Category: LGBTIQ

‘WHAT A FEELING’ World Premiere at BFI FLARE

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The World Premiere of WHAT A FEELING by Kat Rohrer is set to debut at the BFI Flare, London’s LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, on March 15, 2024. WHAT A FEELING marks Kat Rohrer’s first entry into fiction features, weaving a tale of love across cultural divides and societal expectations. This romantic comedy shines a spotlight on two middle-aged women, Marie Theres (Caroline Peters) and Fa (Proschat Madani), who boldly step out of societal margins to claim their space in a world ripe with possibilities. Supported by the Austrian Film Institute, the film boasts a stellar cast including Nicole Ansari-Cox, Barbara Spitz, Anton Noori, Gohar Nurbachsch, Allegra Tinnefeld, Heikko Deutschmann, Rafael Haider, Petra Morzé, Joseph Lorenz, Ines Kratzmueller, Adriane Gradziel, and many others. The storyline captivates from the start, with Marie Theres, a dedicated doctor gearing up for her 20th wedding anniversary, only to have her world turned upside down by her husband Alexander’s (Heikko Deutschmann) confession, leading to a fateful encounter with Fa at Bigi’s (Barbara Spitz) queer bar. Fa, with her carefree, spontaneous nature and openness about her love life, is starkly different from the more reserved Marie Theres. Despite the initial mismatch, an unexpected and complicated romance blossoms between them. Their story is a testament to the unpredictable, often winding paths love takes, reminding us that finding one’s place and person in the world can defy norms and expectations. WHAT A FEELING is set to be released in theaters across Austria on April 19, 2024, promising audiences a heartwarming, thought-provoking film that celebrates love… Read More

Mardi Gras wrap up for 2025

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The vibrant and diverse streets of Sydney were illuminated with the spirit of pride and celebration as the 46th annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade took center stage on Saturday, 2 March. A staggering estimated 250,000 spectators flocked to Oxford St, Flinders St, and Anzac Parade, uniting in solidarity and bearing witness to a spectacular procession of over 12,000 participants who brought the night to life with their creativity, advocacy, and unapologetic pride under the theme “Our Future…”. Reflecting on the electrifying Parade, CEO of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Gil Beckwith, expressed, “Tonight’s Parade was a vibrant testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. As we marched under the banner of ‘Our Future…’, we not only honor the past 45 years of history and progress but also took a bold step toward shaping a more inclusive and diverse future.” Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Sydney’s role as a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities, stating, “Sydney has always been a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities and that pride is most spectacularly on show during Mardi Gras. This year’s March was another triumph of sequins and spirit.” Amid the celebration, the Parade also served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality within the LGBTIQA+ communities. Mayor Moore reinforced this, noting, “These past few weeks have been particularly hard for our LGBTIQA+ communities but tonight we all came together for a wonderful celebration of queer love, culture, and struggle. When the biodegradable glitter settles, the fight… Read More

Virgin Australia’s Mardi Gras flights

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More than 500 travellers, including legendary drag performers and renowned celebrities, celebrated high in the skies onboard Virgin Australia and United Airlines’ dedicated Pride Flight services. These special flights took off from San Francisco, Melbourne, and Brisbane, landing in Sydney just in time for Australia’s premier LGBTQIA+ celebration. Upon arrival, festivities continued as passengers were greeted by Tinder Glambassador Danni Issues and later joined the vibrant Landing Party at The Beresford, featuring performances that included a Virgin Australia dance troupe and a soul-stirring ballad by Hugh Sheridan. In a generous show of support for the LGBTQIA+ community, Virgin Australia announced that $30 from every Pride Flight ticket sold would be donated to Minus18, a charity devoted to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. Similarly, United Airlines committed to a $125K USD donation to The Trevor Foundation as part of their annual contribution to LGBTQIA+ causes. The flights themselves were a spectacle of celebration and inclusivity. Virgin Australia’s Pride Flight from Melbourne to Sydney, numbered VA1978 in homage to the year Sydney hosted its inaugural Mardi Gras Parade, along with the Brisbane to Sydney VA2017 flight – commemorating the year same-sex marriage was legalised in Australia – included pre-flight departure parties complete with drag performances, celebrity appearances, mid-air entertainment, and endless refreshments. The San Francisco to Sydney Pride Flight, a codeshare flight VA8005 with United Airlines, offered an international bridge to the festivities. Passengers on these flights were entertained by iconic figures such as RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under star Maxi Shield and the beloved Melbourne drag duo The… Read More

G Flip and Uber Pool for Mardi Gras

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Get ready to ride with pride this Mardi Gras parade day, because Aussie singer, drummer, and queer icon G Flip is riding around festivities exclusively via Uber Pool on March 2nd, and you could be in with a chance of sharing a ride with them. To celebrate Mardi Gras, Uber has teamed up with global superstar G Flip, giving Sydneysiders the chance to share a ride with them to the festival. Fresh off setting the record for the most entries in the Hottest 100 ever, G Flip is ready to start the Mardi Gras party by giving a few lucky riders the Uber Pool ride of a lifetime as they head out to parades, parties, and other festival events. For one day only, G Flip will be riding around Sydney in the queerest Uber vehicle, decked out with rainbow good vibes and offering everything you need for the perfect Mardi Gras pre-game. Share a karaoke classic with the Aussie singer-songwriter as you share the journey and impress them with your renditions of their iconic hits as you get pumped for the night ahead. To be in with a chance to ride with G Flip, just register your interest here and tell us why you’d love to be part of G Flip’s pride ride. G Flip said: “I’m so stoked to be back in Australia for Mardi Gras! It’s one of my favourite days of the year. I’m going to be hopping in a few Uber Pool rides on the day of the parade, so stay… Read More

Mardi Gras Debutante Ball in Sydney

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On Thursday, Kinselas Hotel in Darlinghurst set the stage for a momentous occasion as it hosted the inaugural Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker. This event marked the first steps of Mardi Gras first-timers as they ventured to join their community for the iconic celebration. Eight first-timers from the LGBTQIA+ community had the opportunity to share their stories and win tickets to attend the Debutante Ball, making it an unforgettable experience for them. As they walked the Gold Carpet, these individuals debuted proudly, warmly welcomed by festival custodians, the community, and the trailblazers who have paved the way for them. The evening unfolded at the iconic Darlinghurst venue, where the Mardi Gras Debutante Ball became a fabulous celebration of all queer identities, truly honoring the progress, strength, and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The highlight of the Ball was none other than Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who made her debut for her first Mardi Gras since openly identifying as queer last year. Her presence added an extra layer of significance to the event, symbolizing the ongoing journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and pride within the community. The Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, serving as a testament to the progress made and the unity embraced within the LGBTQIA+ community. It was a night of joy, empowerment, and celebration, representing the collective strides towards a more diverse and welcoming society. As the festivities unfolded, it became clear that this groundbreaking event has redefined the traditional concept of the Debutante Ball,… Read More

Queer art after hours in Sydney

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Get ready to mark your calendars because on Wednesday, February 28th, the crowd-favorite Queer Art After Hours event is set to make a vibrant return to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This year’s edition promises an exciting lineup that has just been unveiled, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! Renowned as one of the most eagerly anticipated annual events at the Art Gallery, Queer Art After Hours has continually stood out as a highlight among the free offerings of the Mardi Gras festival. It serves as a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, and storytellers, bringing the community together for a night of celebration that honors diversity, resilience, and creativity within the Queer community. In light of the recent cancellation of Fair Day, this year’s Queer Art After Hours aims to keep the party vibes alive with a spectacular FREE offering. Visitors can look forward to a kaleidoscope of interactive pop-up performances, installations, workshops, and DJ sets, all while embarking on their own unique art adventure exploring the exhibitions and collections on this unforgettable evening. The 2024 lineup is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a diverse range of experiences. From the thought-provoking video and spoken word installation “Queers as in Crip” to performances delving into butch and leather culture in “Dyke Vignettes,” the stage will come alive with fierce and fabulous drag performances by Miss First Nations queens Nova Gina, Josie Baker, and Shaniqua Empirè. Additionally, visitors can expect a captivating performance inspired by the occasional presence of pigeons in the… Read More

LGBTQ+ frienly Central Coast this Mardi Gras

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After the hustle and bustle of celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, whether you’re recovering from a day celebrating on Oxford Street or wanting to reflect on the monthly city madness, a Post-Mardi Gras getaway is one to plan. Without venturing too far from Sydney, the Central Coast has you covered to enjoy a peaceful retreat just 2 hours away. Here’s a list of LGBTQ+ friendly visits on the Central Coast to consider for your next getaway. All Year-Round Pride The Central Coast Pride experience is focused on diversity as the norm, creating safe and inclusive spaces for self-expression which inspire authentic originality and celebrate unique and diverse imaginings. When visiting the Coast, be sure to check out the latest of what is on through Central Coast Pride. Naughty Noodle Fun Haus: This award-winning, not-for-profit arts and entertainment organization promotes acceptance, inclusion, and diversity through creative performances across the Central Coast community. Born in 2018, Naughty Noodle intentionally leverages Arts and Culture to capture and maximize positive community impacts and effects across the key areas of inclusion, health and well-being; cultural development, education, and creativity. Check out the range of activities Naughty Noodle has during your stay to engage art as the change agent for diversity as the norm. They create safe and inclusive spaces for self-expression which inspire authentic originality & celebrate unique and diverse imaginings. Slip Slop Slay What locals ‘Love Central Coast’ for, is it is defined by its interconnected waterways and accessibility to rejuvenate through re-connecting with nature. For surfers, North Shelly Beach… Read More

Mardi Gras-inspired yum cha extravaganza

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Get ready to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience as The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre introduces ‘Mardi Cha’, a delightful twist on their monthly yum cha event, set to infuse the spirit of Mardi Gras into every delectable bite. This exciting food event is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional way to celebrate Mardi Gras and kick off March with style. Mardi Cha Details: Embrace the Fusion of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha Imagine the vibrant collision of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha, resulting in the creation of “Mardi Cha”! Hosted by the charismatic Jackie Daniels and her friends, this event promises to be the ultimate precursor to one of Sydney’s most anticipated nights of the year. The Lucky Prawn will be transformed into a Mardi Gras-inspired hub, offering an elevated yum cha experience that embodies the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Join Jackie and her friends from 11 am to 4 pm for a culinary journey like no other. The Perfect Recovery Plan For those looking to recover or simply extend the celebrations into Sunday, fear not! Jackie Daniels will return with a more subdued Mardi Cha experience on Sunday. Indulge in $12 Bloody Mary’s and unwind to the tunes of a vinyl DJ playing from 4 pm until late. It’s the ideal setting to replenish your spirits and revel in the laid-back ambiance, providing the perfect antidote to the post-Mardi Gras festivities. If this sounds like your cup of tea (or perhaps a refreshing cocktail), Mardi Cha at The Bob… Read More

What’s on this Sydney Mardi Gras

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Get ready to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of vibrant events as Mardi Gras sweeps through Sydney. From dazzling dress-up soirees to exhilarating drag performances, here’s a sneak peek into what’s in store from 16th February to 3rd March. Unmissable highlights: Caviar Bumps and Frozen Vodka Indulge in an extraordinary experience as Applejack will have the special Mardi Gras cocktail menu running at The Butler, Forrester’s and Taphouse. Drag Bingo & Caviar ‘Bumps’ Join drag royalty Dakota Fann’ee for a delightful session of Drag Bingo at Bar Morris, featuring sass, sparkle, sangria, and a delectable snacks and shares menu by Head Chef Rosy Scatigna on 2nd March. Glitter Me Up Forrester’s is all set to add some serious shine and sparkle to major event days throughout the festival with FREE POP-UP GLITTER STATIONS presented by Archie Rose. Don’t miss out on the glitter extravaganza at Forry’s on 3 dates, including Fair Day, Bondi Beach Party Day, and Parade Day. Slip & Slay Bottomless Experience love and celebration at Taphouse with the launch of Slip & Slay Bottomless—an all-day menu offering Chinese tasting platters and a 2-hour beverage package featuring craft beers, wines, prosecco, and a frozen cocktail on arrival, starting from 15th February. Additionally, indulge in an extravagant rooftop brunch hosted by drag Queens, Dominique Topp and Danni Issues on 24th February. Drag Trivia & Bingo Join in the electrifying events at Woolly Bay Hotel, including Drag Bingo and Drag Trivia hosted by the legendary queen Felicity Frockaccino. Get ready for a classic game of… Read More

Adam Lambert headlining Sydney Mardi Gras

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As the countdown to the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras draws to a fervent pace, a seismic announcement has set the community abuzz: Grammy-nominated artist Adam Lambert is poised to headline the extravagance. This revelation has sent ripples of excitement through the vibrant center of Sydney, promising an event that will etch itself into the annals of LGBTQIA+ celebration. Adam Lambert, a vocal powerhouse whose career has continually intersected with activism and advocacy for the community, leads a constellation of over 150 artists announced for the Festival’s centerpiece events. The anticipation reaches a zenith with the potentials of the undisputedly magnetic international superstar taking the stage. Mardi Gras 2024 is engineered to surpass all former precedents, boasting a diverse array of talent that includes legends like CeCe Peniston, revered for anthems like “Finally,” and the captivating Slayyyter, set to deliver an Australian-exclusive performance at the Bondi Beach Party. Echoing Lambert’s unparalleled influence in the music industry, a plethora of adored Australian acts like Cub Sport and MAY-A will grace various stages, enveloping the Festival in an eclectic blanket of musical and performance artistry. With such a cornucopia of stars lined up, Sydney’s Mardi Gras stands as a beacon of not only inclusive celebration but also an exhibition of phenomenal talent and LGBTQIA+ excellence. This year contends to be a riveting display of culture and pride, where the Hordern Pavilion is to transform into a warehouse haven of contemporary and Chicago house vibes, thanks to the charisma of Adam Lambert and the likes of… Read More