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ISSUE 1
E DITOR ’S
LETTER
W
elcome to the first edition of Seen Magazine. It’s been a fast few months for us here at Seen HQ as we’ve been running around like headless chickens trying to get everything done! We have been meeting so many people who have given us nothing but support in our venture, and many of these people have their own inspiring stories to tell. So....what are you reading? Seen Magazine is a magazine primarily aimed at the Liverpool City Region’s gay and lesbian community. We have leisure, food and fashion as well as some hard-hitting issues. What is important to us though, is that the publication portrays subjects and issues that the readers want to see – so if you know of an event, have a story to tell or issue you want us to tackle, please get in touch. We are also delighted that we were selected as an official media partner of Liverpool’s first Pride festival taking place on August 7. Flip your copy of Seen over to see our packed Pride Guide. In this issue, we have paid a visit to The Liverpool Empire, where rehearsals are
7TH JULY 2010
underway for what is destined to be the show of the year, Hairspray. We spoke to Michael Starke about his transformation into a woman to play Edna Trunblad in the smash hit musical. We also speak to a brave woman who is battling to help young people throughout the area. Marie Causer, whose son Michael was murdered allegedly because he was gay, is launching a new foundation to open a ‘safe house’ in the city where vulnerable young people can gain support. We want to launch a readers’ letters page in the magazine, so you can have your say directly – please write to us, via email or post.
WWW.SEENMAG.CO.UK
TEAM S EEN D IRECTOR & E DITOR : Rebecca Keegan Rebecca@Seenmag.co.uk
D IRECTOR : Tony Burns Tony@Seenmag.co.uk
A RT D IRECTOR :
So there you have it – a taste of what’s in the first edition of Seen Magazine. If you want to give us your opinion, we’re happy to hear it – after all it’s your publication, so your opinion counts.
Michael Kelly Michael@Seenmag.co.uk
Please take time to visit our website (www.seenmag.co.uk), which is due to launch any day now. There we have more features, pictures, competitions, reviews and blogs.
Matt Fisher Mattfisher.com
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed putting this issue of Seen Magazine together. The feedback we have received so far has been very positive and we can’t wait for the next edition already - It’s time for Merseyside to come out and be Seen!
Rebecca Keegan
P HOTOGRAPHER : S ALES & M ARKETING : David Trainor David@Seenmag.co.uk
C ONTRIBUTORS Christopher Moore punkahwallah.com Diane Thompson foto-foto.co.uk
Seen Media Il Palazz, 7 Wwater Street Liverpool L2 oRD
Editor Seen Media
seenmag.co.uk
1.
3
Thu 16th September, 7:30pm.
Masters of the House hosted by Nicholas Parsons
The West End of the North West The Floral Pavilion, New Brighton is Wirral’s premier entertainment centre comprising a large scale theatre, conference centre and Panoramic Lounge with breath taking views across the Mersey Estuary. The programme of this plush new theatre includes live music, comedy, drama, large scale musicals and a popular selection of children’s shows and is an ideal place for a great evening out.
Tue 21st September, 7:30pm.
Falstaff (Verdi)
Mon 27th September to Sat 2nd October, 7:30pm. Wed and Sat Matinees, 2:30pm.
Annie
starring Su Pollard & David McAlister
Sat 9th October, 7:30pm.
Elkie Brooks
Wed 20th to Thu 21st October, 7:30pm. Thu Matinee 1:30pm.
Hamlet (Shakespeare) Armistead Centre quater page.pdf 1 17/04/2010 11:27:01
www.floralpavilion.com
0151 666 0000
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0151 227 1931
! # $% %# ! & ((( # $% %# ! &
CALL US & TELL US ABOUT YOUR EVENTS CONTACT: 0151 229 1921 OR REBECCA@SEENMAG.CO.UK
ISSUE 1
7> Good Morning
7TH JULY 2010
WWW.SEENMAG.CO.UK
Contents
Merseyside! Hairspray hits Liverpool
11> Pride and Groom
Local couple prepare for Civil Partnership
17 > Tragedy to Triumph
A mother’s battle for young people
22 > Small town boy
I always knew I was gay
25 > Jewel in the Crown
The Hard Day’s Night Hotel
your r e v Flip o of Seen copy our uide e G e e s rid to stic P a t n fa
28
> All I want... Seen’s shopping wish list
32 > All That Jazz
The Joel Hall Dancers
34 >What’s On
Dates for your diary
36 >It’s a small world LGBT from around the globe
42 > Say EE! Your pics
seenmag.co.uk
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the masquerade bar 2nd draft.pdf 1 22/06/2010 14:26:22
F EATURE
Behind the Masque The
masquerade Bar
T
he Masquerade bar is one of Merseyside’s friendliest gay bars. Owners of the venue, Phil Hunter-Jones and Jeff Drury say the reason the bar has such a good reputation is because the punters respect it.
Liverpool's friendliest gay bar Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year you don't get much friendlier than that! Doubles & trebles bar all day, every day and Happy Hour Mon-Sat 5pm-7pm
"Best gay bar in the north" rainbownetwork.com
“We run a friendly establishment,” says Phil. “There is no trouble here because, although we are gay friendly and gay owned, we are open to everybody.” “In fact Mother’s Day is one of our busiest in the year because everyone brings their mums and families.” But what makes it such a comfortable place to be? “We are all about respect, “ adds Jeff. “We expect the customers and staff to act in a civil manner, and it makes the bar a better place for everyone. There’s no hostility – lots of people comment the first time they visit about how relaxed the atmosphere is. “If there is touble in the bar, we hold a three stikes policy. We don’t tolerate trouble makers. It’s very important to us and our staff that visitors to the bar are happy in.” The pair say they stick to old fashioned values, whilst adapting you more modern tastes. “There’s no reason why all age groups can’t get on,” adds Phil. “We are very versitile and do cater for all tastes – but one one thing we are always the same – respect others as you would like to be respected.” “We are both very community-minded peple. We work full-time as well as own the bar in communitybased jobs. “
6
Masquerade Bar 10 Cumberland Street, Liverpool L1 6BU 0151 236 7786
seenmag.co.uk
“The Masquerade has brought cabaret back to Liverpool - and we couldn’t think of a better city for it to be based in.”
WHAT ’ S ON
Hair spray Liverpool actors Les Dennis and Michael Starke will be united in matrimony as Hairspray’s loveable Wilbur Turnblad and larger than life heroine Edna Turnblad respectively this summer at Liverpool Empire Theatre.
seenmag.co.uk
1.
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WHAT ’ S ON
Good morning Merseyside! London and love it, and now I can’t wait to
Th e h e e l s a re a ctuall y quite co m f o r t a bl e – i n fact they are b e c o m i n g w orryingl y co m f o r t a bl e.
I
Danny Bayne, who won ITV1’s Grease is the Word will play ‘Corny Collins’, winner of GMTV’s Search for Troy in High School than life heroine ‘Edna Turnblad’ on the tour
Musical 2, Liam Doyle will take on the role of
for its run at the Liverpool Empire as due to
‘Link Larkin’ and Laurie Scarth will play ‘Tracy
scheduling difficulties Phill Jupitus is no longer
Turnblad’.
able to play this date.
Marvin as ‘Motormouth Maybelle’, Gillian
Other cast will include Sandra
“I’ve been walking around the house in my
Kirkpatrick as ‘Velma Von Tussle’ and Wayne
is in the air. Baltimore’s Tracy Turnblad, a big
high heels,” he tells Seen Magazine.
Robinson as ‘Seaweed’, Emma Dukes as
girl with big hair and an even bigger heart,
“I am very determined that I will portray Edna
‘Penny Pingleton’, Clare Hulse as ‘Amber Von
has only one passion - dancing. She wins
in a the way the character deserves.
Tussle’ and Seliza Sebastian as ‘Little Inez’.
a spot on the local TV dance programme,
“I don’t want it to seem fake. Although she
Liverpool born actor Michael Starke is best
The Corny Collins Show and, overnight, is
is played by a man, it’s not supposed to look
known for his role as ‘Thomas “Sinbad”
transformed from outsider to irrepressible teen
like a man playing a woman.
Sweeney’ in popular soap Brookside, which
celebrity. But can a trendsetting hair-hopper
“The heels are actually quite comfortable
he played for 16 years. He was also a series
like Tracy get her massively shy Mom out of the
– in fact they are becoming worryingly
regular playing ‘Kenneth Hopkirk’ in Sunday
apartment, beat evil Amber to be crowned
comfortable.
night ITV1 drama The Royal. From 2007 to
Miss Hairspray, integrate Corny’s show for
“I’m over the moon to be joining the Hairspray
2008, Michael starred in ITV1’s Coronation
good AND win the heart of local heartthrob
tour. What more could you ask than to be on
Street as kebab shop owner ‘Jerry Morton’.
Link Larkin, all without denting her ‘do?
stage each night, in your home town, in a
Previous stage credits include The Play What I
Michael Starke will take on the role of larger
dress, with Les Dennis? I’ve seen the show in
Wrote, Anything Goes, The Rocky Horror Show,
t’s 1962, the 50s are out and change
8
be part of it at the Empire.”
seenmag.co.uk
Hamlet and numerous pantomime appearances. “I always wanted to be a musical actor – that was my goal when I first started out. It’s a shame that many former soap actors can have trouble jumping the mould, but I have been very fortunate.
COMP
ETITION
Producers don’t see me as ‘just a television actor’, they see that I love the stage.” Les Dennis is acknowledged as one of Britain’s most popular entertainers, his career spanning television, radio, film, stage and the written word.
Rising
to fame on the comedy circuit Les soon found television success on comedy and variety shows as well as a hugely successful run as a game show host on Family Fortunes. He has starred in many stage productions from sell out pantomimes to plays by Shakespeare, Priestley and Ackbourn and on screen his guest star credits include New Street Law, The Bill, Holby City and Extras. As a leading man in musical theatre he has starred in Me & My Girl, Chicago and recently in the West End, Eurobeat. Les is currently starring as ‘Mr Fulton’ in the UK tour of Disney’s High School Musical 2, Live on Stage. In 2008 he published his critically acclaimed memoirs, Must The Show Go On?
Seen Magazine has two pairs of tickets to give away to lucky readers to the opening night of Harispray at The Liverpool Empire. For your chance to win, answer the following question; In what city is Harispray set? A- Baltimore B- Birmingham C- Bolton Send your answer on the back of a post card with your name, address and a daytime telephone number to Editor, Seen Magazine, Il Palazzo, 7 Water Street, Liverpool L2 0RD. Or email rebecca@seenmag.co.uk
Michael and Les will grace the stage at the
Closing date is 13th August
Liverpool Empire from August 17 to September 4.
Box office: 0844 847 2525 www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk Winners will be chosen at random Editors decision is final
seenmag.co.uk
1.
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Robbie Lancaster and Stephen Frankland have been in a relationship for two years. In September this year they will hold their Civil Partnership. Seen Magazine finds out about their relationship, and their thoughts on gay marriage.
Good Grooming seenmag.co.uk
1.
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F EATURE
Photography By Matt Fisher
ommunication is the key. That’s what grooms-to-be Robbie Lancaster and Stephen Frankland say is the secret to their relationship. “We don’t argue – we’re more like politicians,” says Robbie. “We will debate if we disagree and
We met over a bar, I ordered a gin and tonic from Robbie and he made it perfectly – that’s the first thing that attracted me to him!
part of the shop and thought I was being called to giftwrap something for a customer. “I didn’t see Robbie at first – I just saw a big bunch of roses – then when I noticed I just said ‘what are you doing?!’ “He didn’t get down on one knee – but he
we always settle everything.”
12
because I was told I was needed at a certain
The pair are due to hold their civil partnership
the other end.
proposed and it was romantic and perfect.”
in September in front of 120 guests at Liverpool
“We’d seen each other a lot in social circles, but
And what was Stephen’s immediate answer?
Town Hall.
never talked properly.”
“Yes yes a thousand times yes!
After starting their relationship in 2008 they were
The two soon began to chat, and ended up
“It sounds really cheesy – but I am a hopeless
engaged only four months later.
dancing the night away. “The rest is history,” adds
romantic at heart, and Robbie knows that. It was
“We met over a bar,” says Stephen. “I ordered
Robbie. “We had a fantastic night and talked
perfect.”
a gin and tonic from Robbie and he made it
about soft things like 80’s cartoons – and we both
The couple plan a chic wedding ceremony, with
perfectly – that’s the first thing that attracted me
laughed all night.”
black calla lilies and white carnations.
to him!”
It was December when Robbie proposed to
They are having a best woman and man each,
The pair flirted for months until August 2008 when
Stephen in Debenhams in Liverpool 1 where he
keeping to a colour scheme of black, gold and
they went for a drink. “It was a total accident,”
works.
silver.
Stephen reminisces. “I had missed my last train
“I said that morning that I was going to work but
Robbie tells Seen: “The ceremony itself will be
home from Liverpool City Centre, and though I
I went to pick up the engagement ring,” Robbie
quite traditional, while we are contrasting that
may as well go for a nightcap seeing as I would
says. “I bought a dozen red roses and marched
with a fun reception at The Lisbon, with an Elton
be getting a taxi anyway.
straight into the department store at 2.15pm.”
John tribute act and DJ – and of course a pan of
“I walked into The Curzon, and sat at the end of
“It was such a shock because although I knew
the bar. I looked over and Robbie was sitting at
we may get engaged, I just though this was a
Scouse on the buffet.”
normal morning.” Adds Stephen. “It was so funny,
The two have infused their own taste and style
seenmag.co.uk
then they are divorced just a few months later these are the people that make a mockery of the right we have been given. It’s taken a long time for gay people to be granted this opportunity, so let’s make it a success.” Stephen says: “It’s going to be spectacular. This is our day, but it’s also our wish to use it to give our within the day, and promise a few surprises.
friends and family a thank you. They have been
“We’re keeping what we have in store very close
so supportive – we just can’t put into words how
to our chests.”
greatful we are to everyone around us.”
Although they are enjoying the process, the pair are taking the commitment very seriously. “We
Some specific people Robbie and Stephen
have done a lot of research, and we talked
would like to thank;
about it for a long while before we decided that one day we should get a civil partnership.” They
Eileen Lea of The Lisbon
say.
Martin Cleary of Dusk Till Dawn
“We would advise anybody to look at the
Their Elton John Tribue, Steve
decision carefully if they are thinking about it. It’s
and John from Gaynor Printers
not just about tkaing a relationship further - it’s about sharing everything you both have in your life, and giving lifelong support “We’ve heard of people who decided to do it
seenmag.co.uk
1.
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F EATURE
So
what’s it all about? The time is right and you want to completely commit to your partner, you are planning on entering into a Civil Partnership, but what does it all mean? Samantha Bushell, is a Partner at Brown Turner Ross Solicitors and specialist in Civil Partnerships, here she gives some practical legal advice for same sex couples.
Partnership
Civil partners have the same right to occupy
Schedule. You then have 12 months from the
a property as married couples, for example
date the notice is registered to get hitched.
you can obtain an order allowing you to
authority
may
issue
a
Civil
continue to live in the property even if it is
he Civil Partnership Act 2004 At
the purpose of civil partnerships is to give
document must be signed by you both
same sex couples legal recognition for their
in the presence of each other, a civil
Sadly, it’s a fact of life that any relationship
relationship, as they are unable to marry in
partnership registrar and two witnesses. After
can break down, as with marriages there is a
the traditional sense.
the ceremony, legally you will now be ‘civil
legal processes to go through before a civil
Under a civil partnership, civil partners enjoy
partners’.
partnership can end legally.
the same legal rights, responsibilities and
You can also take your partner’s surname if
benefits as heterosexual married couples,
you want to, or you can combine your names
Civil Partnerships end in dissolution rather
with regard to each other and any children
to create a double barreled surname.
than divorce; this has similar rules as divorce
in their family unit.
The
cannot,
as civil partners are required to wait for
however, take place on religious premises
one year after their union before they can
and no religious service or music is to be used,
apply to the court for dissolution of a civil
this is the same in any civil ceremony and the
partnership.
Gaining a Civil Partnership
14
the
civil
ceremony,
partnership
a
civil
partnership
not in your name.
came into force on the 5th December 2005;
ceremony
registrar will guide you in the appropriate choices if you need them to.
The legal preparation is very similar to that
If one of you in the partnership has a child,
of traditional marriages, both of you must
an important fact to remember is the civil
provide notice at the Registry Office where
partnership act also enables a civil partner
you want to form you union of your intention
to acquire parental responsibility of their civil
to you’re your civil partnership. In addition to
partner’s children, very much in the same
this, both of you must also have lived in the
way as heterosexual couples can, i.e. step-
same registration authority in England and
parents.
Wales for seven days immediately before the
This is all subject to agreement between the
notice is given.
parent, any other parent who has parental
After the registration, there is a 15 day
responsibility and the civil partner or by a
waiting period, in which time the registration
court order.
seenmag.co.uk
Brown Turner Ross Solicitors Financial relief can include: Pension sharing orders for the benefit of the other civil partner Orders for sale of property Lump sum payments to the civil partner or a child of the family
“
Periodical (maintenance) payments or for either civil partner or a child of the family
Ci vil p ar tners ha v e the same right to occup y a proper ty as married couples, for example you can obtain an order allowing you to continue to li v e in the proper ty ev en if it is not in your name.
Property Adjustment Orders to the other civil partner of a child of the family
The grounds for dissolution of a Civil Partnership are: That one partner has behaved in such a way that the other partner cannot reasonably be expected to live with their partner any longer. The couple have lived apart for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application and the partner consents to the order being made. That one partner has deserted their partner for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application. That both partners have lived separate and apart for a continuous period of at least five years immediately preceding the making of the petition.
Something to think about if your civil partnership does come to an end is financial matters; it is open to either partner to apply for financial relief. This is very similar to the ancillary relief proceedings available for married couples, this is where monetary assets are divided between partners and it is at this point when support is often needed most.
It can be quite daunting when you begin your journey towards a civil partnership, you have a hundred and one things to think about and the legalities may not be clear to you. This is why you need an experienced hand to hold, as it is important to be guided through the legal issues that are common in civil partnerships and Samantha Bushell at Brown Turner Ross is highly experienced in matters arising in these cases. Contact Details: www.brownturnerross.com
seenmag.co.uk
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F EATURE
Liverpool's Hidden gem
The history of The Lisbon
The History of the Lisbon
he Lisbon started life as a
scene for possibly more than 50 years
gentleman’s club and restaurant in 1899.
now, and for many customers it was the
Its name and position in Liverpool suggest
first gay bar they went to when they
a connection to the
‘came out.’ Older customers relate tales
fruit importation
trade.
of various events and colourful characters
The area where it stands was at the heart
from the 60’s & 70’s. It occupies a prime
of the fruit district with The Fruit Exchange
location
just across the road on Victoria Street.
Liverpool’s Gay Quarter , and remains a
Photos from an advert in the Liverpool
great place to meet up and start evening
Post, dated 1901, praising the new menu
out on the town.
of frogs legs and snails show the interior
Apart from the delicious food, fantastic
has changed very little in 110 years with
staff and fabulous cocktails, The Lisbon
its dark wood panels and grade 2 listed
also offers a pool table, disco and
Victorian ceiling ( some of the staff
karaoke four nights a week, late bar at
looked very familiar too).
the weekend and a warm and friendly
It became a public house in 1947 when it
atmosphere.
in
what
is
developing
into
was taken over by Bents Brewers. It has been a part of Liverpool’s’ gay
The
Lisbon 35 Victoria Street, Liverpool L1 6BG
Authentic Thai
Meals from Khanitthas
Kitchen Served Thursday Friday Saturday
12-5pm Don't forget our DJs every Thursday through to Sunday Open 'till 2am on Friday and Saturday Happy Hour Sunday -Thursday til 8pm
Open from 12 noon Monday - Saturday & 3pm Sunday 16
seenmag.co.uk
FEATURE
Tragedy to Triumph “He was the most loving, funny and brave lad in the world.� These are the words of Marie Causer, whose son Michael was brutally killed two years ago this summer, allegedly because he was gay.
seenmag.co.uk
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F EATURE
He w as full of confidence and h e w as so funny – h e alw a ys had ev ery b o d y laughing.
Michael with his beloved Niece
In an official statement, it’s alleged that e was 14 when he turned round
Alker said during the attack: “He’s a little
Michael was a trainee hairdresser. He was
queer, he deserves it.”
passionate about it and Marie says he was
to me and said ‘mum, I think I’m gay.’
After
so-called
very talented: “He would come home all
Marie tells Seen Magazine.
old friend, Kyle, left the house in a taxi
the time with a different hair style, and it
“I looked into his beautiful eyes and said
at 9pm, believed to be aware that the
always looked great.
‘that’s great – you should be free to be
teenager was badly seriously injured.
“He was full of confidence and so funny –
who you are.”
Around this time, Alker, O’Connor and
he always had everybody laughing.”
Little did Marie know at that time, that
Binsteed moved a badly beaten Michael
Michael being who is was, openly, would
and dumped him at nearby waste ground
Now, two years on and months away from
one day lead to his death.
before fabricating a story to cover their
what would have been Michael’s 21st
On July 24 2008, the teenager, then 18,
wrong doing.
birthday, Marie’s aim to launch a new
was out with an old school friend, Kyle
They
was
foundation to help young people who
Kennedy, in a Prescot pub. Other people
attacked by strangers, and they had
are gay to feel more accepted in society.
joined them for a drink, including James
helped to fight them off. They visited him
“I feel Michael’s death was not given the
O’Connor and Michael Binsteed.
in his hospital bed, they paid condolences
justice it deserves,” she says. “There were
After being in the pub for some time,
to his family and they left sympathy cards
four people involved in his murder – and
the
at the place Michael was found after the
those four should be in prison.
attack.
“I won’t stop fighting for justice – but in
group
went
back
to
Binsteed’s
grandmother’s house and were joined by
the
told
attack,
police
Michael’s
that
Michael
the meantime I want to use the tragedy
Gavin Alker. It wasn’t until the truth was uncovered that they faced a jury in Crown Court –
company – until later that evening when
and only one of them was jailed. James
he was subjected to a barbaric beating,
O’Connor was sentenced to 23 years
“I’ve heard lots of really sad stories about
behind bars for the murder of Michael
teenagers and people in their early 20s
Causer.
who are kicked out of the family home
thought
he
was
leaving him close to death. 18
to help young people.”
friendly
Michael
seenmag.co.uk
in
I won’t stop fighting for justice – but in the meantime I w ant to use the tragedy to help young people.
because they are gay. It’s really hard for
to raise the money. It’s so important that
me to accept that people can feel that
we help young people who feel vulnerable
way about their own children, as we were
because of their sexuality.”
all always so supportive of Michael. “That’s why I want to launch the Michael
If you would like to contribute to the
Causer Foundation. To create a safe house
foundation, any amount, no matter how
for young people aged 15-25. It will be
small will be a big help.
a place where they can go if they feel unsafe at home, where they can be in a secure environment. “We will support and help them adjust to their sexuality as well as offer counselling and mediation with their family. “ In order to start the foundation, Marie
Contact www.lcvs.org.uk or
needs to raise £5,000. After these funds are
0151 227 5177.
achieved, she can begin to apply for more
For more information, visit The Michael
cash from official charity organisations.
Causer Foundation page on Facebook.
“I would like to have the foundation up and running by Michael’s birthday – he would be 21 in October. I will do everything I can seenmag.co.uk
1.
19
A little y t s e Z bit
FEATURE
“At Zest we believe in making it fun – so we have brightened up everything that the
After a long hunt, Julie bought her current
business has got a dull reputation for – from
premises in Litherland Road, Bootle. She
our logo to customer service.
offers Property Recruitment 'AMR Group',
er own determination and commitment are what has brought business
Lettings and Property Management 'Zest
“We pride ourselves on being upbeat, kind,
Lets' and Property Sales 'Zest Rez' covering
friendly – and above all giving the best
all areas of Liverpool and the whole of the
customer service possible – we’re really
North West for Property Recruitment.
Zesty girls.”
owner Julie West her success. “That was in January 2008 – and if you “If you want something, you have to go for
remember rightly, the property market was
it, but with realistic goals,” she tells Seen.
collapsing all over the country. It was a scary time.
Julie has been in the property business for 22 years. Starting as a negotiator at a London
“I decided to put myself on some business
Estate Agent, she quickly worked her way
courses so began at the International
up the ladder to a Regional Manager
Coaching Academy in Liverpool . I can’t
position.
speak highly enough of what I learnt. I think that we should always be striving for a new
“I am a hard worker – I would work very
goal, because once you feel you have
long hours, as I found that when working in
reached the peak of the mountain the only
property it’s easier to talk to people outside
way is down.
of working hours. “The most important thing I learnt in the job early was that building relationships is key. People can change their minds a lot when looking to sell or buy a property, and you have to be prepared for that.
The onl y w a y you can possibl y fail is by gi ving in – so just don’t gi v e in and you will succeed.
“By forming a good relationship with clients, it opens the door to not only future
It wasn’t long before she started up the
prospects, but immediate contacts.”
Lettings business 'Zest Lets'and shortly after started selling properties 'Zest Rez' – with a
During her career, Julie has been the first
new zesty twist on the bland market with our
female valuer for a Country House Agent
Zebra print logo and Zebra print Smart Car.
in Hertforshire, valuing multi million pound
Julie’s opinion on gay women in the business world; “There aren’t enough openly gay women
Running three businesses is very stressful, but
in business. It’s a shame really because
I could not do it without my 'Zesty' team,
I think being gay has brought me more
“I learnt a lot in a small amount of time,
they are quite simply superb! My partner
opportunities than anything else.
and I decided that I didn’t want to work for
Nicky really helps me to relax and we
anyone much longer – I wanted to go out
enjoy going for a meal and a few drinks in
there on my own.”
town, with our favourite restaurant being
properties for high profile clients.
Panoramic on the 34th floor of West Tower!
“I can honestly say that I have never come up against any homophobic language or actions.
When she came up North, Julie did some property development before
“Estate and Letting agents are so corporate.
“Society has changed from how it was
buying franchise, specialising in Property
What I wanted to do was spice things up
20 years ago, and no matter what your
Recruitment. “I was working from home for
a bit. Looking for a new home or letting
two years, but I didn’t like it,” she says. “I
out a property should be an enjoyable
think it’s difficult to get into a ‘work’ frame
experience.
sexuality, race or gender now is the time to seize your dreams, knowing that nothing can stand in the way.”
of mind when you are at home.”
seenmag.co.uk
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F EATURE
Just a small town boy
I wish there had been positi v e role models around so I could ha v e felt confident about ‘coming out’.
Tony Burns is 45 years old and is a director of four business. His offices are in Liverpool City Centre and he lives in Aigburth with his long-term partner Jon. Seen Magazine asks him how he came to realise he was gay, and if it’s had an impact on his business life.
and wind up alienated by all my friends
his had accidently walked into in Liverpool
think I’ve always known I was
and family. I had no positive gay role
called The Lord Raglan.
gay, even when I didn’t know what the
models and when I thought of a gay
word meant. I remember watching
person I thought of somebody out of a
A couple of days later I set out on a
Mr Ben (a children’s programme involving
comedy sketch similar to Are You Being
covert mission on the train to find that
a
Served or Danny La Rue who dressed in
pub. My heart was beating so fast and I
women’s clothes.
felt physically sick on the journey.
strange when he stripped down to his
The easiest way out of this, I thought, was
When I arrived, I walked around the city
boxer shorts and braces - I also quite liked
to take on another persona. I started to
for what must have been hours looking for
the outrageous costumes he emerged in.
become a ‘player’ and worked my way
the pub that I hoped would give me the
through tons of one night stands with girls
answers I needed; was I a freak, and was
I can’t say it was easy growing up in
who could never know that I could not
I destined to lead a lie for the rest of my
Widnes,
really ever fall in love with them.
life?
cartoon
character
going
into
a
changing room and come out in different costumes each week), and feeling very
a
small
working
class
town
in Cheshire, and being different. As I
22
became a teenager I started to realise
I got a reputation as a heartbreaker - little
more and more that it wasn’t a phase I
did they know it was my heart that was
was going through, which was something
broken as I was carrying around what I
I’d heard could happen to young boys as
perceived to be a dirty little secret that
they were growing up.
could never rear its ugly head in public.
I remember feeling a sense of dread that
When I was 19 I overheard a guy in a pub
I would be found out as being ‘abnormal’
talking about a ‘queers pub’ a friend of
seenmag.co.uk
Ov er the next f e w months visitin g t h e ga y bars and cl u b s in the city beca m e a drug to me.
gay or you are on drugs.” I don’t know if the Lord Raglan ever
My respose was: “Well I am not on drugs”
matter what lifestyle I chose.
existed or was indeed a gay pub, I never
and she sighed with relief and said “Thank
I hope if there is anybody out there who
ever found it.
God.” She didn’t (or didn’t want to) realise
reads my story they will hear me when I say,
what I was trying to tell her!
it is not the easiest choice to be gay but in my opinion you only get one life and you
It started to rain and I went into the nearest pub which actually turned out
I eventually moved to Liverpool and
need to live it for yourself, not the way other
to be The Lisbon one of the oldest gay
started living the life of a gay man, which
people think you should live it.
pubs in Liverpool! I clearly remember the
to my surprise, in a lot of ways is really
exhilaration when I realised where I was.
not that much different from the life of a
If you are aged between 13 and 25 and
straight man. I still get up every morning
are questioning your sexuality, or want
Over the next few months visiting the gay
and go to work then come home and
some support and advice contact Gay
bars and clubs in the city became a drug
have a meal with my partner of six years; I
Youth
to me. It was a place where I could be
have a lot of the same stresses as straight
R Out by visiting
myself away from the restrictions of my
men, besides from whom we fancy there
www.gyro.org.uk
alter ego back at home in Widnes.
are no real differences.
Armistead Project Gay Men’s Line
My family started to notice a change in
I wish there had been positive role models
Phone number - 0151 227 1893
me as I began to have new friends call
around so I could have felt confident
Fax - 0870 990 8997
me at home a lot. When I look back now it
about ‘coming out’.
Lesbiline Merseyside
must have been obvious to anybody that
I also wish I hadn’t doubted that my family
0151 708 0234
these people were gay but I didn’t care.
would show anything but love for me no
Transgender- U
Helpline - 0870 990 8996
0151 709 1432 My sister who I am very close to said to me “I am worried about you, you are like a different person we think you are either
seenmag.co.uk
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Goodm ans
L aw
B U I LT O N O U R B E L I E F S
CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE AND PERSONAL INJURY SPECIALISTS
Goodmans Law is proud to support Liverpool Pride 2010.
Expertise. Justice. Strength. Goodmans Law 4-6 St John’s Road Waterloo L22 9QG T 0151 257 6000 F 0151 257 6001
www.goodmanslaw.co.uk
The Hard Day’s Night Hotel Seen Magazine visits The Hard Day’s Night Hotel for a little look around - and a large bite to eat
seenmag.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK
Jewel in the crown The Hard Day’s Night Hotel in Liverpool City Centre opened its doors in February 2008 after a £24 million development project. The Beatles themed hotel is certainly one of the city’s jewels, and has brought in millions of pounds worth of tourism in the past few years. Seen Magazine has compiled some Hard Day’s facts, some you may know and some you may not;
H
•
During the Second World War, it was designated the backup location for the allied command head quarters in the city during the Battle of the Atlantic.
•
The hotel is now operating as a 4* independent hotel, within the Classic British Hotel Group.
•
Statues of the Fab Four line the building’s exterior, whilst the gold banister lined staircase leads up the lobby and hundreds of sheets of Beatles’ music hanging from the ceiling, with a frieze of black and white stills of the Beatles run across the top of
ard Day’s Night Hotel is located in a Grade II listed architectural gem once known as Central Buildings, designed by Thomas C Clarke in 1884. •
The building was constructed in the Classical style, indicated by imposing marble columns, and feature central staircase.
•
The building housed a number of merchant offices at a time when Liverpool, as one of the world’s major seaports, had a prominent international trading role.
26
seenmag.co.uk
•
the entrance wall. The lobby’s star feature is a bright Yellow Submarine jukebox, one of only 100 in existence, worth over £12, 000.
•
In the rooms you can watch Beatles films piped directly on to a flat-screen TV while lounging beneath artwork by world-renowned Beatles artist Shannon, or framed early images of the Beatles by Fleet Street photographer Bill Zygmant.
•
Hari’s Bar, a bow to George Harrison’s spell in the Asia and Morocco, is an exclusive private bar clad in £1,000-a-roll silk wallpaper.
BLAKES
REVIEW Restaurant at the Hard Days Night hotel
On entering Blakes Restaurant in Liverpool’s Hard Day’s Night Hotel, the first thing to strike me was the clean lines, bright and airy atmosphere and of course, the hundreds of black and white photographs hanging across one side of the room. The tables are set out in a convenient way, with enough room to manoeuvre to cater for large parties. The menu boats a wide selection of starters, with a good choice for every preference – from traditional soup of the day to the more acquired taste of Confit Duck and Foie Gras. I decided on Scallops and baby squid in a Parmesan basket. The Scallops were cooked to perfection, and the Parmesan complimented the Squid deliciously. My dining partner chose the Garden Pea Risotto with a Goat’s Cheese glaze. Although very filling for a starter, he said it tasted beautiful. The main course menu is just as varied as the starters, again catering for every pallet. This time I chose a meat – slow braised pork belly with fondant potato and creamed spinach. The pork came in a very generous portion and was melt in the mouth. I suggest a taste for rich food when ordering this dish. My companion chose Roast Monkfish, Prosciutto, Saffron and Shrimp Risotto (you’ve probably guessed he loves his Risotto). Again a generous portion was served and the Monkfish was fleshy, full of flavor and clearly fresh. I have to admit, that after such a rich main course, I couldn’t push myself to the desert menu, but it is mouthwatering. Chocolate, fruit, sorbet, Ice cream and even a special seasonal desert, it again offers something for all.
•
•
The Wall of Fame, where celebrities have been captured in home-style snapshots holding their favourite Beatles album, allows guest to enjoy spotting the stars: Elton John, Bryan Ferry and Tom Jones among them. Although not officially endorsed by the Beatles and their estates, the Hard Days Night Hotel is well known to them and both Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr have wished the venture well.
The menu layout is always something I notice when dining out. Call me sad (as long as it’s not to my face), but I hate it when I’m given a menu and there are selections splashed all over the place. I like things neat and tidy, so I can make my selection calmly without double checking I haven’t missed anything. The Blakes Restaurant menu is laid out fantastically. Clean pages list the selections in tidy order, making the ordering process that much easier. The customer service was fantastic. Restaurants attached to hotels have, in my experience, often lacked in this area, but at Blakes it’s five star service. The smartly dressed and welcoming staff are very attentive (but not over-attentive) and make the restaurant a great dining experience. Seen verdict – 8/10 – I’d visit Blakes Eight Days a Week
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WHAT ’ S ON
All that
jazz World renowned Chicago dance act, the Joel Hall Dancers, will return to Merseyside for the first time in 20 years to play their only UK date of 2010.
elebrated for their joyous blend of jazz, ballet, modern and “street” dance
During
three
decades,
Floral Pavilion, New Brighton on Tuesday 7
reputation for his dance company along
and Wednesday 8 September.
with acclaim as a choreographer. Similarly what
Matthew
Bourne
has
done
Following Matthew Bourne’s phenomenal
for British Ballet, Joel Hall has done for
first visit to Liverpool in February, this
Chicago Jazz Dance, having created his
spectacular performance from one of
own innovative Chicago urban jazz style
America’s top Jazz Dance companies
of movement. Hall’s unique dance style
promises to be the highlight of the second
expresses a rich vocabulary
half of LEAP 2010 year of dance.
seenmag.co.uk
past
Joel Hall has achieved an international
to
32
the
techniques, the troupe will perform at the
of movement embracing both classical
American
and modern styles.
Ballet Company who are sophisticated
Contemporary
yet accessible. In addition to the many works created for
Urban
Jazz
programme because I know how much she is loved throughout the world.”
They last performed in El Gato Negro by Joel Hall is a work inspired
Liverpool 20 years ago.
by club and house music. With Chicago
his own company, Hall has choreographed for Maria Tallchief’s Chicago City Ballet,
The New Brighton performance, presented
being the global catalyst of house music,
Chicago
Zenon
by Merseyside Dance Initiative and the
Joel developed a piece around the cool
Dance Company, Ballet Tennessee and
Merseyside Dance Promoters Network,
black cats that would dance the night
Eisenhower Dance in Detroit. In addition,
will feature some of Hall’s most exciting
away. Finally, dawn comes round and
he was choreographer for Goldie Hawn’s
and memorable choreography, including
the patrons leave the club rolling out like
now classic film Wildcats. Joel Hall is the
breathtaking pieces such as ‘El Gato
tumbleweed. This piece is about the all
recipient of numerous awards and honours
Negro’ featuring a house mix of music by
night forays into the club world with the
including a Lifetime Achievement Award
artists such as CeCe Penniston, Zig Zag,
origins of house music at the Warehouse
from the Jazz Dance World Congress,
Nightmares on Wax and Black Sheep,
owned by DJ Frankie Knuckles.
a Katherine Dunham Award, a Lifetime
and the award winning ‘In the Shadow of
Service Award from the Chicago Dance
Nina Simone,’ a tribute to the legendary
Tickets for the Joel Hall Dancers are on
and
performer and songwriter.
sale now, priced £15-£18 (Concessions
Opera
Music
Theatre,
Alliance
and
the
the
African
£12-£15). Make sure you don’t miss out on
American Arts Black Excellence Award his
Joel explains: “I chose to thread Nina’s
this rare and exciting opportunity to see
choreography for ‘In The Shadow of Nina
music to take our audience on a journey.
one of the world’s best professional Jazz
Simone’.
Nina
Dance Companies perform exclusively on
for
Outstanding
Achievement
for
Simone
seemed
to
be
moving
in a similar direction through her work
Merseyside.
The Joel Hall Dancers have performed all
with Verve records.
Though her music
Book in person at The Floral Pavilion Box
over the world, presenting works by Hall
remains timeless, she was a pioneer who
Office, Marine Promenade, New Brighton,
and many nationally and internationally
was always searching for new ways to
Wirral, call 0151 666 0000 or go online
recognised
achieving
present her music. I chose the closing
www.floralpavilion.com.
a noted reputation as a quintessential
of In the Shadow of Nina Simone for this
choreographers,
Win tickets to see the Joel Hall Dancers on opening night. Just answer the following question How many years has it been since the Joel Hall Dancers performed in Merseyside? Send your answer on a postcard along with your name and daytime telephone number to Editor, Seen Media, Il Palazzo, 7 Water Street, Liverpool L2 0RD or email rebecca@seenmag. co.uk. Winner will be selected at random. Editor’s decision is final.
CREDITED Emily Coughlin
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WHAT ’ S ON Echo Arena July 17th Liverpool Unites in Dance 2010 2nd – 31st summer pops Jackson Browne The Australian Pink Floyd Show Crosby, Stills & Nash Status Quo Beatles Day - The Concert Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra Rod Stewart Zappa Plays Zappa The Australian Pink Floyd Show August 15th Radio City LIVE October 20th MOBO Awards 2010
Tate Liverpool Until August 30th Picasso Peace and Freedom 02 Academy July 5th David Gray 13th Chipmunk August 13th Palatines September 5th Fun lovin’ Criminals
August / September 17-4TH – Hairspray Septmber / October 27-2nd Calendar Girls 4-9th Rocky Horror Show Playhouse / Everyman June / July 17-10th The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists 22-26th Small Worlds October / November 8-13th Antony and Cleopatra National Museum 20th Sep 8th - 31st Dec 10th John Moores Prizewinners 1957-2006 26th February 2010 - 30th August 2010 Lewis’s fifth floor: a department story National Conservation Centre Other Events 28-29th August Creamfields 2010 08-31st October Farmageddon 17th July Sense of Sound (Hartley Quay)
October 2nd Magic Numbers 4th Example 23rd Kings of Leon (Kings of Leon tribute) Empire June / July 29-17th – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 25th Motown Greatest Hits 34
seenmag.co.uk
If you have any Upcoming events & would like to feature in our what’s on list, E-mail your details to: Rebecca@seenmag.co.uk
COMPETITIONS *
e have some fantastic prizes to give away for some great shows in Merseyside. For your chance to win a pair of tickets to see Jools Holland on July 16 or The Autralian Pink Floyd on July 31, just answer the following question; Which historic building does the Echo Arena stand next to? A – The Liverpool Cathedral B – The Albert Dock C – St George’s Hall Please state the show you would like to win tickets for, and send your answer on the back of a post card with your name, address and a daytime telephone number to Editor, Seen Magazine, Il Palazzo, 7 Water Street, Liverpool L2 0RD. Or email rebecca@seenmag.co.uk Closing date for Jools Holland tickets is Wednesday, July 14. Closing date for The Australian Pink Floyd Show is Wednesday July 28. *
in tickets to The Picasso Peace and Freedom exhibition. The breathtaking exhibit runs until August 30 and Seen Magazine has a pair of tickets for a lucky reader. To win, answer the following question At which Liverpool gallery is the Picasso exhibition showing? Send your answer on the back of a post card with your name, address and a daytime telephone number to Editor, Seen Magazine, Il Palazzo, 7 Water Street, Liverpool L2 0RD. Or email rebecca@seenmag.co.uk Closing date is Monday July 23. All winners will be selected at random and the editor’s decision is final.
VENUE CONTACT DETAILS Liverpool Empire Box office: 0844 847 2525 www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk Liverpool Empire Box office: 0844 847 2525 www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk
Echo Arena 0844 8000 400 www.accliverpool.com TATE Liverpool 0845 604 7083 www.tate.org.uk Playhouse / Everyman 0151 709 4776 www.everymanplayhouse.com 02 Academy 0151 707 3200 www.o2academyliverpool.co.uk www.creamfields.com Farmageddon 0844 8000 400
Community event Monday, August 2, 2010 , 7:30pm - 8pm Stanley Street , Liverpool Join Michael Causer’s family and friends and Liverpool ‘s LGBT community as they gather to remember the second anniversary of his death aged just 18. More info http://www.facebook.com/photo. php?pid=5795100&id=7
CALEN DAR
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WORLD NEWS Victory for adams
Honour for Beck
A transgender federal inmate currently being held in Massachusetts won a major victory in court recently in her fight to receive treatment for Gender Identity Disorder.
Dr. Bill Beck of San Diego has been honoured as a California Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Hero. Describing his work, politician. Christine Kehoe said: “With quiet perseverance and without seeking recognition for himself, Bill Beck has developed a sustainable strategy for LGBT community giving through the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation. “He has spent almost three decades building an infrastructure that has raised millions of dollars for people living with HIV/AIDS, social services, openly LGBT political candidates, and ballot propositions. The driving force in his work and thinking continues to be finding new ways to contribute to the advancement and full equality for LGBT Californians.” Beck’s contributions include serving on the board of the AIDS Assistance Fund for 29 years; a founder of the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation, which supports planned giving; and the board of directors for the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund Board, the American Civil Liberties Union and the Greater San Diego Business Association.
Americans aren’t loving it
LGBT news from around the globe
The advert features a French teen visiting a McDonalds restaurant with his father and then who rings his boyfriend to discuss the year photos recently taken. The advert won’t be screened in The States because of different “cultural” norms between France and America - according to Don Thompson of McDonalds. He told the Chicago Tribune: “At McDonald’s, there are core values we stand for and the world is getting much closer. So we have a lot of conversations. We’re going to make some mistakes at times. “(We talk) about things that may have an implication in one part of the world and may be the cultural norm in another part of the world. And those are things that, yes, we’re going to learn from. But that commercial won’t show in the United States.”
seenmag.co.uk
Jennifer Levi heads the Transgender Rights project at Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders in Massachusetts, which represents Adams, said she has taken some extreme measures as a result of being denied care: “She tried to kill herself, she self-mutilated, she cut her testicles, and she actually eventually completely severed her penis. Incident after incident, she was denied care. In fact, on some occasions she was disciplined.”
IT ’ S A SMALL WORLD
An advert for the fast-food chain McDonalds which features a gay teen won’t be shown in America. The advert has so far aired in France but is widely available to view outside of France thanks to You Tube, but despite the easy availability of the advert McDonalds has ruled out airing it in America.
36
Vanessa Adams was diagnosed with GID after she became incarcerated. But under what’s known as the “freeze frame” policy at the Federal Bureau of Prisons, because she did not enter the prison system with the diagnosis, she was not entitled to treatment for it.
A court judge in Massachusetts denied the government’s motion to dismiss, allowing Adams’ case to move forward. Levi says since the lawsuit, prison officials have been giving proper healthcare to Adams, but without any official change in policy, and without any guarantees that they will continue to do so.The Federal Bureau of Prisons said it had “no comment” about the case, which will likely now proceed to trial.
Most football fans not homophobic
A former Coventry City goalkeeper-turneduniversity-lecturer has claimed that the majority of football fans are not homophobic. Jamie Cleland - who is now a senior lecturer in sports sociology at Staffordshire University - says 80% of fans would be “relaxed” about seeing gay players on the pitch and that they would welcome the honesty. The research comes after the ex-Sky Blues academy keeper conducted a survey with hundreds of sport fans. Cleland, 34, who also played for Rugby Town and Coventry Sphinx, told the Coventry Telegraph: “In many other sports, including rugby, athletes have ‘come out’ and fans encourage footballers to come out too. “The environment is not as hostile as people think. As one fan put it, somebody needs to do something heroic and step forward before homophobia can become a thing of the past”.
Rapper supports gay marriage
First in film making BELLA Mado, a short film by Director Janice Danielle, is the first film to feature all transgender actors (men, woman & children) portraying non-transgender characters. The cast includes nine-year-old transgender-girl Miss Jazz and America’s Top Model contestant Miss Isis King among others. “There are very limited roles for transgender actors in film and television,” Danielle told broadwayworld.com. “By making this film I am hoping to expand acting opportunities and increase the visibility of the trans community.” Bella Maddo is a dark comedy about a pregnant sociopath who compulsively values thinness over caring for her young daughter and unborn child.
Shocking figures revealed
RAP singer Eminem has told The New York Times he supports gay marriage. Throughout his career Eminem has been accused of being homophobic by the constant attacks on homosexuals in the lyrics of their songs, yet it seems that this attitude has changed on the rapper; “I think if two people love each other, then what the hell? I think everybody should have the opportunity to be as miserable if they want,” he told the newspaper. Eminem also revealed that the title of his new album, Recovery, is in reference to the current period of his life, which seeks to stay away from drugs.
IT ’S A SMALL WORLD LGBT news from around the globe
HOMOPHOBIC thugs have carried out dozens of attacks in Wigan in the last three years. Newspaper Wigan Today has reported the shock figures, obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, revealing that 85 violent crimes which were motivated by a person’s sexual orientation have been committed in the Wigan borough since 2007. In 2007/08, 33 homophobic attacks were recorded, followed by 36 in 2008/09.Last year the number was reduced to 16 but police chiefs have admitted this is too high. Divisional Commander Chief Supt Shaun Donnellan said:
Sex change for Beatty ACTOR and producer Warren Beatty’s daughter, Kathlyn Beatty wants to have a sex change operation, The Daily Mail has reported.
The college student is said to be living as a man and has reportedly changed her name to Stephen Ira. Warren Beatty, though supportive of his daughter, is allegedly “crushed” by the situation.
“We are determined to put a stop to all hate crime, wherever it rears its ugly head.
“He and Annette have tried to deal with this over the years when their daughter was younger, but she’s determined to go ahead with the transgender operation,” the newspaper reports a source as saying. “Warren Beatty is beside himself over the situation.”
“While the number of reported incidents where sexual orientation is a factor has more than halved, 16 offences remain 16 too many.
The Hollywood couple are parents to four children together, Kathlyn, Benjamin, 16, Isabel, 13 and Ella, 10.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for victims to report these appalling crimes and have hate crime reporting centres right across the borough. “We also work closely with organisations like the Lesbian and Gay Foundation so that those who don’t feel comfortable coming directly to police can report offences elsewhere. “Hate crime has no place in civilised society and we as a force are willing to stand up and be counted to stamp it out for good.” seenmag.co.uk
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Liverpool’s exciting new dining experience The UK’s first Catalan restaurant and deli prides itself on only using the highest quality ingredients. All of these are sourced from selected artisan producers in Spain, together with local specialist suppliers from across the North West. In addition to providing authentic Catalan cuisine, Lunya also has one of the most extensive wine lists to rival any UK restaurant. In addition to fine wines and Cavas there is also a range of exclusive sherries available as an ideal accompaniment or aperitif to your meal, whether you are sampling the wide range of tapas or one of the many a la carte dishes on offer. And to ensure visitors have a truly authentic Catalan experience, Lunya has its own resident musicians who perform live every weekend. Lunya, 18–20 College Lane, Liverpool One, L1 3DS Tel: 0151 706 9770 W: www.lunya.co.uk
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Tel: 0151 520 3070
www.lipdoctor.co.uk Mobile: 07801 281 504
P.H CREATIVE Column
TECHNO-GADGETS WITH
THE BIG APPLE
Brian Adams, Managing Director of Liverpool’s PH Creative, gives his view on Mac-mania. You’re not far aw a y from your first i-Device in one w a y or another whether you know it or not…
Two years ago I predicted that the future of the
work and play, working longer and playing harder,
world looked like Tesco fighting Google for world
embracing social media into all aspects of our lives
domination with Facebook siding with them both
we’re looking to technology to make our lives easier
to forge a coalition we would be stuck with for the
and more simple. With this in mind, it’s not difficult
foreseeable future… That sounds familiar eh?
to look back with hindsight and see the inevitable merge of our two types of device of choice into just
At this moment in time it could be said that I wasn’t
one simple to use device.
too far off the mark, however, one thing I did not predict is Apple outflanking them all to begin to
So, i-Spy an Apple future for us all.
the biggest stealth attack on the business world
The i-Gen is upon us.
the world has ever seen, but mark my words… it’s definitely coming.
The i-Pad is the latest gizmo to strengthen Apple’s grip on our lives. They’re not specifically focusing
So who knew? Blackberry is the phone of choice for
on business, entertainment, shopping, news… but
business isn’t it? I hold my hands up, that’s what I
instead on convenience and lifestyle across the
thought too.
board which encompasses everything we do, work rest and play.
Apple has built a strong reputation for design and innovation but despite many an iMac gracing
The Apps available on the iPhone and iPad mean
the desks and reception desks of more and more
you can run your business just as easy as you can
businesses, being taken seriously as a viable business
find out where the closest italian restaurant is and
solution has been an uphill struggle for a long time
get 10% off your bill too… The level of convenience
even for Steve Jobs. Let’s face it, it’s not been their
for us is just too great for us to ignore.
strength nor focus and a world of Windows and outlook is a difficult one to win over or re-invent.
And lets face it they’re lovely little things aren’t they… did you ever think you /would get so much
So what did Apple realize before we did? I think it’s the simple fact that business people are also… just people. People who like doing every day things, enjoy socializing, eating out, being entertained just like everyone else. They also realized that they didn’t have to side with
pleasure from one little handheld device?
So just what are the best apps out there to run our lives, our businesses and put a smile on our faces? Here’s the hottest top twelve apps for you to get to started with… Business Productivity... FreshBooks Time Tracking Track time for projects and tasks, and write notes for each time entry Quickoffice View and edit files with this mobile office suite that uses Microsoft Word and Excel functionality Contact Hero Manage your address book and reminders in one place, securely from anywhere using your desktop, laptop or your iPhone interchangeably Evernote Capture photos, notes, and voice memos and sync with your Evernote account on your desktop. General Fun!... Wedding Dash Play wedding planner for a day, with everything from the seating arrangements to dietary requirements and breaking up fights between the groomsmen! Angry Birds Catapult your shots at the angry birds – simple, but highly addictive! Flight Control Just land planes on the runway that’s all.. sound easy? Give it a go but you won’t be able to put it down. My top score is 93, if you can beat let me know Social Networking... Facebook The networking favourite – anytime, anywhere! Loopt Locate the nearest gay/straight men or women to you with GPS! Linked In The Facebook of the Business world – right at your fingertips for savvy business networking Lifestyle... Voucher Cloud Instant discount vouchers to your mobile! Handy if you’ve forgotten the wallet! eBay Mobile Never miss a bid again! All the apps can be found in the apple app store and vary in price from free to just a few pounds. Ph Creative are a fast growing internet marketing agency that specialise in the combination of online and offline marketing strategies to effectively promote your business, create a brand awareness and provide a lead generation system that works for you. Always one step ahead of the technological game, we know our stuff when it comes to apps – give us a call to get in on the action!
the businessman in order to make them fall in line with the i-Revolution.
www.ph-creative.com
In a world were people are blurring the lines between
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Visit us at WWW.SEENMAG.CO.UK for more local and international news updates, competitions , freebies, blogs, pictures, opinions and much more.....
FOOD & DRINK
Seen eating out
across Spain and from specialist suppliers in
Each Monday, you can take part in an hour-
the North West of England.
long flamenco class while enjoying a selection of tapas and a glass of wine for just £15.
Lunya also boasts one of the most extensive delis in the city, with an impressive array of
If you want to hone your language skills before
hams, cheeses and other Spanish treats on
jetting off on holiday, Lunya is launching
offer. And if you find yourself spoilt for choice,
weekly Spanish classes each Tuesday.
Lunya’s friendly staff are only too happy to offer a helping hand and put together a
And for the ultimate Catalan experience, why
hamper for you to take away.
not get a group of friends together to enjoy Lunya’s suckling pig Sunday roast. For groups
ince opening in March, Lunya has
If it’s a relaxing drink you’re after, Lunya also
of eight or more, you will have the whole pig
established itself as a force to be reckoned
has a carefully crafted wine list that includes
served at your table for a true feast.
with on Liverpool’s burgeoning restaurant
some of the best varieties that Spain produces.
scene.
If that wasn’t enough, July sees the launch of The vast majority of the wine list is offered by
Lunya’s online deli, meaning that wherever
As the UK’s only Catalonian fusion restaurant
the glass, encouraging customers to sample
you are, you will still be able to get an
and deli, Lunya’s tempting blend of Spanish
as many wines as they please.
authentic taste of Spain delivered right to
cuisine and contemporary cooking has quickly gathered a devoted following.
your door. With the summer months now upon us, Lunya has put together an impressive line up of
The menu extends to more than 100 dishes, which are cooked using only the best
events.
For more information, go to www.lunya.co.uk or search for Lunya on Twitter or Facebook.
ingredients sourced from artisan producers
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Y OUR
PICTURES IN AND AROUND
RS DVER TISE SEEN’s A LAUNCH r d da y s @ th e H a el Ni gh Ho t
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Y OUR
PICTURES IN AND AROUND
y by Photograph er Mattt Fish in “being seen Liverpool”
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Y OUR
PICTURES IN AND AROUND
L IVERPOOL
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d Producer anher Choreograp 30th Lee Kelly’sndon @ the Lo orks Carriage w
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PRIDE GUIDE
PRI D E & fa it h Keiran Bohan speaks to Warren Hartly, coordinator of the Interfaith planning committee for Liverpool Pride, to find out what’s in the pipeline at Liverpool Pride.
W
here did the idea come from to do a LGBT interfaith event ahead of Liverpool Pride? There is a gay Christian group in Manchester which hosts a Eucharist on the Friday evening of the Manchester Pride Big Weekend each year. I am involved with the LGBT Christian groups in Liverpool and we had discussed doing something similar in Liverpool as a ‘fringe’ event to our city’s first official Pride event. Liverpool Pride will include a programme of events around the main festival, which will celebrate aspects of LGBT life and culture. As Liverpool’s history has been strongly shaped, for better or worse, by the faith of its citizens, and the history of the LGBT community is marked by the influence of faith communities on society, it is enlightened and empowering of Liverpool Pride to support an LGBT interfaith event. What is your role in putting the event together, and who else is involved? I am the coordinator of the Interfaith planning committee for Liverpool Pride. We are a committee of equals and one person isn’t in charge, so we are working together in a spirit of cooperation and inclusivity. I also organise Open Table, a monthly ecumenical LGBT service at St Bride’s Anglican church in Toxteth, and my partner runs the local branch of Quest, a group for LGBT Catholics. Does the event have a name? The name of the Interfaith group and service was inspired by the Rainbow Circus theme
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chosen for this year’s Liverpool Pride. As well as being a symbol of LGBT pride and diversity, the rainbow is also an ancient symbol of hope in the mythology and faith of many cultures around the world. Light is also a powerful symbol in many religions. We combined this with the modern scientific understanding that white light is in fact made up of all the colours of the rainbow - the spectrum – which can be seen when a beam of light is refracted through a triangular prism. As the triangle is also a symbol for the LGBT community because pink and black triangles
Kieran Bohan Warren Hardly
were used to identify us during the Holocaust, we felt the image of the spectrum was a rich metaphor for what we hope to achieve – a celebration of our unity and diversity. Hence the Liverpool Spectrum of Spirituality was born. How important is it to make sure LGBT people in Liverpool have such an event? We believe that this event is vital. It is urgently needed, absolutely necessary, performing an essential function if Liverpool Pride is to succeed in its aims to engage, involve and empower members of the LGBT communities in Liverpool and foster greater knowledge, understanding and acceptance of LGBT communities. The Spectrum of Spirituality also aims to be vital in the sense of being ‘full of life, full of spirit’. We understand that many LGBT people suspicious of or hostile to faith groups because of the judgement and rejection they have may have experienced or heard about. While some faith traditions have rejected LGBT people, other traditions have valued them as shamans or ‘twospirited’ sages and healers. We believe from our own experiences that it is possible to have a healthy and integrated sexuality and spirituality, and we aim to showcase communities that welcome LGBT people by creating safe, positive and inclusive spaces to explore and experience faith. What would you hope the long term outcome of the event to be? We hope that the interfaith service and the vigil of remembrance will become annual events, integral to the strong Liverpool identity of the city’s official Pride festival. It may also lead to other interfaith events, and has the potential to become a network of LGBT people of faith and the groups which support them. What kind of feedback have you received from faith communities (outside of the LGBT community)? We have received great support from some faith communities, such as the Quakers, who have agreed to host the interfaith service in their city centre meeting house for free.
However, we have experienced unease from an interfaith group the city which stated that it is not their “area of expertise” because it is an LGBT community event. Can you give us an idea of what will happen at the event and what are you particularly looking forward to? Our aim is to create a multi-sensory experience; a time of reflection and quiet, with music and readings from various traditions, themed around the colour and symbolism of the LGBT Freedom Flag:
Red = Life Orange = Healing Yellow = Sun Green = Nature Blue = Harmony Purple = Spirit After the service we will invite people to stay with us to share a vegetarian meal and meet one another on the common ground we believe the event will create between us. Date/Time/Venue of the event? The Liverpool Pride Interfaith Service is taking place on Friday 6th August from 7pm at the Quaker Meeting House, 22 School Lane, Liverpool L1 3BT, which is a fully accessible and alcohol free venue. Members of the Spectrum of Spirituality group will also walk together in the march on Saturday 7th August and have a stall promoting all the groups involved throughout the day. For further details or to volunteer please contact Warren by emailing: liverpoolspectrum@yahoo.co.uk or call 07780 For further details or to volunteer please contact Warren by emailing: liverpoolspectrum@yahoo.co.uk or call 07780 568 754 and leave a message. Find Spectrum of Spirituality at Stall 10c on Dale Street at Liverpool Pride.
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PRIDE GUIDE
AHOY!
Tailored White Jacket @ H&M Church St. £14.99
Nautical Stripe T @ Zara Liverpool One £9.99
Denium Shorts @ River Island Church St. £29.99
Blue Leather Holdall bag @ Topshop Liverpool One £50.00 Anchor Necklace @ River Island Church St £12.99
Shoes Models Own Available @ New Look £12.00
Nautical Blue Ribbon Bracelet @ River Island Church St £5.99
Earings Matt Fisher @ Boudoir boutique cavern walks £10.00 or @ Mattfisher.com
Photography: Matt Fisher Model: Natalie Walker
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Denim Jacket @ New Look Liverpool One £35.00 Religion union Jack Leotard @ Resurrection Bold Street £35.00
High Waisted trousers with belt @ Topshop Liverpool One £40.00
Diva Jewellery Range: Pearl & Rosemary beads Necklace @ Miss Selfridge Liverpool One £15.00
Red Leather Gentelmens Shoes @ Zara Liverpool One £39.99
Diva Jewellery Range @ Miss Selfridge Liverpool One £12.00
Tan Leather Shoulder Bag @ Miss Selfridge Liverpool One £35.00
BEST OF BRITISH Earings Matt Fisher @ Boudoir boutique cavern walks £10.00 or @ Mattfisher.com
Photography: Matt Fisher Model: Stacey Natalia Majestic Modelling Management
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PRIDE GUIDE
ANCHORS AWAY
Fred Perry Navy Stripe sleeve Polo Shirt @ Fred Perry Liverpool One £50.00
Brown Leather Effect Bag @ Urban Outfiters £30.00
Tailored Shorts @ Topman Liverpool One £30.00 White Long Sleeve Zipped Jacket @ Urban Outfiters £36.00
Tailored Shorts @ Topman Liverpool One £30.00
Navy Blue Shoes @ New Look £35.00
Photography: Matt Fisher Model: Greg Cockcroft
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Union Jack T @ Matt-fisher.com £30.00 Denim Popper Shirt @ H&M Church St. £17.99
Woven Leather belt @ River Island Church St. £39.99
Hat @ River Island Church St. £55.00 Stripped Bag @ River Island Church St. £19.99
Shorts @ Topman Liverpool One £26.00
Boat Shoes @ Teddy Deck Paradise St £55.00
UNION JACK
Photography: Matt Fisher Model: Luke Scarse
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In the closet with Matt Fisher
Welcome to my closet. This summer, fashion is all about standing out and being proud. The key looks I’ve chosen for the season are Nautical and British Pride. I’ve chosen Nautical because the All-American prep-boy look is all the rage this season, with smart looks from Fred Perry and American Apparel. An original vintage bag from Urban Outfitters will give the outfit a touch of class while maintaining a casual look. Get on your blue suede shoes, with some fantastic offers out there on amazing footwear – New Look have excelled themselves this year. For the girls out there, glam it up with an oversized handbag for carrying all your necessities – leaving plenty of room for more. Style the look with some themed costume jewelry – but remember– don’t over do it, simplicity is key. I’ve chosen Best of British because it’s a time to be proud of who we are and where we live. In summertime, the denim look is always an essential that relates to both men and women. Get in touch with your patriotic side, and flaunt the Union Jack. It’s a bold print, and teamed with shorts or chinos will compliment any summertime style.
e h t n i t e s o cl w i ttht ma er fish
Team the outfit with daring red shoes and you’re ready to raise the flag. So enjoy a peek inside my closet, and let your style sizzle this summer.
Matt X
Andy Green’s Column
GREEN ON LIV E R P O O L , LI V ERPOOL, LI V ERPOOL
h, Liverpool, Liverpool, Liverpool – I love this place. It’s so vibrant and fun and the vast majority of people are just fabulous. Of course we’ve got our fair share of bad apples but I don’t think any more than any other major city. But we have hit the headlines in the last couple of years with the horrific murder of gay teenager Michael Causer and the brutal, homophobic attack on gay PC James Parkes. Neither of these cases has been resolved satisfactorily and the campaigning will continue until they are. The city’s LGBT community doesn’t often come together in all of its various guises but after these two horrible events it did and with a lot of our straight friends too. We seemed to realise that we’re all in this together and that our differing social habits or political views are superseded by the need for us all to stand together for our right to be treated equally in law. And the local powers-that-be are now finally taking notice of us, who would have thought only a few years back that the Rainbow flag would be seen flying above Liverpool Town Hall – progress indeed. We’ve got another chance to show the world what we’re all about on August 7th with the first official Liverpool LGBT Pride – there have been a couple of smaller events before and a few aborted attempts. I went to the one in the 90’s in Pownall Square outside and in the Time Out bar and have to say I really enjoyed myself despite my temporary crown constantly falling out – particularly embarrassing when I was on the karaoke and some one picked it up for me. But it was a brilliant community spirit that many of us hadn’t experienced before despite the police having to hold back the gang of rabid, religious cranks who were desperate to spoil the day. My only regret was that the police wouldn’t let me get near to them so I could have a little word or two.
This year’s Pride is going to be so much bigger and better, we won’t be confined to a small square, oh no, we’re closing streets baby! This is Liverpool’s chance to put itself on the gay map, attract new gay visitors and, in turn, business to the city. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think we’ll ever get anything like Canal Street – we haven’t got a canal for a start – and Manchester’s gay village was pretty much built up from scratch whereas we have to work around what we’ve already got - gay bars interspersed with law firms and estate agents. Liverpool’s Gay Quarter will have to spread out and maybe become more of a Gay Third but I think there’s plenty of opportunities for development around the Stanley Street end of town if not Stanley Street itself. It’s all to play for but the future’s bright and is a rather pleasing shade of pink.
We’v e got another chance to show the world wha t we’re all about on August 7th with the first official Li v erpool LGBT Pride.
It’s all to pla y for but the future’s bright and is a ra ther pleasing shade of pink.
The political landscape has changed significantly in the last couple of months both nationally and locally. We’ve landed ourselves with a ConDem coalition government and Liverpool City Council has changed from Lib Dem to Labour. I’m not too concerned about the local change as Paul Brant is the openly gay deputy leader of the council and I know him and he’s a good bloke and I think any fears that funding might be cut for the likes of Liverpool Pride and Homotopia are unfounded. But if there are cuts Paul, I’ll be right on your case. The national picture is more uncertain, I don’t think LGBT people’s rights to total equality are high on the Tory agenda and that concern is borne out by the appointment of Theresa May as Home Secretary with responsibility for Equality. Ms May has voted against or abstained on every piece of legislation affecting LGBT people in recent years – hardly a glowing CV. But we’ll see, maybe it will all work out wonderfully and we have truly entered into an age of consensus politics but I personally think we’ll be heading to the polls again in the not too distant future.
Enjoy Pride, enjoy being yourself and above all be safe x
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PRIDE GUIDE
1. The Curzon 8 Temple Lane 0151 236 5160
BARS & CLUBS 1. Pushka (Gay Owned) 16 Rodney Street 0151 708 8698
eateries 1. The Armistead Project 1 Stanley Street 0870 9908996
Other
2. PINK 2. FACT Gallery,Picture House,Bar & Cafe 88 Wood Street 0151 707 4444
3. The Quarter 7-11 Falkner Street 0151 707 1965 4. The London Carriage works 40 Hope Street 0151 705 2222
Hotels 1. The Sir Thomas Hotel 45 Victoria Street 0151 236 1366 2. Hard Days Nigh Hotel 41 North John Street 0151 236 1964 3. Liverpool Marriott Hotel City Centre 1 Queen Square 0151 476 8000 4. Travel Lodge Liverpool City Centre 25 Old Haymarket 0871 984 6156 5. Premier Inn Liverpool City Centre Vernon Street 0871 527 8624
Eateries
OTHER
HOTELS
CLUBS
BARs &
aVENUE KEY
3. Parr Street Studios Hotel, Bar, Restaurant 33-45 Parr Street 0151 707 1050
2. Cafe Tabac (Gay Owned) 126 Bold Street 0151-709 9502
3. The Lisbon 35 Victoria Street 0151 231 6831 4. The Post House 23 Cumberland Street 0151 236 4130 5. Passion 31 Dale Street 0151 236 6591 6. G Bar Eberle Street 0151 258 1230 7. Jupiters Bar 10 Hackins Hey, Off Dale Street 0151 227 5265 8. Garlands 8-10 Eberle Street 0151 236 3307 9. Navy Bar 27-29 Stanley Street 0151 231 1456 10. Puzzles 25 Stanley Street 0151 236 6011 11. The Masquerade 10 Cumberland Street 0151 236 7786 12. Superstar Boudoir 22-24 Stanley Street 0151 236 6633 13. Destination Temple Street 0151 236 5160 14. The Font (Student District JMU & LJMU) 3 Arrad Street 0151 706 0345
Maps
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END OF MARCH
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Lord STREET
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www.liverpoolpride.co.uk and gather at St Georges plateau at 11:30AM On Saturday August 7th.
Participants are asked to register for free on line at:
S
E TR D
The march will set off at 12PM
n ha c E xa g s fl
MARCH ROUTE
R R ST
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ST T EE
Wh
o el
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ap
M fi or
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STRE ET
MArch route MAin event area stages toilets
START OF MARCH
PRIDE GUIDE
wH AT ’ S
ON
c
Liverpool’s first Pride festival is all set to be a glittering weekend to remember, with an impressive main-stage line up of top gay icons for your entertainment. Backed by Seen Magazine
ranking up the camp at the
Seen Magazine partnered event on Dale Street on Saturday August 7 will be singer and Corrie star Adam Rickitt, who will headline along with club diva Rozalla, plus support from a wealth of local and national stars. Adam will perform his brand new single
of their own pop tunes. The city’s own
as well as an updated version of his
vogue supremacists House of Suarez
1999 hit ‘Breathe Again’ and Rozalla
bring a spectacular 12 minute taste of
will take you back to the 90s with her
what can be expected at the ‘JUSTICE’
smash hit ‘Everybody’s Free’ as well as
Vogue Ball, to be held in October
performing other favourites such as ‘Are You Ready To Fly’ and ‘I Love Music’.
Artistic Director, Darren Suarez said: “House of Suarez is ecstatic to be part
Happy
Mondays and X-Factor star
of Liverpool Pride’s celebrations. House
Rowetta, with her big voice and big
of Suarez has performed nationally in
personality,
the
prides across the country, it’s so great
Liverpool based AJ Productions dance
that we can finally perform at our own
troupe to perform a number of classic
city’s pride festival.”
will
be
joined
by
tunes in the way that only this soul diva can.
Adam Rikitt
“I can’t wait to perform at the first ever
No Pride festival could be complete without its resident drag artiste, and
Liverpool Pride,” Rowetta said. “I have
bullying dance number ‘They don’t really
Doreen Kum Kwik (aka Darren Edge) has
loved singing at all the Prides over the
know about us’.
gone a step further by setting up her
years, and always wanted Liverpool to
own glittering Glee Club with Hope and
have their own. I love Liverpool and can’t
Other local acts taking part include Tyler
Harmony choir and the Singing Hands
wait to sing, celebrate and party with
Menser who will sing the Michael Jackson
choir for deaf people. She’ll be belting
everyone.”
classic ‘Man in the Mirror,’ before local
out some of your all time favourite camp
songstress Chelcee Grimes, who is currently
tunes.
A wealth of local talent will also show what
working with Lady GaGa and Beyoncé’s
the city is famous for. Liverpool’s Britain’s
producers, and Mark Thompson, who has
Other highlights of the day will include
Got Talent stars, MD Productions, kick
worked with Tinchy Stryder, perform some
one of the UK’s biggest ‘all gay’ bands,
start the main stage action with their anti-
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C h i llout
S u n d ay A
fter the camp chaos of Saturday’s celebrations, Liverpool Pride has come up with the perfect way to wind down on Sunday. ‘Chilled Out Sunday’ will involve a variety of cultural and sports events throughout the city. The Liverpool Pride Sports Day takes place at Lifestyles Wavertree and teams can register now at liverpoolpride.co.uk. Show your competitive side in games of five-a-side football, rounders, tug-of-war and water polo. Registration is £5.
Rowetta
Cubstars, and singer Nikki Belle, who will be along to rock out her two club-land Number 1 hit singles, ‘Teardrops’ and ‘Sex Shooter’. Juice FM and Garlands DJ’s Dave Wheelan and Anton Powers will also be on hand throughout the day to keep Pride-goers
entertained
with
some
of
their infamous DJ sets. Revellers can also expect to see the one and only Lady Cyan pop up throughout the day as one of the comperes, cracking the whip and keeping all of the acts in tow. The Batala and Republic of Swing Samba Bands will play the crowds into the balloon release vigil at 7.30pm with Gerry Potter reciting his beautiful and moving poem ‘We Travel’ before Natasha Hamilton, accompanied by Liverpool’s drag artistes, sings the Atomic Kitten hit ‘Whole Again’. A rainbow sea of balloons will be released from the stage to commemorate those who have fought for equality and in honour of friends of Liverpool’s LGB&T community, ensuring a moving end to a joyful day.
Rozalla
For a less energetic pleasure, make your way to Picturehouse@FACT for a screening of The Fruit Machine, the Liverpool cult classic movie starring Robbie Coltrane, Bruce Payne and Emile Charles. Set in the grim 1980s, when the city’s unemployment rates were the highest in the country, best friends Michael and Eddie stumble into the bizarre fantasy world of a transvestite nightclub called The Fruit Machine, run by “Annabelle”. There, they witness a brutal gangland murder by Echo that transforms their quest for adventure into a run for their lives. Alone and afraid, yet hopeful, they wind up in Brighton with Vincent and Eve at Wonderland, where their path is strewn with manipulation, deceit and murder. Tickets are £10 (£7 concession) direct from FACT box office and all income raised goes to the Clapperboard youth project. An aftershow party will be held at 3345 where a complimentary drink and music will be provided. For a taste of fine culture, Tate Liverpool are offering Pride-goers the opportunity to see the Picasso Peace and Freedom exhibition two for the price of one. To ensure your place at Liverpool’s major summer exhibition, pre-book your ticket before 5pm on Monday August 2 by calling 0151 702 7400, or call in to the Tate Liverpool foyer desk, and quote LIVERPOOL PRIDE. So take your pick of everything this festival has to offer and make the most of your Pride weekend.
More acts for the festival’s Cabaret and Acoustic stages will be announced shortly. For more information go to www.liverpoolpride.co.uk
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PRIDE GUIDE Tommy McIlravey Chair, Liverpool Pride & LGB&T Network Debbie Boyd Programme Director Tommy is chair of the Liverpool LGB&T Network; the organisation that successfully campaigned for an official Liverpool Pride Festival. He has lived in Liverpool for 17 years and has spent much of that time working toward LGBT equality in the city through organisations such as Queer Notions, Sahir House and the Michael Causer Foundation. “I’m so glad we have finally made this happen, it’s going to be massive...”
James Davies Liverpool Pride Trustee & Communications Co-ordinator
Debbie Boyd (Programme Director) Debbie has been a prolific and creative business person in Liverpool for many years. Taking on the challenge of Liverpool Pride, was for Debbie, a great honour and she has pulled together her contacts to create an exciting and ambitious Pride programme. “I have loved every second of organising Pride, it’s been a remarkable journey!”
Joan Burnett Liverpool Pride Trustee & Chill Out Sunday coordinator Bored of his civil service job and wanting to do something new, James left to work with Liverpool Pride full time. He said: “I’m so glad I was asked to work on the first official Liverpool Pride, it’s been great working with everyone to promote the city and scene that I love.”
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Dave Robinson Event Manager
Joan’s made up to be part of the Liverpool Pride team, and has been working with various arts organisations across the city on our chill-out arts events on Sunday 8th. Joan thinks that seeing Pride coming together through people’s hard work and generosity is truly amazing and can’t wait to march through the city with everyone!
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TE A
Dave Robinson organised the World Firefighter Games 2008, filling the city with attractive firemen and women, so Liverpool Pride couldn’t refuse his offer to be our hero! Dave uses his charm and authority with the city to help us put on a safe and well organised event.
Seen meets the team behind Liverpool’s first Pride Festival David Graham Designer
AM
id e
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Paul Amann Liverpool Pride Trustee Paul Amann works full time for Citysafe and co-ordinates Liverpool City Council’s contribution to Liverpool Pride. Paul is chair of Mersey Marauders FC, trustee to Outsiders Film Festival and the Michael Causer Foundation; BRM representative on the LGB&T Network. Paul said: “I’m passionate to ensure sports and community interests are included in Liverpool Pride.””
Jeni Tehan Liverpool Pride Trustee & Web Design
As a gay man and Liverpudlian, David was keen to volunteer his graphic design services to Liverpool Pride and be part of history in the making. David said: “Liverpool Pride will be a memorable event that will put Liverpool’s gay scene on the map to rival other cities. I hope that this is the first of many annual pride events to come in our amazing city.”
Nici Konigs-Balfry Planning & Festival Co-ordinator
When Nici had sold her stock of cuckoo clocks she had brought from Switzerland when moving to Liverpool, she decided she would like to get involved into something meaningful to pay tribute to the place which has been her home for 6 years. She’s not left the Pride office since…
Lance O’Meara Sponsorship
Originally from the USA but proud to call Liverpool her home for the past four years; Jeni said: “as a transgender individual I have found great acceptance here and became involved in Liverpool Pride to give back to a city that has been so welcoming.” Jeni runs Delicious Creative and designed the Liverpool Pride website.
Vicky Anderson Sponsorship
Lance works in the sponsorship team raising much needed funds making the festival possible. Lance said: “When I moved to Liverpool for university I was so surprised the city didn’t have a pride festival when I heard one was being organised I knew I had to be involved!”
Vicky knew straight away that Pride had the potential to be a great Liverpool event and was something it would really be rewarding to be part of. She said: “the team is brilliant to work with, and there’s a real sense of starting something important that will hopefully be around for a long time.”
seenmag.co.uk
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PRIDE GUIDE ISSUE 1
7TH JULY 2010
W
elcome to the Seen Pride Guide.
We have put this special feature together for you so you have all you need to hand at this year’s festival. It’s been a long time coming, but 2010 will be remembered for the year Liverpool held it’s first official pride (let’s forget about the football shall we). With a Rainbow Circus theme, this city couldn’t be a better place to hold such an event – with some of the best gayfriendly bars, restaurants, clubs and more - Liverpool will burst into colour for a day and show the rest of the country what we have to offer. In our Pride Guide, we have brought you maps, safety tips, what to wear, line up details and more. Enjoy the festival and let’s make it a day to remember for all the right reasons. Let’s show off our city in all its splendour and not only be Seen – but heard as well.
WWW.SEENMAG.CO.UK
TEAM S EEN D IRECTOR & E DITOR : Rebecca Keegan Rebecca@Seenmag.co.uk
D IRECTOR : Tony Burns Tony@Seenmag.co.uk
A RT D IRECTOR : Michael Kelly Michael@Seenmag.co.uk
P HOTOGRAPHER : Matt Fisher Mattfisher.com
S ALES & M ARKETING :
Liverpool Pride August 7th 2010
David Trainor Davidl@Seenmag.co.uk
Editor Seen Media
C ONTRIBUTORS
Rebecca Keegan P.S. Visit the Seen pod on Dale Street at Liverpool Pride and tell us what you think of the event.
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seenmag.co.uk
Christopher Moore punkahwallah.com
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Event map Line up details