoint event, sales have gone from strength to strength. Whilst DC recently cancelled series’ that didn’t work such as Firestorm and Grifter, their other titles have been a roaring success with the Batman and Green Lantern series being the best they have been in years. Comic fans were eager to see what Marvel would bring to the plate now that DC’s mini reboot was doing wonders for them and they got their answer in October 2012 with the Marvel NOW imprint. Dealing with the fallout from the Marvel Universe-wide event Avengers vs X-Men, Marvel NOW isn’t a reboot, it’s more a relaunch of every title. All current series’ would restart with brand new number 1 issues and all new titles would be introduced.

Marvel intended the NOW imprint to be not only something for current fans but also a spring board for new readers to get stuck into the Marvel Universe. Even if you have never read a comic in your life, you could pick up any of the number 1 issues and get straight into the story. It was a bold move on Marvel’s part and something that actually worked in their favour. As every title old and new started back at issue 1, I want to give you guys a few titles I think you should pick up and read. So let’s kick off with;

SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN

n Peter Parker is Spider-Man no more. In the

final issue of Amazing Spider-Man Peter was mind swapped with his arch nemesis Doctor Octopus and died whilst in the villain’s decaying body. Writer Dan Slott truly shocked the fandom to the core with shaking up the status quo in a way nobody could have ever predicted but it works so well! Watching Otto take Peter’s body and use it for his own gain is both annoying and addictive, and his take no crap version of Spider-Man is equally enjoyable to watch as he goes to lengths that Peter would never do.

X-MEN

n Basically an all-girl team, X-Men takes arguably the strongest characters in the X-Men universe and puts them on a team consisting of heavy weights such as Storm and Rogue coupled with fan favourites like Jubilee and Psylocke. Featuring stunning art by Olivier Coipel and clever writing by Brian Wood it is a perfect series with which to indulge your inner mutant.

FEARLESS DEFENDERS

n What do you get when you put together a

street wise cop and an Asgardian warrior woman?

The answer is a kick arse series! Another all-girl team, this time dealing with defeating the evil witch Morgan Le Fay, Fearless Defenders is just a damn good read. With fluid art and clever writing the two ‘fish out of water’ leads really help take this series in new directions.

Notable Mentions; All New X-Men, New Avengers, Uncanny X-Men and Guardians of the Galaxy

This month sees the release of Star Trek: Into Darkness, the highly anticipated sequel to J.J Abrams 2009’s Star Trek reboot. The film is said to stretch the family of the Enterprise to their limits due to a villainous mastermind played by the always awesome Benedict Cumberbatch. Due to the popular film series reappearing on everyone’s radar I wanted to give a list of Star Trek games that I think are pretty fantastic and will get your Starfleet juices flowing! n Let’s begin with one of my all-time favourite PC games: Star Trek:

Voyager: Elite Force. Taking place during the sixth season of the popular series, you are thrust into the shoes of Ensign Alex Monroe a member of the Hazard Team, an elite security team which was created to deal with dangerous away missions. Gameplay takes the form of a first person shooter with Star Trek staples such as phasers and disrupters taking the place of traditional pistols and shotguns. It’s a clever story driven game but it is in its enemies and online play where it steps up a gear. The first time you are on a Borg cube skulking about the seemingly statuesque villains just waiting for the moment they awake and spring upon you is both terrifying and exhilarating. Online play is amazing for a game released 13 years ago and takes place rather brilliantly on the holodeck with support for up to 32 players at any one time. Modes are your usual online fare such as death match and capture the flag. An expansion pack also adds the fantastic ‘assimilation’ match, where one team is the Borg and must attempt to assimilate the other team; if a player is assimilated they join the Borg team, gradually reducing the amount of players on the other team. All in all Elite Force is a game that any Star Trek fans need to play. n If you ever wanted to be a Captain of a star

ship then BRIDGE COMMANDER is your dream game. With the plot basically revolving around a newly promoted Captain charged to investigate an exploded star, it’s just an excuse to get yourself in the Captain’s chair and order your team about. The game allows two different styles of gameplay: the aforementioned storyline mode and quick battle mode. Quick battle mode allows for customised scenarios within a ‘simulated’ environment, allowing the player to pick their allies/enemies, system, etc. With the advent of the modding community, custom missions and even campaigns have been made available to download and prolong your commanding experience. n If real-time strategy is your

preference then get stuck into STAR TREK: ARMADA. Players select a faction from the Star Trek universe and build fleets of star ships and space station bases to conduct battle. Often regarded as one of the better Star Trek games, Armada hits all the right notes especially with its graphics, sound effects and accurately replicated ships from the Next Generation.

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

ALSO OUT THIS MONTH...

ALSO OUT THIS MONTH...

Thanos Rising, The Green Team, The Wake and Half Past Danger (All the above are available from Dave’s Comics, Sydney St, Brighton)

Resident Evil: Revelations, Metro: Last Light and Donkey Kong Returns 3D.

64 GSCENE

SHOPPING WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN

Moustache Corkscrew, £11.99 (England at Home, 59 Ship St, 01273 738270)

Alessi Duck Timer, £34 (Caz Systems, 17 Church St, Brighton, 01273 326471)

Tiny Book Light, £6.99 (Pen To Paper, 4 Sydney St, Brighton, 01273 676670) Tea Bird tea infuser, £9.95 (Pussy, 3a Kensington Gardens, Brighton, 01273 604861)

Birthday Cards, £2.50; Banksy Mugs, £5.95; Banksy Coasters, £2.25; Digital Powerpump, £79.95; Manual Pump, £49.99 (Prowler, 112 St James' St, Brighton, 01273 683680)

66 GSCENE

CRAIG’S THOUGHTS DIRTY LAUNDRY TO BLOG OR NOT TO BLOG...

OR: EVERYONE’S A WRITER BABE

BY CRAIG HANLON-SMITH Later this year will be my tenth anniversary in writing for this magazine. In that time I have clocked up a mind bogglingly approximate 130,000 words stuffed into somewhere in the region of 130 separate articles. Granted, I am yet to change the world but assessing that word count I am very much hoping to collect my PHD in 'gay' possibly at the end of the Pier somewhere around June time should a summer month decide to rear its head at all. I would however like to pause and take a moment to say that I have loved every minute of the everyman garbles, and to my moderate army of readers who remain polite enough to continue to follow my societal nip 'n' tuck observations, I thank you.

For those of you who as we share these thoughts are hastily composing your own offerings by email to the editor in the hope that this is my resignation piece, it isn't, so bow down bitches and back off - I'm going nowhere. Assuming that I am not fired by the editor for again upsetting local moguls and reliable advertisers (hey James, only twice in ten years is pretty impressive and that was simply because they didn't understand the subtextual wry political urban analysis of my intellectual observations - ahem) I shall be sharing fingertip dead skin cells with my laptop for some time yet.

the quip is made and the control of the publisher appears to be one that is diminishing year on year. You cannot of course exercise the same level of publisher policing to an online blog entry. You cannot.

I have included the Anne Frank musical adaptation ‘gag’ to be deliberately provocative within the context of this article and with a tongue planted firmly in my cheek intend no offence, but as the author of this article what I have absolutely no control over is how that is read, received and how it is shared. Once it is out there, it no longer belongs to me. With the internet it all happens much quicker. Once your personal stories, social commentaries or peer assassinations (delete as appropriate) are drop kicked into the World Wide Web they no longer belong to you – even if you created them.

I am fully aware that my articles reveal an awful lot of information about me through my choice of subject, style and humour but there is a whole heap of his dark materials swimming around in this head space and you’re never going to get it. I am endlessly amazed by the level of personal disclosure in blog form and then bewildered reaction if its local, national or in some cases international response is not quite as the author imagined. It is I believe what my grandmother used to call ‘washing your dirty knickers in public’.

“I am endlessly amazed by the level of personal disclosure in blog form and then bewildered reaction if its local, national or in some cases international response is not quite as the author imagined”

I am not ashamed to say that I have coyly enjoyed receiving praise for my efforts whilst out and about, so should you clock me in Tesco or the bowling alley - feel free to gush. On one occasion I shrunk into my coat collar in the back of a taxi full of strangers en route to a party, tearing apart 'that bitter skinny queen dripping his poison in Gscene'; they referred to me by name I am not paranoid okay?

But during CRAIG - The Articles: The First Ten Years, much has changed for both the writer and the print media. Five years ago it was considered a pretty strange affair not to have an internet connection in your house; in 2013 it's all but social suicide not to have it in your hand – responding to emails tomorrow is no longer acceptable and although there are pocketed aversions to social networking sites, almost everyone loves to blog.

Twitter biographies often include at the very least a Facebook link, but increasingly an automated electro-jump start to 'me_myself&I.com' and I don't know about you Gscene but I cannot keep up. Now look, I want to support the common man's take on the Universe as much as the next tweeter, after all I now have a doctorate in it, but if I read every blog link I am tweeted, honey these nails would never see the underside of an emery board. And where do you guys find the time? Once, twice, three times a daily? Struth Sheilas: I can barely manage to submit my monthly within five days of a deadline. And I ask, as one social observer of the everyday to another, is anybody listening? And if they're not, does it matter?

Although eventually reaching the personal libraries of millions, I am pretty confident that Anne Frank did not write her diaries with such internationally successful publication in mind, nor did she ask them to be turned into a musical based on the songs of the Nolan Sisters (interesting thought though; I've got Attention To Me covered but weaving in I'm In The Mood For Dancing is proving tricky unless we give it to The Gestapo for a big finish) but published they were and once they are out there we can pretty much stomp all over them any which way we choose. I appreciate her estate may want to exercise a little control and perhaps take a view on my flippant Nolan Sisters quip but

It doesn’t always take the sophistication of a blog to project thoughts divulged on a whim into hyperspace. Twitter has over the past two years hosted bomb threats to regional airports and the promise of an assassination attempt on Kate McCann whilst running The London Marathon. Whilst these may be issued in jest and their authors give no more thought to them than the time it takes to press ‘share’, once the hare is running the race is on and its author a spectator in the Grandstand.

Understand that I do not stand in judgement at the content of these online splurges whether beautifully crafted into a 1,200 word masterpiece or tweeted in two phrases or less, and please write write write anything and everything your heart desires with the knowledge that freedom of expression is king. But do be prepared to take the rolls with the punches as no one is beyond reproach.

What is on your mind? Do you really want to tell us?

You can follow Craig on Twitter @CHanlonSmith (FYI: I’m not always nice).

GSCENE 67

VRON’S

HOMELY

HOMILY

BY GLENN STEVENS

VOICE

A BETTER PLACE

DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE

School for me was a depressing place and one I left very happily, determined to never look back or revisit. Although some of the teachers where nice, there was never any real support for pupils like me, who had undiagnosed dyslexia and therefore were either labelled as lazy or thick. So I left school with three poorly graded GCSEs in English, Science and Domestic Science and no real plan on what to do next.

Me, I’m more of a glass half empty person. And when feeling fed up, for whatever reason, I do not want to be told to think positively. That is guaranteed to wind me up big time. It might even help to shake me out of my lethargy for a few minutes!

My first job was as a washer upper at a burger bar called Big Daddies. One of the managers there was a gay guy called Colin, who also ran a bed & breakfast and performed drag shows for his guests at the weekend. Colin would try and shock me with stories of how he’d stung his tackle with aftershave and said, “It wasn’t even worth it, I didn’t even get a sniff”.

The laughs came to an end when the business was sold off to a couple from the East End, who turned the place into an upmarket steak house and employed a chef who would routinely beat me up.

Although I didn’t give the feelings I had a label, I was deeply depressed. At the same time I was dating a girl called Heather. I‘d go on a double date with my mate Gary. While he would take his girlfriend to the back row for a snog and fumble, I’d sit stiffly still, thinking about a bloke called Neil I’d been secretly seeing and had gone past first, second and third base months before I got involved in the farcical relationship with Heather.

Things came to a head when on one of my secret visits to Neil’s bedsit, he told me not to come round anymore as he had taken an overdose. Aged 17, I didn’t have the life skills to help or cope and my own life fell apart. I lost my job (which in one sense was a great relief) and ended up moving back to my nana’s house. Back home the truth about my sexuality came out and much to my surprise the world didn’t stop turning and the love from my family wasn’t withdrawn.

“The truth about my sexuality came out and much to my surprise the world didn’t stop turning and the love from my family wasn’t withdrawn” Soon after I met a man called Tim, a man twice my age who according to my nana, ‘Looked like a film star’. The most precious gift Tim gave me was a listening ear. He asked me what it was I really wanted in life. My response was a career as a chef. Unlike the teachers at school, Tim didn’t see me as thick or lazy, but instead gave me the support and encouragement that I could achieve whatever I wanted to do and enrolled me at Norwich Hotel School.

Over the years I have fallen into some very dark spaces, but the confidence that was instilled with me back then, along with the strong bound of friendship of the people I met back in Norwich and the ones I met along the way, has enabled me to ride out my depressive times and enjoy all that life has to offer me.

There is of course a marked difference between a mild case of the blues, and feeling deeply, clinically depressed. I have experienced periodic bouts of depression for much of my life. The first episode happened when I was 17. It descended on me like a massive, malevolent cloud. It was partly post-viral, partly a touch of teenage angst over the (then) boyfriend, and it carried on for several miserable weeks. I remember shutting myself in my bedroom a lot. It felt like I was trapped inside my own head, unable to respond to other people or to enthuse about anything much. I can’t recall precisely what triggered my recovery – maybe my ongoing passion for Miss J, the English teacher, and my wish to avoid missing any more of her lessons.

In those days (early 1960s) there was a far greater social stigma about depressive illness. You were expected and exhorted to pull yourself together or snap out of it. Little or no sympathy or understanding was forthcoming from one’s nearest and dearest, and counselling was simply not an option. There was little or nothing in the way of therapeutic outlets, not until the 1980s and 90s, when such ‘talking treatments’ became more widely available.

“This bleak phase seemed never-ending. It felt like there was a brick wall between me and the rest of the world” And yet, depression has been around for hundreds of years – and it does not discriminate. Some of our most illustrious forebears, among them Sir Winston Churchill, were said to have been afflicted with what he termed the ‘Black Dog’. Other alleged victims have included the poets John Donne and Thomas Gray, the puritan writer John Bunyan and even Oliver Cromwell. Elizabeth Barrett Browning was another possible sufferer. Anglican minister Robert Burton published his famous analysis of the condition, The Anatomy of Melancholy, in 1621. And as far back as the fifth century BC, melancholy was apparently cited by the eminent Greek physician Hippocrates.

As with many ailments, the causes of depression are partly genetic. In my case, it stems from my father’s side of the family. A few years ago I was laid low by a nasty ear infection which persisted throughout a mega-hot summer. The pain and discomfort were intense, and, naturally enough in the circumstances, I became extremely depressed.

I was on a cocktail of medication and passed my days in a zombie-like stupor, losing all desire to socialise or engage with my surroundings.

This bleak phase seemed never-ending. It felt like there was a brick wall between me and the rest of the world. But thanks to some wonderfully loyal, supportive friends, and several sessions of acupuncture, I eventually recovered. I started to enjoy the sunshine, smell the roses and actually look forward to the future.

My most recent low mood, I can safely say, was linked to the SAD syndrome – a result of lack of sunlight during the prolonged, gruelling winter we’ve just been through - truly a winter of discontent. I hope that by the time you get to read this, all our serotonin levels will have shot up, along with the spring flowers.

68 GSCENE

HEART & SOLE GREAT PRETENDER WHAT’S LEFT TO PROVE?

BY DARREN SOLE Everyone has a bad day from time to time. Bad hair? Disaster! Missed the train? Trauma! Pustulating zit? Game Over! But depression is something else.

In my experience, depression felt like being trapped at the bottom of a deep, dark well from which (I thought) there was no escape. Throw in a smattering of panic attacks, a touch of agoraphobia and a hint of deliriousness, and you’ll find it’s not the best way to wile the days away. Despairing, directionless and the help offered by loved ones; seemingly meaningless. The idea of making a comeback, harder than Anne Widdecombe being thought of as a proper human being.

I believe that in my case, depression is partly genetic. And, just like my brown hair, blue eyes and unfeasibly large penis (joke) it’s hardwired. In fact, just like my sexuality, which also has had a profound effect on my self worth or, should I say, others’ reaction to my sexuality. Yes, depression may well be handed down through the generations, like an unwanted heirloom, but the chances that I might get more depressed than the next person, is significantly increased simply because I’m gay.

An alarming number of studies continue to show that LGBT people report higher levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal feelings than heterosexuals, all linked to experiences of homophobia. Hostility from family, bullying at school, rejection by religions, danger of violence in public and not to mention everyday casual homophobia, all lead to some of us having major issues accepting our sexuality, leading to conflicts, denial and isolation, while others try to keep their ‘secret’ through lying or leading a double life, resulting in damaged relationships.

having qualified as a chef, and hating it. He felt that at 16, his ‘mates’ would’ve made his life a misery for choosing to be a hairdresser, and knew they’d reject him for ‘being gay’.

So, in a surprising turn of events, is it possible that ‘out’ gay men have nothing left to prove, while straight men, now have to pretend to be all manner of things? One study published this year has claimed that gay men are indeed happier than straight men, suggesting that gay men who come out suffer far less anxiety and depression than straight men. Throw into the mix that we’re more likely to work out and eat a healthier diet than straight blokes, plus the fact that we ‘unload’ more by discussing our feelings and emotions, which doesn’t always come naturally to them, could be some of the reasons that straight blokes are often more depressed than us.

But as we know, it often takes extensive ‘studies’ to reveal the bleeding obvious; being treated differently WILL have a detrimental effect on gay mental health and make us feel depressed.

But the good news; coming out (and through the other end) makes us more resilient. Going through a major, stressful event like that helps develop coping strategies that we can use in the future. Having to delve deeper for answers and having to question more can free our minds, creating a stronger, clearer picture.

“Homophobia can sometimes affect them (heterosexuals) too, creating a culture where straight men are forced to act out roles, making them act in ridiculous ways, just to prove that they’re NOT gay”

“Studies continue to show that LGBT people report higher levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal feelings than heterosexuals” Even though at last, in law, we’re treated more equally than ever, we forget that we’ve had to curtail natural, reflex behaviours resulting in confidence destroying habits, that straight people simply don’t have to waste their time worrying about. Is it safe to hold his hand in this street, on this bus or in this pub? How will the bloke at work, the taxi driver or the woman in the shop react when they ask if I have a girlfriend, and I answer boyfriend? Apologetically? Embarrassed?

Violently?

We’ve had to omit stuff, in fear of safety, from what should be natural conversational and physical behaviours for years, chiselling away at our psyches every day, and when forced to question the validity of the fundamental emotions of love and identity so frequently, it's no wonder that our spirits comes in for a battering.

And although straights can’t really be expected to imagine what it’s like for us, homophobia can sometimes affect them too, creating a culture where straight men are forced to act out roles, making them act in ridiculous ways, just to prove that they’re NOT gay.

I was saddened to discover that the straight trainee at my hairdressers had only just found the ‘courage’ to retrain as a stylist, years after

But straight or gay, if you do have unresolved issues that are impeding your growth, then seek out help! I can’t believe there’s still stigma surrounding (whisper it!) counselling but that getting pissed on a Friday night to drown your sorrows is hilarious, right?! I’ve had two ‘stints’ in therapy; painful but rewarding. Having someone who can’t escape my tortured ranting for an hour? Brilliant!

We often think that us gay people are all f*cked up. But, newsflash, straight people are too. We all are! But it's no wonder that us gayers may be more sensitive; the straights have been able to slot into ‘traditional’ and recognised life patterns such as prom dates, marriage and 2.4 kids for generations. We’ve had to make up our own rules and, against all the odds, we’re doing alright.

Yes, looking in from the outside means that our brains have to chew a bit harder but that can be more rewarding. Life’s a lottery, but I believe us ‘gays’ are winning because, as the 21st century progresses, our numbers are finally coming in (and I didn’t even begin to talk about all of our Bonus Balls).

GSCENE 69

NETTY’S

QUEERYING

WORLD

QUEENIE

BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE

TEMPERAMENTAL HEALTH

DIVING INTO HER 50s

Mental illness strikes one in four people and gay people are more likely to suffer some form of mental health problem due to the social exclusion and hatred we face in our daily lives. I have depression and anxiety issues and don’t like to stare too far into the future, I prefer to dread one day at a time.

I’m sure that when I first moved to Brighton thirty or so years ago, all Siouxsie hair and youthful skin, that someone the age I am now seemed like the Ancient bloody Mariner. They’d be doing grown-up type things and obviously hiding the wrinkles away at home whilst nursing a Horlicks and wondering what to get the grandchildren for Xmas, and no doubt feeling old and possibly even wise. But now that my knees have started to give me ‘gyp’, I really should get bi-focals as I can no longer read anything close up with my glasses on and I’ve had to go blonde to disguise the fact I’m more grey than, ahem, ‘brunette’, inside my head I’m not even remotely elderly. And while I feel I’ve had lots of experiences that have taught me the odd lesson, as yet I’m nowhere near sage-like in my wisdom.

Laughter really is the best medicine. It lowers stress hormones and strengthens the immune system, which is just as well as mental health suffering will always largely be derided. If someone has a dodgy ticker or a bad back they’re given help and compassion, but if my mind occasionally breaks or malfunctions I face terrible stigma. In bygone days I’d have been sent to somewhere lovely like the Bethlehem Hospital for lunatics and idiots, otherwise known as Bedlam. Bedlam has become a byword for uproar and confusion; it should be adopted as a blanket term for the Government’s new welfare reform.

I’m going to speak plainly here: I HATE this Government. What a nefarious bunch of toffs and wankers they are. Is it me, or does David Cameron always look as if he’s just eaten a goose? I’m so angry and anxious about everything he says, I have clenched hair.

“Is it me, or does David Cameron always look as if he’s just eaten a goose? I’m so angry and anxious about everything he says, I have clenched hair” It was my misfortune some years ago to find myself unable to work due to severe depression. At the same time, a friend of mine had a more physical malaise and was interviewed at the job centre by a lovely kind lady who signed him off work for two months. I, in the meantime was interviewed at the job centre by the puppet from Saw and came away feeling worthless and suicidal. I hope attitudes are improving. Clinical depression means you can’t simply turn that frown upside down.

I’d like to highlight some recent research into mental health and smoking. Not cannabis though, that definitely induces paranoia.

Luckily, when I refer to ‘good grass’ I’m commenting on someone’s lawn, but my partner gave up ciggies two years ago and the initial side effect was surprising: she became depressed.

It seems nicotine is the strongest antidepressant known, hence the free fags handed out to soldiers in World War I, “while I’ve a Lucifer to light my fag, smile boys that’s the style”. People with depression and anxiety are twice as likely to smoke and are actually more addicted.

They are self-medicating. The Government would be wise to address this issue rather than try to save money by cutting their benefits and closing down mental health services.

Considering the state of the modern world I’m not surprised at my condition.

Life is crazy. It’s is too fast moving to live in the moment, yet the average person spends two years of their life waiting for traffic lights to change! Mental illness is the eternal taboo, but I‘m not above having a little fun with it. When I receive a cold call, I deal with it thus: “Hello?” (feeble voice) “are you real… or are you one of the voices in my head?” Works every time.

This is probably a good thing as otherwise I’d have given up on all the things I love and become - sensible! Oh lord, now that just wouldn’t feel right. I don’t want to stop DJing or going out partying with the missus and hearing other people playing beautiful music and staying up till silly o’clock having drunk the bar dry even though I’m fifty. And I guess it’s still okay as nobody has requested that I stop, even the youngsters (i.e practically everyone else). I just have to accept that it takes slightly longer to recover. And anyway, if I was sensible it wouldn’t have entered my head to do something to commemorate my half century that I’ve never done before and will probably never do again, particularly with my dodgy knees.

So on the 6th July I will be leaping out of a plane. There will be a parachute and (hopefully) an expert who I’ll be tandem jumping with.

I’m so excited! And if I hadn’t had the life-skills experience of working up perilous scaffolding when I toiled on a building site that cured a previous fear of heights, I’m sure I wouldn’t be so keen.

“With customary humility I’ve decided against insisting a red carpet is rolled out for my landing, but I’m still trying to work out if my tiara will squeeze under the protective helmet” And anyway, it’s all for an excellent cause. I’ll be jumping with the Bear-Patrol to raise money for the brilliant Sussex Beacon, our care centre for men and women with HIV/AIDS related illnesses. It’ll be at Netheravon Airfield Salisbury Plain should anybody fancy a day out to see us floating to the ground. With customary humility I’ve decided against insisting a red carpet is rolled out for my landing, but I’m still trying to work out if my tiara will squeeze under the protective helmet.

And can a lady still look regal in knee pads?

So if you can find it in your heart to spare a few quid to sponsor me please visit my Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/queenjo I’ll be squealing my heartfelt thanks to you as I plunge gracefully to the earth. Feeling terrified, yes. Feeling fifty? Never in all my born years!

Check out Sky-dive 13 on Facebook for everything you need to know about Bear-Patrol’s leap in aid of the Sussex Beacon. It’s going to be marvellous!

70 GSCENE

CHARLIE SAYS UP IN ARMS AMERICA, JUSTICE AND FEAR BY CHARLIE BAUER PhD How exciting it’s been! A time justice. The fact that the biggest thing on the American political scene is the issue of gay marriage. Who’d have thought? I think the right wingers have thought it all began to go wrong when they made that goddamn Milk film, which in turn, was about that assassinated city supervisor faggot from San Francisco. But what the film left out, which is the real embarrassment over the pond in the United States, is something to do with a finger-shaped sponge cake called strangely enough, The Twinkie.

The sad news is that Twinkies have since been taken off the market.

They were the ultimate junk food - oily sponge that sat sweating in service stations for months with no sign of rancidity. Rumour has it that they were never actually baked, that their very existence was the result of a chemical reaction with faux cream piped through it.

Consequently, Americans gobbled up in the millions.

Then there was something called ‘The Twinkie Ruling’ which is something best taken with a glass of fortified Milk. The term is a euphemism for when the American court system gets it so badly wrong, it almost becomes laughable. Laughable, apparently, even when people like Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone are murdered. Or, when Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman are slain on a doorstep while OJ walks free.

What we didn’t see in the film Milk was what happened after the assassination by Dan White.

Dan white was an alpha male, ex-cop who was known to vocally despise homosexuals. He was also an addictive kind of guy who was originally bent on ‘health and exercise’. But then his marriage failed and the spiral-downwards began. He turned to junk food and became addicted to high sugar, this caused his depression which then led to the sugar rush he experienced which then caused him to shoot Harvey Milk. As a result, the judge ruled for the sugar-rush instead of White’s hatred of homosexuals, and so he was let off with the lesser conviction of voluntary manslaughter.

“The judge ruled for the sugar-rush instead of White’s hatred of homosexuals, and so he was let off with the lesser conviction of voluntary manslaughter” By 1985 a period of intense focus was again on the gay male community who now had a new assassin in the shape of a disease that was decimating their community. But the global onus was now turning toward the support of gay men and, even within uber-Reaganism around, the HIV struggle was becoming mainstream. In 1985 the rights of gay men was forefronted onto the global agenda. In 1985 Dan White made the decision to kill himself.

And this is US law in a nutshell.

White’s lawyers have been backtracking ever since Harvey Milk’s assassination and the gay equality struggle gathered speed and support. Who can blame them? They had a client. They’ve got their kids, and college educations to think of... Their only job was to find a loophole and this is what they did. As did OJ’s lawyers, but only for the right price. (If the glove fits…)

The ramifications key judgements such as these are balanced upon, are often enormous. I was in Los Angeles on the day of the Judge Ito/OJ Simpson trial and I found myself on a deserted boulevard at 11am. I was the only car on the road, it was so empty, it was eerie. Then I remembered the OJ verdict was to be broadcast live that day. So, like any cautious citizen, I did a U-turn and headed for the safety of my house. This verdict was hot on the heels of the appalling Rodney King beating by the LAPD and Los Angelenos were preparing themselves for riots on a mammoth scale. Then OJ was acquitted, and the city folk, still in shock, gradually got on with their lives, hit the roads and freeways, and headed back to work.

Dan White’s trial verdict on the other hand, resulted in a protest by the relatively few Milk supporters they could find. In those closeted times even those people who wanted to oppose such a miscarriage of justice mostly found that they couldn’t. It was obvious we had entered the gay ‘cold war’, and we would have to shiver through it for at least the next twenty years.

But even stranger things happen. In 1982, as a result of the gathering disapproval in the Dan White case, the term ‘diminished capacity’, which is what he was convicted upon, was abolished by the Victims’ Bill of Rights – a bill otherwise known as Proposition 8.

In 2008, exactly thirty years since the assassination of Harvey Milk, California’s Proposition 8 inserted a constitutional amendment, which states that ‘marriage only between a man and a woman is valid or recognised in California’. Happy anniversary Harvey.

“The fact that the justices of the Supreme Court were so sharply divided as they reconsidered Proposition 8, makes me think that people are still fundamentally homophobic” And this is where we are today. What we thought was going to be a landslide sweep in Washington didn’t exactly happen. This was no tearing down of our own Berlin wall. Inequality doesn’t end here.

There’s more fights ahead over in the US for the children and partners of gay men and lesbians. And the fact that the justices of the Supreme Court were so sharply divided as they reconsidered Proposition 8, makes me think that people are still fundamentally homophobic. And, as a definition, I mean actually scared of what the gays will bring to society (no I’m not talking about a history of music, art and culture either).

It will probably be Justice Anthony M Kennedy, a vocal supporter of gay rights, who will hold the deciding vote. He recently vocalised that he was ‘wrestling’ with his decision. Well, we can’t ‘wrestle’ with why we fall in love. But this isn’t about gay marriage anymore. This is again about discrimination and fear - the banishment of which, modern America is supposedly proudly based upon.

GSCENE 71

DUNCAN’S

TRANS

BY DUNCAN STEWART

BY STEPH SCOTT

THE CONCERN OF OTHERS

MENTAL HEALTH

Psychiatrists, whom I have often found to be the wisest, kindest and most tolerant members of my profession, do get a bit peeved when words they have adopted drift into common usage. Depressed, manic and paranoid, words which describe serious psychiatric disorders are reduced to meaning ‘fed up’, ‘busy’ and ‘can’t take a joke’. Our psychiatrists have retaliated by renaming manic depression as bipolar disorder and lowly impotence is now erectile dysfunction. But whatever their new labels the disorders do not change and if a lay person presumed that depression was a state of unhappiness caused by three cloudy days in a row they would be seriously ill prepared for the misery of the real thing. Depression, the nervous breakdown of yesteryear, varies in severity from a syndrome including low mood, reduced libido, poor memory and impaired concentration to a state of extreme misery with severe loss of intellectual function. Anxiety and moderate degrees of depression are, for the time being, referred to as affective disorders (previously neuroses) to distinguish them from the psychoses, the severe illnesses which rob the sufferer of rational thought making them a danger to themselves and, occasionally, to others. All these conditions develop against the backcloth of our emotional maturity.

Mental health issues affect trans people in greater numbers than straight, lesbian, bisexual or gay people and yet we get the least support. Yesterday (March 31) I found out that one of my friends had taken her life after being let down so many times by mental and physical health ‘professionals’. She saw no future with these people passing the buck between each other, leaving her without support.

DOMAIN

“As self-esteem is eroded it becomes harder to feel wanted, loneliness and feelings of exclusion set in” As we grow older we move from the total selfishness of a child through the maelstrom of adolescence, with its attendant narcissism capriciousness and need to conform, to the period in which we become independent of mind, and of our parents. Some people, probably as a result of traumas such as sexual abuse and bullying in their younger days, get stuck along the way and failures to reach the uplands of adulthood, where we take full responsibility for our actions and respect the rights of others, are referred to as personality disorders.

The medicines used to restore to normality the abnormal levels of the brain’s natural chemicals present in the psychoses and affective disorders have no place in the treatment of another condition which consumes much medical time but is not considered to be a medical condition at all; sadness. Sadness is almost always the result of human loss. Children leave home and then ignore or even reject their parents, marriages break down, lovers choose one of 50 ways to leave, friendships lapse, promises are broken and central figures in the cast of one’s life die. We will all have experienced the sadness caused by at least one of these adversities but some people appear unable to emerge from the grip of sadness. As self-esteem is eroded it becomes harder to feel wanted, let alone needed, and so loneliness and feelings of exclusion set in. Relief of sadness requires the restoration of human contact.

When I was in practice I kept on my untidy desk a short list of sad people whom I would occasionally phone for a chat. The expressions of gratitude for those brief contacts were out of all proportion to the effort on my part and I am ashamed that I failed to do it on a wider scale. Expressing interest in and concern for other people is a sign of our own maturity and a great source of reassurance for all who receive it. We could all contribute to solving this problem, it costs us so little and achieves so much, but we are instinctively cautious about encouraging contact which might become intrusive. But that should not inhibit us from surprising a sad neighbour by starting a conversation, phoning a friend with a problem or contacting a bereaved acquaintance after that immediate period when everyone expressed sympathy. You will both feel better.

MATTERS

This is a problem with the ‘trans care pathway’ whereby your local mental health team pass you to the care of a Gender Identity Clinic who are supposed to support your transition whilst helping with any mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety etc) that may result from you losing friends, family, or a job because of your transition.

This in most cases does NOT happen and if anything a trans person will try to put a ‘brave’ face on so as not to jeopardise their place on the pathway. It is unlikely to change under the new NHS, whereby a single Specialised Commissioning Group is responsible for providing national funding for trans patients whereas before it was on a regional basis. Trans people in some regions may see an improvement in services whilst others may see things getting worse!

There is also the added pressure from right wing media, as well as sadly left wing media, printing vile stories/opinions/lies about trans people and allowing equally vile trolls to comment on these articles. Recently Richard Littlejohn joined the nominations for bigot of the year (well in the eyes of a lot of us) with his 'monstering' of Lucy Meadows, which may or may not have contributed to her sudden death. Cause of death is not yet known but many people believe that the behaviour of the national and local papers had a hand in it. 250,000 have signed petitions calling for Littlejohn to be sacked from the Daily Mail and a vigil held outside their offices was joined by 300 or so people, not just trans, but people who wanted to stand in the cold and show their respect for Lucy.

“It’s easy to say that trans people are respected the way they should be but dig deeper and you will find that we are still an 'easy' target” Nowadays it is easy to say that trans people are being respected the way they should be but dig deeper and you will find that we are still an 'easy' target for too many sh*ts in this world as well as those who treat us as a group to be tacked on to their own agenda. Pride in choosing ‘Gay Icons’ as its theme were guilty of that and have hopefully taken that on board to be seen to be more inclusive. The word 'gay' as used by people nowadays does not apply to bi, trans and some lesbian people although its original usage in the 1960s was to show that we (non-straight people) are as 'Good As You' straight people.

Mental health help is only as good as what is provided and the majority of trans people cannot afford to see private specialists so have to rely on the NHS. As someone who suffers from depression and anxiety I know full well that there is not the resources and money within the NHS to provide all the support needed. Groups like MindOut, Allsorts, Switchboard and the Clare Project are being 'asked' to offer the support, on the cheap, that the NHS fails to provide.

72 GSCENE

SHARP WORDS ON THE BUSES DEL SHARP ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT ETIQUETTE Sharp Words, ever the pedestrian, is finding a new friend in the buses of our lovely city. I have to get a bus to work now rather than walk the grumpy walk through the filthy, mean and dangerous streets I have the pleasure of residing in and am tentatively impressed by the service. I admit that the buses often turn up exactly on time very frequently, then there seem to be extra buses that aren’t timetabled whatsoever or some that are and just don’t come at all.

Now most people would make the most of this solitary quiet time to do something productive, I have tried hard. Others are reading, listening to music, watching movies, texting, talking on the phone, but no none of this for me, the relentless joggling of the bus is enough to make my fillings loosen. I feel sick and can barely focus on the fleeting view of the rabbits and fields we pass let alone do anything as intricate as text.

This is a time I regret taking milk to work as I can practically spread it by the time I arrive. Don’t get me started what happens with the soup.

All I can do is to clench my teeth and the bag and for the umpteenth time recalculate why I can’t afford the train.

Instead I just watch people and get irritated. Why is it that teenage boys have to sit opposite from each other on a busy bus and bellow so everyone can hear them? I have found that a moody middle aged woman plonking down next to one of them soon puts a dampener on the party, especially if she takes her time moving as he tries to squirm past to sit next to his friend and talk quietly (‘Like he should have done in the first place’ thinks the crabby old misery).

I am at a loss at how to complain about such a service, or whether it’s actually better than it’s supposed to be. I find it more agreeable to just turn up and wait. Forget the written timetable, the app or the flashing signs over the stops, none of them tell me truthfully when I can be en route to where I have to get to. One will turn up eventually; unlike a woman, (ooh two at once? Yes please).

“Forget the written timetable, the app or the flashing signs over the stops, none of them tell me truthfully when I can be en route to where I have to get to” But standing at the stop for a possible 0707, or it could be 0718, this is the land where time has no meaning. I see the same sleepy sullen crowd, all of us standing vaguely like zombies and then shuffle to one side with that peculiar gait that allows the more unsavoury characters of the early morning to pass by and not actually get touched by them while I watch the seagulls pick over the kebab debris from the night before.

And then it arrives. I have a smart card ticket I have to hold over a little unit, on top of an outline exactly the same size as my card. I should then see a green light flash which allows me to get on. Sounds easy, but somehow I’ve been managing to place my magic card in all the wrong places that stops it working and frequently with the same drivers.

The upshot of this is they tell me off in really more of a heartfelt way than is necessary but probably deserved and I’ve suddenly developed the demeanour of a dog about to be kicked as soon as I board. They obviously see me as some weird Frank Spencer figure and one got so cross he took the card off me and wouldn’t give it back.

Not an hour after leaving the comfort of my warm bed I am fully awakened forcefully by the baleful flickers of recognition from someone with a job possibly more miserable than mine but with rather more authority. Forcing back the whimpers of remonstration I have fumbled for my purse instead on several occasions.

Finally, we all take our usual seat. Mine is somewhere just behind the sleepy Spanish people murmuring softly and napping under hoods, close to the boy reading his history of art book and across from the lovely girl who gets on board with me and listens to her Ipod (half my age, I know, but I can look). The boy with earmuffs is in front and also the strange man who smiles and repeatedly whispers hello to me and anyone else who catches his eye is frequently there too.

The journey begins.

“Why is it that teenage boys have to sit opposite from each other on a busy bus and bellow so everyone can hear them?”

Do let it be known this figure of probable menopausal wrath and dislike of foul mouthed cocky youth is a character of urban myth like ghostly white women in castles, except you might spot her on some of the buses I happen to get on too.

Feet on seats is something the sharp eyed old apparition has noticed also; the back seats of the bus downstairs where, as all old hands and buttocks know is the warmest place to sit. Except that you may have to sit on the muddy (hopefully only mud) scraps that have been left there by someone sitting opposite with their feet up. Do they do this at home? Yes, very probably. If I were texting I could use some funny little face with a wry yet exasperated expression but I’m not so have to use my own.

When I end my journey I already feel exhausted and irritable, and I haven’t even started work yet. Can you imagine me on the way back?

Just don’t sit next to me... ever. Although I would make the odd exception...

GSCENE 73

SUCHI’S

WORLD

TV SCENE

SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM

WINTER TV ROCKED BECAUSE...

Have you heard about Universal Credit (UC)? Well if you haven’t and you are on benefits right now then you are in for a rather nasty surprise.

...there were disastrous dates, deceptive daters and crowd-surfing baby penguins. With online catch-up services providing a twenty-fourseven smorgasbord of great telly, it’s no longer about what’s coming up, but what’s just gone. Here are the best bits from the past couple of months that you can still enjoy:

BY MATT PHIL CARVER

BY SUCHI CHATTERJEE

In the next few months the majority of benefits with the exception of Council Tax Benefit and parts of the social fund will become UC which will be payable to claimants monthly instead of fortnightly.

Not only will it be payable monthly, Housing Benefit (HB) which at this moment in time is paid in the majority of cases to the landlord or the council directly, will be included in this monthly lump sum.

For people who are good at budgeting and know how to keep an eye on the pennies, this transition will hopefully be reasonably painless.

For the majority though the change from fortnightly to monthly payments will be a shock to the system. And I suspect that a lot of people will not cope very well with the change.

Suddenly they will have a large sum of money at their disposal and I have a horrible feeling that a large proportion of UC claimants won’t be paying all of their rent each month. And I am not for one moment saying that the rent money will be spent on booze and drugs, in the majority of cases it will be used to pay off debts, buy much needed clothes for children as well as to buy food to fill hungry bellies.

“There is supposed to be a support network for the most vulnerable people who transition to UC but this is in the voluntary sector which we all know is already creaking under the workload” For those people with mental health issues who have relied on their HB to be paid directly to their landlord so as to give them one less financial burden to cope with, they will suddenly have to deal with not only paying their rent but paying it on time.

In theory there is supposed to be a support network in place for the most vulnerable of people who transition over to UC but this support is in the voluntary sector and the voluntary sector as we all know is already creaking under the workload it has.

So people are going to fall through the cracks and the first to fall I suspect will be those with mental health issues.

Monthly paid UC says the Government pompously “is there to help people learn to budget” so that when they come off benefits they will have an idea of what it is like to live in the real word of being paid monthly. Ironic really when 50% of the UK workforce is paid monthly and the rest either weekly or fortnightly.

UC is in theory a good idea. In reality it could be a nightmare that no one will get the chance to wake up from.

And its victims will be the mentally ill, young people, single mothers, the disabled, the sick, the terminally ill. It will I suspect do one thing that the Government will of course deny it will do. It will be a “gentle form of Eugenics” and the first to go will be those with mental health problems.

On ITV2, the eighth episode of Millionaire Matchmaker Season 3 was good, cringe-worthy fun for all. Cupid for hire Patti Stanger’s task was to find the perfect date for Doug – quite possibly the most narcissistic gay man of all time. Doug attempted to wow his potential suitors with dinner table talk about himself, his eco-friendly clothing line, and then just more and more about himself. His final master date started ominously when he moved to veto a steak order by his date, the charming and immaculately-styled David, because “meat from red animals is bad for the environment” (although he was somewhat vague on the scientific specifics). Patti was not happy, but it was pure entertainment.

More delicious dysfunctional dating was served up by episode nine of Catfish: The TV Show on MTV. Online dating detective Nev Schulman was this time enlisted to help Rod, who had been romancing the voluptuous Ebony for four years, without ever meeting her. Nev was intrigued to find out that Ebony was transgender and that Rod was undeterred by the revelation that ‘she had what he had’. This was barely the start of it though, as further revelations and mistruths came thick and fast. Catfish: The TV Show usually throws up some kind of outrageous online deception, but the latter stages of this episode had more inexplicable twists and turns than the very worst of M Night Shyamalan movies. It’s surely only a matter of time before some innocent Facebook flirt drives the width of American to find that his/her online soul mate is an artificial intelligence, an abnormally dexterous chimp, or perhaps just an actual catfish, flopping around on a keyboard. It’s wonderfully tense telly though.

And in the cute-porn corner this month... It has to be the adorable baby penguins of BBC One’s Penguins - Spy in the Huddle, narrated by the relentlessly likeable David Tennant. Episode three, entitled ‘Growing Up’, was so full of fluffy little creatures and upbeat music that you could be forgiven for bobbing your head along from side to side and grinning like a toddler watching CBeebies. At one point, a multi-tasking emperor penguin had one chick on each of its feet, creating the cutest pair of slippers known to man. Then one fluffy little critter was so desperate to reach its mother that it resorted to crowd-surfing over the huddle. Genius. It wasn’t all fun and games for the little ‘uns though. Some got trod on, attacked by birds, and even bitten on the bum by vampire bats. But if your heart can handle these tougher moments, then it truly is cute-porn nirvana.

74 GSCENE

ROUEN REVISITED Roger Wheeler returns to Normandy

DIEPPE

Normandy, our closest French neighbour, is always worth a visit and I should know. As I settled into my seat on the good ship Cote D’Abatre, which has been chugging across from Newhaven to Dieppe for many years, a thought struck me, I first used this ferry, although not this ship, in 1962 and since then have done so at least once a year. I was quite surprised that I had been going to Normandy for so long, never mind frequent flyer points how about frequent ferry points?

Newhaven/Dieppe is the oldest ferry link in the country; it started around 1863, even before I was born. It has had many owners including Sealink, SNCF, P&O Stena which sold the line to TransManche which sold to LD Lines and now the route is operated by Danish company DFDS Seaways. It’s not bad, takes just under four hours and can be quite cheap.

We took the car with two passengers and it cost just £78 return, but that was in February.

So we land in Dieppe, one of the best kept and attractive French ports on the north west coast. Over the years this pretty little town hasn’t changed that much; it has one main street, the Grand Rue, which has lots of individual shops and bars. The harbour quay is packed with dozens of restaurants and although they all serve similar menus, they all seem pretty good. We had dinner at Le Newhaven, which has been there for over 40 years and is in our opinion one of the best, and on a bleak Wednesday in February was the only restaurant with customers. We put up at our favourite hotel, the Mercure, right next to the casino on the seafront and like all Mercure

hotels was completely reliable with very nice rooms, comfy beds and friendly staff, all you need in a hotel.

The next day we headed to Rouen, just 40 miles away on good, almost empty roads. If you’re in a hurry then it need only take about 50 minutes. But not being in a rush we took the slower D195 road through some really beautiful country, calling briefly at a couple of pretty little villages, Saint-Saëns and Tôtes, and then on to Rouen.

This medieval city, 45% of which was destroyed by the RAF during WW2, is an architectural gem with most of the buildings faithfully restored. The old town is a maze of cobbled streets full of fascinating shops and ancient half-timbered buildings. Rouen is mainly famous as the city that burnt Joan of Arc at the stake in 1431 and is the fourth most important port in France. It lies on the river Seine just 85 miles from Paris but it is a major destination in itself. There is a street of artists’ studios – ‘ateliers’, tailors sitting in their shop windows sewing suits, shops making musical instruments in the traditional way, a shop selling about 100 types of olive oil and one selling what looked like about 1,000 spices. There’s an amazing range of high quality furniture shops too and as for fashion, this is a city of style! There are many great boutiques selling fabulous clothes at not particularly fabulous prices. The patisseries are amazing but very bad for the waistline. This

We booked into a Mercure hotel again, right next to the cathedral and it was excellent in every way; comfortable, clean, welcoming and with its own underground car park. There isn’t a restaurant but there’s a full room service menu. The city is full of restaurants of varying styles and prices. There’s a strong North African influence as well as, surprisingly, an Afghan eatery. We ate in La Walsheim, which features Normandy and Bavarian specialities – sauerkraut is a favourite, if rather heavy dish.

Our table was on a small balcony overlooking the main dining room, great fun and very enjoyable. Three courses for 18€ plus a decent bottle of wine also 18€ meant that we ate very well indeed for 54€ (£48). We look for restaurants that have customers and this one is very popular with the locals.

The next day we found, what looked like, a great steak house, La Boucherie Restaurant.

It wasn’t very busy so we declined the offer of a table in a corner and went to a nice one in one of the huge windows overlooking a pleasant square. The waiter stormed over and ordered us to sit where he had told us to or “go back to England, we don’t want you here”.

Somewhat shocked and a bit dazed we left never to cross the threshold again. In 50 years of visiting this part of France this is the first, and hopefully the last time, I’ve met any form of hostility.

We wandered back through town and chanced on Pascaline. We had eaten there very happily some years ago and although it looked pretty quiet we went in. Sad to say that although the food was fine, the staff have completely lost the plot; the service was so slow we were almost eating the table cloth, no one smiled and the cashier avoided all eye contact. We felt unwelcome and although we had enjoyed our meal, once it arrived, we would probably not return.

As the crow flies, Rouen is only about 150 miles from Brighton and 70 of those miles are spent on a boat, so despite a couple of very small hiccups with restaurants we will return. www.mercure.com

ROUEN

ROUEN CATHEDRAL

city isn’t known for its gay scene, but the XXL Bar, the only gay spot in town, is very pleasant and worth a visit.

www.gaynormandie.com www.rouentourisme.com www.dfdsseaways.co.uk www.rouen.fr

GSCENE 75

SERVICES

DIRECTORY LGBT SERVICES t ACCESS 4 ALL

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

Tel: 07981 170071 or access4all@fsmail.net

t ANYTHING BUT…

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

t ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT

Drop in for LGBT or unsure young people under 26, Tues 5.30-8.30pm. Tel: 01273 721211 or info@allsortsyouth.org.uk, www.allsortsyouth.org.uk

t BRIGHTON & HOVE POLICE

Report all homophobic and transphobic incidents to: • The 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

t BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SAFETY FORUM Independent LGBT forum working with the Community to address and improve safety issues throughout Brighton & Hove. info@lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com

t BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SWITCHBOARD

Tel Helpline, Hate Crime reporting, Counselling service, Proud2connect (relationship counselling in partnership with Brighton Relate). www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton • Helpline from 5pm daily: Tel: 01273 204050 • Services info 01273 234009 • email brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk • or brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk

t BRIGHTON OURSTORY PROJECT

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

t BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE

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

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

t FTM BRIGHTON

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

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

t GEMS (GAY ELDERLY MEN’S SOCIETY)

Twice monthly meeting for over 50s Tel: 01273 884285 or peterotto337@btinternet.com www.gems-bh.org.uk

t LESBIAN LINK BRIGHTON

Local social group offers friendship, social events, meets 1st Thursday at The Regency Tavern 7.30pm Tel: 07594 578035 (eve) www.lesbianlinkbrighton.co.uk

t LESBIAN & GAY AA

12 step self-help programme for alcohol addictions. Sun 7.30pm, Chapel Royal, North St, Btn (side entrance).

Tel: 01273 203343 (general AA line)

t LGBT NA GROUP

Brighton based LGBT (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. Tel: NA Helpline 604604

t LGBT MEDITATION GROUP

Meditation & discussion, every 2nd & 4th Thur, 5.30–7pm, Anahata Clinic, 119 Edward St, Tel: 07789 861367 www.bodhitreebrighton.org.uk

t LUNCH POSITIVE Lunch club for people with HIV to meet, make friends, find peer support in safe environment. Every Fri, noon–2.30pm, Community Room, Dorset Gdns Methodist Church, Dorset Gardens, Brighton. Lunch £1.50.

Tel: 07846 464384 or www.lunchpositive.org

t MINDOUT

Independent, impartial info, guidance for LGBT people with mental health problems. 24 hr confidential answerphone: Tel: o1273 234839 or info@mindout.org.uk www.mindout.org.uk

t RAINBOW FAMILIES

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

t VICTIM SUPPORT

Practical, emotional support for victims of crime.

Tel: Brighton 01273 234009 or Hove 01273 439942

HIV PREVENTION TREATMENT & CARE SERVICES t AVERT

Sussex HIV & AIDS info service, available by phone Tel: 01403 210202 or email confidential@avert.org

t BRIGHTON & HOVE CAB HIV PROJECT

Money, benefits, employment, housing, info, advocacy.

Appointments: Tue-Thur 9am-4pm, Wed 9am-12.30pm Brighton & Hove Citizens Advice Bureau, 1 Tisbury Rd, Hove, Tel: 0845 1203710 www.brightonhovecab.org.uk

t CLAUDE NICOL CENTRE/ WILDE CLINIC

Free confidential testing & treatment for STIs including HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Out Patients Dept of Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Rd. Tel: 01273 664721 www.brightonsexualhealth.com

t LAWSON UNIT

Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. Tel: 01273 664722

t SUBSTANCE MISUSE SERVICE

CRI / Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust. Open access drop in, assessment, support, advice, info on drug & alcohol issues Tel 01273 607575. LGB&T worker provides confidential, non judgemental outreach service. Support for people over 18 wishing to address substance misuse Tel 07717 774 658

t SUSSEX BEACON

24 hour nursing & medical care, day care.

Tel: 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

t TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST SERVICES

• Venue Outreach: info on HIV, sexual health, personal safety, safer drug/alcohol use, free condoms/lubricant for men who have sex with men.

• The Bushes Outreach Service @ Dukes Mound: advice, support, info on HIV, sexual health, personal safety. Free condoms, lube, tea/coffee from Outreach van parked next to ‘The Patio’ at the Bushes.

• Netreach (online Outreach in Brighton & Hove): info/advice on HIV/sexual health/local services.

THT Brighton Outreach workers online @ Gaydar: Thur 7–10pm, Sat 1–4pm, chatroom HEALTH INFO THT • Condom Male: discreet, confidential service posts free condoms/lube/sexual health info to men who have sex with men without access to commercial gay scene in East & West Sussex.

• Positive Voices: volunteers who go to organisations to talk about personal experiences of living with HIV. • Fastest (HIV Testing): walk-in, (no appointment) rapid HIV testing service for men who have sex with men. Pre & post test discussion with clinical staff. Results in an hour.

10 men max tested per session. Mon: 6.30–8.30pm (waiting room open: 6pm)

• Face2Face: confidential info & advice on sexual health & HIV for men who have sex with men. Face-2-face or phone. Up to 3 one hour appointments.

• Specialist Training: wide range of courses for groups/ individuals. Specific courses to suit needs.

• Counselling: from qualified counsellors for up to 12 sessions for people living with/affected by HIV • HIV Health Trainer: Face-2-face/phone/email support to help understand diagnosis & meds, manage side effects, sex & relationships, talk to doctor, diet & nutrition.

• Informed Passions: Expert Volunteers project to identify & support sexual health needs of local men who have sex with men and carry out wide-ranging field research in B&H on issues affecting men’s sexual health. Extensive training provided.

• Lounge (Group for Gay Men Living with HIV): fortnightly peer support group for gay men diagnosed with HIV for at least 1 year, on HIV medication or not.

• What Next? Thurs eve, 6 week peer support group work programme for newly diagnosed HIV+ gay men.

• Co Infection group: 6 week peer support group work programme for gay men with HIV & HEP C. • Telling it Straight: monthly Tues eve support group for straight HIV+ men/women. Guest speakers.

• HIV Support Services: info, support & practical advice for people living with/affected by HIV. • Volunteer Support Services: 1-2-1 community support for people living with or affected by HIV. • HIV Welfare Rights Advice: help & advice line Wed: 10am–1pm 01273 764205. 1-2-1/group support to claim DLA. Guidance on return to work & in-work benefits For more info about these FREE services go to the THT office, 61 Ship St, Btn, Mon–Fri, 9.30am–5.30pm Tel: 01273 764200 or info.brighton@tht.org.uk

t TERRENCE HIGGINS EASTBOURNE

Covering East Sussex, Services: Health Promotion Outreach, free condoms, lube, sexual health info & advice; HIV Health Coach, short term support for people living with HIV; counselling; Positive Grants; Face-2-Face 1-2-1 support & advice on sexual health, HIV; Condom Male: free condoms by post; Fastest: 1 hour HIV tests; Positively Social: group for people living with HIV; Volunteering.

Dyke House, 110 South St, Eastbourne, BN21 4LZ, Tel: 01323 649927 or info.eastbourne@tht.org.uk

t WARREN BROWNE UNIT

Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Shoreham based. Tel: 01273 461453

t WILDE CLINIC

Gay men’s sexual health clinic. Wed 5-6.30pm. Opposite Royal Sussex County Hospital entrance Abbey Rd. Tel: 01273 664721

NATIONAL HELPLINES t BROKEN RAINBOW

LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline, Mon 2-8pm, Wed 101pm, Thur 2-8pm Tel: 08452 604460

t LONDON LESBIAN & GAY SWITCHBOARD Tel: 02078 377324

t POSITIVELINE (EDDIE SURMAN TRUST) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm Tel: 0800 1696806

t MAINLINERS Tel: 02075 825226

t NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE 08005 67123

t NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE 08007 76600 t THT AIDS TREATMENT PHONELINE Tel: 08459 470047

t THT DIRECT Tel: 0845 1221200

76 GSCENE

MAY 2013

CLASSIFIEDS

CALL 01273 722457 BY 13TH MAY TO GUARANTEE ADVERT PLACEMENT

BUILDERS, CARPENTERS, ELECTRICIANS, PAINTERS & DECORATORS, TILES, RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES

E L E Brighton C T Rbased ICAN For all your electrical requirements No jobs too small, rewire, phone points etc.

paintworks GAY PAINTER & DEC ORATOR * * * *

Call Barry for free advice on

01273 624610 / 07889 730640 barry.butcher2@ntlworld.com

Electrical Mechanical Services

Competitive Rates Interior / Exterior Artexing / Coving Quality & Reliability Guaranteed

HOME 01273 589329 MOBILE 07973 839214 over 15 years experience

MT CARPENTRY & BUILDING

• LOFT CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS • BRICKWORK • PAINTWORK • DECORATING • INSURANCE REPAIRS

FREE ESTIMATES

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383 767 MOBILE: 07939 581 791

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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

GSCENE 77

MAY 2013 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES MAKE WORK FUN Happy at work?

If not, I can help

Quick HR Quick advice and no waffle

www.quickhr.biz

AN AD THIS SIZE COSTS £35 + VAT CALL

01273 722457

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COUNSELLING, TREATMENTS, SUGARING, SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICES GSCENE SUGGESTS READERS VERIFY THERAPISTS QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE MASSAGE & STRESS MANAGEMENT THERAPY Holistic Massage Stress Counselling Call David

07704 030958 www.knead4calm.co.uk

SUSSEX DIVE CLUB TRY DIVE

£15

training courses & Gift certificates available

www.sussexdiving.co.uk

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ADVERTISERS MAP HORE

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1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 3 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 7 CAMELFORD ARMS 30-31Camelford St, 622386 8 CHARLES ST BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 30 SMOAKIES 123-125 Kings Rd, 323888 40 NEIGHBOURHOOD 101 St James St, 673891 13 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 33 NEW STEINE BISTRO 12a New Steine, 681546

l SAUNAS

41 BRIGHTON SAUNA 75 Grand Parade, 689966 42 TBS2 SAUNA 84-86 Denmark Villas, Hove, 723733

45 LUNCH POSITIVE Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, 07846 464384 43 ENGLEHARTS www.lunchpositive.org 49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, Hove, 204411 46 MINDOUT Community Base, 113 Queens Rd l COMMUNITY 234839 www.mindout.org.uk 44 BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE 46 SWITCHBOARD 72 High St, 698036 Community Base, 113 Queens Rd www.womenscentre.org.uk 204050 (5–11pm)

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1 AMSTERDAM 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 25 AMBASSADOR HOTEL 22-23 New Steine, 676869 26 AVALON HOTEL 7 Upper Rock Gardens, 692344 27 CAVALAIRE HOTEL 34 Upper Rock Gardens, 696899 28 COURTLANDS HOTEL 19-27 The Drive, Hove, 731055 29 COWARDS HOTEL 12 Upper Rock Gardens, 692677

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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

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35 PROWLER 112 St James’ St, 683680 36 SUSSEX BEACON Charity Shop 130 St James’ St, 682992

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13 BASEMENT CLUB (below Legends) 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 8 ENVY (above Charles St Bar) 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 21 FUNKY FISH @ New Madeira Hotel 19-23 Marine Parade, 01273 698331 22 REBEL @ DIGITAL 187-193 Kings Road Arches www.aeonevents.co.uk 23 REVENGE 32-34 Old Steine, 606064 24 WILD FRUIT @ HONEY CLUB 214 Kings Road Arches www.aeonevents.co.uk

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30 GRANVILLE HOTEL 124 Kings Rd, 326302 31 GULLIVERS HOTEL 12a New Steine, 695415 32 HUDSONS 22 Devonshire Place, 683642 13 LEGENDS HOTEL 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 33 NEW STEINE HOTEL 10/11 New Steine, 681546 34 QUEENS HOTEL 1/3 Kings Rd, 321222

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1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 2 BAR 56 56 George St, 623399 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 30-31Camelford 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 IRON DUKE 3 Waterloo St, Hove, 734806 13 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 14 MARINE TAVERN 13 Broad St, 681284 15 MARLBOROUGH 4 Princes St, 570028 16 POISON IVY 129 St James St 17 QUEENS ARMS 7 George St, 696873 18 REGENCY TAVERN 32-34 Russell Sq, 325652 19 SUBLINE 129 St James St, 01273 624100 20 ZONE 33 St James’ St, 682249

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Marine Parade, Brighton

£ 600,000 Substantial (1410 sq. feet / 131 sq. metres) and exquisitely appointed apartment; on 2nd floor of a Grade II listed house, with lift, on Brighton seafront with panoramic sea views. Comprising: magnificent double aspect drawing room, fully equipped kitchen, two double bedrooms, en suite bathroom and further shower room.

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1

Buy & sell with the experts.

2

Six of our favourite properties this week. Visit our website at justinlloyd.co.uk to view all our properties.

Marine Avenue, Hove

£ 525,000 Substantial four bedroom semi-detached property comprehensively refurbished to an extremely high specification over the past five years. Benefits include: seafront views, master bedroom with en-suite wet room, roof terrace, bespoke joinery throughout and private access to Wish Park.

4

Somerhill Road, Hove

£ 295,000

23

A stunning 'loft style' apartment to make you the envy of all your friends! Spacious and contemporary, arranged over two floors and beautifully presented throughout. Located in central Hove, within an easy walk of Hove train station and with its own allocated parking space. Long lease.

2

1

1

Call us now 01273 692424 Email info@justinlloyd.co.uk

Marine Parade, Brighton

£ 325,000

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A marvellously appointed two bedroom, two bathroom flat situated on the third floor of this Grade II listed, period seafront building, with lift, in Kemp Town. The property has stunning south and west facing sea views and would make a lovely permanent residence or holiday home.

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Visit justinlloyd.co.uk

Kemp Town 118 St James’s Street, Brighton BN2 1TH

Hove 176 Church Road, Hove BN3 2DJ

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“Justin Lloyd have sold my last two properties. I will continue to sell through them whenever possible”

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City 111 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DD

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