Conchita Wurst to headline IOW Pride
Drag singer and former winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, Conchita Wurst, has be announced as the headline act at this year’s Isle of Wight Pride on Saturday 21 July.
Conchita, who won the Contest in 2014 for Austria with her song ‘Rise Like A Phoenix’, will perform at the event in Ryde, which has been given special status this year as UK Pride.
The announcement comes just weeks after the artist – real name Thomas Neuwirth – announced that he is HIV positive, in a move to reduce stigma about the condition.
Speaking soon after the announcement was made, Conchita said: “I am so excited to be coming to Isle of Wight Pride. I had such a warm welcome on Pride in London’s main stage in 2014, and the idea of performing at the only Pride on a beach is so exciting.
“Isle of Wight Pride also puts global LGBT human rights at the centre of what they do, and we all have work to do to increase awareness for those less fortunate than ourselves. I’m looking forward to being a part of that on 21st July!”
For more details and to book tickets, visit iwpride.org
Get ready for Bristol Pride
Not only is Bristol Pride one of the UK’s largest Pride events, it’s also one of Bristol’s biggest events, and this year’s event, on Saturday 14 July, looks set to be be one of the best Bristol Prides yet.
The day starts at 11am with the Pride Parade, which leads the crowds to a massive outdoor music multi-stage festival (open from midday) where Main Stage acts include Republica, Avec Sans, Melissa Totten as Madonna, Kelly Llorenna and Lloyd Daniels.
Meanwhile, over on the Cabaret Stage, there’s a who’s who of drag talent, from Son of a Tutu, Lola Lasagne and Mary Mac to Sandra, Joanna Bumme and Dr Bev.
There’s a load more fun to be had on the day too. For full details, visit bristolpride.co.uk
It’s all go at Sundowners
Margate LGBT hotspot Sundowners has something for everyone next weekend when, on Saturday (19 May), it screens coverage of Harry and Meghan’s wedding live from Windsor. There’ll also be football on different big screens, for those who want to watch the FA Cup Final, plus there’ll be a BBQ on the terrace for all those who feel a bit peckish. And if that wasn’t enough, come nighttime the oh-so-elegant Baga Chipz will be on stage at 11pm to give you her thoughts of the day’s events. Brace yourselves!
Spotlight on Leeds
Big Show Sundays at The Viaduct
Fancy camping up your Sunday nights? The Viaduct Showbar in Leeds ends your weekend in style with unique and live cabaret from talented artists around the country every Sunday night. This weekend (13 May) the amazing Danny Beard storms the stage from 10pm, while the following Sunday (20 May) Topsie Redfern takes to the stage. What’s more, there’s 2-4-1 on all drinks from 1pm until 9pm plus fabulous prizes to be won on the official Viaduct app – visit viaductleeds.com/app for more details.
Blayds Bar
Blayds Bar has been part of the LGBT scene in Leeds for over 15 years and continues to pull in the crowds throughout the week. Open until an extra late 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, expect all your favourite party music, a fine crowd of gay and bi Yorkshire lads and… vodka on tap!
Saturday night at The New Penny
Reported to be the oldest continually-running gay pub in the UK, The New Penny in The Calls area of Leeds is the place to be some Saturday night. Drag sensation Nova Gina kicks off the fun from 9pm before DJ Jeff keeps the wheels of steel turning until a mega-late 5.30am. Just be sure to keep the Nurofen nearby on Sunday…
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