Scene Magazine - October 2024 by Scene LGBTQ+ Magazine

THE MAD GAY KING

A queer retelling of the life and love of one of history’s most scandalous kings makes its debut in London

) The Mad Gay King is a modern retelling of the life and love of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, a decadent 19th century monarch who funded the operas of Richard Wagner, built a flight of fairy tale castles, and was ultimately deposed by his conservative government on the grounds of homosexual insanity.

The play follows Ludwig’s dangerous obsessions as they are ignited by the arrival of Richard Hornig, a stable master with a secret.

Hornig’s presence in the Bavarian court may forever change the course of Ludwig’s fateful legacy - placing the future of his kingdom, his legacy, and even his sanity at the edge of a dangerous precipice.

Based on true events, this sweepingly romantic debut, presented by An Accomplished Woman Productions and directed by Scott Le Crass (Rose, Buff), marks the UK debut of playwright Christopher Adams-Cohen Integrating its historical sources with elements of the contemporary queer underground, this thrilling production is a celebration of the enduring power of fantasy and mythmaking as a means of LGBTQ+ survival.

“I was sitting on the train recently and saw these two teenage boys holding hands. I thought that was kind of amazing, so I think this play should be for them.”

) Playwright Christopher Adams-Cohen tells us more...

Tell us about The Mad Gay King...

It’s a queer retelling of the life and love of Ludwig II of Bavaria, who is probably most historically wellknown for draining his country’s coffers to build a series of over-the-top fairy tale castles, and for funding the career (and increasingly extra lifestyle) of opera composer Richard Wagner. It’s not a huge surprise his government had a vested interest in ousting him.

At the time, they were able to keep his homosexuality out of his official diagnosis, but in recent years it’s become clear the lion’s share of their evidence was a trove of too-hot-for-thepresses homosexual liaisons.

He didn’t even need to be examined in person for the doctors to make their verdict that he was gay, AKA mentally ill by the era’s standards. Honestly, I’d like to get my hands on those reports, they must’ve been pretty steamy . . .

What do you hope audiences take away from seeing the show?

In addition to getting some insight into a fabulously scandalous historical figure, I hope audiences also find a personal connection to the contemporary story centred within the play. I was sitting on the train recently and saw these two teenage boys holding hands.

I thought that was kind of amazing, so I think this play should be for them. I’m

not promising them a love story that will last forever, or have a fairy tale ending, or even look like anything they’ve been told love should look like. But at least I’d want them to see this and know they can model something for themselves, that they can make a new world. Be it messy, epic, tender, or rough. As long as it’s theirs.

How have you found the collaborative process of watching the show come to life and to the stage? It’s been remarkable! I met my producer, Amanda Schulz, a year ago in LA (my hometown). She asked to read some of my plays, and within a week she was putting up a reading of The Mad Gay King in the garden of her dreamy Victorian home. I knew then we were a match in sensibility with an equally palpable flare for the fantastic.

Director Scott Le Crass and I immediately shared a similar vision for the play that was intimate yet epic, historically-informed yet guttural and immediate. Watching him run auditions really solidified for me he was the right artist to handle this material, as he gracefully coaxed performances out each actor that showed me things I’d never fully understood before about the characters.

Where can audiences see the show?

From 3-18 October at King’s Head Theatre in Islington! In keeping with the intimate nature of the show, we’re in the Late Night slot at 9pm. So bring a hot date. Or come ready to meet one . . .

) Tickets: https://kingsheadtheatre. com/whats-on/the-mad-gay-king

Theatre director Andrew Keates to launch Queer Theatre to tell LGBTQ+ stories and nurture queer talent

For Andrew this new venture sums up what he wants to give back to the LGBTQ+ community, particularly for queer performers and theatremakers, who often feel isolated.

Couple wed at Channel Islands’ Pride celebrations in Guernsey

According to organisers this was the first time a wedding had taken place at the Pride event.

£785 raised for transfem causes at Komedia Brighton

Komedia, which hosted the fundraising event to honour late trans pop star SOPHIE, said: “Events like this where we can help create a safe space for the trans and wider LGBTQ+ community are SO important to us at Komedia."

Trump claims children are undergoing trans surgery during the school day

The claims were made despite there being no evidence that a student has ever undergone gender-affirming surgery at a school in the States.

Lewisham Council removes Progress Pride flag following complaint

The flag was removed from its Town Hall following a complaint lodged by “Christian political candidate” Maureen Martin and "evangelical organisation" Christian Concern.

LGBTQ+ veterans will NOT wear badge awarded by government

They will only wear the badge when the Government delivers all 49 recommendations from an independent report, including financial compensation for those affected by the British armed forces' gay ban.

BREACH THEATRE: AFTER THE ACT A SECTION 28 MUSICAL

A new 1980s-inspired musical about pride, protest… and abseiling lesbians.

) Thatcher’s Section 28, which banned the ‘promotion’ of homosexuality in schools, was the landmark legislation that silenced a generation, offered a global blueprint for LGBTQ+ oppression and galvanised a movement.

Showing at Brighton Dome in November, After the Act is funny, camp and unapologetically queer but also a clear-eyed exposure of the political playbook used to enact repressive laws.

Its joyously exuberant original live score accompanies the inspiring, sometimes heart-breaking, stories of teachers, students and activists impacted by the legislation. This is the story of how a moral panic gripped a nation – and a community decided to fight back.

Written by Ellice Stevens and Billy Barrett

, After the Act is directed by Billy Barrett and features music by Frew

Praise for After the Act

‘Empowering and gut-wrenching... full of righteous anger and euphoric ‘80s synths’ – **** Daily Telegraph ‘Fizzing, fiery… This musical feels exceptional’ – **** The Guardian

) Three performances at Brighton Dome in November 2024 - between Friday 8 and Saturday 9, various times.

) Tickets: www.brightondome.org/ whats-on/VxY-breach-theatre-afterthe-act/

Picture copyright Alex Brenner and Ellice Stevens

GAY GRAN CANARIA

Dunas Map is the best option for making the most of your gay trip to Gran Canaria

) Planning a trip to Gran Canaria and looking for more information about the local gay scene? As the official gay guide of Maspalomas, Dunas Map is the solution and has all the answers for you.

Dunas Map is the most comprehensive reference for gay tourism and travel in Gran Canaria and Maspalomas. The guide shares all you need to know for stress-free holidays on the island. The best businesses and the best addresses are in Dunas Map.

Discover the ultimate places to go: restaurants, bars, shopping, massages, services... and even more! There are so many things to do and always new openings to try.

Dunas Map is perfect for new visitors as well as for those who visit from time to time; for tourists and residents; for short or long stays. Info is refreshed and the guide is constantly updated; you can trust it and use it with confidence as often as you want, and in addition, it is free! You don’t have to

subscribe, and you will never have to pay anything.

In Gran Canaria, one in six tourists is gay, and these numbers are constantly increasing.

Dunas Map offers many tips and recommendations that might just come in handy. Learn more about the gay beach, the dunes of Maspalomas, and the famous Yumbo Shopping Centre

But also get all the details about the most popular cruising spots, the mustsee places, the tourist attractions, and the gay-friendly restaurants. Access the blog to read an impressive amount of exclusive news about fashion, events, brands, culture, gastronomy, and more.

“Dunas Map is the most comprehensive reference for gay tourism and travel in Gran Canaria and Maspalomas.”

More than just a guide, Dunas Map is a practical tool. Book your excursions online, find your location on the maps, ask for your itinerary, rent a holiday apartment, contact a doctor, or a real estate agent if you want to buy, sell, or rent a property or a business on the island...

“Dunas Map has more than 15 years’ experience and enjoys enormous acceptance in the gay community.”

So many easy-to-use functions are available at your fingertips. You can also check the weekly agenda in the seaside resort, the events list all year round, and take advantage of special offers and discounts.

Maspalomas is the gayest corner of Gran Canaria with much to discover and enjoy.

Dunas Map is available on the web (www.dunasmap.com), as an app, and on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X and WhatsApp). It’s perfect when you are far from the island and looking for information, or if you want to just keep in touch with Maspalomas before your next visit.

And of course, when you are on location, you have the opportunity to pick up a physical copy. It’s a glossy foldable leaflet with a convenient city map, easy to use and to slide in a pocket or bag.

Thanks to its compact size, the printed version is very practical, and it can be taken everywhere: to the beach, to the swimming pool, to your apartment, or in clubs.

Ask for it at the reception desk of your hotel or in your favourite gay-friendly

bar or store in the Yumbo and all around the area.

Gran Canaria is known over the world as the number one gay destination in Europe.

For almost three years now, Dunas Map also has a magazine. Don’t miss this luxury, big-size, full-colour publication where you can find detailed features on gay life in Maspalomas, interviews with the people who make the news, as well as many suggestions and tips for making

the most of your holidays. Dunas Magazine comes out with a new issue every three months. It is available online for free, but you can also order a print-on-demand copy and receive it directly at home by mail. It’s a must for anyone who doesn’t want to lose touch with Gran Canaria and their favourite gay destination.

“Dunas Map is a must to find out what to do and where to go in the resort.”

Dunas Map was founded in 2008, and over time it has become the favourite gay guide for British men who travel to Gran Canaria. Join Dunas Map, download the app, and subscribe to the newsletter to follow what matters in the number one gay destination in Europe.

) Dunas Map: www.dunasmap.com

) Subscribe to the newsletter: www.dunasmap.com/newsletter ) Download: www.dunasmap.com/application

) More info on the magazine: www.dunasmap.com/magazine

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus Presents: The Rocky Holly Tinsel Show

Give yourself over to absolute pleasure with Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus this Christmas as they timewarp their way through seasonal songs and classic hits.

UK LGBTQ+ schools programme to become free to all secondaries

The Pride Groups programme, run by LGBTQ+ youth charity Just Like Us, has so far helped 410 secondary schools to set up/run a LGBTQ+ and allies club, making school environments safer for LGBTQ+ pupils who are ordinarily twice as likely to be bullied.

The History and Usage of Poppers: A Journey Through Time

Words by The Popper Super Shop Team.

'Neo-Nazi' with armoury of weapons, found guilty of planning a terrorist attack on gay and trans people

Described in court as having ‘a neo-Nazi outlook’, Alan Edward, 54, amassed a collection of weaponry, including a crossbow with telescopic sights, 14 knives and a Samurai sword, at his home.

The Coast Is Queer returns this year from 10-13 October

Brighton’s well-established festival of LGBTQ+ writing with conversations, panels, workshops, performance and films, celebrating queer writing.

Jennie Castell, to host Drag Bus Remembrance Sunday 2024 event

Leaving from Charles Street Tap, the event takes place on November 10 and will raise funds for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.

SCAN ME

Brighton & Hove Rainbow Run raises £6,000 for Brighton Rainbow Fund

This year's event was bigger, better, louder and prouder than ever!

Singer-songwriter Sade returns with new single - a tribute to trans son

The song, Young Lion, is set to appear on a benefit album titled Transa, which will be released to raise awareness for trans and non-binary artists.

£52,000 raised through Mermaids' appeal to support trans youth

Writing on social media, the charity said: "We did it. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we raised a huge £52,000 through our urgent appeal. 1,457 mer-mazing people stepped up for Mermaids, and for trans youth, when we needed them most."

"An incredible sum."

Legends Brighton and The Two Brewers announced £15,000 has been donated to local HIV charity Sussex Beacon from joint fundraisers held earlier this year, following the passing of the community champion and drag icon Jason Sutton (Miss Jason).

Ben Whishaw reveals he held off from publicly coming out at the start of his career in the early 2000s

“It was a disability, almost.”

French athlete Dimitri Pavadé comes out after competing at Paralympics

In September, he took to Instagram and shared a photo of himself smiling while holding rainbowcoloured interlocking male gender symbols in a nod to announcing his coming out in the post’s caption.

Heartstopper Pride Flag to be displayed at Queer Britain to coincide with new season of the queer drama

The Heartstopper Pride Flag will be displayed at Queer Britain to coincide with a new season of Heartstopper in October, and will feature personal messages from fans shared during a tour of Pride events, including Brighton & Hove Pride.

Ding dong! Brighton & Hove's LGBTQ+ Rainbow Chorus drop details of 'Big Festive Rainbow Bellter'

is... #DaleyPop

pop music reviewer and influencer

THE BIG FESTIVE RAINBOW BELLTER

Join Brighton and Hove’s fabulous LGBTQ+ choir for a ding-dong musical evening proudly presents

supports the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ veterans, has announced the launch of a survey.

"Scotland's largest Gay Sauna Club" to open first premises in England

More details have emerged of a new gay men’s sauna opening in Leeds, which will include a steam room, dry sauna, cold dunk showers, swimming pool and a rooftop spa area.

Scene's

Dale Melita aka DaleyPop shares his top tracks of October.

Trans Library: the "world's largest, free trans-led mental health resource"

Voda, the LGBTQ+ mental health app designed by LGBTQ+ therapists, has launched the resource to support trans mental health.

Stars of this year's Brighton Family Panto out and about in the city

The cast was promoting Sleeping Beauty, which runs from December 19 - 30 at Hilton Brighton Metropole.

Drag queen Brigiding will "keep on dancing" after performance stirs up "differing opinions" on social media

The performance saw Brigiding dancing to Chappell Roan's

Wine

while pouring red wine from a

between their legs.

Hundreds of plaster casts of trans and non-binary people unveiled as latest installation in Trafalgar Square

Mexican artist Teresa Margolles has said the work, which is on the Fourth Plinth, recognises a community that is often marginalised, in both her native Mexico and around the world.

Jonathan Bailey announced as JustGiving's Celebrity Fundraiser of the Year

The Bridgerton actor raised an incredible £33,452 for LGBTQ+ youth charity Just Like Us, of which is patron!

15 years of Marlborough Productions

A catalyst for queer culture and community, Marlborough Productions creates and supports cutting-edge queer performance, parties, heritage and radical gatherings.

Red

Supernova

bag

“I encourage everyone to find the inner Prince or Princess or Princex within themselves and know that they are worthy, regal, and royalty.”

ROYAL TEASE

Dale Melita catches up with Prince Joshua, who creates music for the gays and theys!

) Joshua Montoya aka Prince Joshua recently took part in OUTtv‘s queer reality dating show For The Love Of DILFS, hosted by Stormy Daniels, and since his debut in reality television he’s continued his passion for entertaining and performing and recently debuted his first ever single ROYAL TEASE featuring Big Dream.

After performing with Big Dream for the OUTLOUD Music Festival at Weho Pride (West Hollywood) on the SUMMERTRAMP stage as well as the Beaches Pride stage, Joshua dropped second single CLAP THAT featuring Bama Babii. Joshua said: “I wanted to make a song that all queer people in the LGBTQ+ community can feel empowered by while having fun and shaking their ass.

“My music is for those who want to live life unapologetically themselves, know they’re a bad bitch, and wget right back up every time they get knocked down.”

On August 20, Joshua dropped his third

single (and my personal fave so far), LET THEM EAT CAKE. Joshua said: “This is my first solo single about letting guys eat a delicious treat.”

Who is Prince Joshua? Can you share a bit about yourself and your music?

I am a model, dancer, and performing artist living in Los Angeles. I came from a very sheltered and religious upbringing in Idaho and made my way to Phoenix when I turned 18 and began gogo dancing. Once I established myself as an influencer and dancer I made the move to California to continue my passions and began making my own music this year.

My mantra is ‘Royalty is a mindset’ and I encourage everyone to find the inner Prince or Princess or Princex within themselves and know that they are worthy, regal, and royalty. My music is for the gays and theys who want to clap cheeks, have fun, and pop off! I am unapologetic about my queerness, my sexuality, and anything I do because we were meant to celebrate all that we

have to offer this world!

Who are your inspirations?

Nicki Minaj will always be such a big inspiration to me. She was the first female rapper I had ever heard when in middle school and she completely had me shook out of my Baptist Christian background. I couldn’t believe her words rolled of the tongue so beautifully and nastily it had me feeling like I shouldn’t be listening to her, which only made me want to hear more.

Tokeyo is the one who really got me to consider creating my own music, he asked me to hop on his track COOCHIE with Baddie Gang and a couple of us joined him for a very vulgar and hype track. After that I found a love for creating, I had always loved writing poetry and now have been creating my own songs and feel so excited every time I write one.

Who is your dream collab?

My dream collab will always be Nicki Minaj but being able to work with

a queer artist that understands the struggle of always having to fight against the grain to get opportunities, exposure, and acceptance would mean the world to me with artists such as Lil Nas X, Kim Petras, and Todrick Hall. I’ve met all three and I’d love to work with one of them as they’d understand my perspective more and could connect with me in that way.

Describe your creative process...

First things first I roll up a joint or a blunt, that’s the best way for me to get my creative juices flowing! Once I’m vibing I like to listen to a beat and just start having fun with sounds and rhythms even with no words just saying gibberish to find the flow that I think sounds good, then I just start saying what comes to mind and develop a story from what comes to my head.

“My music is for those who want to live life unapologetically themselves, know they’re a bad bitch, and get right back up every time they get knocked down.”

It’s really fun having someone there who does music too, I love creative sessions with my friend Big Dream whom my first single ROYAL TEASE is featured on. We smoke some weed, turn on a beat, and just have fun with it, that’s the best way for me to start writing something new. Is there an album in the works?

I am currently working on an EP to showcase a couple of songs I’ve written, right now I have three out and I plan on dropping a few more songs and videos before I drop the whole project, so stay tuned!

What else do you get up to in Hollywood?

You can always catch me dancing on the weekends whether it’s at big party’s like EVITA, or just dancing at my weekly spot at Beaches for Tokeyo’s party Jocelyn every Saturday. I’m usually on the WeHo strip shaking ass, making cash, and smoking grass. When I’m not working I’ll be at the gym, doing photoshoots, or networking at an event to further myself as an artist.

If you could invite anyone to a dinner party, dead or alive, who would you choose?

Dream dinner would include Nicki Minaj, Doja Cat, Lil Nas X, Cupcakke, Sexyy Red, Tyler the Creator, Doechii, and I’d honestly just want the dinner to be about vibing and having fun, no business.

Any plans for a trip to the UK?

Going to the UK would be a dream. I will one day make that dream come true. With the right opportunity and stars aligning I know one day I’ll get there. Whether it’s dancing, modelling, or music, I definitely plan to come out.

All it takes is that one promoter or bar to reach out and book me so any chance I get I’ll look into! I’ve had the pleasure of performing all over LA and can’t wait to take the next step and start performing in other cities, states, and one day countries!

Can you tell us more about Majesty?

Majesty is my hobby/baby in another creative aspect - I went to school for fashion and have a BA in fashion marketing and management. I created my own brand Majesty, so that I could have something that represents my aesthetic and share it with others.

I have so many creative ideas and can’t wait to one day be able to afford to create what I have dreamt Majesty to be. For now I have a few limited

items for sale and hope to one day expand the merchandise. Majesty is for those who understand that Royalty is the mindset you wear, when wearing it the customer understands that they are worthy, they are regal, and they are Majesty.

Any live shows coming up?

I’m so blessed to have a stage to showcase my artistry and can’t wait to continue to do so. I’m hoping after my EP drops me, Tokyo, Big Dream, and other Baddie Gang members can all do a big Pride tour going from festival to festival performing our music for our community.

I’d also love to be on reality TV especially if it could be a combination of a Pride music tour about our friend group of creatives we call Baddie Gang.

) Follow Prince Joshua on socials: www.theprincejoshua.com

) Stream his music: https://distrokid. com/hyperfollow/princejoshua1/letthem-eat-cake/

RAF hosts Restorative Action

Ceremony for veterans affected by LGBTQ+ ban

Each veteran was awarded the Etherton Ribbon, which many will only wear once the government compensates those affected by the ban.

Body of "wonderful" trans woman, Natasha Reddington-Romanov, is recovered from the Thames

Natasha, who was been described as an 'icon of Soho', was last seen in the area on Friday, September 20.

Sir Ian McKellen praises UK's ‘first of a kind’ housing scheme designed to improve lives of older LGBTQ+ people

Sir Ian McKellen said: "Our community deserves to age in a safe and welcoming environment where we're accepted for who we are"

Will Ferrell defends trans community ahead of new documentary, 'Will & Harper'

Will Ferrell has spoken out ahead of his new documentary, Will & Harper, saying transphobia exists because: “I think we fear what we don’t know.”

HIV organisations react to NICE draft guidance not recommending use of two month-injectable PrEP

A wide range of HIV organisations, including Terrence Higgins Trust and National AIDS Trust, have come together to highlight how important long-acting PrEP will be in the "UK’s historic goal" of ending new transmissions of HIV in the UK by 2030.

'LA DIVINA': Trailer drops for new film on the latter years of Maria Callas

The new film stars Angelina as opera singer Maria Callas, who died in Paris in 1977.

MindOut, the Brighton-based LGBTQ+ mental health charity, to benefit from this year's Santa Bus

Santa Bus has over the years raised a whopping £417,000 for multiple charities, helping support local people across our community and beyond.

Dougie Morgan from Fighting With Pride shortlisted for Veteran of the Year award

The LGBTQ+ Defence Awards celebrate inclusion in the defence, aerospace and security industry.

Stormy Daniels to return as host of third season of 'For The Love Of DILFS'

The season introduces audiences to a new group of Daddies and Himbos.

Actor Jane Sibbett received shocking abuse after playing lesbian character in 'Friends'

Jane said: "I had a woman from my old church call me up… and proceeded to tell me that I was going to burn in hell.”

Doncaster Youth Council "excited" to present new booklet, Doncaster Young Persons Guide to Pride

A youth council representative said “This guide is more than just a leaflet it’s a reflection of who we are and makes us feel safe to be who we are."

Saudi Arabia will "welcome" LGBTQ+ people during 2034 World Cup

This is despite penalties, including capital punishment, for gays in the country.

MR BRIGHTON BEAR

Scene sits down with this year’s Mr Brighton Bear, Francisco Guillen

) Beloved community event Brighton Bear Weekend, which this year took place in July, was a weekend brimming with excitement, camaraderie, and, of course, the crowning of the new Brighton Bear 2024, which was this year won by Francisco Guillen

Raising funds for Brighton Rainbow Fund and the Sussex Beacon, Mr Brighton Bear is a much-loved tradition, where the community comes together to choose a Bear who embodies the spirit and energy of Brighton Bear Weekend. The competition is not just about looks; it’s about celebrating the Bear community’s character, charm, and contribution.

The election of Brighton Bear 2024 is more than just a title – it’s a symbol of the community’s values and spirit. The chosen Bear will represent Brighton Bear Weekend throughout the year, promoting inclusivity, pride, and the unique culture that makes Brighton Bear Weekend so special!

We caught up with this year’s Mr Brighton Bear, Francisco Guillen…

Congratulations on winning Mr Brighton Bear. How was this year’s Brighton Bear Weekend?

It was amazing. But quite nerve racking for me as I was busy getting ready for the competition. But I found time to party too.

Brighton Bear Weekend is a brilliant community event, it must be great to spend a weekend with likeminded guys?

Definitely as I get to meet lots of new people as well as seeing old friends too. It’s amazing who you bump into. What do you have planned for your year as Mr Brighton Bear?

Well, I’ve just come back from Torremolinos MAD.BEAR which was fun. Lots of parties and I’m also going to BearScots too in October. I’m really looking forward to that. Plus a few things in the pipeline.

Can you tell us about yourself and what you like to get up to?

Well I turned 50 this year ( I know it’s hard to believe, haha). I’ve lived in Brighton for 13 years and I love socialising, dancing, singing, tailoring and cooking. I’ve been with my partner for eight years and we are getting married next March.

I love going to the Bear Social at

Arcobeleno which is followed on with Bears at the Fallen Angel on the first Saturday of every month and I enjoy going to the leathermen nights at the Bulldog. I love to Boogie on Down at the Almanac, which is an alternative disco every last Sunday afternoon. Plus I go to DILF too when it’s on. I do get about a bit lol.

How long have you been involved in the Bear community?

Oh quite a few years. About 15 I think, maybe longer.

How did you get involved in Brighton Bear Weekend?

Oh my, that a long story. Around when the Bear Weekend first started I was asked if I would be the dolly dealer. If you remember TV game show Play Your Cards Right you will know what I mean. I said yes not realising they wanted me to do it in a jock strap. But I’d already said yes. Strangely I did it for four years after that. But I’m a huge supporter of the Bear Weekend. It’s a great weekend plus it raises money for a great charity, the Brighton Rainbow Fund. Why did you enter Mr Brighton Bear?

Well, people have been asking me to do it for years and I’ve always said no. Also, my confidence has slightly wavered over the last few years. But this year I turned 50 and I thought why not it would be something great to do on my 50th year. I also love Brighton. Not just the Bears but all of our community here.

What would you say to those thinking of entering Mr Brighton Bear 2025?

Do it. You get to meet lots of great people. If you love this city and you want to be an ambassador for a Bear community, what have you got to lose. Plus it’s just a bit of fun and all for a great cause!

CALENDAR BOYS

Jordan, who competed in this year’s Mr Gay Great Britain, has launched the ‘Gym Boys’ calendar to raise funds for Swale Pride and testicular cancer

) Since coming third in Mr Gay Great Britain, Jordan’s charity work hasn’t stopped, but continued!

A new calendar, GYM BOYS, has been launched by Jordan to raise awareness for testicular cancer by supporting the Odd Balls Foundation, with a portion of money raised also being donated to Swale Pride

This all-inclusive calendar also provides tips on how to check yourself for testicular cancer and also features a model that is a testicular cancer survivor.

The calendar features regular local guys from Jordan’s local gym that want to make a difference and hopefully save someone’s life.

Congratulations on coming third in Mr Gay Great Britain. How was the competition overall?

Thank you! The competition was a great experience, I did a lot of charity work

prior to the competition with my local Pride, however the competitions choose charities and I raised over £5,000 which I’m really proud of.

I also came first for the social media and public vote round which saw me gain over 4,5000 votes in total! So massive thank you to everyone who donated and voted for me through my campaign, it means a lot!

While it was a competition, there must have been a lot of camaraderie with the other guys...

Absolutely! All the finalists for Mr Gay Great Britain, Mx Drag and Mr Gay World were lovely! However I made two special bonds with the finalists Tom and Andy who I now consider close friends and jokingly my sisters. We refer to ourselves as the Sanderson Sisters from the iconic Hocus Pocus and always have a great time when we are together and never stop laughing! We

also have plans to meet up soon!

Mr Gay Great Britain is a great platform. What have you been up to since?

I’ve continued with fundraising events for my local Pride and photoshoots for different LGBTQ+ brands, which I missed doing and it’s great to get back into the swing of the things.

You’ve just launched a new calendar to raise funds and awareness for testicular cancer and your local Pride, Swale Pride.

How did the idea of the calendar come about?

It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while since watching Calendar Girls! I just loved that it’s so inclusive and features regular and local guys including myself that just want to make a difference and raise money for charity.

The charity for testicular cancer that we chose is the Odd Balls Foundation and the merch available will also provide tips on how to check yourself too.

Our launch party is coming up and all the guys featured will be there signing calendars and it’ll be a big community event which is a great!

How did you get the other guys involved?

The guys couldn’t wait to their kit off! In all honesty the guys were brilliant and knew it was for a worthy cause and were happy to get involved and really enjoyed themselves and the experience.

Any highlights from the shoot?

Just the behind the scenes banter, everyone was relaxed and it was a great shoot! Big shout to Mwordsphotography for doing the amazing photos and Trojan Fitness for helping to facilitate!

Can you tell us about Swale Pride and what you hope the funds will do?

The funds for Swale Pride will contribute to their annual Pride event and to create safe spaces for my local LGBTQ+ community.

Why the Odd Balls Foundation?

Testicular cancer affects so many men and one of the models featured in the calendar is also a testicular cancer survivor.

We as men do not talk about health scares or issues enough and I thought the calendar would be a great way to get people talking and spread awareness, as well as providing tips to help men check themselves.

Will you and the other guys be bearing all in the future? I think you mentioned full monty on Insta... Haha, watch this space, that’s all I’m saying for now!

What’s next for Jordan?

I’ll be continuing to support Prides around Kent and raising money for charity though different events, you can also catch me every other Tuesday on BRFM 95.6, 8-10pm for the Swale Pride Takeover to keep updated or follow on insta at jordanwch_92

I have a few exciting opportunities coming up that I can’t share now, but I’m very much looking forward to the future!

) To order GYM BOYS, visit: https:// payhip.com/b/tqecj

) To donate, visit: https://www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jordanchan

“The guys couldn’t wait to their kit off! In all honesty the guys were brilliant.”

Stonewall launches campaign to make anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime an Aggravated Offence

Stonewall, which has revealed that 44% of LGBTQ+ people feel safe holding their partner’s hand in public, is also asking the government to implement a Hate Crime Strategy and Action Plan that tackles barriers to LGBTQ+ reporting.

Teen sentenced to five years for kicking trans woman in the head

The teen from Swansea was sentenced for causing actual bodily harm, disseminating terrorist material and having a bladed article in a public place.

Views sought on revised draft Trans Inclusion Schools Toolkit

Brighton & Hove City Council says its “commitment to equality and inclusion is unwavering”, with a vision for a city where “everyone is valued and treated with respect”.

"Brighton is exactly the wrong type of place to try and pull stunts like that."

Transphobic group kicked out of the Southern Belle pub in Brighton.

First person in Georgia to publicly come out as trans, is "stabbed to death" in "premeditated attack"

Kesaria Abramidze, 37, a Georgian trans model and prominent public figure, was stabbed to death in her apartment in a “premeditated” attack

Plans for London's first LGBTQ+ cinema approved by Southwark Council

The premises will be called The Arzner, after Dorothy Arzner, a pioneering lesbian filmmaker who was the first woman to direct a Hollywood talkie more than 100 years ago.

#LoveWins: Thailand becomes first country in South East Asia to legalise same-sex marriage

The bill, which will come into effect on January 22 next year, has been hailed by activists as historic for Thailand, which has long been seen as a relative haven for the LGBTQ+ communities.

"I’m not ruling out anything for the future."

Trans athlete Valentina Petrillo hints at competing at the next Paralympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

Simon Blake OBE becomes Chief Executive of Stonewall

He said: “Achieving equal rights for some, does not mean reducing the rights of others."

"The weird thing about coming out is you never come out once."

journalist.

“I don’t like what he be saying about his trans child, that made me mad."

Marlon Wayans, who has a trans daughter, says it's hard for him to hear Elon Musk’s comments disproving his trans daughter

Stephen Fry opens up about being gay as a teenager

"My sexuality was a secret horror swelling inside me."

Sky Sports reporter Mark McAdam opens up on their experience of being the broadcaster's only openly gay male

1 Affinity Bar m

129 St James’s St, BN2 1TH www.facebook.com/AffinityGayBar/

2 Bar Broadway m

10 Steine St, BN2 1TE 01273 609777

www.barbroadway.co.uk

3 Bar Revenge m

5-7 Marine Parade, BN2 1TA www.revenge.co.uk

4 Barber Blacksheep m

18 St George’s Rd, BN2 1EB 01273 623408

wwww.barberblacksheep.com

5 Bedford Tavern mm

30 Western St, BN1 2PG 01273 739495

6 Brighton Birdcage m

35 Gloucester Rd, BN1 4AQ 01273 624010

7 Brighton Box m

25 Dukes Lane, Ship Street, BN1 1BG, 01273 722 036

8 Brighton Sauna m

75 Grand Parade, BN2 9JA 01273 689966

www.thebrightonsauna.com

9 Brighton Tavern m

99-100 Gloucester Rd, BN1 4AP 01273 680365

10 Bulldog m

31 St James’s St Mews, BN2 1RF

11 Camelford Arms mm

30-31 Camelford St, BN2 1TQ 01273 622386

12 Charles Street Tap mm

8-9 Marine Parade, BN2 1TA 01273 624091

www.charles-street.com

13 Centre Stage mm

11-12 Marine Parade, BN2 1TL 01273 688 826

www.facebook.com/centrestagebrighton

14 Curzon m m

7 Rock St, BN2 1NF, 01273 697054

www.facebook.com/CurzonBarBrighton/

15 Dental Health Spa m

14–15 Queens Rd, BN1 3WA 01273 710831

www.dentalhealthspa.co.uk

16 Engleharts m

49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, BN3 2DE 01273 204411

www.engleharts.co.uk

17 Fallen Angel m

24 Grafton St, BN2 1AQ

18 Glamorous Brighton m

24 Grafton St, BN2 1AQ

19 Grosvenor Bar m

16 Western St, BN1 2PG 01273 438587

20 HITZone Hove m

Unit 23, Waterside House, Basin Rd N, Hove, BN41 1UY

21 Legends Bar, Club & Hotel mmm

31-34 Marine Parade, BN2 1TR 01273

Advertisers’ Map

624462 www.legendsbrighton.com

22 Marine Tavern mm 13 Broad St, BN2 1TJ 01273 681284

23 Nautilus Lounge m 129 St James’s St, BN2 1TH www.nautiluslounge.com

24 New Steine Hotel & Bistro mmm 12a New Steine, BN2 1PB 01273 681546 www.newsteinehotel.com

25 Paris House mm 21 Western Rd, BN3 1AF 01273 724195

26 Prowler m 112-113 St James’s St, BN2 1TH, 01273 603813 www.prowlerpoppers.co.uk

27 Queen’s Arms m 7 George St, BN2 1RH www.theqabrighton.com

28 Railway Club m 4 Belmont, Dyke Rd, BN1 3TF 01273 328682

29 Regency Tavern mm

32-34 Russell Sq, BN1 2EF 01273 325 652

30 Revenge m

32-34 Old Steine, BN1 1EL www.revenge.co.uk

31 Three Jolly Butchers mm

59 North Rd, BN1 1YD 01273 608571

32 Trading Post & Cup of Joe’s mmm

28 St George’s Rd, BN2 1EE 01273 698873

33 Velvet Jacks mm

50 Norfolk Sq, BN1 2PA http://tinyurl.com/VelvetJacks

34 Zone m

33 St James’s St, BN2 1RF www.zonebrighton.co.uk

Key

m Bars/Pubs

m Food m Clubs

m Hotels

m Legal Services

m Cafes

m Shopping m Fitness/Health

m Sauna

SERVICES DIRECTORY

LGBTQ+ Services

l Allsorts Youth Project

Youth Groups and One-to-One Support for LGBTQ+ young people under 26 (in-person & online). Weekly sessions 01273 721211 or email info@ allsortsyouth.org.uk allsortsyouth.org.ukk

l Brighton & Hove Police

Report all homophobic, biphobic or transphobic incidents to: 24/7 assistance call police on 101 (emergencies 999) Report online at: www.sussex. police.uk

LGBT team (not 24/7) email: LGBT@sussex.pnn. police.uk

l Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard

• LGBT Older People’s Project

• LGBT Health and Inclusion Project

• LGBTQ Disability & Neurodiversity Project

• Rainbow Café Project: support for LGBT+ people with dementia

• Trans and Non-Binary Link Project

• LGBT Grief Encounters Project

• Volunteering opportunities, call Riley 07599 434057

Helpline hours: Wed & Thur, 7–9.30pm; trans-only webchat on Sun 3–5pm: call 01273 359042 or email info@switchboard.org.uk or helpline@ switchboard.org.uk Webchat www.switchboard. org.uk/helpline. www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton Office Number: 01273 234009

l Brighton OneBodyOneFaith Brighton sexuality, gender, & faith Group. Meets monthly. Contact: Nigel Nash nigelnash@me.com. www.onebodyonefaith.org.uk

l Brighton Women’s Centre Info, counselling, drop-in space, support groups admin@Womenscentre.org.uk or visit www. womenscentre.org.uk

l Lesbian & Gay AA

12-step self-help programme for alcohol addictions: Sun, 7.30pm, Chapel Royal, North St, Btn (side entrance). 01273 203 343 (general AA line). www. alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

l LGBTQ+ Cocaine Anonymous

Meeting every Tues 6.30-8pm, 6 Tilbury Pl, Brighton, BN2 0GY, CA isn’t allied with any outside organisation, and neither endorses or opposes any causes. Helpline 0800 6120225, www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk www.sussexcocaineanonymous.co.uk

l LGBTQ+ NA Group

Brighton-based LGBTQ+ (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. 0300 999 1212

l LGBT+ Meditation Group

Meditation & discussion, every 2nd & 4th Thur, 5.30–7pm, Anahata Clinic, 119 Edward St, Brighton. 07789 861 367 or www.bodhitreebrighton.org.uk

l Lunch Positive

Lunch club for people with HIV. Meet/make friends, find peer support in safe space. Every Fri, noon–2.30pm, Community Room, Dorset Gdns Methodist Church, Dorset Gdns, Brighton. Lunch £1.50. 07846 464 384 or www.lunchpositive.org

l MCC Brighton

Inclusive, affirming space where all are invited to come

as they are to explore their spirituality without judgement. 01273 515572 or info@mccbrighton.org.uk www.mccbrighton.org.uk

l MindOut

Independent, impartial services run by and for LGBTQ people with experience of mental health issues. 24 hr confidential answerphone: 01273 234839 or email info@mindout.org.uk and out of hours online chat www.mindout.org.uk

l Navigate

Social/peer support group for trans, non-binary & intersex, AFAB, FTM, transmasculine & gender queer people. Every 2nd Friday of the month from 6-8pm (currently on Zoom) at Possability Place, Windlesham Venue, BN1 3AH (formerly Space for Change) navigatebrighton.co.uk

l Peer Action

Regular low cost yoga, therapies, swimming, meditation & social groups for people with HIV. contact@ peeraction.net or www.peeraction.net

l Rainbow Families

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

l Rainbow Hub

Information, guidance and hate incident reporting services for LGBTQ+ communities in Brighton, Hove, and Sussex. Based at the Ledward Centre, Jubilee Street, BN1 1GE. Call 07714 782585 or visit www.therainbowhubbrighton.com

l Some People

Social/support group for LGB or questioning aged 14-19, Tue 5.30-7.30pm, Hastings. Call/text Kerrie Tolley-Cloke 07874 637593 or email somepeople@ eastsussex.gov.uk

l TAGS – The Arun Gay Society

Social Group welcome all in East & West Sussex Areas. Call/Text 07539 513171. More info: www.tagsonline. org.uk

l Victim Support

Anyone seeking help can contact our free 24/7

Supportline number on 0808 16 89 111 or get in touch via the website www.victimsupport.org.uk. A range of tools to help people cope and move forwards after crime can be found at www.mysupportspace.org.uk/moj

l The Village MCC

LGBTQ+ affirming church worship and pastoral care in Kemptown. See www.thevillagemcc.org, or call 07476 667353 for details.

HIV Prevention, Care & Treatment Services

l AVERT

Sussex HIV & AIDS info service 01403 210202 or confidential@avert.org

l 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, Brighton Town Hall. 01273 733390 ext 520 or www. brightonhovecab.org.uk

l Clinic M

Free confidential testing & treatment for STIs including HIV, plus Hep A & B vaccinations. Claude Nicol Centre, Sussex County Hospital, on Weds from 5-8pm. 01273 523388 or www.brightonsexualhealth.com

l Community HIV Specialist Service

NHS nursing team supporting patients with HIV in the community and offering free HIV training for groups across Brighton & Hove and West Sussex. www.

sussexcommunity.nhs.uk/hiv

l Lawson Unit

Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. 01273 664 722

l The Martin Fisher Foundation

STI HIV self-testing kits via digital vending machines available from: Jubilee Library, Wellsbourne Centre, Portland Road (between Wish Park Surgery and Kamson’s Pharmacy), BMEC Partnership Centre, Prowler and Brighton Sauna. www. themartinfisherfoundation.org

l Substance Misuse Service

Brighton & Hove Recovery Service manages and delivers the adult drug and alcohol services for the city. Change Grow Live (CGL) provides tailored support to adults in Brighton & Hove who identify as LGBTQ+. CGL offers 1-to-1 support, a variety of online and face to face groups. They offer LGBTQ+ specific groups via the peer-led Speakout group and have established links with a wide range of LGBTQ+ services. To refer to the service, email brighton.info@cgl.org.uk or phone 01273 731 900. More info: www.changegrowlive. org/brighton-hove-recovery-service/info

l Sussex Beacon

24-hour nursing & medical care, day care 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

l Terrence Higgins Trust Brighton & Hove For more info about these free services go to the THT office, 61 Ship St, Brighton, Mon–Fri, 10am–5pm 01273 764200 or info.brighton@tht.org.uk, facebook.com/THTBrighton

For people living with HIV:

• HIV support services: Info, support & practical advice

• Welfare rights advice: find out about benefits

• Counselling from qualified counsellors for up to 12 sessions

Health Promotion in Brighton & Hove: Provides services for men who have sex with men, anyone from African communities, sex workers of any gender, and trans or non-binary people.

• Visit clinic for free fast HIV & STI testing with results in <10 mins

• Free condoms and lube

• Confidential info and advice on sexual health & HIV

• Face2Face for gay/bi men; negotiating sex, chemsex, newly diagnosed

• Tailored support for sex workers, trans people and African communities

• Outreach - say hello online and in person for info, condoms & lube, and HIV/STI testing at Brighton Sauna, Boiler Room Sauna, Amsterdam, Charles Street Tap, and Legends bar. For details please check facebook.com/THTBrighton

l Sexual Health Worthing Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIVA; Hep vaccinations. Worthing-based 0845 111345645

National Helplines

l National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline at www.galop.org.uk and 0800 999 5428

l Switchboard 0300 330 0630

l Positiveline (Eddie Surman Trust) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm 0800 1696806

l Mainliners 02075 825226

l National AIDS Helpline 08005 67123

l National Drugs Helpline 08007 76600

l THT AIDS Treatment 08459 470047

l THT direct 0845 1221200