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GNI mag EDITOR Kieran Clarke kieran@lambpromotions.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Tony Day tony@lambpromotions.com DIRECTOR Fred Scott fred@lambpromotions.com FASHION EDITOR Tony Webster PHOTOGRAPHY Tony Webster & Brad McClenaghan BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Daniel May daniel@lambpromotions.com
20
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Christopher Megrath chris@lambpromotions.com SPECIAL THANKS TO The Belfast Azlans / Bert Archer / Jamie Baird / Bliain Fitzpatrick / The GastroGays / Eamon McAuley / Hayden McGehan / Micky Murray / Peccadillo Pictures / David Stewart and the staff at 56 Dean Street / Tid Tidmas / Leon Ward / SJ Wilson
33
GNI MAG is published by: Lamb Promotions Ltd 145 Holywood Road Belfast, BT4 3BE
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CONTRIBUTORS
accurate. However we accept no liabilty for any misprints that ap-
LEON WARD
BERT ARCHER
pear in this magazine. You should seek professional advice prior to
Leon Ward is a trustee
Bert Archer is the
of the UK sexual
author of The End of
health charity Brook.
Gay (and the death of
@gnimag
He is the UK Young
heterosexuality). For
Ambassador to the
the past 10 years, he
gni@lambpromotions.com
Commonwealth
following any advice offered in this publication. Lamb Promotions Ltd 2015
@
@GNImag #TeamGNI /gnimag
has been travelling and
Youth Council, the author of a best practice guide
writing about what he sees and does for the Globe,
on young trustees and was a trustee of the global
the Washington Post, the BBC, the National Post,
children’s charity Plan UK. He is a keen blogger
the Toronto Star and others. You can follow him
and tweeter. You can find him on @Leonjward.
on Instagram and Twitter @BertArcher.
contents
EDITOR’S letter Style
55 I’ll Be Your Mirror 62 Get The Look
Lifestyle
Intro
66
7 @GNI MAG 8 Preview 11 Tried and Tested 15 Bliaine Fitzpatrick
Features
20 Ben Whishaw 22 Meet the Azlans! 33 Top 2016 movies 40 Gay in the Commonwealth 45 Qatar 48 GNI MAG investigates
65 Dating 66 Travel: Manchester 69 Fitness 70 Food 73 Interiors
The Big Day
75 Tony and Darren
Outro
85 Health 87 Coming Out: Micky’s Story 90 What’s On: Dublin 92 What’s On: Belfast 98 The Valentine’s Day Survival Guide
UE ISS T NEX OUT 20 CH R A M
Well, we did it. We made it through the horrors of Christmas with most of our major limbs intact. We rewatched the reruns. We stood to attention for the Queen’s Speech (Queen Panti, we mean, not the other one). We survived eating enough Celebrations to fill a midsized car. We even pretended to LOVE those novelty socks with the reindeers on that our Nan got us. If you’re anything like me you were blind drunk by lunchtime and singing along to The Sound of Music swaddled in a makeshift kimono made of wrapping paper and tinsel. But enough of all that. Christmas is a distant memory. 2016 is here and it’s time to dust off the credit card, invest in a good pair of running shoes, and get yourself down the gym. Trust me: the sooner you bite the bullet the sooner you will remember what a hellish place the gym is and resolve to never step foot in one again. These days the closest I get to a locker room is browsing the front page of PornHub, but if there is one thing I do love it’s fit sportsmen. So you can imagine my extreme pleasure at introducing you to Northern Ireland’s newest inclusive rugby team: The Belfast Azlans. That’s them looking shit hot on the cover. (Try to resist skipping to page 24 to meet them.) Elsewhere we’ve got Ben Whishaw: Bond actor, certified gayer, all round beautiful human being; we have a special report about life for our LGBT brothers and sisters in the commonwealth; we preview the hottest films out this year; and we investigate the growing issue of ChemSex on the UK scene. This issue is a special one for us here at the glass and steel monolith that is GNI Towers, because the issue you’re holding in your hands is our extra special, extra fabulous 20th edition. So happy birthday us! From our exclusive LGBT wedding directory (to help you make that special day perfect) free with our next issue, to the very first GNI MAG Awards in October, 2016 is set to be our biggest year yet. Kieran Clarke GNI MAG Editor
For further information and bookings: T: +44 (0)28 9023 4888 E: thegreatroom@themerchanthotel.com
@ gni mag TechnicallyRon @TechnicallyRon
GAZ @GazGShore
#CBB it’s that when you think
in and Gemma hugs them, if you
If we have learnt anything from
you’re famous your face tries to reject you.
Celebrity Big Brother is back and we finally have a reason to watch Channel 5 again. We’ve rounded up the best (read: bitchiest) tweets from Twitter’s finest – and Katie Hopkins – for your entertainment, or something.
Dawn French @Dawn_French Gemma’s hair to win! #CBB
Holly Johnson @TheHollyJohnson
All they need is the return of Pete Burns
Matt Johnson @Mattjohnsons
Not going to say anything about
Maloney. He follows me on Twitter
and I’m 65% sure that he could be a part time serial killer #CBB
Everytime a new housemate comes listen carefully you can hear her
whisper “u got any biscuits” #CBB
R-POOZ @Yeloop
Declan Cashin @Tweet_Dec
nan used to keep by the phone for
and you *might* remember me
Jeremy’s tattoos look like the pad my doodles #CBB
#CBB Contestant: “Hello, I’m X from…
Viewer: “I’m gonna stop you right
SATAN @chrismegrath1
Can’t wait for the ‘I’m a bit of a slut
but I want people to see there’s more to me than tits’ girl to go in #CBB
Metro Entertainment @Metro_Ents Ex-mates Chris Maloney and
Daniella Westbrook are both in the
there.”
Jonathan Harvey @JOJEHARVEY
Getting ready to tweet about #CBB
like an athlete in the starting blocks. Then remembered the first bit’s usually seeing the house. Grr
#CBB house and it’s so awkward
Katie Hopkins @KTHopkins
SATAN @chrismegrath1
them. But we couldn’t afford one. So
And the inevitable ‘I can have any
girl I want because I’ve tattoos and
It’s time for another celebrity to join here’s Darren Day. #CBB
go to the gym’ dickhead #CBB
ON THE COVER
#PUgsofinstagram DOUBLE PUGS! Trust PewDiePie aka Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg, the most subbed YouTuber ever - to bring us the best in pugs the internet has to offer. Not content with just one pug, Felix has two, the adorable Maya and the adorable Edgar. #greedy Anyone know where we can get this shirt? Asking for us.
Photography by Tony Webster bigbadllama.com GNIMAG.COM | 7
TRIED AND TESTED__ MUSIC
NO MAN’S SKY 18 quintillion worlds to explore, millions of alien species waiting to be found, that’s the promise of No Man’s Sky. This new open-world game from indie studio Hello Games contains a full size virtual galaxy, including stars, planets, and life forms. It’s a game so mind-bogglingly enormous that you’d have to find one planet a second for the next 5 billion years to find them all. Amazin’. No Man’s Sky is out this June on PC and PS4
10 | GNIMAG.com
PREVIEW__ WHAT’S NEW
LIGHTNING STRIKES (A POSE) Meet Lightning, the pink-haired protagonist of the massively successful Final Fantasy XIII series modelling Louis Vuitton. “Lightning is the perfect avatar for a global, heroic woman and for a world where social networks and communications are now seamlessly woven into our life,” said Vuitton’s creative director Nicolas Ghesquière. As the face of Vuitton’s ‘Series 4’ collection, Lightning has swapped her trusty gunblade for a signature handbag, pleated skirt and leather jacket embellished with the iconic LV monogram. House Vuitton will collaborate with Final Fantasy designer Tetsuya Nomura for JANUARY 8-31 Out to Lunch Now in its 11th year, Belfast’s boutique arts fest returns for a month of impeccably curated art to banish those post-Christmas blues. Sam Wills aka The Boy With Tape On His Face is a GNI MAG favourite. cqaf.com
JANUARY 24 The X Files This long awaited miniseries pits FBI agents Mulder and Scully against yet more killers, conspiracy theorists, actual aliens, jump scares and Gillian Anderson’s hair. 13 years later and we STILL want to believe! fox.com
their
FEBRUARY 9 Unravel We teased it back in issue 18, now Unravel (the adorable indie puzzleplatformer) finally has a release date. Navigate a snowy Scandanavia with Yarny on PC, Xbox and PS4 unravelgame. com
Spring/Summer FEBRUARY 21 Girls New boyfriends? A wedding? Japan? The return of Adam Driver? There’s a lot to get excited by in the next series of this snarky Lena Dunham comedy. Expect sass aplenty when Girls returns on HBO. hbo.com/girls
2016
collection.
MARCH 4 House of Cards Where would we be without the villainous machinations of Kevin Spacey’s delightfully evil President Underwood? Binge-watching on Netflix ‘til your heart’s content. netflix.com GNIMAG.com | 9
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Supporting & Empowering the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Trans and Questioning community in Northern Ireland. Cara-Friend delivers services to LGB&T youth, LGB&T Switchboard NI, Funding Advice and Support, Training Opportunities, Volunteering Experience, Partnership and Inclusion Work and Support for Families of LGB&T People.
PROMOTING DIGNITY AND EQUALITY FOR ALL Belfast LGB&T Centre, 1st Floor, 9-13 Waring Street, Belfast, BT1 2DX
Cara-Friend LGB&T Switchboard NI
0808 8000 390
For information on opening hours and live online chat support visit our website on www.cara-friend.org.uk
TRIED & Tested TECH / Movies / music / stage Boomstick £70 This small addition to any set of headphones or speakers will turn your run down low music into a rock concert inside your head or everyone around you. Plugging directly into any phone or computer audio port, this tiny processor boosts volume nearly 100% and adds a truly immersive and clear sound whilst taking up little to no space. Music just got a whole lot louder.
Bragi Dash Wireless Smart Headphones £230 It’s about time we stepped into the future and these compact wireless smart earphones are exactly how we’re going to do it. No bigger than any other headphone, these sit comfortably inside your ear. Its built in sensors allow you to stay away from your phone and still accept calls or change music simply by shaking your head. A huge step up from Bluetooth, these headphones are what dreams are made of.
Mybumper iPhone 6/6s Charging Case £42.30 With Apple releasing a clunky and unpopular charging case, Mybumper decided to bring us the case we’ve waited years for. The slim and lightweight portable charger adds a full 80% more battery life with a dual layer protective design to give your phone the most protection with the best look. No more plugging ourselves into the wall non-stop just to use the iPhone for a few hours.
In this modern age everyone has a phone in their hands at all times, whether it’s modern or outdated, we’re definitely living in a mobile era. All ages have access to smartphones, giving us the world at our fingertips, but sometimes it’s just not enough. This TNT focuses on upgrading your already stellar devices by enhancing product features or making your life a little easier without huge, clunky products taking up space. We’ve decided to focus on mobile functionality and ways to increase not only productivity but entertainment that allows you to push the limits of your mobile to new heights you’d only see 5 years from now if you were to wait for an upgrade. The small accessories are perfect for everyone and will easily make a huge difference to your phone.
GNIMAG.COM | 11
TRIED AND TESTED__ MUSIC
BLACKSTAR DAVID BOWIE
016 1947 - 2
david bowie iso records / columbia This month the world bid farewell to an extrordinary talent. As his alien alter-ego, Ziggy Stardust, David Bowie crash landed in the ruins of the hippy dream in 1972. In his heels and feathers, his eyebrows shaved, with one painted nail pointed down the camera on Top of the Pops, he redefined what it meant to be queer. Bowie was the epitome of what an artist could be. He was a master of reinvention, one of the last great icons of the 20th Century. From ‘Aladdin Sane’ to ‘The Man Who Sold the World’, Bowie produced an astonishing 25 records in his lifetime. 18 months ago he was diagnosed with liver cancer, a fact he kept closely guarded. There were brief remissions, periods when the breaks in his gruelling chemotherapy treatment fuelled a creative overdrive. The end result is ‘Blackstar’, Bowie’s final album. It was released on his 69th birthday, two days before his death. ‘Blackstar’ is an album packed with ideas. The 10 minute title track swings from the theatrical to the downright menacing; it’s difficult to watch the video now without seeing a grim foreshadowing of the Starman singer’s death. The third track (appropriately titled ‘Lazarus’) shows the singer in his sick bed, climbing into a coffin-like cupboard. “Look up here,” he sings, “I’m
in Heaven / I’ve got scars that can’t be seen / I’ve got drama, can’t be stolen / Everybody knows me know.” Bowie gave the world Ziggy Stardust, the Thin White Duke and Jareth the Goblin King. He produced albums with the likes of Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, and Brian Eno, and he will be forever missed.
12 | GNIMAG.COM
TRIED AND TESTED__ MOVIES
THE HATEFUL 8
DEPARTURE
What it’s about:
What it’s about:
Is it any good?
A stagecoach hurtles across the
Elliot (Alex Lawther) is a dreamer. He is a
Andrew Steggall makes his directorial debut
frozen wilds of the Old West. Inside
poet and a wearer of vintage army coats, a
in this gentle coming-of-age drama. Lawther
are bounty hunter John Ruth (Kurt
young man uncertain of his sexuality. With
(who charmed as the young Alan Turing in
Russell) and his prisoner Daisy
his mother (Juliet Stevenson) he travels to
The Imitation Game) is louche in the role of
Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh).
the south of France to pack up their holiday
Elliot; he wafts from scene to scene, at odds
Domergue is a convicted killer
home, a casualty of his parent’s crumbling
with the enigmatic Clemént.
with a $10,000 bounty on her head,
marriage. While there, he meets Clemént
a bounty Ruth is determined to
(Phénix Brossard), a brooding bad boy Elliot
is masterfully shot, where every emotion is
collect.
spy’s half-naked one summer day. Clemént is
elegantly captured. It is a sensitive portrait of
Departure is a film in which every frame
more interested in fixing his motorbike than
a family in crisis, and puts a unique spin on
Marquis Warren (Sam Jackson) and
striking up a friendship with the awkward
the well-trod path of queer adolescence.
an ensemble cast of rogues and
English boy, but his arrival triggers a
ne’er-do-wells snowed-in in a cabin
realisation of Elliot’s blossoming sexuality.
Along the road they meet Major
Out March 10
during a blizzard. Do The Hateful Eight have their own plans for Domergue’s bounty? Is it any good? Quentin Tarantino’s fondness for
THE REVENANT What it’s about:
cinematic sentimentality has gone
Fur trapper Hugh Glass
nowhere. Shot in glorious 65mm
(Leonardo DiCaprio)
Ultra Panavision - the same format
leads a hunting party
used for Gone With the Wind and
through a snowy
Ben Hur - The Hateful Eight looks
South Dakota when he
unlike any film you’ve seen before.
is attacked and mauled
Every detail in this ultraviolent
by a bear. Rather than
picture looks otherworldly and
treat his wounds Glass’
beautiful.
companions, including
Is it any good?
the traitorous John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy),
Alejandro González Iñárritu’s follow-up to the
Performances range from sublime to electrifying, including one
abandon him to die. Glass survives, if only
Oscar-winning Birdman, The Revenant is an
hilarious monologue that tops Pulp
just. Now he is forced to travel 120 miles
honest-to-goodness unashamedly gruelling
Fiction’s gold watch story by miles.
through a brutal wilderness, brave warring
man-against-nature epics yet seen.
tribes of Native Americans, and survive the Out January 8
punishing elements to exact his revenge.
Out January 15
GNIMAG.COM | 13
TRIED AND TESTED TESTED__ BOOKS && THEATRE STAGE TRIED AND | BOOKS
30 JAN – 28 FEB 2016
EDUCATING
RITA Written by
Willy Russell Directed by Emma Jordan Starring Kerri Quinn
ALL THE BIRDS IN THE SKY
TICKETS FROM £10
CHARLIE JANE ANDERS TITAN BOOKS Patricia and Laurence are childhood friends. Drawn together by their mutual oddness, they part ways under mysterious circumstances, only meet again ten years later as adults. Patricia is a graduate of Eltisley Maze, the academy for the magically gifted, while Laurence is the inventor of the two-second time machine. Patricia uses her magic to repair the world’s ever worsening problems, while Laurence is an engineering genius on the cusp of inventing a wormhole. Little do they realise that something much bigger is determined to force them together. All the Birds in the Sky is a magical, subversive, anarchic and darkly comedic novel from Charlie Jane Anders. Charlie Jane is editor-in-chief of the extraordinarily popular Gawker Media site io9.com, and a personal hero of GNI MAG’s own editor-in-chief. All the Birds in the Sky - her debut novel is a moving, lyrically (and at times thrillingly) written examination of life, love, and the apocalypse. It balances an intimate portrait of childhood friendship with a story about scientific advancement and the struggle between saving this world or finding another. Throw in talking animals, lovelorn AIs, and delightful villain and the result is 2016’s speculative fiction high point so far.
14 | GNIMAG.COM
EDUCATING RITA
THE BODYGUARD
LYRIC THEATRE, BELFAST
GRAND OPERA HOUSE,
January 30 – February 28
February 3 – February 13
In this reimagined version of the 1983 Willy Russell
If there was ever a movie we wanted to see get
BELFAST
classic starring Michael Caine and Julie Walters in
the musical treatment, it’s this. The Bodyguard is
her big screen debut, Kerri Quinn sparkles as Rita.
a multi already award-winning musical based on
In a departure from Walter’s brassy Liverpudlian
(you guessed it) the blockbuster film. It transfers to
tones, the accents (and the drama) have been
Belfast’s Grand Opera House fresh from its smash-
relocated to the mean streets of Belfast. Rita is a no-
hit West End run as part of a sold-out UK tour. Stuart Reid plays Frank Farmer, a former Secret
nonsense hairdresser. She is tired of her job, tired of
Service agent turned bodyguard who is hired to
her prospects, her husband and her life. With a dream of achieving the middle-class life
protect one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Alexandra
she’s always longed for, Rita enrols on an English
Burke plays Rachel Marron, an Oscar-winner with
Literature course at the Open University. It’s here
a demented fan. Former X-Factor star Burke has
that she meets Frank (played by The Archer’s
some surprisingly acting chops, with an as-close-to-
Stephen Kennedy). Frank is an alcoholic, a divorcee
perfect Whitney voice that anyone could ask for.
and a jaded university lecturer who works solely to
This romantic thriller features a host of
fund his drinking habit. Eventually he finds Rita’s
Whitney’s greatest hits, including One Moment in
enthusiasm for learning and her working class
Time and I Wanna Dance With Somebody. From
attitude refreshing. Together they make an unlikely
her pyrotechnic opening number Queen of the
pair, with Frank showing Rita the way to a better
Night to her note-perfect rendition of I Will Always
future.
Love You, the stage belongs to Alexandra Burke.
5 steps of brit Award chaos
Will end up iconic or hillarious
ADELE 2011
Superstar but will still do shots in spoons
Will punch you for talking shit
SPICE GIRLS 1997
Working off community service
OASIS 1996
Likely to be unsure of where they are
RUSSELL BRAND 2007
COLUMN__ BLÍAIN FITZPATRICK
UBER IN BELFAST All we need now is a Pret on every corner and we’ll know we’ve made it LUTHER Please, please can we get a full series now @BBC? STAR WARS Still reeling from that ending. So good we had to see it twice CBB I mean, who doesn’t enjoy throwback celebrities arguing Netflix Our favourites have release dates for new seasons! Yaaaas queen etc.
LOVE HATE 2015 Well thank fuck that’s over. War. Terrorism. Strife. One year closer to our gay pensions... CELEBS DYING First Cilla, then Bowie, now Alan Rickman. Can you all stop dying please?! GEORGE R.R. MARTIN Still no Winds of Winter? We. Are. Fuming. THE X-FACTOR ENOUGH ALREADY. THE SINGLE BOMBED. POST CHRISTMAS DIETS So hangry we could straight up murder somebody. BEING SKINT Lend us a tenner?
A clean slate is a chance to start again
Blíain Fitzpatrick New beginnings are something that
Think about it for a second. How many times
most of us play with at the start of a new year.
have you been running late for a meeting, or
A clean slate is a chance to start again, and a
wrong. Your taxi is late, you can’t find your wallet
We all love of fresh start, and who wouldn’t?
chance to put the ugliness of the previous year behind us. But what does a fresh start actually look like? Obviously we all have the usual
resolutions: lose weight, get a better job, solve world hunger etc etc. Generally the idea is to
become a new you, or at least a better version of who we reckon we ought to be. Right?
For me, those aforementioned ideals are
a waste of time. Who wants a watered down
late to work, or to the club. Everything is going anywhere, you’re pretty sure that pimple is the
size of a small island-state and everyone is going to notice. Then you look up only realise you’ve
suddenly run into a friend you haven’t seen for years. Coincidence? Maybe. Maybe not. I can’t
help but wonder how things might have gone if
everything had gone to plan. (It’s like that movie Sliding Doors but not all 90’s and horrible.) There are many fine arguments that go
version of the same old resolutions every other
against this idea, and I’m not saying that my
stick to each new year? Not me. This year I plan
my own personal philosophy and that’s fine by
young gay millennial sets themselves and rarely on tackling 2016 a bit differently.
As years go 2015 wasn’t all that bad. I rebuilt
some friendships, I moved up the career ladder, and I fell madly in love with a wonderful man. These events weren’t anything like the joys I thought they would be, but they happened
way of seeing things is necessarily true, but it’s
me. This year the only goal I’m setting myself is
to expect the unexpected. So I’m going to make
some changes, vary up my routine, and see if life
really is what happens when we are busy making other plans. I like to think it is.
My advice, really, is don’t let yourself get too
and I’m grateful they did. As a bonus, I wasn’t
focussed on making those resolutions happen.
did it was something of a pleasant surprise.
then good job. Be that better person you want
expecting these things to happen, so when they (I should add that the sceptic in me who
thinks that fate is a load of old nonsense is
slowly being persuaded to think otherwise; it’s
easy to see why so many people believe in some mystical force that decides the path their life will take. I’m not religious, but at the risk of
sounding mystical I do think the universe has a
If you make one resolution (or two, or twenty) to be. And if you don’t make a resolution then
that’s cool too. But if you do, don’t forget to keep an eye out for an even better opportunity that you might’ve had no idea you wanted until it
falls straight in your lap. It’ll happen the second you stop looking. I practically guarantee it.
So don’t cancel the gym memberships just
plan for all of us.)
yet. Make it your goal to look at things a bit
is great for giving us some much needed
as another opportunity for happiness. When it
Setting goals at the beginning of the year
motivation to get through the post-Christmas slog. My main concern with resolutions is
that we put too many challenges ahead of us. It becomes too easy to get distracted – and
probably forget – all about them. This year I’m going to try and get to where I want to be by taking an unexpected route.
differently for a change. Try to see everything
happens it might not look the way you expected, but that’s the wonderfully frustrating about life. Go with the flow. Take a risk. Fall in love. Get knocked down. Get back up again. Make 2016 yours.
BLÍAIN
GNIMAG.COM | 15
H
M
Y
D I G R Y B
Strength has a greater purpose Lyndon Court Belfast BT1 6EF 07724 705216
hybridfitnessni.co.uk
COLUMN__ HAYDEN McGEHAN
#BULGE
Out vs Stealth. Round one. FIGHT.
Hayden McGehan Meeting new groups of people as a
exhausting in their own ways, but being out is
Questions come at you from every side. Will
soul can breathe easier. You didn’t spend all that
transgender individual is never straightforward. they gender me correctly? Will they question
themselves after correctly gendering me? Will
they talk about me? Will they even care? Should I even care? Does any of this even matter?
My girlfriend and I are traveling at the
moment, and over the 15/16-winter season
tradition alive. Last month he treated his 140,000 Instagram followers to the most bulgetastic selfie imaginable.
knew me prior to transition. Originally this
sounded epic. Fresh faces. Fresh environment. the true me. But I was afraid of losing touch
with my trans pride, and during Transgender
Awareness Month I got really involved with the internal conflict of being out versus stealth.
Landing that new job or meeting those new
friends of friends are all times when transgender individuals are likely to find themselves in the same headspace I am in right now. Of course,
Dressed in nothing more than a pair of white Calvins, the cheeky snap triggered the greatest wave of heart eyes and eggplant emoji use that has ever been seen before. Tagged #mycalvins, the pic has already been liked more than 15,000 times, with comments ranging from the inspired ‘Fuck me!’, entreating our favourite diver to come to the dark side, to thirsty wondering just what he gets up to in the changing room with his diving partner Jack Laugher.
this isn’t true for everyone. But that decision is still there, whether consciously or not.
I have a heart full of trans pride, but being
stealth doesn’t leave a lot of room for displaying how proud you are of your identity. Firstly,
because these people don’t/can’t know I am
hits of thirst inspiring tweets, where you can follow him at @mearschris93. Roll on Rio 2016!
refreshing; it’s freedom.
Society’s understanding of transgender
is a work in progress. And because of this,
supportive environment it should be. Coming
to, ahem, “the middle of buttfuck nowhere”, as
my boss likes to put it, didn’t inspire me to feel
like I was safe. And it was my need for safety up against my need to own who I am that sent me headfirst into this pool of self-doubt.
Every trans person should have pride, but
every trans person should also be safe. Pride vs safety inevitably becomes out vs stealth, and
who knows where you might go from there. It honestly isn’t something I have entirely
figured out yet, but I wanted to share a little of my internal dialogue. I’m living in limbo
somewhere on the spectrum between out and
stealth, and proud of the (trans)man I am, but
I’m just not ready to shout it from the rooftops. I am not here to tell you that how I’m
trans and secondly because showing pride in a
handling things is the right way. Just like your
to do with you might give you away. However,
entirely circumstantial, and has many variables
community that supposedly doesn’t have a lot
there are benefits to being stealth: It’s easier to
get on with it, you’re safe, and you feel validated
living full-time in the gender you know you are. The downside is that, more often than not,
being stealth comes at the cost of low energy Chris’ Twitter feed reads like a greatest
you and living openly as your authentic self is
not everywhere is going to be the safe and
2015 was the year the shameless celeb
the human race – is keeping this proud
not mean something in the long run. Knowing
packed with meeting new people who never
Fresh start. It was an opportunity to fully own
frustratingly heterosexual member of
navigate life in your newfound identity for it to
individuals, and the community as a whole,
CHRIS MEARS old diving prodigy, member of Team GB,
time discovering you and figuring out how to
we are working at a small ski resort in Eastern Ontario. The past couple of months have been
bulge shot. Now Chris Mears – 23-year-
less exhausting than the alternative because your
and mental fatigue. Fake backstories don’t
come so easy. You are constantly making sure you aren’t displaying traits of the opposite
gender. You feel guilty, as though you are lying to everyone. Being stealth and being out are
identity, it is something only you will know. It’s you need to consider. First and foremost is your safety, so please make that your top priority.
Every question is a part of the journey. Every discussion you have with yourself is a part of
the bigger picture. And there’s no such thing
as a wrong decision, because there is always an opportunity for you to make another. Hayden
lllads.tumblr.com
GNIMAG.COM | 17
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COLUMN__ SJ WILSON
HERO OF THE MONTH
ngs
What it means to be a straight ally
SJ Wilson For anyone who doesn’t know, I’m
Scott Wilson. Call me SJ. I’m happily hetero,
happily married, and an avid supporter of equal
anyone else), a believer in the right to freely
gay community turned away every straight ally
and be loved by whoever your heart desires, a proponent of free speech, a hater of political correctness, and a huge geek.
Now that I’ve laid the groundwork, I want to
ngs
Every gay guys wet dream, Gus Kenworthy is physically impeccable. Not only winning everyone’s hearts, the free-style skier knows his way around a halfpipe and took home his
first medal, a bronze, at the X Games in France and the silver medal in 2014’s Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Gus came out on October 2015 through
ings
Twitter saying, “I am gay. Wow, it feels good to write those words. For most of
my life I’ve been afraid to embrace that truth about myself. Recently though,
I’ve gotten to the point where the pain of holding onto the lie is greater than the fear of letting go, and I’m proud to finally be letting my guard down.”
Rescuing and adopting several adorable puppies from Russia, Gus can do no
ings
wrong by us. ____________________ IMAGE: ESPN
Does this mean I’m not allowed to change
my way of thinking? Does this mean I’m not
identify as your chosen gender, the right to love
GUS KENWORTHY
mentality I want my children to have.
rights. I’m an advocate of religious freedom (so long as nobody tries forcing their lifestyle on
ngs
was the mentality I had as a child; this is not a
worthy of supporting the LGBT fight? If the
who once upon a time uttered a slur they would never dream of using now then the community wouldn’t have many allies left. People change. I’m happy to say I’m one of them.
I have seen some people react to hetero
draw attention to something that’s happened me
support of the equality argument in a way that
of my local gay bar. More than once has
approved before their support is allowed. How
a few times whilst exploring the dark underbelly someone come up to me to ask, “Why do you
write for gay magazine when you are straight?” To this day I don’t know if they were attacking my articles, or attacking the fact I have clearly
broken some unwritten rule that says you have be part of the club to want to support LGBT rights. It was as if I had done the most taboo
thing possible and now had to answer for my
crimes. Straight allies supporting the gays, can you imagine? The cheek of it all!
Situations like this are (thankfully) few and
far between, and nor has it stopped me from
being a vocal supporter my local LGBT scene. Just because I’m not gay doesn’t mean I can’t
suggests their straight allies should have to be absolutely absurd is that? With those people in charge, people like me would be expected
to fill in forms, sit before a panel of gay judges, and defend my beliefs and support. That isn’t
how equality works. It’s understandable to be cautious, but not to the point of excluding likeminded people from the fight.
So why do I support equal rights? It’s simple:
I don’t want my children to grow up in a world where they have to defend who they are, who they love, or to force them to go through the
ordeal of coming out just to explain their sexual preference to the world.
If the time ever comes when my children feel
support and fight for LGBT equality or have an
the need to tell me they are gay, lesbian, bisexual,
me for a while, but I can understand why a gay
of those spectrums, all I will have to tell them is
ulterior motive for doing so. It has stuck with
person might not be able to comprehend why a straight person like me – someone who doesn’t directly benefit from more LGBT equality
transgender, or that they fall somewhere on any that who they love is their business. I hope that makes them happy.
I support LGBT equality because I want a
– would want to see more of it. The reason is
more equal future, not a future of special rights
largely heterosexual society isn’t always positive.
means. So the next time you meet someone you
because the gay community’s experience of a
I wasn’t always accepting of LGBT people.
When I was younger I had no understanding of what it meant to be gay. I thought then (a very
long time ago now) that the only thing gay men wanted was to turn all straight men gay. This
for special people. That’s not what equality
think might be straight in a gay club or at a rally, remember not to treat them differently. We need all the support we can get. SJ
GNIMAG.COM | 19
INTERVIEW__ BEN WISHAW
THE SPY WHO LOVED ME WORDS | TID TIDMAS
20 | GNIMAG.COM
INTERVIEW__ BEN WISHAW
2015 marked the launchpad for Ben WHishaw’s career. Best known for his role alongside Romola Garai and Dominic West in The Hour, and his affecting lead role in Lilting, Wishaw’s career has gone from strength to strength. WHishaw has proven himself time and again to be one of the finest actors of his generation, be it trading quips with Daniel Craig in SPECTRE, oppressing Carey Mulligan in Suffragette, or fawning after Eddie Redmayne’s Einar in The Danish Girl. Did we mention he is also gorgeous? His latest role is in BBC spy thriller London Spy. Initially, it may sound like a familiar formula for a show. However, this five-part series by novelist Tom Rob Smith is a far cry from the world of Aston Martins, martinis, and scenery chewing baddies. Whishaw plays Danny, a hedonistic young man trapped in a cycle of dead-end work and clubbing. Everything changes when he meets Alex, the titular spy played by Kingsman actor Edward Holcroft. Just as they discover how perfect they are for each other Alex disappears, plunging Danny into a hidden world of espionage and murder.
How did it feel reading the
which he does not understand at all.
script for London Spy?
I also think that Danny has a few
It felt incredibly fresh and I didn’t
surprises up his sleeve. He’s a
know what on Earth was going to
complicated person and there are
happen - or what sort of a story I was
parts of him that are revealed slowly
in, even.
over the course of the five hours. It’s
I think it’s a fascinating story - a
all part of this world that Tom has
fascinating series, because although
created where you aren’t quite certain
I think it is a thriller, it doesn’t really
of anything.
conform exactly to what you expect a thriller to do. It creates its own version
What’s the relationship
of that genre.
between Danny and Jim Broadbent’s character
What stood out about London
Scottie?
Spy for you?
Danny and Scottie have been friends
I’m amazed by how Tom Rob Smith
for a very long time, and in a way
has written a story for every single
it’s the central relationship in the
character that features in the drama,
series. That’s another thing I love
and there are many characters that
about London Spy - it features this
Danny encounters along this journey.
friendship between two gay men, one
It’s unique and exciting because it
who is in his sixties and one who is
happens so much in Danny’s head -
in his twenties - so two very different
it’s a very subjective story and all the
generations.
more exciting for that, I think.
There are unspoken feelings from Scottie towards Danny, but over
What was filming like?
the course of the story we realise
It’s been wonderful to work on a
that Danny does in his own way
really fantastic piece of writing - of
reciprocate those feelings of love and
new writing that’s not based on
tenderness towards Scottie, who is a
anything else. It’s contemporary and
wonderful, wise and humane person
challenging. The vision that director
with a core of sadness in him.
Jakob Verbruggen has brought to it,
Jim is an incredible actor, and it’s
the visual style and the energy, I think
impossible to say how he does what
is a defining quality of the series.
he does. He’s got an incredible range as an actor, so he can inhabit vastly
Tell us a bit about your
different people.
character, Danny. Danny is the central character who
What do you hope audiences
falls in love at the beginning of the
will get from the series?
story with Alex, and they have a
I really hope that it is as an exciting,
very intense, deep connection. The
moving and layered experience as
relationship ends abruptly. Danny
I found it to read. I think there is
doesn’t really understand. Alex then
something about watching a character
dies in mysterious circumstances.
go to the limits of an experience - to
From there, the story follows Danny’s
watch a character get dragged over the
journey to try and understand what
coals and plunge into something very
happened to his lover.
dark and painful- and to come through
At the beginning, Danny doesn’t know he is in a spy story; he doesn’t
that experience, it’s really powerful for an audience to watch.
know he is in love with a spy. He doesn’t know anything about the
This interview reproduced with kind
world of spying and he is in a world
permission from the BBC. London Spy
that is quite alien to him, the rules of
is available now on BBC iPlayer
GNIMAG.COM | 21
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
The Lion, the Witch, and the Locker-Room of Gorgeous Men. We get comfy with Belfast’s newest inclusive rugby team... 22 | GNIMAG.COM
MEET THE AZLANS WORDS: KIERAN CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHY: TONY WEBSTER
>>>
GNIMAG.COM | 23
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS The Rugby World Cup may be over (at least until Japan take the
Steelers. “It seemed like the right time,” he tells us.
reins in 2019) but the world of rugby remains as popular as ever.
The rest, as they say, is history.
The sport has a reputation as being the preserve of the elite and of
Numbers have increased steadily since their first meeting, with
hot-blooded human battering rams of the heterosexual persuasion
clubs like Dublin’s Emerald Warriors - Ireland’s first primarily gay
who all seem to sound like minor members of the Royal Family.
rugby team - pledging to play them. Currently the Azlan’s players
We’re glad to say that times have changed. These days you’re just as likely to find the bloke next door playing rugger for his nearest club, while rugby matches are as common a fixture in your local
all come from all walks of life, with sexuality, age and ability being no barrier to getting involved. “In rugby there is very little place for beginners,” Kevin explained,
gay bar as the Eurovision semi-finals. While other sports continue
“and there is still a lot of resistance to players who are gay or bi - or
to lag in their less-than-progressive stances on players being open
who are perceived to be gay or bi - being open about their sexuality
about their sexuality, the far more inclusive world of rugby has paved the way for host of inclusive teams at home and abroad. (And with no small thanks to a number of high-profile rugby players outing themselves over the years.) During last year’s World Cup two new gay and inclusive clubs were welcomed into the fold. The Glasgow Alphas became Scotland’s second inclusive club after the Caledonian Thebans when their team was founded just a month shy of the games. Less than a month later, and much closer to home, gay rugby made its welcome return to the shores of Northern Ireland with the founding of the Belfast Azlans. The Azlans took up the reins of the Ulster Titans, Belfast’s previous gay rugby team who disbanded in 2010, making
in sport in general. It’s even the case in rugby,
“The joy of the club comes from more than learning to pass the ball, or the how to execute a tackle. It’s about feeling a part of something, something that many gay men have felt out of reach”
the Azlans the 65th inclusive rugby club in the world and the 12th in total in the UK. The team is the brainchild of Kevin Bartlett, who is the team’s
which is one of the main supporters and movers in promoting openness and fairness and equality. “The Azlans is a team where people can come and learn how to play rugby from scratch. The joy of the club comes from more than learning to pass the ball, or the how to execute a tackle. It’s about feeling a part of something, something that many gay men have felt out of reach. The idea of team sports for many gay men can seem alienating and foreign, Azlan’s try to counteract that.” “We are actively breaking down some of the negative gay and rugby stereotypes to forge a new kind of game,” Bartlett explains. “Along with our 76 brethren teams we hope to build on this and continue to positively impact people that we meet. Our ambition is to one day compete in and win the Bingham Cup, which is essentially
the gay rugby equivalent of the world cup. We are dedicated to
coach and referee. As well as being a seasoned pro and passionate
the sport and committed to the idea that any man, be they gay or
sportsman, Kevin competed in the Gay Games in Vancouver in
straight, can come along and be part something great.”
1990, representing England, where he won gold in the athletics. After being approached about the idea to rekindle the interest
For more exclusive images of our Azlans shoot visit gnimag.com
in gay rugby in Northern Ireland, Kevin says the idea got stuck in his head. 2015 just happened to be the 20th anniversary of the
To get involved with the Belfast Azlan’s search ‘Belfast Azlans’ on
founding of the first ever inclusive rugby club, the King’s Cross
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
24 | GNIMAG.COM
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
ALEKS Age: 27 Height: 6’4 Position: Flanker Day Job: Media exec What advice do you have for anyone joining the team? watch as many rugby matches as you can, that way it’ll be easier to recognise the techniques we train to do. Don’t be insecure and don’t worry if you aren’t experienced, most of team never played rugby before starting. It’s the job of the coaches and the rest of the team to make sure everyone can play.
GNIMAG.COM | 25
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
STEPHEN Age: 27 Height: 5’10 Position: Flanker Day Job: Colour technician Which sportsperson do you admire the most? I would have to say Sam Stanley. I think it’s great to see leading sportsmen find the courage to come out in the spotlight. The more athletes who come out publicly the easier it will be for people to be open about their sexuality in sport.
26 | GNIMAG.COM
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
SEAN Age: 23 Height: 6’3 Position: Flanker Day Job: Diagnostic Radiographer Which sportsperson do you think has done the most for lgbt visibility in sport? Tough question, but I’ve got to go with Ben Cohen. The guy has achieved an incredible amount throughout his Rugby Union career and he constantly advocates for raising awareness of LGBT rights in sport. It’s important that we have as many voices in the public forum shouting in our favour. Sport is for everyone, regardless of their sexuality.
GNIMAG.COM | 27
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
KEVIN Age: Web age 40 (real age 54) Height: 5’9” Position: Coach, scrum half, Director of Rugby Day Job: Employment support officer for people with disabilities, parttime sports therapist How would you tackle homophobia in sport? I tackle homophobia in sport everytime I step onto the pitch to referee. I was lucky to be able to compete in the Gay Games in Vancouver in 1990. I’m a passionate sportsman, I’m just a sportsman who happens to be gay. As I referee I don’t hesitate to penalise players for using homophobic language.
28 | GNIMAG.COM
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
DANNY Age: 26 Height: 6’4” Position: Buy me dinner first Day Job: Charity Worker Why did you get involved with the Azlans? people always asked me if I played rugby, but I would always tell them I wasn’t interested. The truth is that I was afrid to get involved. Then I heard about this new inclusive rugby team and the rest is history! I’ve been overwhelmed by how kind and genuine my teammates are. Conversations go from lifting techniques, to RuPaul, to nights out. No one judges you, you’re just one of the guys. It’s great.
GNIMAG.COM | 29
FEATURE__ MEET THE AZLANS
GARY Age: 27 Height: 6’ Position: Open-side Flanker Day Job: Business analyst in the financial sector Do you have any good locker room stories? I would love to share, but as per the rugby code of honour, what happens in the locker room stays in the locker room!
30 | GNIMAG.COM
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TOP SIX OF 2016
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
2016 is shaping up to be the best year of new movies we’ve had in ages. We’ve rounded up the best of the best. From Batman V
Superman to Captain America: Civil War, Ghostbusters to The Jungle Book the drama stakes have never been higher...
FINDING DORY
Ellen DeGeneres as Dory, Ed O’Neill as Hank Pixar, Walt Disney Pictures
What it’s about:
The Forecast:
In this sequel to the hugely successful 2003
Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton takes
most successful picture to date. What we
Pixar movie Finding Nemo, audiences will
audiences back to the extraordinary
know for sure is that Andrew Stanton (who
finally discover why Dory (Ellen DeGeneres)
underwater world created in the original
directed the original) is back as writer and
was all alone when we first met her. Now
Finding Nemo for Pixar’s 30th anniversary.
directer, so fins crossed.
the time has come to reunite everyone’s
Finding Dory takes place about a year
Of course, no Finding Nemo film would
favourite royal blue tang with her long lost
after the first film, and features a cast of
be complete without the vocal talents of
parents. From the Pacific ocean to the kelp
returning favourites like Marlin, Nemo and
Ellen DeGeneres. The trailer promises the
reefs of California, Dory will need all the
the Tank Gang. The story will also welcome
same loveable Dory we fell in love with
help she can get.
a host of new characters, including a few
back in 2003. We won’t lie, we are already
who will prove to be an important part of
expecting to have our hearts broken.
Along the way Dory stumbles upon a martine rehabilitation centre where she
Dory’s life, including ones voiced by Willem
meets an octopus called Hank (Ed O’Neill),
Dafoe, Diane Keaton, and Eugene Levy.
a whale-shark who thinks shes a shark
Plot details are sparse, which is no
named Destiny (Kaitlin Olson) and a beluga
surprise given the famously secretive
whale called Bailey (Ty Burrell).
Pixar and with Finding Nemo being their
GNI MAG | 35
Do Say: Just keeping swimming… Don’t Say: … right the way to the bank. Released June 17
GNIMAG.COM | 33
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
THE JUNGLE BOOK Ben Kingsley as Bagheera, Neel Sethi as Mowgli Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
What it’s about Mowgli (Neel Sethi) is raised in the jungle by the wolves Raksha (Lupita Nyong’o) and Akela (Giancarlo Esposito). When the fearsome tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba) threatens his life, Mowgli must leave his home to set out on a journey of self discovery. Guided by Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), the black panther, and Baloo the bear (Bill Murray), Mowgli is forced to contend with a whole jungle full of animals - from the hypnotising python Kaa (Scarlett Johansson), to the smooth-talking King Louie (Christopher Walken) - if he is ever to make it back to the human world. The forecast Confusingly, there are now two The Jungle Book movies in the pipeline. This one is directed by Jon Favreau (the other by…) Proving that anything is made instantly better when it includes Idris Elba, this remake of the 1967 original surrounds newcomer Neel Sethi with an impressive troupe of the finest voice actors around (and Scarlett Johansson who makes no attempt to do anything other than her usual voice). From the trailers The Jungle Book it looks to offer a seamless blend of CGI and live
What it’s about Set a few years after the super powered
action elements, with 12-year-old New Yorker Sethi playing the movie’s only human.
grudge match that was Superman (Henry
Unusually for a remake of this type, The Jungle Book looks set to retain at least some of
Cavill) versus General Zod, the tide has
the original musical numbers that made the original so memorable.
turned against everyone’s favourite
We won’t lie: we find it hard to imagine Ben call-me-Sir-Ben-you-fucking-fuck
Kryptonian. Kal-El may have saved the
Kingsley replacing Sebastian Cabot as the charismatic Bagheera, or Bill Murray’s doing
day, but Zod’s defeat and the destruction
his best impression of Phil Harris singing ‘The Bare Necessities’, or Christoper Walken
of Metropolis have lead many to
singing ‘King of the Swingers’ but stranger things have happened...
question if Superman could be a threat to humanity. Fearing the actions of a god-like
Do Say: I wanna be like you-ou-ou.
superhero left unchecked, the Bat of Gotham
Don’t Say: King of the swingers, eh? Sounds dodgy.
(Ben Affleck) takes on the Superman of
Released April 15
Metropolis and DC supervillain Doomsday.
34 | GNIMAG.COM
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
BATMAN V SUPERMAN Ben Affleck as Batman, Henry Cavill as Superman Warner Brothers Pictures and DC Entertainment
The forecast This big-screen pairing of DC’s greatest
joining the already super-powered lineup.
Wonder Woman in an outfit that looks…
heroes has been decades in the making.
Oscar winner Ben Affleck is an inspired
less than sensible.
Bats and Supes have had plenty of first
choice for an older, angrier Bruce Wayne.
meetings over the years thanks to reboots
This is a Batman at the end of his career,
franchise on one film. Fingers crossed it’s
and alternate realities. Fun fact: The true
a battle-scarred vigilante with a personal
not be Kryptonian sized car crash.
meeting between the Man of Steel and the
grudge against the last son of Krypton.
Dark Knight was in 1952’s Superman #76.
Hollywood stalwart Jeremy Irons replaces
Do Say: It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a $200m
Michael Caine as Alfred, Wayne’s loyal
gamble!
Zack Snyder is back in the director’s chair for this one, having proved himself
butler. Game of Thrones star Jason Mamoa
capable of delivering an entertaining – if
channels his best Dothraki as Aquaman,
controversial – romp in the shape of Man of
while Israeli actress Gal Gadot makes
Steel. Round two sees a bunch of new faces
the long awaited debut as Diana Prince /
Warner Bros are staking their superhero
Don’t Say: Batfleck, really?? Released March 25
GNIMAG.COM | 35
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR
(Clockwise from right) Anthony Mackie as The Falcon, Don Cheadle as War Machine, Sebastian Stan as The Winter Soldier, Chadwick Boseman as Black Panther, Chris Evans as Captain America, Robert Downey Jr. as Ironman, Paul Rudd as Ant-Man, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch, Paul Bettany as Vision. Marvel Entertainment
What it’s about
The forecast
Set a year after the murderous AI Ultron
Things have taken a turn for the worse for
Just when you thought these movies
levelled half of the Eastern European state
the Avengers in this followup to 2014’s
couldn’t pack in anymore big names,
of Sokovia, public opinion has turned
Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The
several new characters will be making their
against Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. They may
political fallout from Ultron’s devastating
big screen debut in Civil War. Chadwick
have saved the day, but Captain America
attack on Sokovia continues to reverberate
Boseman will be introduced as T’Challa, the
(Chris Evans), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr)
in this thirteenth instalment of the Marvel
warrior prince of Wakanda known as Black
and pals are forced to shoulder the blame.
Cinematic Universe.
Panther. And if Civil War didn’t already
In the wake of this destruction, the US
It goes without saying that Civil War
feature enough big hitters, some kid called
government decides the time has come to
will bear almost no resemblance to the
Peter Parker (Tom Holland) is due to make
regulate all superhero activity. A resolution
mammoth crossover event on which it is
his long awaited return to the Marvel fold.
is drawn up - The Sokovia Accords - to make
loosely based. This means no New Warriors,
We won’t spoil how Spider-Man fits into the
a binding agreement that all costumed
no malfunctioning Thor clone (you read
Civil War story, but let’s say it’s a doozy.
heroes have to agree to or else face
that correctly), and definitely no X-Men.
imprisonment. The Accords fractures the
What we will see is Cap’s search for his
Do Say: ???
Avengers into opposing teams – one led by
old pal Bucky Barnes complicated by the
Don’t Say: Still no Thanos?
Tony Stark, the other by Captain America.
divisions between the remaining Avengers,
But who will come out on top?
and Iron Man’s quest to track him down.
36 | GNIMAG.COM
Released May 6
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
GHOSTBUSTERS Leslie Jones as Patty Tolan, Melissa McCarthy as Abby Yates, Kristen Wiig as Erin Gilbert, Kate McKinnon as Jillian Holtzman. COLUMBIA PICTURES.
What it’s about It’s this year’s most eagerly anticipated reboots to arguably the finest sci-fi comedies ever made. Fans and filmmakers have been clamouring for a third Ghostbusters for more than 20 years, but with the third volume less than six months away the plot details are surprisingly scant. A few things we do know for certain. Melissa McCarthy plays Abby Yates, a paranormal researcher and ghost catcher. Kristen Wiig is Erin Gilbert, a particle physicist, academic firebrand, and spectral warrior. Kate McKinon plays Jillian Holtzman, a nuclear engineer, munitions expert, and proton wrangler. They are joined by Patty Tolan’s Leslie Jones, a ghost tracker, historian and (we quote) “metaphysical commando.” (We don’t know what it means either.) This cast of some of the finest comedic talent America has to offer will be taking on a host villainous ghosts from eras past, including old-time gangsters, sailors and even some Revolutionary War spirits. The Forecast Six months out and still not so much as a teaser trailer? Our nostalgia for the two original movies is keeping a lot of our love for this sequel-cum-reboot alive. The announcement that this reboot would feature an all female leading cast came in for dollops of hot and frothy fanboy nerdrage, which is exactly why this kind of progressive casting is so badly needed. These four leading ladies are as kick-ass as they are hilarious. This ladies-first spin on ghostbusting is a fresh take on reviving a franchise that (pardon the pun) was dead in the water. But wait! There’s more! It’s not just the brand new crew to look forward to. Nearly the whole line up of the 1984 original will be making as yet undisclosed cameos. Series veterans Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson are along for the ride, but sadly without Harold Ramis who died before production could begin in 2014. Bill Murray won’t be reprising his iconic role as Dr. Peter Venkman, but the current speculation is that he will at least make an appearance as a ghost. Do Say: Who you gonna call? Don’t Say: Bill Murray’s agent. Again. Please! Released July 15
GNIMAG.COM | 37
FEATURE__ WHAT TO WATCH IN 2016
DOCTOR STRANGE Benedict Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange. Marvel Entertainment
What it’s about
So where does Strange fit in the wider Marvel universe, we hear
Dr Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a brilliant but
you ask? You see that glowing amulet around Strange’s neck? It’s
egotistical doctor. His career comes to an abrupt end when a car
called the Eye of Agamatto and it’s his signature tool. With it he
crash shatters the bones in his hands. Strange searches desperately
is able to manipulate all manner of things, including - wait for
for a way to restore them, scouring the remotest regions of the world
it - time. You see, every movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
in a bid to cure himself. Unable to operate because of a permanent
thus far has been part of a decade long march towards something
tremor in his hands, Strange finds his career in ruins. He travels
pretty huge. It’s been teased here and there, but it’s no secret that
to the Himalayas where he locates a shadowy figure known only
everything has been indirecty leading to the big bad purple villain
the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), a mystical being whose strange
that is Thanos and the big play he has panned for Avengers: Infinity
powers might do more than simply save Strange’s broken hands.
War. Four of the six stones have already appeared in the Marvel movies, and now we may have found the fifth. Strange’s new time
The Forecast
travel abilities makes the Eye of Agamatto a likely candidate for the
By the hoary hosts of Hoggoth, it’s the Sorcerer Supreme! That
Time Stone (leaving the Soul Stone still waiting to be revealed).
beard. That cloak. That magic! This has to be Marvel’s most faithful
Doctor Strange will also feature a wealth of British acting talent.
rendition of a beloved character since we first met Tony Stark in
Cumberbatch is ideal for the role of the egotistical Strange, a
the bad old pre-Avengers days of 2008. By the looks of it, Marvel’s
brilliant doctor brought to ruin before his *spoiler alert* triumphant
costume pixies are pulling out all the stops to make the master of all
rise to Sorcerer Supreme. He will be facing off against Chiwetel
things mystical really live up to his name.
Ejiofor’s Baron Mordo, a former pupil of the Ancient One gone
Doctor Strange is the first time Marvel has incorporated its
rogue. Little is known about the roles played by already mythical
magical mythos into the cinematic universe. Now that they have
Tilda Swinton or Hannibal star Mads Mikkelsen, but with a trailer
supremely cornered the galactic angle with Thor and Guardians
due any day now we can’t wait to find out.
of the Galaxy, the potential for wonderment, magic, and mystical hand waving is high. And did we mention it stars Tilda Swinton
Do Say: The Doctor will see you now
as her umpteenth ageless immortal? You can probably tell from
Don’t Say: Ooh, Matron!
the picture above that *obviously* Strange winds up as an almost entirely different character altogether.
38 | GNIMAG.COM
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FEATURE__ GAY IN THE COMMONWEALTH
Every day, a quarter of the earth’s population faces imprisonment, torture, violence and discrimination because they are LGBT. In some countries being gay is a ‘crime’ punishable by death. We ask why isn’t the British government doing more to protect LGBT people in the Commonwealth WORDS | LEON WARD IMAGES | STONEWALL 40 | GNIMAG.COM
FEATURE__ GAY IN THE COMMONWEALTH
In December, eleven men from the West
ambassadors from all of the Commonwealth
the plight faced by LGBT people throughout
African nation of Senegal were arrested
nations, and the Youth Forum had
the Commonwealth. She spoke movingly of
for alleged same-sex sexual activity. If
over 150 delegates. It is the role of the
the power of light to triumph over the dark
convicted, these men could face up to
Commonwealth young leaders to prepare
in a year that she says has seen “moments
five years in prison. This sad case reflects a
a communiqué to present to the Heads of
of darkness”, but made no mention of the
growing trend of increasing homophobia,
Government. It is the only such forum that
growing struggle against homophobia. A
anti-gay rhetoric, and draconian anti-LGBT
has this level of access to those in power. As
month before no less than Elton John said
legislation throughout the developing
a British delegate it is my job to carefully
he intended to press the Queen to “change”
world. Of the 34 African countries to
push the rights of LGBT people across the
anti-gay laws in Commonwealth countries,
criminalise homosexuality, 30 still use laws
Commonwealth.
insisting that Britain could use its influence
that were enacted when those countries
to “push a little bit harder” for LGBT rights.
were sovereign colonies. In the case of
The Commonwealth Charter reaffirms its
British Commonwealth – countries like
commitment to the Universal Declaration
“These laws come from the
Malawi, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan,
of Human Rights, including the right for
Commonwealth,” he said in an interview.
Ghana and Nigeria – many continue to use
a person to be free from discrimination on
“These laws can be changed very easily by
laws to prosecute same-sex sexual activity
the grounds of sexual orientation; and yet
the Queen saying, ‘change the law’. These
that were implemented during the British
it remains illegal to be gay in 42 of the 53
can be changed, and the Queen could do
rule of India, laws that criminalise activities
Commonwealth member states.
that with one wave of her hand.”
The Commonwealth is a collection of
Unfortunately this is not how the law
Essentially, the British Commonwealth is a
extremes. The smallest member has just
works. The Queen has no constitutional
collection of 53 nations. These nations have
13,000 inhabitants, while the largest, India,
power to force any member of the
a combined population of 2.2 billion people,
has 1.2 billion. These extremes also extend
Commonwealth – or indeed any member
which is roughly one quarter of the world’s
to equality legislation. Whilst it is illegal to
of the Commonwealth Realms where she is
population. These are countries that are free
be gay in the majority of commonwealth
Head of State – to change its laws.
and equal sovereign states, and which were
states, at the other end of the spectrum a
once part of the British Empire. Every two
small nation like Malta has some of the
Edwin Sesange, who is the director of the
years delegates from these 53 nations meet
most advanced LGBT legislation in the
African LGBTI organisation the Out and
to discuss issues and make commitments
world. Malta is ranked by the International
Proud Diamond Group has spoken at
to addressing all sorts of issues, be it the
LGBTI Association as number 1 of 49
length on this issue, saying, “Most of these
interests of small island states, to human
European countries for LGBT rights. It was
countries inherited their anti-gay laws from
rights, to the protection of LGBTI people.
the first country in the European Union
Britain when it was their colonial ruler.
“against the order of nature.”
to add recognition of gender identity as a
They are a colonial hang-over. The existence
I am the UK Young Ambassador to the
protected category to its constitution. In
of these anti-gay laws over the last century
Commonwealth Youth Council. The
2015, Malta also became the first country
has created a climate where many people
CYC is the officially recognised voice
in the world to outlaw invasive surgery
believe that homophobic attitudes and laws
of the 1.2 billion young people of the
on intersex people. The progress made by
are a part of their cultures.”
Commonwealth. The council works for
the Maltese government puts other states,
and represents the voice of all young
including the UK, to shame.
people within the 53 Commonwealth
This presents an obvious challenge to a collective group based on colonial history
nations. In November 2015, we met for a
Last month this issue was brought into
like the Commonwealth to then challenge
week in Malta, which was the host nation
focus when Queen Elizabeth, the current
those colonies on their laws. Essentially, we
of this years Commonwealth Heads of
head of the Commonwealth, failed to
are criticising what we left behind. So, what
Government meeting. There were young
mention in her annual Christmas message
can be done to change things?
>>>
GNIMAG.COM | 41
FEATURE__ GAY IN THE COMMONWEALTH
worst of the commonwealth
The Commonwealth’s newly appointed
position would have been reversed, with a
Nigeria
top diplomat, Baroness Scotland, hopes to
mere 20% of delegates standing up against
The Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Bill
convince Commonwealth nations to alter
such blatant discrimination.
2013 was signed into law by President
their policies when the Commonwealth
Goodluck Jonathan in 2014. This
heads next meet in the UK in 2018.
Throughout my time in Malta it was my privilege to learn that real Commonwealth
imposes a maximum prison sentences of up to 14 years on those found guilty
“What we have to accept is that
change is delivered by citizens, charities,
of involvement in gay organisations.
[decriminalizing homosexuality] is
and pressure groups. What’s interesting
Public displays of sexuality can lead to a
something that will depend on consensus,”
is that even in that space I still found
ten years sentence.
she said. “We do not have the right or
myself being asked the same questions I
opportunity to force states, but we can
get asked in the UK. “When did you know
start a really good conversation to work with them so they understand the economic issues in relations to human Uganda Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni passed an anti-homosexuality bill in 2015. Under this law homosexual offences carry a life sentence in prison. President Museveni previously rejected the bill, before a group of medical ‘experts’ claimed “homosexuality is not genetic but a social behaviour.”
rights and make the change. The one thing I have to do is to build consensus and trust and I can hope it will [be on the next Commonwealth Meeting agenda].” During our
you were gay?” and
Most of these countries inherited their anti-gay laws from Britain when it was their colonial ruler. They are a colonial hang-over. The existence of these laws over the last century has created a climate where many people believe that homophobic attitudes and laws are a part of their cultures
negotiations, the
so on. When you work through those questions those individuals asking those questions come to the realisation that LGBT people are just like everyone else. That isn’t to say that dealing with that line of questioning isn’t frustrating (it really is difficult to engage with people who think you’re an abomination)
representative from
but the real change
Tanzania presented a motion to remove
happens at the dinner table; when you are
sexual orientation from being explicitly
all disarmed you discover that much more
listed as a minority group. Rather than
unites than divides you.
intervene, I let other countries do it, Malaysia
countries like India and Sri Lanka, both of
We changed the hearts of minds of any
whom presented very progressive stances.
number of young people during that forum,
Gay Malaysians face imprisonment,
As a white, gay, British man, standing
young people who are hailed as leaders
corporal punishment and deportation.
before the delegates of the Commonwealth
in their own communities. These young
According to Malaysian criminal
and arguing that the UK hasn’t got things
people are the agents of change, who can
code – which has not been changed
right yet sends a powerful message of
go on to change hearts and minds in their
since the colonial era – sodomy and
friendship, diplomacy, and understanding.
own homelands. We have come so far as an
oral sex between heterosexuals and
The motion that Tanzania presented was
organisation, but there is still plenty left to
homosexuals is punishable with fines
quashed after only gaining support from
do. We have to work with the countries that
and up to 20 years in prison.
20% of the other delegates. This is a huge
introduce draconian legislation, not lecture
leap forward; even ten years ago this
them.
42 | GNIMAG.COM
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FEATURE__
hooking up in qatar
using hookup apps in qatar, where gay sex is punishable by death WORDS: BERT ARCHER
>>>
GNIMAG.COM | 45
FEATURE__
I
hooking up in qatar
was in Doha, the capital of Qatar,
to the death penalty. As far as Qatar is
these sorts of people, my sorts of people, were
with bits of four days to spare and an
concerned, I’m lost anyway, soul-wise. I’d
the government to want to do that sort of
empty hotel room with the promise
just get put in prison, maybe tortured, I’m
thing. Saudi Arabia, just a few kilometres
of a constant supply of clean sheets
guessing raped, and then deported. But if
west, has been accused of doing just that.
and towels, so I figured I’d check out
you’re Muslim, the law says death, or at least
And the first couple of guys I messaged
the hook-up sites and apps to see
imprisonment and 100 lashes. And these
back—apologies, guys—were asked more
what was up.
guys popping up on my screen with their
questions than I usually ask about where
endearingly displayed body parts all looked
they were and who they were and could
pretty Muslim.
they take an incriminating picture posed just
I travel a lot, and in addition to talking
to bookstore clerks about who the big local writers are, seeing what the latest
I guess it shouldn’t be a surprise that sex
like I say so I know it’s you and not some
architecture looks like, and trying out cool
trumps death. It’s the same penalty for all
be-robed cop using stolen porn to reel in the
new boozes, talking to and having sex with
forms of extramarital sex in Qatar and several
unwitting unholy.
the locals is one of the things I like most
other countries. People have fucked through
about travel.
plagues that killed a third of the known
with the exception of the one guy in the
world and the more recent one that seemed
polo shirt and basketball shorts who didn’t
first stridently religious Muslim country I’d
engineered to specifically kill the world’s
have more than two or three words of
ever tried any of the apps or sites in. I’d heard
most enthusiastic fuckers. I once had sex
English (or at least didn’t offer more than
the emirate, still far more traditional than
with a guy who told me he climbed into his
that to me), I did talk with them. I really
its frantically Westernising UAE cousins to
young wife’s hospital bed and they fucked,
like postcoital get-to-know-you talk, with
the south, was slowly liberalising on the
joyously, memorably, and I’m guessing
its combination of intimacy, honesty, and
road to its 2022 World Cup. Women with
painfully, just days before she died, and just
stakes-free carelessness that seems to lead
off-the-shoulder dresses were no longer
weeks before we fucked.
to conversations that mostly sound pretty
But maybe Qatar was different. It was the
being hissed at in the streets, for instance.
Except it is surprising, because this is the
I didn’t always get their names, but
honest instead of fabricated, which would be
But I’d also heard there were plans afoot to
non-secular Muslim world, and everything
somehow identify gays at the border, and
we’ve been thinking for about the last 14
gay publications, as well as the now ex FIFA
years points to a monolith, a medieval set
personal details here—all but a couple were
chief Sepp Blatter were already warning
of values and choice of punishments, not
Muslim and most were Qatari and so would
football fans about maybe not kissing your
just among the crazies in the ruins of Homs,
be candidates for the chopping block—so I’ll
boyfriend after a big goal.
Aleppo, and Palmyra, but in millennia-old
make some up to obfuscate.
I’d looked into the laws about such things, as I always do before traveling to a new place. In Qatar, the maximum penalty for
civilisations and enthusiastic economic and military allies of the West.
just as easy. I want to be careful about the guys’
There was the bodybuilder who lived with his boyfriend, whom he considered
This is one of the many powers of travel.
his husband, or the guy with the sprung,
same-sex sexual activity (or any extramarital
A place never looks the same on the ground
rabbit-like body, all nervous energy, who
monkey business between anywhere) is
as it does from the height of Google Earth
got impatient with my leisurely approach to
death. I could see how that could put a
or the arm’s length of even a responsible
fucking him, and flipped me in what must
damper on the hook-up scene.
news report. This emirate is as against men
have been a practiced wrestling move and
with other men’s penises in them as they
got most of the way into me—which I’m fine
may be a direct neurological link between
are against calling their Prophet a naughty
with but dude, roll on a condom—before
empty hotel rooms and sex drive. Someone
name. But, look at this glowing screen.
I kicked him over and restored order. He
should look into it. Anyway, despite the pall
Look at those hopeful, horny, possibly
worked for a big Qatari corporation. Our
of death, I logged in, and within about a
brave, mostly young men, erupting out of
conversation was much like it has been in
minute, I started hearing those familiar little
this tiny desert nation with Goldblumian
other hotel rooms in other cities, talking
moist-sounding electronic pops.
inevitability. Life will find a way.
about home, other trips, other sex. I asked
I’m no Ben Carson, but I think there
“Hey”
I had meetings and lunches and suppers
him if it was tough having sex with guys
“Hi”
and drinks, but amid those, in the early
here with the laws so strict and scary. He
“Hey”
mornings, late nights, and occasionally
laughed a laugh I’ve grown accustomed
“Hey”
stolen hours in between when the thing I
to on the road, the oh-you-stupid-foreigner
You gotta love it. The human sex drive is a
was doing happened to be in the lobby of
laugh. No, he said, it wasn’t tough. There’s
mighty and hilarious thing, and these apps
my own hotel, I had some sex, and learned
a quotation inscribed in the entrance hall
and sites are the gateway through which this
a thing or two about the religious Muslim
of Doha’s grand Museum of Islamic Art
veritable force of nature is released across the
world in the process.
from the 13th-century historian Rawandi:
planet. I should point out that I was not subject
46 | GNIMAG.COM
At first, I thought vaguely that these sites and apps would be a good way to track just
“He should be aware of his enemies, like a chess player who, while observing his own
FEATURE__
hooking up in qatar
move, watches over his opponent’s.” These
words to place you, place themselves, pick
plugged the words Doha, souk, gay, and
guys seem to have gotten the hang of it.
up a story or two, the talk about pent-up
police into Google.
Then there was a builder who re-upped his
unspeakable things as much an attraction
annual contract more than half a dozen
for some as the sex. Most of these guys
occasionally pick up foreign workers caught
times instead of going back to his home
weren’t trapped here by any means—they
in compromising same-sex situations and,
country. I went to his apartment, which
could fly to Berlin or New York whenever
in exchange for not arresting and deporting
he shared with one other guy who seemed
they wanted to—so the restrictions were
them, turn them into bait. The rights of
to be out. I asked him about the working
contingent, fungible.
foreign workers are not highly developed
conditions I’d heard about on the news. “It’s
On my last night in town, I took a walk
The first three results told me that police
in Qatar, and this seemed to fall right into
not good,” he told me as he walked around
through the souk. It’s new, but looks old,
line with other stories of passport and wage
the room toweling the cum off his belly
and even has intentionally run-down bits
withholding. I’d noticed my guy texting a
and picking his clothes up off the floor—he
where the spice and fabric shops for the
few times as we walked, and when I came
wasn’t much of a cuddler, this guy—“but it’s
foreign workers are. I’d wandered around
out of the hotel, he was texting some more. I
better than at home.”
for about 10 minutes when a tall, broad,
told him I’d changed my mind, and he left.
I asked another quiet, serious guy, about
beautiful man fell into stride beside me
So, that was either a close call or a missed
whether there was any way to meet people
and asked where I was from. I told him,
opportunity, but whatever the case, the
in Doha offline. He said there was a hotel bar
and angled into a gift store. He followed.
episode—as well as the whole atmosphere of
he went to. Qataris aren’t officially allowed
His English was vestigial—he was from Sri
these meet-ups, secret but not secretive, the
in hotel bars, but it turns out that if you’re
Lanka—but he was persistent, friendly, and
guys more furtive than frightened—called
not wearing your thobe, you aren’t assumed to be Qatari. I went to the bar later to see for myself. It certainly wasn’t a gay bar, but there were single, young, brown men who ordered drinks they didn’t drink and stood at the bar making the same kind of anxious, hungry, hesitant eye contact I’ve read about in novels and memoirs that describe the North American scene five and six decades ago. There are many different sorts of what we might call sexual miasmas in the world. There’s the confident cruising of catching someone’s eye on a street at a time and in a place where catching someone’s eye is playful instead of dangerous, or the
As a foreigner I was not subject to the death penalty. As far as Qatar is concerned, I’m lost anyway, soul-wise. I’d just get put in prison, maybe tortured, I’m guessing raped, and then deported. But if you’re Muslim, the law says death, or at least imprisonment and 100 lashes
pressurised pick-up in a club where the
to mind not the secret police of East Berlin or whoever enforces Iran’s codes of conduct, but someone I met a couple of weeks ago in DC. He was in his 60s, and told me about how things were there when he was a teenager. There was a wooded area just outside town where guys would wander and meet at night. And every once in a while, he said, there’d be a big search light that would sweep through the trees once, twice, and then out. He never saw the police come in and make any arrests, though everything the guys were doing was at least three kinds of illegal. The cops just wanted you to know that they knew you were there, and that they’d let you do all those things you were
whole reason to be there is to find someone
hot, so we talked and we walked, and he
doing as long as you didn’t step out of line
so not to at least try is basically failure, and
offered to show me his favourite spots. He
and force them to do anything about it.
there’s the desperation of that same club
told me about his work, and how he lived
or party as the crowd starts to dwindle and
in a dorm with five other guys, but that it
but it’s not being thrown off tall buildings
you’ve got no one on the line. There are more
was OK, because the room was free, and
either, and it’s not the way I’d gotten used to
extreme miasmas, like window shopping
he was making more here than at home.
thinking about life in the religious Islamic
in a bathhouse, the mash-up of a group
After another five minutes, he grabbed my
world. The news gives us triumphs and
thing, or what I assume is the basically RPG
little finger with his and squeezed. Four or
disasters; everyday life, by definition, isn’t
approach that takes over in prison.
five minutes after that, he led me into an
news. But for what it’s worth, everyday
alleyway, grabbed my crotch, and asked if
life for a man-fucking man in Qatar, citizen
felt distinct. The closest thing I can come up
I had a place where I could fuck him. We
and guest-worker alike, seems un-dramatic,
with is what I imagine a lumber or oil town
walked around a little more while I figured
un-frightening, operating on much the same
might have been like a few decades ago.
out whether this was a good idea. Deciding
principles as it does anywhere else in the
It had that kind of avidity, an enthusiasm
it totally was, we headed to my hotel. I asked
world with internet connections and selfies.
just this side of desperation, a focus on sex
him to wait outside while I made sure it was
to the exclusion of any consideration of
OK that he came in. A last-minute twinge
relationship or friendship, but with an
made me want to check something. So I
This article was originally published in VICE
abiding interest in at least some shared
got to my lobby, hooked up to the wifi, and
Canada and is republished with permission
Doha felt like none of those things. Doha
It’s not a happy and healthy gay-for-all,
GNIMAG.COM | 47
gni mag investigates__ chemsex
“Originally sex and drugs were two separate things, but somewhere along the line they became one and the same. So you’re no longer having sex without drugs, and you’re no longer having drugs without sex” GNI MAG investigates... the rise of ChemSex WORDS | KIERAN CLARKE ADDITIONAL REPORTING | CHRISTOPHER MEGRATH IMAGES | PECCADILLO PICTURES / VICE
“I pretty much slam every day, four slams a day. [It costs] about
The film poses a number of difficult questions, namely: What is
£400 a week. That’s not so much. I’m not like a proper drug addict.
the scale of the ChemSex problem, how many people are affected,
Like, to some people it would seem that I am…”
and what are the potential long-term effects? The answers are
“What’s a proper drug addict?’ a voice off-camera asks. “I don’t know. Probably me.” Welcome to the world of ChemSex, a new documentary from
often as brutal and shocking as they are revealing. “The decision to turn a camera on this subject came from seeing first-hand how this community were starting to respond
VICE which delves into the hidden underworld of drug abuse,
to this crisis,” Gogarty tells us. “From anonymous voices on social
addiction and unprotected sex on the UK gay scene. Its directors
networks to an NHS sexual health clinic creating the first ever
William Fairman and Max Gogarty describe the film as “a
position for a drugs worker on premises, it became clear to us
confessional show-and-tell,” a film “about a secret world where
that ‘chemsex’ was pushing people’s physical and mental health
people hide their addiction in plain sight, living in a cycle of
to breaking point, not to mention the resources of those on the
extreme pleasure and pain, validation and isolation.”
frontline trying to stem this epidemic. The film, we hope, touches
Chemsex tackles what could be the biggest health crisis facing
upon wholly universal notions of internalized shame, cycles
the gay community since HIV/AIDs. The film charts the rise of
of self-destruction and eventual redemption through this very
what has become an explosion of days-long parties fuelled by
modern and little known health emergency.
intravenous drug use, sex with multiple partners, and all in a world that can be openly welcoming of HIV-positive sex.
48 | GNIMAG.COM
“What started as a look into a ‘healthcare emergency,’ soon evolved into a complex revelation,” Fairman explains. “It wasn’t
gni mag investigates__ chemsex
GNIMAG.COM | 49
gni mag investigates__ chemsex
the sex or the drugs that shocked. Neither was it the danger or
as the result of a ChemSex weekend.
the consequences. It was the realisation that, for the majority of
“We have an issue with sex. If you don’t believe me, go to your
people, it was intimacy and not lust nor hedonism that was the
local sexual health clinic and you will see hordes of gay men self-
driving force behind their behaviour.”
medicating their way through complicated sexual identities and
Of course drug-fuelled parties aren’t a phenomena that are new to the gay scene, but mobile-phone apps such as Grindr and websites specifically designed to appeal to that subculture have brought them within easy reach of the average gay man. One of the main interviewees in Chemsex is David Stuart, who
experiences with really harmful drugs. The average number of partners is between 5 and 15 people per weekend. “In my day you’d get asked out in a bar,” he explains at the outset of the film. “These days, you’re 16, you leave your home in Hertfordshire, you come to London to find your gay life, and
is the Substance Use Lead at 56 Dean Street, an NHS sexual health
you find Grindr. And within perhaps four conversations you’ll be
clinic based in Soho, in the heart of London. It was the first clinic in
introduced to chems. Within eight conversations on Grindr you’re
the world to have an on-site Infinity machine, allowing patients to
going to be introduced to injecting, or ‘slamming’ as it’s called.
know their HIV test results within six hours. David Stewart is the only substance abuse lead specialising in ChemSex in the UK. “Five gay men are being diagnosed with HIV every single day in London, that’s a huge number. At 56 Dean Street there was one weekend where 33 gay men showed up for PEP. 31 of those were
50 | GNIMAG.COM
“There is no handbook on how to be a safe gay man in modern times, in a changing healthcare world, in a changing app world, in a hooking-up technology world.”
GNI MAG spoke to David shortly before Chemsex was released on DVD. One of the first questions we asked him was just how
gni mag investigates__ chemsex
prominent a problem ChemSex is in the UK. “There is no evidence at all to inform us how
“You’ve got fuck all in common with them,” he adds. “You don’t know anything about
prevalent ChemSex is in any region,” he told us.
them. But the drugs let you think you do have
“Though sexual health and HIV clinics are very
something in common with them, and that you
good at asking about drug use in sexual settings,
do really feel for them. For days you get to feel
the data collection on this form of drug use is
like you’re worth something. You’re important
only beginning to be addressed now, as more
at least to the person who’s fucking you or who
anecdotal reports of ChemSex behaviour are
you’re fucking. You’re important to the people
coming to light.
whose house you’re at, and the gay scene can be
“At times of new trends emerging, where
such a lonely alienating place that you can see
research is lacking, we have a public health responsibility to listen to the calls from community organisations, voices in affected communities, calls for awareness from community press, and of course, the very loud calls for support from front line staff in GUM/HIV settings. “Ten years ago, ChemSex was mostly practiced amongst longterm HIV positive gay men, many of whom had been out of work or education for some time, in many cases due to HIV related poor health and [who were] caught up in the ‘welfare/benefits cycle’. “For many of these people, sex was the favoured and easiest way to seek and enjoy social engagement and friendships.
the function that that sex serves.”
“There is no handbook on how to be a safe gay man in modern times, in a changing healthcare world, in a changing app world, in a hooking-up technology world.”
Nowadays, ChemSex is widely
Another difference is the stigma attached to ChemSex. “Crystal meth and ‘slamming’ have become highly stigmatised,” David explains during the course of our interview, “while those sniffing mephedrone, shooting GBL at
themselves from the word ChemSex, and avoiding any stigma the term has attached to it.” The issues around stigma are highlighted throughout. “We’re tarting it up with new names to make it sound acceptable,” says Dick, who is 32 and from Watford. “We’re not injecting drugs like the heroin addicts; we’re slamming, and using pins, not needles. ‘Do you fancy using five month old
syringes to get off your face and not know what you’re doing?’ doesn’t sound like a very
age groups, economic groups, demographics,
tempting invite,” he laughs. “‘Do you fancy a
ethnicities and HIV status.”
ChemSex session?’ Oh, yes please!”
GHB/GBL Known as: G, Gina, Liquid ecstasy Appearance: A clear liquid This class C drug causes reduced experience of pain during rough sex. Other effects include euphoria, increased energy and feelings of invincibility
From all the data that has so far been
connection can be short lived, another
collected on, it is possible to say that ChemSex is
contributor explains. “Suddenly you find
a growing problem. According to The Chemsex
yourself in a group of six, seven, people,” he
Study, which is the most comprehensive study
admits, “you’re having fun, having a great time,
on ChemSex in Britain to date, the practice is
and hardly any of these people become real
mostly limited to London and outlying areas,
friends, but they can fill a void on a Friday or
but its influence is spreading.
Saturday night when you would have been
Effects include euphoria and sexual stimulation. Side effects include anxiety, paranoia, and heart and problem. It is a class B drug illegal in the UK since 2008
settings prefer to disassociate
networking and is prevalent amongst varying
This feeling of chemically induced emotional
Mephedrone Known as: Meow Meow, MCAT Appearance: White powder
chill-outs and having sex in those
practiced, easily accessed via online sexual
alone all weekend…
THE NEED TO KNOW
We spoke to James Copeland, the Sexual Health Development Officer from The Rainbow
Crystal methamphetamine Known as: Crystal, Tina Appearance: Ice-like crystals Usually smoked, snorted as a powder, injected, or administered rectally, Crystal meth can cause severe sleep disruption, depression, paranoia and exhaustion
GNIMAG.COM | 51
gni mag investigates__ chemsex
IMAGE: 56 DEAN STREET
Project, about the potential ChemSex impact in Ireland. “At this point in time people are very, very unsure what
“We can have between 10 and 30 PEP presentations on a single day at 56 Dean Street, even higher numbers after a Bank holiday
ChemSex is,” he tells us, “and what actually constitutes ChemSex,
weekend. It’s an easy estimation based on clinic experience, that
because there are drugs people will take and then go on to have
more than half of these are Chem-related. We do know that many
sex, and that isn’t ChemSex. ChemSex uses drugs that specifically
guys miss the three-day window for accessing PEP, because of
enhance sex.
comedowns, longer benders, ignorance about PEP, or shame about
“The community here knows very little about ChemSex. We aren’t prepared for the problems it’s going to cause in Northern
the risks they’d taken.” Writing about drugs is always a difficult topic. We risk
Ireland, and when it does hit, it’s going to hit hard. So the Rainbow
stigmatising guys who use drugs which is far more likely to make
Project is very worried by ChemSex.
things worse.
“If we take a disaster scenario, ChemSex has the potential to be the next sexual health atom bomb. It’s potentially as big as HIV.” One of the main issues surrounding ChemSex is the
“The gay community is emerging from a really complicated past, there are vulnerable gay men with issues around sex, and new drugs that tap into that problem rather well, and changing
disinhibiting effects of the drugs; this usually leads to no condom
technology. It’s a perfect storm. In nearly every case I’ve ever seen
use which, given the fact that these sessions can often last for days,
there is an explainable reason why these guys are using drugs. Gay
means that access to PEP will be too late to have affect.
men, who have grown up isolated, are looking for a disinhibitor.
When we broach the topic of condom use among those
They’re looking for something that enables communication
engaging in ChemSex David goes on to say, “Our data shows that
with other people, a connection with other people, to be part of a
condom use is very poor amongst those engaging in ChemSex, the
community, and the drugs enable that in a big way.”
nature of the high makes it very difficult to resist the temptation of the erotic moment. Our data also shows that those diagnosed HIV
If you want help with a ChemSex addiction contact The Rainbow
positive, and on treatment, are very good at adhering to their HIV
Project in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry ((028) 9031 9030),
medicines, meaning they are least likely to be contributing to HIV
or glen.ie in the Republic of Ireland
transmission rates. Our concern is the undiagnosed HIV positive
Chemsex is available now on DVD and at
men engaging in ChemSex.
peccapics.com/peccadilloplayer
52 | GNIMAG.COM
candle is inserted carefully into the outer ear and the flame is allowed to burn down to within a short distance of a marked red line, when the candle is removed gently and extinguished in some water. The practitioner then massages gently around the ear, using draining movements down the neck.
REFLE
Reflexology therapist wor feet, hands, a The theory b Rej uva l a s e B e a u t yreflex points B e a u t y glands in the points with fin in those orga TIME TO UNWIND WITH GREAT OFFERS ON HOLISTIC TREATMENTS energetic pat
R e ju v al ase
The procedure is repeated with the other ear, and then the patient lies on his/her back for gentle drainage massage on the face.
GIVE YOURSKIN SKIN A TREAT GIVE YOUR A TREA
It is then important for the patient to haveTO UNWIND WITH GREAT OFFERS TIME HOLISTIC TREATME SPECIALON OFFERS! 25% off Reflexology and When done b a drink of water and lie still for about 15 Rejuvalise Holistic Theparist Deirdre Hopi Ear Candling this month.those in out s McCabe tells us all about Hopi Ear minutes before he/she stands up. Candling and Reflexology relaxing treat If you’re looking for the ultimate in relaxation, why not try one of the holistic 25% off Reflexology and felt througho What are the benefits? therapies on offer at Rejuvalase Beauty HOPI EAR CANDLING & Laser Clinic in Belfast? Our holistic Hopi candles can be used for many For our latestHopi Ear Candling this mont therapists are experienced in delivering a range of treatments which will have you The therapis conditions including deafness caused by offers like us on feeling wonderful in no time at all. And this We are always bringing in different deals so make sure to like our Fa that include excess wax, congested sinuses,month irritation tw of our popular treatments have page and call into our salon so you don’t miss out on our fantastic oh Facebook JAN 28th THE SSE ARENA BELFAST 25% off. Tempted? You should be! kneading, rot in the ears, ringing or noises in the ears, JAN 29thtinnitus, THE HELIX-MAHONEY HALL headaches and migraines. As the should feel a rhinitis, glue ear, colds,DUBLIN flu, so gentle, they are particularly sui HOPI EAR CANDLING JAN 30th THE HELIX-MAHONEY HALL DUBLIN children.
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Rejuvalise Holistic Theparist Deirdre McCabe tells us all about Hopi Ear Candling and Reflexology If you’re looking for the ultimate in relaxation, why not try one of the holistic therapies on offer at Rejuvalase Beauty & Laser Clinic in Belfast? Our holistic therapists are experienced in delivering a range of treatments which will have you feeling wonderful in no time at all. And this month tw of our popular treatments have 25% off. Tempted? You should be!
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headaches and migraines. As their action is so gentle, they are particularly suitable for children.
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What are Hopi Candles?
What are the effects?
Hopi Ear Candles are hollow tubes made of cotton, soaked in beeswax, honey and herbs. When lit, the candle acts like a chimney, causing the warm air inside it to rise and creating a vacuum at the bottom. This vacuum gently stimulates the ear, facilitating removal of excess wax and impurities.
In most cases the treatment is extremely soothing and relaxing, leaving the patient with a sense of well-being and reduced pressure in the ears or head. A little warmth is felt, and hissing and crackling noises are heard, with a little popping. Most people say that it is a very pleasant experience! The initial effect can be an improvement in hearing or freer nasal breathing and an improved sense of smell. However, improvements can continue occurring for a day or two.
How are the candles used?
JAN 31st FEB 2nd FEB 3rd FEB 4th
The patient should lie in a comfortable position on his/her side with the head supported on a pillow. A small cotton towel or flannel should cover the hair. The lit candle is inserted carefully into the outer ear and the flame is allowed to burn down to within a short distance of a marked red line, when the candle is removed gently and extinguished in some water. The practitioner then massages gently around the ear, using draining movements down the neck.
REFLEXOLOGY Whatwhere arethethe effects? Reflexology is a treatment therapist works on “reflex points” on your In most cases feet, hands, and head (especially ears). the treatment is ext The theory behind reflexology is that these soothing and relaxing, leaving the reflex points relate to specific organs and glands in the body, and stimulating thoseof well-being and red with a sense points with finger pressure promotes health pressure the ears or head. A litt in those organs and glands via thein body’s energetic pathways. is felt, and hissing and crackling n When done by a skilled practitioner, heard, withlike a little popping. Most p those in out salon, reflexology is a deeply relaxing treatmentthat with benefits can be pleasant experienc it is that a very
NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE WEXFORD What are Hopi Candles? Hopi Ear Candles are hollow tubes made UCH LIMERICK of cotton, soaked in beeswax, honey and herbs. When lit, the candle acts like a THE EVERYMAN THEATRE CORK chimney, causing the warm air inside it to rise and creating a vacuum at the bottom. THEATRE ROYAL CASTLEBAR This vacuum gently stimulates the ear,
Rejuvalase Beauty & Laser Clinic, 448 Newtownards Road, Belfast 028 9046 9447 or 084 3886 9497 Email: rejuvalase@o For tickets and more info visitTel: www.takingcareofelvis.co.uk The procedure is repeated with the other ear, and then the patient lies on his/her back for gentle drainage massage on the face. It is then important for the patient to have a drink of water and lie still for about 15
before he/she stands up. facilitating removal of excess minutes wax and What are the benefits? impurities.
Hopi candles can be used for many conditions including deafness caused by excess wax, congested sinuses, irritation in the ears, ringing or noises in the ears, tinnitus, rhinitis, glue ear, colds, flu,
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felt throughout the body.
The initial effect can be an improv in hearing or freer nasal breathing The patient should lie in a comfortable an improved sense of smell. How position on his/her side with the head improvements can continue occur supported on a pillow. A small cotton towel day orBT4 two. Rejuvalase Beauty & Laser Clinic, 448 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Antrim, 1HJ or flannel should cover the hair. The litTel: 028 9046 9447 or 084 3886 9497 Email: rejuvalase@outlook.com candle is inserted carefully into the outer ear and the flame is allowed to burn down to within a short distance of a marked red line, when the candle is removed gently and Reflexology is a treatment where extinguished in some water. The practitioner therapist works on “reflex points” then massages gently around the ear, using feet, hands, and head (especially 249 Castlereagh Road - 028 90 450281 249 Castlereagh Road - 028 90 450281 draining movements down the neck. The theory behind reflexology is t reflex points relate to specific orga procedure is repeated with the other glands in the body, and stimulatin We Repair Phones && Tablets We Repair Phones Tablets The ear, and then the patient lies on his/her back points with finger pressure promo Screens, Liquid damage, charging problems, Screens, Liquid damage, charging problems, for gentle drainage massage on the face. in those organs and glands via the energetic pathways. Battery replacements && more Battery replacements more It is then important for the patient to have a drink of water and lie still for about 15 When done by a skilled practitione minutes before he/she stands up. those in out salon, reflexology is a relaxing treatment with benefits th We Repair laptops & Desktop PCs We Repair laptops & Desktop PCsWhat are the benefits? felt throughout the body. Hopi candles can be used for many Upgrades, Virus Removal, Hardware Diagnostic, Upgrades, Virus Removal, Hardware Diagnostic, The therapist will use various tech conditions including deafness caused by Charging port replacements, Screen Repairs Charging port replacements, Screen Repairs that include holds, finger pressure excess wax, congested sinuses, irritation kneading, rotation and rubbing an in the ears, ringing or noises in the ears, should feel an effect through the e tinnitus, rhinitis, glue ear, colds, flu,
How are the candles used?
The therapist will use various techniques that include holds, finger pressure, kneading, rotation and rubbing and you should feel an effect through the entire body.
REFLEXOLOGY
Skin
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028 9046 9447 . 084 3886 9497
FASHION__ I’LL BE YOUR MIRROR
I’LL BE YOUR MIRROR Photography by Tony Webster Styling by I’ll Be Your Mirror Models: Jenna McMenemy & Jamie Torrance Make up by Debbie Morrison Hair styling by Byers & Birrell Location: Habib Home Looks available from: sofiajuanne.com
GNIMAG.COM | 55
FASHION__ I’LL BE YOUR MIRROR
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FASHION__ I’LL BE YOUR MIRROR
GNI MAG | 59
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get the look HIS
IN THE KNOW...
Alternative never looked so good, especially with the effortlessly simple and edgy paving its way into fashion. A dark t-shirt with the classic grungy red checked shirt complement each other all year around. Tan chino trousers break up the darker look with the navy suede boots tying everything together.
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get the look Hers
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IN THE KNOW...
Elegant and light but still fashion forward with an urban twist, a khaki tunic paired with a white undershirt is an amazing look by itself. Finishing the bold look with cream accessories such as sunglasses, shoes and backpack the festival inspired look is perfect for the carefree chick in all of us.
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GNIMAG.COM | 63
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YOUR DATING PROBLEMS ANSWERED__
Holiday dramz and messy boyfriends Dating expert Eamon is here to help. How quickly you’ll be able to stop thinking about a partner after a breakup varies for everyone. Time really is the only healer of a broken heart. Bottling up those emotions could be what is stopping from you moving on
Hi Eamon. I’m on the wrong side of 30 and middle-aged spread is starting to set in. My boyfriend likes husky guys but I’m worried my weight is starting to become an issue for him. I work crazy hours so the gym is out of the question, and I try to eat well but usually end up eating rubbish. I’ve wanted to get back in shape for ages but having a boyfriend is making the pressure worse. Any advice? Liam, Drogheda First things first: if you want to get back in shape it has to be for you and you alone. If the only reason you are doing this is because you think your weight is an issue for your boyfriend then – in my experience – you aren’t likely to achieve your goal. The more pressure and stress you feel the less likely you are to enjoy it, and it’ll be all the easier to quit early. Have an honest conversation with your boyfriend and let him know your concerns and how you have been feeling. His support and encouragement could be the start of the motivation you need to kick start a new healthy you. If you are lucky the new regime that you introduce could become something that you can do as a couple. I’m not a fan of diets, but would advise eating regular, smaller, healthy meals throughout the day to combat your snacking. If you can’t make it to the gym ask your boyfriend to start exercising with you in the evenings. Never be afraid to have an open and honest conversation with your partner. Bottling up your problems only leads to further issues further down the line.
Dear Eamon, my girlfriend and I are planning a holiday this summer. It’s our first holiday together and I want everything to be perfect for her. The only problem is we are very affectionate, even in public. I want to be sure we pick somewhere where we know we will be accepted. Somewhere warm with a beach, please! Sinead, County Tyrone Hi Sinead. The first holiday together is always exciting. There would be nothing worse than if you both felt uncomfortable and unable to be yourselves. I would advise doing plenty of research before
choosing a destination. Use the likes of Trip Advisor, which has a gay travel section and which lets you read the experiences of other couples. Have you considered asking friends or coworkers? You will trust their advice more than you will probably trust mine!
Hey Eamon. I’ve been single for most of my life. I’ve had two relationships, only one serious, which ended more than two years ago. I still think about him every single day and it’s killing me. Emotionally I feel like I moved on a long time ago. So why can’t I get him out of my head? It’s affecting my mental health and I would be very happy to never think of him again. We don’t have any contact and anything that reminds me of him is stored away in boxes where I don’t have to think about them. What do I do to stop myself thinking of him? Daniel, Belfast How quickly you’ll be able to stop thinking about a partner after a breakup varies for everyone, because it takes into account a lot of other factors, for instance: Is this your first serious relationship that has come to an end? How much interaction did you have which is no longer there? Time really is the only healer of a broken heart. It’s important to have distractions for those moments when you do still think about him. Find a friend to vent to who won’t make you feel bad for being upset so long after the relationship came to an end. Bottling up those emotions could be what is stopping from you moving on, especially if you have no outlet to process those feelings. Over time these thoughts and memories will pop up less and less frequently until one day you’ll wake up and realize you haven’t had one in a long time.
If you want Eamon to answer your dating problems email dating@lambpromotions. com GNI MAG reserves the right to publish submitted material in whole or in part.
GNIMAG.COM | 65
Travel__ Manchester
MAN CHES TER WORDS | GASTROGAYS
66 | GNIMAG.COM
Travel__ Manchester
Affectionately dubbed Warehouse
Fine Dining
City (and maybe less affectionately as
Though the city keeps missing out on
‘Madchester’), Manchester has followed
Michelin stars, shining examples of
London’s lead over the past few decades -
cutting-edge culinary talent include
bedecked with glass-fronted skyscrapers,
Manchester House (manchesterhouse.
destination restaurants, a buzzing culture
uk.com), The French (the-french.co.uk),
punctuated by art, foodie pop-ups, and a
and Australasia (australasia.uk.com)
voracious nightlife. Manchester rightly
in Spinningfields. Entry-level fine
rivals Brighton, Edinburgh and London as
dining can be found nearby at Ibèrica
one of the UK’s must-see cities.
(ibericareatauraints.com), Hawksmoor
Few other cities have as devoted a gay
(thehawksmoor.com) and The Alchemist
scene as Manchester. It’s vocal, it’s visual
(thealchemist.uk.com). Slap-up breakfasts
and, above all, it’s proud. The epicentre
and Sunday roasts are a necessity once
is the Gay Village (as it’s locally known).
you’re up north and Gorilla, located
Canal Street is a strip of the city centre that
underneath the arches of Manchester
runs alongside the Rochdale Canal, and
Oxford Road station, will see you ship
is tightly stocked with bars, restaurants,
shape for breakfast (always better with
nightclubs, hotels and, of course, no
added booze from the fantastic bar). The
shortage of gay bars.
Blue Pig has one of the best-value, best-
Revelers spill out onto large terraces, both when the sun comes out and when
tasting roasts in the city, ensuring Sundays are nothing short of sensational.
it goes down, and the lively atmosphere is boundless. Where other European
CHEAP EATS
cities’ gay scenes linger within the souls
Comfort is king at Home Sweet Home,
of dispersed premises, coming alive once
a mismatched, modern milk bar located
a year to celebrate Pride, Canal Street is a
on Edge Street. The biggest draw is the
year-round celebration of LGBT life.
wide selection of camp cakes at the deli
Each summer Canal Street becomes the
counter, all bedazzled with over-the-
beating heart of Manchester Pride, one of
top icing, garish glitter, and some even
the UK’s biggest gay pride festivals, which
adorned with Barbie’s, fondant characters
this year celebrated its 25th birthday.
and classic sweets. No mere bakery, the
First the gays made their mark, then the
big and bold American-style menu is
‘fag hags’ – used endearingly – followed
well worth sampling for a casual dinner
suit. The hen parties landed soon after,
or a mighty weekend brunch. The cookie
and today even straight couples and
dough skillet, served all oozy and melting
heterosexual singles trickle into the Gay
direct from the oven, is a triumph.
Village to enjoy raucous nights in this funfilled part of town. Gay Manchester has had a number of
Soup Kitchen delivers exactly what the name promises: a no-frills lunch that’s seriously satisfying and insanely
high profile appearances in the media,
affordable, from hearty soups, deep-filled
most famously in the iconic cult series
sandwiches and comforting favourites
Queer as Folk, and more recently in
with distinct Jamaican inspiration like
Channel 4’s Cucumber. Here’s what to see,
jerk chicken or curried goat. Laid-back
do and eat in Manchester.
service, communal benches and high bar
GNIMAG.COM | 67
TRAVEL__ MANCHESTER
stools keep things casual. The space also
Canal Street is a year-round celebration of LGBT life. Each summer it becomes the beating heart of Manchester Pride, one of the UK’s biggest gay pride festivals, which this year celebrated its twenty-fifth birthday
Oi Polloi is a dreamy curation of fantastic
doubles as a live music venue and club
menswear pieces (arguably the best in
night with great music and a brew selection
the north of England) and has recently
to rival the best pubs in the city.
ventured down south, so it’s well worth
The Richmond Tea Rooms (whose dining
a lengthy browse. Magma stocks a wide
room looks like something out of a Tim
selection of unique, rare and limited-run
Burton film) caters to the community and
magazines as well as gifts, quirky novelties
allies alike. It offers a selection of afternoon
and books. Around the corner you’ll find
teas from the Gentleman’s Tea, with sausage
Fred Aldous, a three-floor emporium of all
rolls, eccles cakes and mini fish ‘n’ chips, to
things art, craft, novelty and stationery.
the more traditional Queen’s Tea of sweets cakes, scones and sandwiches.
STAY Whether you opt for elegance at The Lowry,
NIGHTLIFE
go designer at the newly opened Gotham,
Velvet, one of the beacons of Canal street,
camp out in a former shipping warehouse
comprises a restaurant, bar and boutique
at The Victoria Warehouse, or keep it cosy
hotel. Kick-start the night at one of their
and casual at boutique hotel The Abel
happy hours, where cocktails are almost
Heywood in the Northern Quarter, hotels
too affordable to not overindulge. The new
abound in this sprawling metropolis.
kid on the block is Kiki – the gay children’s
Travelling on a shoestring budget? One of
slang for gossip – where theme nights and
the best value hostels is Hatters on Newton
great music are the order of the evening.
Street. Set in a former bowler hat factory,
Taurus was a stalwart of the Gay Village for two decades until it closed abruptly
Hatters offers cut-price accommodation with free breakfast and Wi-Fi included.
in 2015, later reopening under new management. This popular venue has been
GETTING AROUND
stripped back to its industrial roots, inspired
Metroshuttle operates a free bus service
by the trendier areas of the city, with a
around the city centre every day, running
heavy focus on casual eating and drinking.
on average every 8 – 12 minutes. Metrolink
Taurus Bar & Kitchen (as it is now known) is
connects the central city to many of its
fresh-faced, cool and contemporary.
suburbs, including Eccles, Bury, Rochdale
Trof in the Northern Quarter is fantastic for casual drinks and acoustic sessions. The
and MediaCity. Virgin trains connect to the capital
Deaf Institute is a favourite of the trendy
several times a day in a speedy 2.5 hours.
student set thanks to the cheap drinks and
The slower National Rail connects
live shows.
Manchester to London, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Glasgow and Birmingham and
SHOPPING & CULTURE
environs. Manchester Airport is a 20-minute
Oldham Street in the heart of the Northern
journey by car, bus or train from the city
Quarter is where you’ll find Piccadilly
centre. FlyBe and EasyJet connect Belfast
Records for music, Oxfam Originals for
and Manchester with daily flights, whilst
vintage finds, and Afflecks, an eclectic
Aer Lingus and Ryanair fly from Dublin.
arcade of alternative stores, ever-changing boutiques and pop-ups.
68 | GNIMAG.COM
Follow Gastrogays on Twitter @gastrogays
FITNESS
FITNESS__ HYVOLUTION SPECIAL
HYBRID FITNESS NI PRESENT HYVOLUTION What is it?
sport, powerlifting, boxing and
Hyvolution is the ultimate
physique competitions and they
transformation programme for
bring that knowledge to the
people who want to change their
programme.
lifestyle and learn the best effective exercises to help improve their body
Why is it so good?
composition.
Its great value for money, great quality content during the
It’s a 16 week Programme, A Four
programme. The instructors are
week preparation phase which
highly qualified and have a broad
includes a movement screen,
range of discipline’s, from FMS,
introduction to barbell training.
kettlebells (strongfirst), barbells to
Learning drills to help improve
nutrition. Competing in kettlebell
flexibility & mobility. We also cover
sport, powerlifting, boxing and
the programme and nutrition for
physique competitions and they
the course. The Preparation Phase
bring that knowledge to the
is perfect to let us assess the client,
programme.
choose the right exercises to suit the client so we can deliver the best
Where?
programme. It allows the client to
Hybrid Fitness
prepare themselves mentally for the
32-38 Queen Street
workload ahead in the 12weeks.
Lyndon Court Unit D Belfast
Who Should do it?
BT1 6EF
Anyone can do the Hyvolution
Web: hybridfitnessni.co.uk
programme albeit if they pass the
Email: info@hybridfitnessni.co.uk
required screening process. We
Telephone: 02809311626
assess our clients through the FMS (Functional Movement Screen). This allows us to see possible limitations or implications our clients might occur during training thus reducing the risk of injury. Why is it so good? Its great value for money, great quality content during the programme. The instructors are highly qualified and have a broad range of discipline’s, from FMS, kettlebells (strongfirst), barbells to nutrition. Competing in kettlebell
GNIMAG.COM | 69
FOOD & DRINK WORDS | GASTROGAYS
SPICED FRENCH TOAST For the French toast
dish (a lasagne dish will do just fine). Place the
plums. They don’t quite get the kudos they
1 croissant loaf/brioche, sliced thickly
plum slices into the mix and leave to soak for
deserve but, when cooked, magical things
3 large free-range eggs
about five minutes on each side.
Let’s have a moment of appreciation for
happen. Plums are a tried-and-tested Tinder match for mulling wintery spices such as cinnamon, star anise, nutmeg, and so forth. It works so well you’ll wonder why they ever needed to look elsewhere for love.
60ml full fat milk 2tsp vanilla extract
4. Toss a layer of flaked almonds on a dry
1 tbsp Speculoos spices (Cinnamon will do too)
frying pan and heat on a medium heat until
30g butter (and a drop of oil for frying)
golden.
50g caster sugar mixed with 2 tsp cinnamon Flaked almonds, toasted
Now let’s make it even better: French toast
5. Melt the butter on a gentle heat in the same frying pan and add a splash of
made with all-butter croissant loaf coated
1. Halve and quarter the plums. The size
flavourless oil. Time now to cook the egg
in Speculoos-spiked sugar and served with
difference is desirable as some will retain their
soaked bread. It can befloppy, so a spatula or
shape and others will begin to break down
a fork allows easy transferring from the dish
juice and topped with sliced toasted almonds.
while cooking, offering a difference of texture.
to the pan. Fry as many slices as you can fit
This recipe is pretty hefty on the sugar front,
Keep the stones in when cutting – they’re far
on the pan, turning once they have become
easier to remove once cooked.
golden brown.
2. Cover the fruit and spices with warm
6. Remove the bread slices from the pan. You
For the plums
water. Slosh in a little crème de cassis and
can dunk them in a mixture of caster sugar
400g plums, some in halves, some in quarters
heat on high until just about bubbling, then
and cinnamon for extra sweetness if you like.
2 tbsp crème de cassis
turn the heat to the lowest setting and allow
Half a stick of cinnamon
stewing for ten minutes. Pop off the heat,
7. Serve the toast with the stewed plums in
Two star anise
clamp on a lid, and leave to warm.
syrup, and scatter over a handful of toasted
stewed plums swimming in sweet cassis
so definitely a rare treat-me brunch at the weekends.
1 tbsp ground cardamom 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
70 | GNIMAG.COM
almonds. A sprig of fresh mint goes extremely 3. Beat the eggs with the milk, vanilla
well with this dish, adding a touch of herby
extract, and spices, then pour into a shallow
freshness to an otherwise sweet treat.
Lifestyle__ food & drink
RESTAURANT REVIEW
KNIFE & FORK Despite working just around the corner from Malone Lodge Hotel for just shy of four years, this writer had never been to the elegant, luxurious and chic Victorian Town House Hotel, the Malone Lodge, never mind its delectable restaurant, Knife and Fork. The Hotel itself has Victorian charm in abundance from the outside, but inside is as elegant and contemporary as you could hope for from a modern four star hotel. Knife and Fork boasts an award winning team of chefs who are dedicated to producing high quality, seasonal and locally sourced dishes all year round. For a Friday evening, the restaurant was unexpectedly quiet, but the warm ambience, scents of exquisite dishes and attention from their friendly staff made diners feel right at home. A view of the kitchen allows guests to feel a part of the action while the luxurious mix of contemporary and traditional surroundings complete with angled mirrors, dark woods and amber lighting allowed them to relax in decadence and style. The eclectic menu appealed with something for everyone, with appetisers beginning at £4.50 and main meals stretching to £28 complete with side orders. The variety of local produce was impressive, incorporating red meats, seafood, poultry, vegetarian options and game. To begin with, we was treated to some amuse bouche in the form of a delectable liver paté complete with freshly baked bread, red onion jelly and tangy tapenade. This was followed by an appetiser of a duo of pulled pork spring rolls, served with delicious apple and celeriac coronation coleslaw and Knife and Fork’s own BBQ sauce. The gentle balance of spices in the portion complemented the pork exquisitely, and after a short wait which offered just enough time to digest, main course was ready. Based on our waiter’s recommendation, our writer ordered the Knife & Fork Signature “Tomahawk” Steak which was a platter suitable for sharing with his date for the evening. The meal arrived served by a team of waiters, with an abundance of side orders, including chunky chips, creamy mash, onion rings, seasonal vegetables and peppered sauce. The star of the main was of course the Tomahawk;
an enormous kilogram of ‘on-the-bone’ steak which had been cooked and seasoned to perfection before being sliced by the head chef before their very eyes. Everything was exquisite; from the succulent meat to the delicious sides, as much attention to detail had been given to the preparation, production and presentation of the food as you would expect in a fine piece of art. Portion sizes were more than ample, allowing diners to take their time with the meals and enjoy the break between courses rather than being left wanting more and feeling impatient. The food was full of flavour and each mouthful gave a taster of the care and dedication that had gone into the dishes. The turnaround between courses was, as they say in Belfast, ‘spot on’, and guests were able to enjoy their meal, take their time, savour the flavours and digest their food comfortably. Desserts followed, each with a special twist allowing guests to sample something different. We sampled a tangy orange cake and a banoffee pie. Both options were to die for and the dessert menu had something for everyone – a feat which is lacking in many local restaurants. Instead of a succinct offering of just three or four desserts, the Knife and Fork offered an exceptionally generous seven desserts as well as a cheese platter. The choice was excellent and the sweet flavours finished off the meal nicely. The service, food and surroundings of the Knife and Fork in Malone Lodge Hotel each outdo the other. If you’re looking for somewhere new to try, we couldn’t recommend it more and whether it be for meeting with friends, treating someone special or for the elusive first date, this restaurant will impress in every aspect. Meal for two, including wine and service: £75 Words by Daniel May
60 Eglantine Avenue, Malone Road, Belfast BT9 – 6DY T: 028 9038 8000 W: malonelodgehotelbelfast.com
GNIMAG.COM | 71
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THE BIG DAY__ TONY & DARREN
The Big Day
GNIMAG.COM | 79
THE BIG DAY__ TONY & DARREN
Tony and Darren booked their big day following the death of one of their friends. It was the kick up the bum they needed to make the leap, get married and legally protect themselves as a couple. They booked the Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan for an emotional, fun-filled day for their guests. Four
groomsmen and four groomsladies accompanied them down the aisle, and their son Parker “gave them away”. Their daughter India and Darren’s brother Hugh did the readings.
The ceremony was full of musical surprises, with ‘Anthem’ from the musical Chess being performed by a choir. During the ceremony Darren surprised
Tony by leaving the alter and taking his place at the grand piano to perform a rendition of Gary Barlow’s Forever Love. Their close friend Conleth Kane closed the ceremony with a performance of ‘Everything’ by Michael Buble, along with some surprise musicians scattered amongst the guests (Love Actually style). The guests mingled in the oppulent surroundings of the Dali Orangery at the Hillgrove Hotel while the room was prepared for the
reception. Guests were treated to a freshly prepared meal before getting ready to put on their dancing shoes.
The marriage was made legal three days later which was when the new same-sex marriage legislation was introduced in the ROI. So tell me how you met. Were you
single for a long time before you met?
heading to Dublin for work that afternoon.
Darren was doing a concert in
DARREN
Ballymena, we met that night when
April 2009. I had dated a little
into my kitchen, I offered him toast,
We met online on Gaydar in
but working in a church made it difficult to be openly gay. TONY
I’d been single for a few months
before we chatted on Gaydar. I was
working in an office in Millisle and
we both finished work. He walked and the rest is history.
How long after you started dating
DARREN
to make the leap. We’d thought
falling for Tony though it took us 6
but we never seemed to have the
I knew after a few weeks that I was
1/2 years before we got married. We have certainly had a few rough and tumbles along the way.
Two head strong men trying to
live together certainly took some
about doing it a few years before
money. It came to the point where if we didn’t just do it, regardless of
whether we could actually afford it, it would never happen.
getting used to!
Tell us about your wedding day?
question?
TONY
in scale? Was it perfect? What about
have any stumbles along the way?
and a half years before we decided
did it take your other half to pop the Was it an immediate yes? Did you
We’d been together for about five
What was it like? Was it big or small the reception? Did anyone give any embarrassing speeches?
>>>
GNIMAG.COM | 77
DARREN
It was amazing. It was a large affair in Monaghan and I had lots of
my musical friends and colleagues
contribute to the ceremony to sing and play for us, which was just
perfect. I tried to surprise Tony by
singing a song during the ceremony but I think he had an idea I was
going to do it, nevertheless that was emotional and special for both us. The Hillgrove Hotel were
incredible hosts for a wonderful
reception and the speeches were probably a little embarrassing
for both of us. I’m pretty sure I
mentioned Tony being naked in the corridor of a hotel in the middle of the night in mine! TONY
We had our wedding in the
Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan with around 220 guests celebrating with us. Because it was a bit of a drive
away we invited all of our guests to the full day.
The speeches went well, Darren’s
friend put on a slide show with a
few embarrassing pix of him, and my cousins speech mentioned my many fabulous erections (in lego).
What about the food and drink?
The entertainment? Did you have a honeymoon, and if so where to? DARREN
Again the Hillgrove gave us an amazing meal being one of the
few hotels to offer Silver service
and I think everybody loved the entertainment. We had a bit of a cabaret show with the fabulous
Roisin Starkey and Robert Brown and then Trudy Scrumptious and
Cherrie On Top brought the house down with their songs and antics! Company B were fantastic giving
everyone 80s hits and the wonderful Kenny Kane was our DJ into the
early hours so the guests were very entertained. We couldn’t afford a
THE BIG DAY__ TONY & DARREN
honeymoon so had a little break
then Kenny Kane took to the decks
couples to get married under the
Amsterdam after Christmas.
small hours before heading to the
a bit frustrating and disheartening
the week after and took a trip to
TONY
so we could party into the wee residents bar in the hotel.
There was entertainment from start
How are you enjoying married life?
he put together a mini-choir to sing
DARREN
my favourite musical Chess.
guys with kids and a mortgage and
to finish. Darren works in music, so us down the aisle to Anthem from During the ceremony Darren
surprised me by getting up and
performing ‘Forever Love’ at the
grand piano, then Conleth Kane sang us out of the ceremony to
‘Everything’ by Michael Buble.
It’s much the same. We are normal
new legislation in the ROI. It felt
that literally two hours after doing the legal bit, when we were back
in good old Northern Ireland, that
our marriage wasn’t recognised as a marriage. Things will change here though.
jobs but it’s lovely to have celebrated
Are you into the same things?
officially and legally. Hopefully
different? Is this an issue for you? Do
our love publicly and declared it
Northern Ireland will recognise our marriage status soon!
What interests do you have that are
you do everything together or do you like to keep independent?
The evening entertainment was a
TONY
DARREN
Robert Brown and Roisin Starkey,
much has changed. Still the same
with friends over a few drinks,
cabaret show, starting with songs by followed by a drag show with Trudy Scrumptious and Cherrie on Top. After that the band Company B
started their set with our first dance song (‘Photograph’ by Ed Sheeran),
Our life is pretty boring so not
routine of work, kids and lazy nights on the sofa. We actually completed
the legal part of our marriage on the Tuesday after our wedding.
We were one of the first same-sex
We both enjoy eating out, socialising movies and travel. But probably my work being music related takes me
into areas Tony isn’t so interested in like choirs and classical music but that’s not an issue. It’s healthy and
GNIMAG.COM | 79
THE BIG DAY__ TONY & DARREN
good for us to enjoy things apart too.
TONY
Darren and I have our own friend
groups and different interests – this
is great because it allows us to retain a bit of independence. Darren
is more into musical culture and eating out, and I’m more KFC
and getting drunk. But it works, opposites attract and all that.
If you want to feature you big day
here please contact kieran at kieran@ lambpromotions.com
80 | GNIMAG.COM
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LIFESTYLE__ QUITTING SMOKING
sMOKEY JO When Jo Venus was 11 years old, she and a friend found 10 cigarettes and a box of matches hidden under a bush. She smoked five and her friend smoked five. It was something to do and a way of fitting in with her friends. It was 15 years before she made the decision to quit, a decision trigger by a terrifying asthma attack. Jo explains, “I started smoking at 11 to fit in with my friends. There were also smokers in my family, so I guess that influenced me too. When I was a teenager, though, I was only smoking about 10 a day. As I got older, and started to go out more, that increased to 20, especially on a night out. By the time I was in my early 20s, I was smoking a packet a day. “A lot of the time I used smoking to relieve the stress of work and study – and juggling both at the same time. I am in my final year studying youth work at Ulster University. I also works for FASA working
Jo (RIGHT) began smoking at 11 years old
with young people aged 12 to 25 years old. “Over the years I thought of cutting down or quitting. I was fully aware that it was bad for my health – everyone knows that nowadays – but I never got round to stopping. “When I was 24 though, I started to have breathing problems. I’d never had any problems growing up but when I went to the doctor I was diagnosed with asthma. Again, I thought about quitting but only cut down a bit. “I no longer smoked in the house as my partner doesn’t smoke herself and didn’t like me smoking. That helped me reduce the number of cigarettes I’d have, especially in the evening. “Then in December 2014 I had a really bad asthma attack. We were out for the evening, and I didn’t have my inhaler with me. It was really scary. My partner didn’t know what to do and she was very
Sponsored by Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke
frightened too. We both just panicked “And that was it. I decided to quit. “I used e-cigarettes but just for
Smoking and Stress Jo, like many smokers used to think that smoking helped her deal with stress, but one day she
one month and then stopped
heard someone say that it is the act of breathing deeply that calms you, rather than the cigarette.
those too as I found that they
So what is the truth?
made my chest tight. But the
When you inhale, within 7 seconds nicotine is transported to the brain where it releases
e-cigs weren’t really how I quit.
endorphins and dopamine, which reduce the feeling of anxiety and pain. In addition to this, the
I quit because I finally realised I
action of breathing deeply gives a feeling of relaxation.
had a choice to make. For years,
However, the nicotine also releases adrenalin which increases your heart rate, blood pressure and
I knew in the back of my mind
your breathing, which are not relaxing for the body.
that I could and should quit, but
So overall smoking does not really have a relaxing effect on your body. It actually has the
I didn’t. Then suddenly, after the
opposite effect by speeding up your heart rate. You can test this for yourself by feeling your pulse
asthma attack, I was faced with
before and after a cigarette.
a choice between my health and
You know the phrase “take a deep breath and count to ten”? Well, the part of smoking that does
smoking. It was a choice between
relax your body without harming it is the deep breathing and inhalation. So if you feel stressed,
fitting in with others and doing
instead of reaching for a cigarette, just breathe deeply in the same way as you do when you
something for me.
smoke and you might find that this gives you a feeling of calm too.
“I must admit that sometimes night out, but that is all. The
Smoking – the Stats
improvements in my health have
In 2012, the Rainbow Project released a report called “All Partied Out? Substance Abuse in
been so noticeable that I don’t
Northern Ireland’s LCB&T Community”.
want to go back. I love walking,
The survey looked at smoking and found that:
I still have a cigarette on a
especially with my dog, Co-Co, but before I quit I could never
• A total of 44% of LGB&T respondents smoked cigarettes compared to 24% of people
go out walking in the winter
in Northern Ireland as a whole. (2012 figures – 22% of the overall population now smoke.
because my chest got so tight.
• 69% of LGB&T people who smoke want to quit.
Now I can walk all year round than I could before. I just feel
How to quit
better!
It is not easy to quit smoking but there is help available. Ask your GP or pharmacist for
and I can walk much further
“I spent over half my life as
information on nicotine replacement products. Many local hospitals run smoking cessation
a smoker. Giving up has been
clinics and there are some GPs and local pharmacists who also provide the service.
the best thing I have ever done.
You can contact the Health Service for their Smokefree Want 2 Stop Quit Kit on 0808 812 8008 or
I feel there is a herd mentality
by visiting www.want2stop.info.
when it comes to smoker and it is
Once you have decided to quit:
easier to continue if your friends
– Work out your smoking habits and be ready to change your routine to avoid the triggers and
and family around you are also
situations you smoke in.
smokers. I would encourage
– Set a date, tell family and friends and stick to it.
people to realise that they have a
– When you feel the urge to smoke, distract yourself.
choice and it is really up to them
– Put the money you save in a jar so you can see it building up.
personally to decide whether or
– Ask your doctor or pharmacist for help and support. You are 4 times more likely to quit
not they want to smoke.”
successfully if you get professional help and nicotine replacements.
www.nichs.org.uk
LISTENING UNDERSTANDING ADVISING SUPPORTING WE’RE ON YOUR SIDE
Coming Out__ Micky’s story
Micky Murray is a well known face around Belfast. He is an LGBT advocate, the Chair of the Alliance Party’s LGBT group, and an all round great guy. This is his coming out story...
Tell us a little about yourself? I’m 23, soon to be 24, and I’m from Belfast. I work in a homeless hostel as a project worker specialising in alcoholism. I also work in The Brook, which is a sexual health clinic for young people. I’m on the board of a youth organistion Public Achievement. I am Chair of the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland’s LGBT group, and the Vice-Chair of the North Belfast PCSP, and obviously a workaholic.
until I was 22 that I made an effort to talk to my family about my sexuality and my activism, which is strange because anyone that knows me knows how open and public I am about it all. I remember going for a drink with my dad in the Duke of York in April of 2014 and trying to get the courage to tell him. Right before we left I took my chance, his reply was just “I’m your dad, I’ve known you’ve been gay for years.” I couldn’t understand why it had taken me so long.
When did you first realise you were gay? I first realised I was gay when I was quite young, maybe around eight or nine. I didn’t really know what it was though; I just knew I was different from the other people in my class at school. It wasn’t until I was about 12 that I actually had a word for it, when you hear people throwing the word “gay” about and actually understanding what it meant gave me a word for what made me different.
How did people react when you told them? No one was shocked. It was a bit of a letdown actually!
Tell me about your coming out experience? I’d pretty much came out to myself since I was young. It wasn’t until I was about 14 I came out to some close friends. I had a pretty liberal group of friends. I came out as bisexual first because for some reason I thought this would lessen the blow, but really I think it must have been me subconsciously safeguarding myself incase I was wrong about my sexuality. After a few months I started telling people I was gay and not bisexual, but no one was very shocked. When I was sixteen I remember phoning my mum on New Year’s Eve and telling her. Well, I started to tell her, but I wasn’t able to say the words so my friend took over. We never talked about it after that. Having quite a conservative family it was awkward to bring it up. Over the next few years I was becoming more and more involved in the LGBT rights movement, attending protests, being a member of the Belfast Pride committee and joining the Alliance Party and becoming firstly the deputy chair for the LGBT group and now the Chairperson of the LGBT group. I never really told my family about my activism work. It wasn’t
0808 808 8000
Was coming out a big deal for you or did it feel natural? For me it was a very natural process. I’ve never believed as LGBT people we should have to come out to other people, but now I’ve came to the conclusion that if we want to break this taboo of coming out and to make it public and normalise it then maybe we need to give into the taboo in order to break it. How else did your family react to the news? My auntie, who i’ve been very open about it all for years has been great, everyone has, no one has been shocked or angry or happy, everyone’s just acted like normal, like they should be. Life after making your sexuality public is just that, it’s public, people think that they have the right to voice their opinion on your life, and some people can be really, really horrible. At the same time people can really over exaggerate and be really happy and excited about it and expect you to be stereotypical, flamboyant, and super gay. It can be really annoying actually, just treat me like any of your other friends! Has anyone’s opinion of you changed since you first came out? In 2009 I put up a Facebook status, just four words, saying “In town supporting Pride.” It got hundreds of comments, some congratulating me and wishing me to have a great day, and others that weren’t so nice.
Textphone 18001 0808 808 8000
www.lifelinehelpline.info
Coming Out__ Micky’s story
COMING OUT
MICKY tells his story. 0808 808 8000
Textphone 18001 0808 808 8000
www.lifelinehelpline.info
Coming Out__ Micky’s story
Did you ever feel the need to seek professional help after coming out? Nope, I have a really close circle of friends who are really supportive and if I ever needed any type of counseling that’s who I would go to. Where do you live? How accepting are people there of LGBT people? I live in North Belfast, in an area where I wouldn’t say people are very accepting of LGBT people. As a community it can be quite intimidating. I’m already the long-haired hippy of the community, so throw in being a Christian and being gay and an LGBT rights activist too and people don’t really know how to take me. What are the most important things in your life? The most important things for me in life are my friends, family, equality and the perception I give out. A lot of people say they don’t care about what people think of them, I tend to come at it from a view point of, if people see me and see what I’m doing and they have a negative opinion of me then why am I giving a negative opinion of myself out? What am I doing that could be construed as negative, so I try to stay as positive as possible at all times, even when campaigning for LGBT equality. I sit down
and talk with politicians, some who have said really nasty things about LGBT people and I sit down and I always ask them first to tell me why they don’t support LGBT equality and let them explain to me why and then I have a conversation with them about what it is exactly that we want and why we want it and how it will effect society. What are your plans for the future? I love working in the homeless sector. Homelessness is something I’m really passionate about, and I want to do as much as possible to better the services we have in Northern Ireland. I also plan to keep doing LGBT work both independently and as the Chairperson of Alliance LGBT. I love any sort of work that enables me to empower and advocate for others, so I really don’t have a plan other than keep going forward and doing what I’m doing and take all the opportunities that come up. I’ve been all over Europe working with Public Achievement and have spoken publically all over the country at protests and in schools and I’ve had some amazing experiences, being living in a church for three months with two homeless people, to lobbying at Westminster. I never really plan anything. I just deal with whatever comes my way in the best way I can.
0808 808 8000
Textphone 18001 0808 808 8000
www.lifelinehelpline.info
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The what’s on guide__ belfast
Monday Kremlin – Closed
Union Street – Monday night show with Trudy Scrumptious
Maverick – Motor Mouth Mondays, Comedy Night with Gemma Hutton. Free entry
Tramp. Free entry
Union Street – The Sunday Sessions; local
party with DJ Ricky C. All drinks £2
mix of original and classic favourites.
Boombox – Now You’re Talkin’! Weekly pop Sunflower – Manouche Gypsy Swing 5.30pm, Sunflower Folk Club 8pm
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex
Sunflower – Open Mic Nights, 7pm, Free
– Now open until 4am
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex
Friday
– KJB Massage 2pm – 5pm
Kremlin – Weekly Themed Nights with DJ
Tuesday
Union Street – Glitzy Glamour hosts her
bottle of beer for every performer
Kremlin – Klub 180, All drinks £1.80 all night, 10pm – 2.30am
Union Street – Grannie’s Fun Factory 9pm, All drinks from £2
Maverick – Lipsync for your Drink, with Rusty Hinges and Roxy Tumbledryer
Sunflower – The Dandy Horses Unplugged, 7.30pm
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex
Gareth Woods. Open until 3am
own evening of cabaret. 9pm - 1.30am
Maverick – VAGABOND with DJ Marion
Union Street – Okie Dokie Karaoke hosted by Trudy Scrumptious and Robert Brown
Maverick – Contdown with Contessa Von
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex – Hard Up Sundays, free buffet & concessions & under 26 years old
Bubu @ The Shoe Factory - First Friday of
Sunflower – Boxing Hare Wood Fired Pizza Traditional Session 8pm
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex
Grannie’s Time Tunnel 9pm – Late
Kremlin – Deuce, £2 entry, £2 drinks
Gramophone Club from 8pm
drinks £2.50
Maverick – Open Mic Wednesdays with
Thursday
Sunflower – Traditional Session 7pm, Sunday
month
Kremlin – Revolution, 9pm – 3am
– Now open until 4am
with Gemma Hutton & DJ Lady Luck
Rewind @ Kremlin – First Friday of every
Saturday
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex
Boombox – Sunday Service, drag spectacular
HOtel MOtel last Friday every month. All
Kremlin – Closed
Roxy Tumbledryer, & DJ Kenny. 10pm – 3am
Maverick – R&R with Rusty and Roxy 5pm
Boombox – Downtown with DJ Jordan,
Wednesday
Boombox – Bitch Please! with Rusty Hinges,
8.30pm
Regular Nights
– KJB Massage 2pm – 5pm
Cherrie On Top. Free entry
The Shoe Factory - The Sunday Bingo Show
Hawkes from 9pm
– Now open until 4am
Union Street – Tina’s Stop the Clock
singer/songwriter Peter Sumadh provides a
Union Street – Tina’s T’Okie 5pm – 8pm, Maverick – HIJINKS with Lady Portia Di’Monte from 6pm
Boombox – BOOMBOX Saturdays DJ
Ciaran Boylan, Sassie Longshaft and Paulette Stiletta 10pm – 3am
Sunflower – Boxing Hare Wood Fired Pizza 5pm – 11pm in the Sunflower Garden, Appalachian Session 8pm Sunday Kremlin – Industry 10pm, Admission free
every month (men only)
MOTN @ Queens Cafe Bar – Last Friday of every month (men only)
The White Mansions @ The Sunflower First Friday of every month
Pub Quiz @ The Sunflower – First Tuesday of every month
Duke Special’s Gramophone Club @
Sunflower – Last Friday of every month
Hotel Motel Residency @ Boombox – Last Friday of every month
Room Service @ Boombox – Bi-monthly
The Pipeworks Gay Men’s Leisure Complex – First Friday of every month – Bubu Afterparty
The what’s on guide__ belfast
Belfast
© Jamie Baird 2015
out in...
1 - Union Street/Shoe Factory
6 - Queens Cafe Bar
A - Grand Opera House
E - Ulster Hall
3 - Maverick
8 - Boombox
C - City Hall
G - Albert Clock
2 - Kremlin
4 - Sunflower Bar 5 - Kelly’s Cellars
7 - El Divino
9 - The Pipeworks
10 - Whites Tavern
B - The MAC D - The Fish
F - The Waterfront
The what’s on guide__ Dublin
Monday
Pantibar – Joystick, DJ Dr Beat plays quality
Copper Alley – Mother, the home of synth
The George – Win, Lose or Drag with Phil T.
80s music
pop and electro
Gorgeous and Bunny from 8.30pm.
Break for the Border – Meat Street with
Admission free all night with drinks!
Friday
international guest hosts, DJs and live acts,
Pantibar – Pints and chats
The George – Glitterbomb with DJs Ger
from 11pm
and Mo, hosted by David D-Pole and his Tuesday
Glitterati Dancers, Drinks promos, Free
Sunday
The George – The Dolly Grip Experience
shots, Admission free before 10pm, €5 from
The George – Bingo with Shirley Templebar,
The Front Lounge – Davina Devine’s
10 til midnight, €8 after
from 9.30pm. Admission free before 10pm,
Casting Couch, Karaoke from 10pm
The Front Lounge – DJ Conor Behan
€5 entry after
Pantibar – Pints and chats
playing dance floor fillers from 10pm
The Front Lounge – The big Gay Brunch
Pantibar – DJ Steobar and Our Perfectly
Club from 12pm
Wednesday
Preposterous Drinks Specials
Pantibar – Panti’s Tea Dance
The George – Space N Veda with Veda
The Hub – SweatBox, Classic House Regular Nights
Beaux. Cabaret, Drag and Live Music Pantibar – Pints and chats
Saturday
Pop Rox Indie Night @ The Dive Bar (Turk’s
The George – SaturGays with DJ Sean John,
Head) – Fortnightly Saturdays, €5
Thursday
Davina, Veda & guests with Beauty Spot
Crush Girlclub @ Lafayette Club – Check
The George – Davina Devine hosts Thursty
Karaoke from 10pm. €10 after 11pm
listings for events
Thursdays until 2.30am
The Front Lounge – Brunch with DJ Terry
The Front Lounge – 2 for 1 cocktails
from 10pm Pantibar – The Panti Show from 10pm. Cruisin’, Music, Dancin’, Chattin’
Map Key 1 - Panti Bar
7 - The Hub
A - Parliament Square
E - Gaiety Theatre
3 - The Front Lounge
9 - The Dive Bar (Turk’s Head)
C - Dublin Castle
G - Olympia Theatre
2 - Nealons
4 - Copper Alley 5 - The George
6 - Lafayette Club
8 - The Boilerhouse
10 - Break for the Border 11 - 4 Dame Lane
B - Temple Bar
D - The Needle
F - Grafton Street
The what’s on guide__ Dublin
Dublin
© Jamie Baird 2015
what’s on in...
The GNI MAG valentine’s survival guide
1
WARN IN
Happ y cou
ples
G
frolic
king
DO NOT VENTURE OUTDOORS – THE SIGHT OF HAPPY COUPLES IS LIABLE TO INDUCE FITS OF VIOLENT FURY
7
3
5
6
8
9
GET OFF FB UNLESS YOU PLAN ON POSTING A RANT RAILING AGAINST ALL THOSE WHO HAVE EVER HURT YOU
(JUST KIDDING ABOUT THAT LAST THING. YOU ARE A TREAT. A TREAT!)
REALISE YOU ARE HOPELESSLY, NO… PAINFULLY SINGLE
4
2
DON’T DIG OUT OLD VALENTINE’S CARDS. THESE PEOPLE HAVE FORGOTTEN YOU EVER EXISTED
REALISE THAT 8 HOURS OF YOUTUBE CAT VIDEOS IS THE IDEAL ALTERNATIVE TO A ROMANTIC MEAL
OWN YOUR FREEDOM! BOYFRIENDS/ GIRLFRIENDS ARE HARD WORK!
YESTERDAY’S PANTS & AN OLD T-SHIRT ARE PERFECTLY SUITABLE ATTIRE FOR THE DISCERNING SINGLETON
REMEMBER THAT GETTING DRUNK IS JUST STEALING HAPPINESS FROM TOMORROW
Happy Valentine’s day, our address is at the front of the mag so you can get our cards to us ;0)
98 | GNIMAG.COM
GNI mag THE AWARDS T W E N T Y
S I X T E E N
C O M I N G S O O N
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