WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK ISSUE FIFTY-SEVEN 09/11 £FREE

New York The Big Apple for beginners

Parent power The Alternative Families Show

Help! I can’t keep a boyfriend

Joe McElderry THE COMEBACK KID

INSIDE BRIGHTON PRIDE... AL PILLAY... THE EUROPEAN DIVERSITY AWARDS

OUT IN THE CITY SEPTEMBER 2011

THE TEAM Hudson’s Editor DAVID HUDSON Letter [email protected] +44 (0)20 7258 1943

Design Concept Boutique Marketing www.boutiquemarketing.co.uk Graphic Designer Ryan Beal Sub Editor Dave Marshall

Contributors Lynda Clark, Anthony 16 Gordon, Nick Levine, John O‘Ceallaigh, George Prior, Steven Sparling, Soren Stauffer-Kruse, Richard Tonks, Dr Andy Williams, Josh Winning CONTENTS Since 2006, it has been a criminal offence to Photographer knowingly infect a sexual partner – who was 06 LETTERS Chris Jepson unaware of your HIV status – with the virus. I am Send your Publishers aware that many sexual health charities are strongly correspondence to Sarah Garrett opposed to the criminalization of HIV transmission. editorial@outmag. Linda Riley Among other things, they argue that both parties co.uk must take responsibility for their health. I too firmly Head of Advertising believe that we all have a responsibility to take care 08 MY LONDON Rob Harkavy [email protected] of our own health and to take necessary Cabaret legend Al + 44 (0)20-7258 1777 precautions. As awkward as it can sometimes feel, Pillay gives us his if you’re not sure of someone’s status and would capital highlights Head of Business prefer to know, you can always ask them directly. Development Then again, what if someone lies? What if 10 SHOPPING Lyndsey Porter you’re in what you believe to be a committed The new Hard To 20 [email protected] relationship with someone you thought you could Find compilation + 44 (0)20-7258 1777 26 MUSIC 58 OUTNEWS trust and they falsely tell you that they’re HIV and Sony Walkman David Guetta, Björk, All the gay news Advertising Manager negative, and you then decide to have unsafe sex, headphones Ladytron and from home and Dan Goodban based on this false information. Is it realistic to Melanie C reviewed abroad [email protected] expect people to assume that their partner might 16 JOE +44 (0)20 7258 1777 be lying? McELDERRY 30 FILM 60 FAMILY ISDN: 1473-6039 I think in any case where someone has The X Factor winner Tomboy, This year’s maliciously decided to pass on the HIV virus, there talks exclusively to Melancholia and Alternative Families is an argument for criminal prosecution, but I also Out In The City Friends With Show, the London Front cover photo recognise that proving ‘malicious intent’ is almost about his career and Benefi ts reviewed... Sperm Bank and the © Simon Fowler impossible. It’s a very difficult issue. new album Classics British Surrogacy I thought about this again when I read – with 34 THEATRE Agency horror – a recent story of a man who was sentenced 20 BRIGHTON Ghost reviewed and to 14 months in prison for giving his girlfriend the PRIDE theatre news 72 CAREERS genital herpes virus. When she realised she’d caught The whole day in The Diversity the disease, she confronted him and he denied he’d pictures 36 FOOD Careers Show and ever had herpes, but she later found out this wasn’t Quo Vadis reviewed working at banking true and contacted the police. He pleaded guilty to 25 DIARY giant Société the charge of grievous bodily harm and was August’s cultural 39 OUT THERE Générale sentenced at Northampton Crown Court in mid- highlights and arts XXL’s birthday and August. listings, plus Pride other scene 78 PROPERTY Square Peg Media Ltd. 37 Ivor Place Grievous bodily harm for passing on herpes? The London highlights for Beautiful beds and London NW1 6EA infection, although recurring, is not a life- September, plus other products for Phone +44 (0)20 7258 1777 Fax +44 (0)20 7258 1787 threatening disease. Yes, the accused was wrong to coverage of A your home deny having the infection, but like many workers in Madonna Odyssey, The content of this publication, either in whole or in part may not the sexual health fi eld, I can’t help but feel the Shinky Shonky and 84 TRAVEL be reproduced, stored in a data retrieval system or transmitted in any punishment was way out of proportion to the Wild Fruit New York, and the form or by any means, electronic or perceived ‘crime’. Herpes can only be transmitted Bears On Ice festival otherwise, without prior permission from the publishers. Opinions when someone with the infection displays 56 OUTREACH expressed in Out In The City are not neccessarily those of the publishers. symptoms, and these are sometimes very subtle Reading Pride, plus 93 BODY AND © Square Peg Media Ltd 2000 - 2009. and difficult to notice. This sentencing makes for a the Opening Doors SOUL Square Peg Media Ltd t/a Out In worrying development in the policing of sexual service for older Agony uncle, The City magazine will not take any responsibility for any loss/claim disease transmission. LGBT people grooming and Body resulting from a transaction with one [email protected] Talk of our advertisers/ Media Partners. 30

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 5 READERS’ LETTERS: SEPTEMBER 2011 FEEDBACK SEND YOUR PRAISE, RANTS OR COMMENTS TO [email protected] - ALL LETTERS PRINTED WIN A PRIZE…

celebrate in Soho, but Soho Square is clearly far too small to handle the many people that wish to pass through its gates. And does Gay Pride have to be synonymous with excess? I see Tesco was running a ‘family area’ in St Anne’s Gardens, but if I had kids, Soho on Gay Pride day is the last place I’d want to take them – there SPOONING were just too many people. I don’t know what the answer is, but if there I love the new look Out In The City, were other areas of London that and I was thrilled to see you interview Pride-goers could go to after the Casey Spooner [OITC – August 2011] parade, it might take some of the and stick him on the front cover. I’ve pressure off Soho. loved Casey’s work ever since Craig, WC1 Fischerspooner first emerged, and it was great to read such a candid interview with such an out and proud star. His recent solo album was greatly overlooked. The only thing you forgot to ask was when he’ll next be 56 Dean Street performing in the UK! Roy, Stockwell LETTER OF THE MONTH GET TESTED INKED

I was very moved by the guy who wrote to your agony uncle saying Hi, I’m a tattooist in London. I worked he was too scared to get an HIV test. I too was scared for many for 13 years in the Yumbo Centre in years to get tested, but I felt moved to do so when one of my Gran Canaria. I am not a gay man but friends fell ill and died very rapidly after contracting pneumonia. feel that I have been accepted into It turns out that he was HIV positive –probably for quite some the gay community as a trusted time – and hadn’t known. I was horrified how quickly he went tattooist. With tattooing being so from being healthy to being unwell, and then – to the shock of PACKED PRIDE popular within the gay community, everyone who knew him – dying. Like other people of my age, I your tattoo and tattooist say a lot didn’t actually think that people died of HIV any more, but I now During Pride London I went to Soho, about who you are, so perhaps in know this is not true. People do still die of HIV – particularly if and I have to say it didn’t make me your listings you could mention gay- they don’t get tested and allow the virus to multiply and cause very proud. The whole area was a friendly tattoo and body-piercing damage within their body. mess. I’m sure the local pubs did shops in and around London? I get tested at 56 Dean Street in Soho. They do a finger-prick test great business out of the day, but Lee, Ink’d Tattoo, London and give you an almost instant result. Yes, taking yourself to the seeing so many people clearly off clinic can seem like a drag, but knowing your status is so much their tits, rolling around in the better than living in ignorance. Thankfully, I found out that I am pavement, throwing rubbish Anyone who had a negative. I have friends who are positive, some of whom have been everywhere, or just uncomfortably letter printed this for many years. Although living with HIV can be difficult, and squeezed into doorways, was pretty month won a copy nobody wants a positive diagnosis, my friends tell me they are unpleasant. Is this what Gay Pride of new DVD Meet definitely glad they know their status and are now receiving has become? I know the organisers of Monica Velour appropriate medication. Pride can’t be held responsible for the Anonymous vast thousands who wish to go and

Anyone who has a letter published in the October issue of Out In The City will win a copy of new DVD WRITE TO Over The Edge – a sexy new gay-themed thriller that’s just been released by TLA Releasing. US AND WIN The writer of October’s Star Latter will win a copy of Over The Edge and the Girl Trilogy box set – a new A DVD... collection that brings together the Swedish film versions of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire and The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest. The extended box set – featuring all three films on DVD and Blu-ray – will be released by Momentum Pictures on 19 September. Send letters to [email protected], and please include your name and address if you want to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

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LISTED LONDONER MY LONDON SINGER, ACTOR AND ENTERTAINER, THE ONE AND ONLY AL PILLAY GIVES US HIS CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS… Portrait by CHRIS JEPSON Where do you come from London skyline from Primrose originally? Hill or to visit the South Bank, I was born among the neon as there is always something lights and fish heads of free to vada. I like to take in a Grimsby. All the guys tell me concert or art exhibition. I love they want to fry my haddock! the National Theatre and NFT, Where do you currently live, and Somerset House on the and when did you move there? Strand. It’s good to do a bus Primrose Hill – in a beautiful tour or to get a boat on the old building overlooking Thames. London is the most Regent’s Park and Primrose fantastic city for walking (but Hill. I’ve been told it’s haunted, only in my trainers and not my but perhaps only by the living! lap-dancing wedges…). All you I don’t believe in all that need is enough money in your supernatural bullshit. purse for your Oyster and a cup What’s the best thing about of tea, and you can be an living in London? afternoon flâneur… Definitely its diversity, as well Where do you escape the city? as the theatre, arts, the very Spain and Lake Como, Italy. British sense of style and What’s the most you’ve paid for individuality… or what’s left of a cab and to where? it! Also the fact that I can go to I’m doing a show at the see David Hoyle flog the Pheasantry on King’s Road, mutton at the Soho Theatre or Chelsea, on 5 September. The Royal Vauxhall Tavern – cab fare will be £22, plus tip! excellent! In fact, there are lots Name a place or location of of decent, genuine and lovely sentimental value to you… people on every level fighting There are quite a few. Visiting for their space. I see virtue Brick Lane always reminds me everywhere. Not everybody is of when I went fabric shopping some dysfunctional, amoral, with my friend, Leigh Bowery, destructive looter or the elite, in the 80s. Whenever I’m in educated product of a narrow Kew Gardens, I think about Conservative background! the secret relationship that I …and the worst? had with a certain ‘straight’ The pushing; the shoving; the rock star… obnoxious behaviour; the Favourite London song… expense; the homelessness; the Streets Of London by Don exploitation of its workers and MacLean, The Lambeth Walk, those without work. and Shirley Bassey’s No Place What are your favourite Like London. I find them all restaurants? quite moving. Joe Allen in Covent Garden. I Invite us to a party… love all the staff in there. It I loved Boy George’s 50th offers the show after the show! birthday. It was fab! Just like I also like the Union, a private him! If you want to join me, members club on Greek Street. catch me at the Pheasantry on Daniel Radcliffe and Bonnie Monday 5 September, 152-154 Greer are members. Rock and King’s Road, Chelsea. Doors Sole Plaice – the famous from 5pm and show time at fish’n’chip shop on Endell 6.45pm. Tickets are £15 or just Street, Covent Garden – is £12.50 if you quote Out In The better than those in City magazine or the Al Pillay Cleethorpes. Facebook page (box office Where do you go drinking? 08456 027 017). I’m teetotal, so I don’t go to bars, but they always make me Al Pillay is an entertainer and cabaret a lovely cappuccino when I star. He can be heard as a regular guest arrive at Soho Gyms. I go four and contributor on the Jo Good Late times a week. Show on BBC London (94.5FM). His Favourite tourist haunt? latest single, The Higher The Wall To

I love to look at the beautiful Climb, is available on iTunes. SOHO CLUB, UNION THE TO THANKS WITH

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SHOPPING: SEPTEMBER 2011 SHOPPING THE LATEST SONY WALKMAN, A THRILLING RUSSIAN SPY STORY AND RETRO 12-INCH HEAVEN...

CONTROL FREAK

Is there no end to what an iPhone can do? Purchase this stick-on gadget, download the appropriate app, and you can turn your iPhone or iPad into a touch-screen remote control for all your technology hardware (or at least that which is controlled by standard infra-red signals). It will even display a TV programme guide. The RedEye Mini is £50 from www. veda.co.uk

SIX APPEAL

Child 44 was one of the best debut crime novels WELL FIT! to appear in the last decade. Super-talented gay author Tom Rob Smith followed it up with The How the iconic Sony Secret Speech in 2008, and released this Walkman has changed! month is Agent 6 – his third part of the trilogy, With the original which again finds former Soviet Secret Service cassette Walkman agent Leo Demidov battling against the having been consigned shadowy Cold War-era Communist regime and to history, the latest fighting to save his family. A must for lovers of Walkman is the smallest a good thriller, the hardback is out now through and most stylish yet. Simon & Schuster Ltd – priced £16.99 Perfect for those who (currently on offer for £8.50 on Amazon at the listen to their music library time of going to press). choices while exercising, the new Sports Walkman MP3 player is water-resistant, wire-free, washable and lighter and is available in gloss white or black finish. The headphones come with three sizes of silicon buds to allow a secure fit. A quick three-minute charge provides enough power for 60 minutes of listening time, while a fully-charged battery offers up to eight hours. www.sony.co.uk

VINYL VAULTS

Of the dozens of CD compilations we get sent each month, this one immediately leapt out at us. Hard To Find – Classic & Rare Remixes is a lovingly-compiled collection of great remixes from forgotten vinyl collections, with an emphasis on the acid house era. Tracks on the double CD package include The Sun Rising by Beloved (Deeply Satisfying Mix), Arthur Baker’s remix of Neneh Cherry’s Buffalo Stance, the Renegade Soundwave mix of Bassomatic’s Fascinating Rhythm and the Steve ‘Silk’ Hurley mix of Simply Red’s Something Got Me Started. Are you getting the picture here, pop-pickers? It’s available now from Amazon, HMV and other good retailers – priced from £8.99.

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BAROMETER: SEPTEMBER 2011 THE WORD ON FIRE GAY ICE CREAM, LOVE BIRDS, AND OTHER THINGS FLOATING OUR BOAT THIS MONTH...

‘THE GREATEST THING’ In a match dreamt up in APP gay icon heaven, Cher has confirmed that her duet OF THE with Lady Gaga will be MONTH released in September.

PROMETHEUS Ridley Scott’s eagerly- anticipated ‘prequel’ to A (PHOTO) Alien commences shooting STITCH IN this month. It’s the most exciting movie news we’ve TIME... heard all year.

One of those CHRIS BRYANT MP apps that you The Labour MP has proved himself a political bruiser really have to try with his vindicated in order to truly campaigning against ICE ICE BABY appreciate, Photosynth allows you to wrongdoing at News create fiendishly impressive 3-D International. Open for six weeks only, ‘Queens of the Dessert’ is being billed as panoramic images by stitching the world’s first gay ice cream parlour! The pop-up Covent Garden together several images. Yes, it might establishment threw open its doors on 19 August and will remain sound complicated, but it’s actually THIS open until the end of September. The people behind it are the quite easy to master – and the results MONTH’S Icecreamists – the company that hit the headlines earlier this year are amazing. Photosynth is available RISE AND when it started selling human breast-milk ice cream! free on iTunes. “This is ice cream by queens for queens,” says manager Graeme FALL Clarke. “We wanted to create a fun, over-18’s ice cream bar with a twist this summer.” Expect such delicacies as the ‘Whorenetto’, plus an on-site ‘Vice cream’ masseur offering customers complimentary massages and ice cream facials. LEONA LEWIS QUOTE New single ‘Collide’ has The Queens of the Dessert, 15 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, OF THE been re-credited to Leona London WC2E 7NG. www.theicecreamists.com Lewis and DJ Avicii after MONTH the producer complained that it borrows too heavily from one of his own tracks.

“Flannels are MICHELLE BACHMANN disgusting – I prefer to The more we read about this scary Republican jump naked over a presidential candidate, the fully operating bidet.” more we begin to pine for Sarah Palin. Alan Carr tweets insights into his regular washing routine. Catch him on his UK tour this month. LOOTING As popularised during the recent summer riots. Not big and not clever.

BIRDS DO IT…

Following our news story a couple of months ago about a couple of gay penguins arriving at the London Aquarium, homosexuality in the avian world has again made the news with the results of a study that has concluded zebra finches sometimes form lifelong same-sex relationships! The birds are known for forming ON ICE permanent monogamous relationships, and when raised in an all- male environment by researchers at the University of California, over half formed permanent same-sex relationships – sticking to their chosen partners even after female birds were introduced into the group!

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COLUMNIST: STEVEN SPARLING Just one more… STEVEN SPARLING COUNTS UP THE EMPTIES – AND REACHES A SOBERING CONCLUSION…

Shhh! Could you keep now that I start to crave booze was over, coffee was served and problems aren’t alcoholics. it down a bit? No, around 3 or 4pm every day. no more alcohol was seen. I They’re simply people who really… just lower the There’s that moment when the realised how different this is to have regularly drunk more than phone is ringing or one more having dinner with friends here the recommended levels for lights – and would you email pops into my box where I in London where four of us some years. make me a cup of tea? smack my lips and think: “I would regularly get through at The NHS recommendation Extra sugar. sure could do with a G&T”. least four bottles of wine plus is that men should not I usually hold out until extra gin, vodka and/or Baileys. regularly drink more than 3-4 I’m feeling a little bit later – I do have a job to do So, while I often console units per day. Looking at the delicate today. Delicate would after all – but that glass comes myself by thinking that my unit calculator tells me that a probably translate as ‘hung more often than not by about 6 daily wine habit is simply typical evening’s consumption over’ in any other language. or 7pm. ‘European’, I don’t think my of one gin and tonic and two Last night I got together with glasses of white wine totals 5-6 some friends I haven’t seen for units, which is exceeding my a while, and we put away recommended daily amount. multiple bottles of wine, But what about the evenings switching from red to white when I consume more? The and back to red without a care NHS site goes on to point out: in the world. There may even And it’s certainly not only have been some rosé. Laughing, people who get drunk or binge having a good time. It’s all drink that are at risk. Most good, right? people who regularly drink Except today my head more than the NHS hurts. My mouth is dry. And I recommends don’t see any didn’t sleep well. Did I mention harmful effects at first. it was a school night, so now I Alcohol’s hidden harms am really struggling to get usually only emerge after a some work done? number of years. And by then, Two nights ago, I was at the serious health problems can opening of a new restaurant have developed. and… guess what? The Pimm’s I have to say that this was flowing and the food was makes for sober reading. As do hardly sufficient, so the drinks the recent news reports slid down too quickly. Oh, and revealing a dramatic increase the night before that it was a in alcohol-related liver disease bottle of wine with another in the under-30s – up by 50% in friend while we caught up on the last 10 years. Alcohol- life. The night before that was a related health problems do not bottle with my husband over only strike in middle-age or dinner, and then there was the later life. bottle on Saturday night and the several glasses on Friday “I often console myself by I enjoy drinking alcohol. I night in the pub. like the taste, I like the You can see a pattern thinking that my daily wine feelings associated with it emerging here, can’t you? Does habit is simply ‘European’”... and I like that it is a social this sound anything like your thing you share with friends. own life? But I hadn’t ever really thought Recently, the husband and European brethren are putting through the implications that if It has slowly dawned on I went to spend the weekend away the quantities of alcohol a male regularly consumes me that I drink alcohol with some French friends that we are in the UK. And I more than 3-4 units per day he almost every single day now. living outside Paris. We were actually think that I drink less is 1.8-2.5 times more likely to I wouldn’t say it’s a lot – there for four days and nights. than most people I know… or get cancer of the mouth, neck probably an average of two Each day at about 5pm we are those the words of a and throat; twice as likely to glasses of wine per night with would have a pastis (or delusional alcoholic? develop cirrhosis; and 1.8 times an occasional bender every two sometimes two). Then with our more likely to develop high months. But a day without even starter, the four of us would Out of curiosity, I’ve just blood pressure. And that’s from a drop of alcohol has become share one bottle of white wine. visited the NHS website to be only drinking more than 1½ more and more rare. With our main, we would share confronted with this gem: glasses of wine per day. I don’t think I have a a further bottle of red wine. Most people who have With that knowledge, does problem, but then I do notice And that was it. When dinner alcohol-related health it still taste as good?

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COVER STAR: JOE MC ELDERRY

MR NICE GUY

WINNING POPSTAR TO OPERASTAR HAS MARKED A CHANGE IN DIRECTION FOR FORMER X FACTOR WINNER JOE MCELDERRY. OUT IN THE CITY’S DAVID HUDSON CHATTED TO HIM ABOUT PARTING WAYS WITH HIS FORMER RECORD LABEL, HIS NEW MATERIAL, BOYFRIENDS AND BEYONCÉ...

oe McElderry shot to fame Out: Were you nervous about entering also the more emotional ballads I’ve when he won the 2009 series Popstar To Operastar? recorded as well. It’s strengthened my of The X Factor. However, Joe: Yeah, with anything, when you’re voice so much – unbelievably so. I have almost immediately, things changing your direction in music, when people coming up to me and saying: “Your didn’t go quite as planned with you’re taking on something you’re not used voice has changed so much since you did hisJ anticipated pop career. He was held off to… I go into automatic gear when I do pop that training” – it was so worth it. the prestigious Christmas number one slot music now because I’m so used to that Apparently you were getting the most by a Facebook-fuelled campaign that style of singing, so when I went into votes each week in the show – did you championed Rage Against The Machine. rehearsals for this, it was like learning how know that at the time or do they keep it a His second single made its debut in the top to ride a bike again, or learning how to secret from you? five but swiftly dropped down the charts, drive again, because every time you do it, No. You don’t find that kind of stuff out while his third single failed to chart in the someone says: “Well, that’s a bad habit you until after the final show, so you have no top 40 altogether. In spring 2011, barely 16 need to stop doing”. A lot of pop singers idea, which is quite difficult, because you months after his X Factor victory, record don’t know whether you’re doing things label Syco announced it was dropping the right or wrong. All you know is that you’re handsome South Shields-born teenager, getting through each week, but you don’t with a spokesperson for the label telling “I’d know how many votes you get. But that is the Daily Mail: “Simon [Cowell] gave Joe amazing, to think that people not only the best chance possible of success by love to picked up the phone and voted for me not making sure he worked with some of the have a career only once but twice… I’m humbled by that. world’s top producers… Joe’s a lovely boy It’s amazing. and it is a pity it did not work out, but no like Beyoncé. How did you feel when you won? one can say Simon and his staff did not try It sounds a real cliché, but it was like to make it work.” Everything she reliving an amazing dream you’ve had. It By conventional music biz lore, that was like going through the whole X Factor would have been that… except the singer, does, she does experience again but in a different style of now turned 20, may be about to pull off a music, which was really exciting, so when I remarkable comeback. Released from his with total won I just couldn’t believe that people former record label, Joe unexpectedly enjoyed me singing this style of music. It turned up as a contestant on this summer’s class.” was really nice. Popstar To Operastar, and duly went on to Who did you get on with particularly well astound both judges and audience with his on the show? vocal prowess. He won the show and was pick up bad habits. There’s a lot of tension Everybody. Everybody was lovely. snapped up by iconic label Decca, who are in your jaw when you sing, which is Earlier this year, it was widely reported releasing a new album – a mixture of normal, and it’s how you create that kind that you’d been dropped by your record classically-themed covers, opera and of breathy sound, but with classical label, Syco. Was that a depressing or showtunes – on 29 August. singing, it’s all about everything being difficult time for you? Given his roller-coaster ride, one might relaxed and totally allowing that loud, [Deep sigh] I mean this in the least big- expect a slightly older and wiser powerful voice to float through your body, headed way possible, but it wasn’t a McElderry to be a little bit cynical about which is a weird sensation when you first depressing time. Obviously, getting the music industry. David Hudson, start doing it. dropped by your record label is not an ideal however, sat down with him – to discover Have you benefited, as a singer, from the situation, but I just kind of thought: “OK, that he remains as optimistic as ever – experience? what’s next? Let’s move on to the next humbled by his success and amazed at the One hundred per cent! It has helped me so chapter”. I didn’t dwell on it. I don’t want new direction his career has taken. Just much, not only with this album, with the to say that I wasn’t bothered because

don’t ask him about his love life… crossover style that I’ve been doing, but obviously I care about my music, but I kind PHOTO © SIMON FOWLER

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COVER STAR: JOE MC ELDERRY

Would you have any words of advice for Matt Cardle? You just have to enjoy yourself. “Obviously, Popstar To Operastar has been a ratings hit, and even George Michael is doing his getting dropped by own Symphonica tour. Do you think the media has underestimated the popularity your record label of classical music? Yeah, definitely. I think it’s frowned upon a is not an ideal lot, which I think is wrong. It’s just because people aren’t educated enough about it, but situation, but I you find that when someone is sat down and listens to it properly and hears these just kind of beautiful songs – really beautiful songs – thought: ‘OK, some of them are not that far away from pop music. They could be a pop ballad with what’s next? Let’s a different style of voice put on it. People are scared of it, I think, which is wrong, and move on to the I was guilty of that myself. I was totally guilty. I was like: “Oooh, opera – it’s not for next chapter’.” me. I don’t know any songs”. But when I sat down and was in the rehearsal process, I was like: “Actually, I’ve heard this song before”. You find you do know a lot more of thought: “Right, let’s go out and Shields, I’ve never moved to London, so I about it, and it’s beautiful music. explore who I’m going to release music never “moved back”! I just looked at that The album also includes some songs from with next”. It was an exciting time, as well article, and I was laughing my head off at musicals. Would you like to do a West End as being a kind of wake-up, I suppose. what a load of rubbish it was. I think it was show at some point? Were you disappointed with the results of the day that article went out, I had just put Yeah, it’s something I’d like to go into your time at Syco? Or how do you feel now down a deposit on my own house, so I just eventually. It’s something that I’d be very about your debut album? thought: “How far from the truth can it committed to doing if I were doing it, and I loved everything about it. The album was be?”. It was water off a duck’s back. I just so therefore, at the moment, it wouldn’t number three, and I had a top 10 single. I thought: “Whatever – let them write work. When you’re doing a musical, you was really proud of what I achieved. whatever the hell they want”. have to stay in one place at one time, which Did you ever get the feeling Simon Cowell You came out as gay last year. Did you feel would be difficult with all the things I’m was prioritising Olly Murs’ career over under any pressure to do so, or did anyone doing at the minute, but eventually I’d like yours? caution you against it? to go into it and experience that side of Well, Olly’s not signed to Syco, he’s signed Not at all. Once I’d kind of realised who I performance as well. to Epic, so he would have had a hard time was as a person, I thought: “OK, I know Is there someone out there that you look prioritising Olly when he wasn’t on the who I am”. I decided I was going to talk at and think, “I’d love a career like that” – a same label. about it because, you know, people always John Barrowman figure perhaps – who [Olly is actually jointly signed to Epic and asked in interviews: “Are you single?”. I mixes West End music with a bit of acting Syco - Editor] just thought: “For goodness’ sake, let’s just and TV presenting? From the outside, one sometimes gets the clear this up once and for all, and then I I’d love to have a career like Beyoncé. I impression that X Factor winners get little can get on with what I’m actually doing know that might sound stupid, but let me say in their music or first album. Is there this job for, which is to sing”. So I just explain it. It’s because she dips into any truth in that? thought: “I wanna talk about it and be everything. Everything she does, she does Not at all. I was involved in the creative honest about it, and then I can move on”. with total class. She’s done films, she’s process. When I came out of that show, I Not because I’m ashamed about it but so I done TV, she’s done music, she’s done had just turned 18. I had no experience in don’t have to keep going over these tours. She’s done everything, and I would the music business or recording industry, intrusive questions about my sexuality and like to be that kind of artist where you dip so I was more than happy to listen to personal life constantly! into all different things. And she makes advice from people on the label telling me Well, just one more question on that everything she does about music and to do things. You learn from those subject then! You said at the time that nothing else, which I think is terribly experiences what works and what doesn’t, you’d never had a relationship with a guy. I important. Everything she does, it’s not and this time around, with this album, I’ve wondered if you’d had any romance since? about personal things or scandalous things, got more confidence in what I believe, It’s a private thing! Nobody needs to know it’s just about good performances and whereas before I was a bit like: “Ooh, am I whether I have or not! making amazing music. being stupid by saying this?”. Now I have You’ve played a couple of Pride festivals How are you feeling about the future at the confidence in what I think creatively, what this summer – how were they? moment? might work or what won’t, which is great, Yeah, really good. They’re always a great I’m excited. I’m getting to do something I and without The X Factor I wouldn’t have crowd and always up for a lot of fun, and love every day, at such a young age, and experienced that, so it was a great creative it’s a nice celebration, so it’s good to be a I’ve been able to experience so many process to have been involved in. part of them. things in my career, so You’re being very positive about it all, but Are you still in touch with Olly Murs? it’s very exciting. If I it must have stung a little bit to read Yeah! I think I spoke to him the other day, can carry on the way stories about you being dropped and going and yeah, we get on really well. I’m going, then I’ll be home to live with your mum… Cheryl Cole was your mentor on The X more than happy. This is another thing! This whole period of Factor. Are you still in touch? the whole Syco thing got totally blown out Yes. We send each other text messages now Joe McElderry’s new album, of proportion. I’ve always lived in South and again and check on how each other’s doing. Classic, is out on 29 August.

18 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK

tickets onsale, theorganisers have since everyone was having ablast.With 56,000 Adonis strippers. mostly localdrag talentandeven somehot popular cabaret tentwithitsline-upof black andethic(BME)tent theever diving rides. There was alsoabearstent, any numberofspinning, duckingand revellers challengingtheirconstitutions on was awash withburger andbeerfilled a mashed-upmusicfestival, andthe funfair dance tentresembledthe hugeopen-sided Hollyoaks crowds enjoyingpopacts, starsof live stagewas mobbedwithclamouring was stillfun,frivolous andvery gay. The costs oftheevent. fans tohelpcover thehugeinfrastructure Standard the live stageadvertised inthe Joe McElderry andAlexandra Burke on paying adults, andwithheadlineactslike previous years aschildren gotinfree with seemed more family-orientated thanin enter. To us, thedemographic actually time, apaid-for ticket was required to and uptoPreston Park where, forthefirst the centre oftown, pasttheiconicPavilion the pieralongahighprofile route through to uspinkpunters. It wound itsway from and EDFEnergy triedtoflogtheirwares in attendanceasmulti-nationalslike Ford spectacle, withmuchcorporate branding seafront andwas ariotofcolourand tottering around like Bambi onacid! toting trannies wrapped insilver foil Thunderbirds andany numberofray-gun troopers, bodypaintedMartians, World’ asthetheme. vengeance thisyear with‘Out OfThis Brighton &Hove was backwitha organisation ofthefestival, Pridein After recent controversy aboutthe PRIDE BRIGHTON REPORT 20 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK BRIGHTON PRIDEWAS ANOTHER TRIUMPH, SAYS CHRIS JEPSON… HOSTING AN ‘OUT OF THIS WORLD’ EVENT ON THE SOUTHCOAST, The cabaret tent Everywhere we went was busy, and Having saidallthat,theatmosphere The parade kicked offat 11am onthe , there was noshortageofstraight , choirsandcommunityspeakers, Cue aliens, storm Evening finally lookingsafe. years, thefuture forBrightonPrideis event. After acoupleoftouch-and-go and agreat sumtobuilduponatnext year’s LGBT causes. That’s goodnewsindeed, approximately £4,000 todonate tolocal comfortably covered theircostsandraised 30,000 ofthose–meaningthey said thattheymanagedtosellaround Alexandra Burke The seafront parade Joe McElderry

WORDS AND PHOTOS: CHRIS JEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM Preston Park

A gripping read! Dorset Police march with pride

‘Take me to your leader!’

You’ve been glittered!

Trollied-dollied

The Big Wigs Abs-olutely fabulous! Pecs appeal...

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 21

CULTURE CALENDER: SEPTEMBER 2011 DIARY DATES SEPTEMBER’S CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS IN AND AROUND LONDON

frolics at the Café de 05 SEPT: Daniel F. Herrmann. Paris, off Leicester Every year, the www.whitechapelgallery. Square. Celebrities Whitechapel Gallery org taking part are usually invites an kept secret until the internationally- 05 & 07 SEPT: event, but expect plenty renowned artist to Anyone down Chelsea of West End performers create a site-specific way who hasn’t yet taking to the stage to piece of work as part of discovered snug Pizza help raise funds for the its Bloomberg Express supper and Make A Difference Commission. This year, cabaret venue The Trust. www.madtrust. the artist is America’s Pheasantry (152/154 org.uk Josiah McElheny, who King’s Road SW1) may has used light, mirrors want to check it out and spheres to create a this month, as it’s surreal hall of mirrors hosting a couple of within the gallery shows of particular gay space. McElheny will be interest. Performer at the gallery on 8 legend Al Pillay (see September to discuss My London, page 6) will his work with curator be hitting the stage on

03-04 SEPT: Future Cinema, which

ANNIE LENNOX, SAIKUSA © SATOSHI 1991 organises various outdoor cinema 15 SEPT-26 FEB: events, has teamed up with California The V&A hosts an exhibition entitled The House of Annie Tourism to host a Lennox – celebrating the singer’s four decades at the top by couple of special examining her music and style. Following the success of past screenings on the exhibitions focusing on such performers as Kylie Minogue, banks of the Thames. this new show will feature costumes and accessories worn California Classics will by Lennox, together with photographs, personal treasures feature screenings of and awards, ephemera from the political campaigns she has two cult classics from championed, recorded interviews, music videos and a the 80s – The Lost specially commissioned video of Annie in conversation. Boys (3 September) THE BOXER BY SACHI GILAD You’ll find it in room 104 of the Theatre and Performance and Top Gun (4 Galleries. The display accompanies the autumn exhibition September) – with 31 AUG-04 SEPT: Postmodernism: Style and Subversion 1970-1990, open 24 Future Cinema September 2011 to 15 January 2012. www.vam.ac.uk transforming a secret Freedom of Expression: True Colours site along the banks of is a ground-breaking exhibition taking the Thames in London place at The Gallery, Soho. The show THUR 01 SEPT: the NFT1 at the BFI exploring mental health into the sunny shores seeks to celebrate Israel’s vibrant gay In 1969, director Ken Southbank. It kicks off and 21st century of California. Each art scene and culture of tolerance, and Loach was asked to a season of screenings obsessions – transfers screening can will feature work from 17 Israeli make a film to help to commemorate to the West End for a accommodate up to artists. Amongst the 73 pieces of art, promote the work of the Loach’s 75th birthday. strictly-limited run at 4,000 viewers, and you’ll find paintings, drawings, charity Save The www.bfi.org.uk the Duchess Theatre on those attending are photography and sculpture. The Children, but the Catherine Street WC2. encouraged to dress exhibition has been organised in resulting film was 01 SEPT-01 www.rubywaxlosingit.com up in theme with the conjunction with the Israel deemed too subversive OCT: films. Screenings take Government Tourist Office (www. and never saw the light If you missed its run at SUN 03 SEPT: place at 4pm, with thinkisrael.com). of day. Now, the the Menier Chocolate The annual West End tickets costing £24.50. The exhibition is open 10am-8pm, director will be Factory earlier in the Bares fundraiser Tickets and further from 31 August-4 September, at The attending the world summer, Losing It – a returns to the capital, details at www. Gallery, Soho, 121-125 Charing Cross premiere of the film at show from Ruby Wax with an evening of welcometocalifornia. Road WC2H 0EW. a special screening at and Judith Owen frisky fundraising co.uk

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 23 CULTURE CALENDER: SEPTEMBER 2011

at the O2 Arena in SAT 17 SEPT: Greenwich. Expect Older readers may well tracks from her new remember The Scala album, Better Day, plus cinema in King’s Cross lots of classic hits from (before it became a the queen of country club/gig venue). The music’s extensive back picture house was catalogue. www. famed for screening dollypartonmusic.net cult classics and trashy all-nighters. Scala Forever is a series of screenings celebrating the Scala aesthetic and philosophy – taking place at a range of smaller, independent cinemas around the 05-24 SEPT: capital – predominantly Finally coming to London, following a organised by The Roxy postponement last year, off-Broadway hit in London Bridge. Confessions Of A Mormon Boy is a one- Highlights include a man show written and performed by panel discussion on the Steven Fales. The 90-minute Scala and the future of performance finds Steven reflecting 14-19 SEPT: repertory cinema at the upon his early years, struggling to Should you need any Cinema Museum, reconcile his faith and sexuality – going further proof that followed by a 2pm THUR 22 SEPT: from being the perfect Mormon boy in comedy is indeed the double bill of John Utah to becoming a high-priced call boy new rock’n’roll, one of Waters’ infamous Pink The brilliant Alan Carr brings his new in New York City, by way of the UK’s most Flamingoes and James stand-up show, Spexy Beast, to London, excommunication, divorce and crystal successful stand-up Whale’s horror with a show at the Wembley Arena. He meth addiction! The show gets its comics, the manic Lee spectacular The Bride follows it with a second show at the O2 London premiere at the Charing Cross Evans, plays a Of Frankenstein (17 Arena on 5 November. Theatre (Villiers Street WC2) from 5 whopping five nights in September). The Rio www.alancarr.net September – running until 24 September. succession at the cinema in Dalston is Wembley Arena – just a also joining in the small part of his 66- celebration, with its 19-20 & 22 and Melvyn Bragg. Monday 5 September, £15 on the door. www. date arena tour around ‘The Female Convict SEPT: Spanning two iconic while singer and comic pizzaexpresslive.com the British Isles. It’s Pinky Violence All- The all-conquering London venues, the Holly Aisbitt will follow followed by further Night Triple-Bill’, taking Adele, whose 21 album event will comprise a this on Wednesday 7 07-08 SEPT: dates at the O2 Arena place at 11pm on has topped the charts gala dinner and auction September with her The legend that is Dolly from 28 September Saturday 24 all over the world, hits (21 Sept) at the witty show, Only Parton returns to these through to 11 October. September. For full London for a handful of Imperial War Museum Amazon Knows I’m A shores this month, www.leeevans2011tour. details, check http:// gigs. Catch her at the (original site of the Lesbian. Tickets cost playing two big concerts co.uk scalaforever.co.uk HMV Hammersmith Bedlam psychiatric Apollo from 19-20 hospital – www.iwm. September, then at the org.uk) and an 23-25 SEPT: Royal Albert Hall on 22 exhibition of significant September. www.adele.tv original art works at If you’ve got a passion for tattoos, you the Old Vic Tunnels in may well be interested in attending the 21-27 SEPT: Waterloo (www. International London Tattoo Mind, the well-known oldvictunnels.com). Fry Convention, which will be returning to mental health charity, and Bragg will host the London for the seventh year running is staging a major dinner. www.mind.org.uk from 23-25 September. This large exhibition exploring the gathering of international tattooists link between mental 28 SEPT-09 takes place at Tobacco Dock, 50 Porters health and creativity to OCT: Walk, Wapping E1W 2SF. Organisers, raise funds for a new The annual Raindance who are planning on utilising more of creative therapies Film Festival returns to the space than in previous years, think scheme for people London, with another this year’s event will be the biggest yet experiencing mental packed programme – and are expecting around 250 distress. The exhibition (typically 70 features tattooists from across the globe to is being supported by a and 200 shorts). This attend. Live acts, including Two Tone number of artists year’s schedule was legends The Beat and The Selector, will including Stuart still being finalised at entertain across the weekend. Tickets Semple, Jake and the time of going to are available priced at £20 for Friday, Dinos Chapman, Sarah press, but for the latest £30 for Saturday, £25 for Sunday, or £55 Lucas and Mat details and ticket for a weekend pass. For more info, go to Collishaw, and information, check thelondontattooconvention.com celebrities Stephen Fry www.raindance.co.uk

24 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK

MUSIC: REVIEWS

feature a couple of creditable stabs at Ryan Tedder-style synthy bombast, ALBUMS ‘Burn and Drown’, and a Kelly Clarkson-goes-Goldfrapp stomper called ‘Stupid Game’, but mostly it ALBUMS OUT IN SEPTEMBER sticks to the angsty brand of soft rock that seems to have become the singer’s default setting. You know LADYTRON what, though, that’s just fine. Though GRAVITY THE SEDUCER the lyrics can be as banal as Emma Bunton’s radio banter – this is the (NETTWERK) sort of album where paradise is a place of ‘golden sands and bluest We earthlings may be living in a world skies’ – they’re usually saved by of flux, but over on planet Ladytron Chisholm’s voice, pumped from that things stay reassuringly the same. This Blood Brothers run, and a chorus as fifth studio set picks up the shiny black solid as Mel B’s pre-pregnancy synth-pop baton from March’s Best Of abdominals. comp, although Liverpool’s witchiest All in all then? Not quite as stylish as describe Gravity The Seducer as ‘more Victoria’s last haute couture ethereal’ and ‘a touch more abstract’ collection but assembled with rather than their previous efforts – qualities more care and attention than Geri’s that come to the fore on the dark and evening wear range for Next. NL dreamy ‘Mirage’, ‘Ambulances’ and a Out: September 5 couple of cinematic instrumentals, ‘Ritual’ and ‘Transparent Days’. Most evocative of all? The shape-shifting electronica of ‘White Gold’, on which Helen Marnie delivers lyrics about ‘the colour of deception’ in her strangely compelling girl-at-the-end-of-the- corridor style. sometimes see in swanky Like every Ladytron LP, Gravity The science museums – the record’s Seducer has the odd plodding interlude DAVID GUETTA musical matter is mainly – ‘Moon Palace’ – and it’s missing an NOTHING BUT THE organic: pipe organ, indie-disco floor-filler to rival ‘Destroy harpsichord and an Icelandic Everything You Touch’. However, these BEAT (POSITIVA) female choir. Its lifeblood is niggles hardly sully its spookily Björk herself, her vocals filled seductive charms. For music to listen Dance stars are not known for selling with such child-like wonder to during those Marlene Dietrich albums by the truckload, but that’s that she can sing a word like moments, when you want to feel both the situation France’s David Guetta BJÖRK ‘transmutates’ without seeming gloomy and glamorous, Ladytron found himself in when he released BIOPHILIA (ONE like a clever dick. remain the masters. Best stock up on breakthrough album One Love in Nothing here is as the smudge-proof guyliner now. NL 2009. How do you follow up a piece of LITTLE INDIAN) (relatively) straightforward Out: 12 September work that sold three million copies as ‘Hyberballad’ or ‘Earth and 12 million singles worldwide? When is an album not an Intruders’, but it’s consistently Well, unsurprisingly, by offering pretty album? When it’s a “multi- gripping, sometimes startling much more of the same. Nothing But media project pairing 10 songs – check out the drum’n’bass The Beat is the mixmaster’s fifth with corresponding iPad apps’, breaks on ‘Mutual Core’ – and studio album, and it finds him on which ‘each piece is filtered frequently incredibly perfecting his hit-making formula. through Bjork’s personal beautiful. In fact, ‘Virus’ could The bad news is that if you loved ‘When connection to, and reading be one of the prettiest songs Love Takes Over’ from One Love, you of, nature and musicology”. that Björk’s ever recorded, won’t find anything similar here. In fact, Waaaaait… come back! Yes, until you realise it’s actually MELANIE C the first seven tracks here, featuring Biophilia is bonkers and about the symbiotic THE SEA (RED GIRL artists such as Flo Rida, Taio Cruz, boffinish – but what else relationship between an Snoop Dogg and Usher, all sound pretty would you expect from a infectious agent and its human RECORDS) much like ‘Sexy Bitch’. Thank goodness borderline musical genius host. ‘And soft tissue feeds on then for Jessie J, who features towards who rocked up to the Oscars blood’ – what a giveaway! Even if your inner Spice Girls fan the end of the album on the most pop- wearing a giant swan? That Like Biophilia in general, slipped back into a coma the morning flavoured offering – ‘Repeat’. said, you thankfully don’t need ‘Virus’ benefits from a bit of after the reunion tour finished, you Should one album not be enough for to be Professor Brian Cox to chin stroking – indeed, might be intrigued by this fifth – yes, you, this double CD collection enjoy it. Honest. investigating the ideas fifth! – solo album from Melanie C. includes a second disc of harder, As a standalone album, underpinning each song on the ‘Think About It’, for example, is the club-oriented instrumentals. The it’s actually pretty intimate. album can make your head hurt best single she’s given us in yonks, beautifully acid-house madness of Though Björk sometimes turns even when the music itself is while Mel reckons The Sea is a ‘Glasgow’ proves that the effortlessly mad professor – ‘Thunderbolt’, doing quite the opposite. But ‘diverse’ collection closer to Northern talented Mr Guetta can still do for example, has a bassline crucially, the effort always feels Star, her 1999 solo debut, than those underground just as well as he can do created by a Tesla Coil, that like it’s worth it. NL samey follow-up efforts. mainstream. DH electricity-zapping gizmo you Out: 27 September Is it? Well, not entirely. The Sea does Out: 29 August HUDSON DAVID LEVINE AND NICK REVIEWS:

26 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 27 MUSIC: REVIEWS LAND AHOY! NICK LEVINE TALKS TO COOL DANISH POP CHANTEUSE OH LAND…

‘Oh Land’ isn’t just what wrote together didn’t really fit a homesick sailor might into the body of work that the exclaim as he glimpses album had become. But there’s one song we did together that I the white cliffs of Dover really, really love and I’ll on the horizon. It’s also definitely use in the future. You the stage name of Nanna can hear Pharrell’s influence, Øland Fabricius, the but it still sounds like me. Your dancing career was ended Danish singer/ prematurely by a back injury. songwriter whose How did you deal with that? enchanting electro-pop I felt like I’d lost everything is set to soundtrack that mattered to me. I spent ten years completely dedicating those twinkly, spookily myself to ballet, so when the seductive evenings of doctors told me I’d destroy my our Indian summer. body if I tried to dance again, it was devastating. Not only was I Born to an opera singer mother in extreme physical pain – I and a church organist father, couldn’t move for months, Nanna was never likely to which was really difficult for become a parking inspector, me because I’d been so active – but her original plan – to carve but there was the psychological out a career as a pro ballerina – aspect to deal with. I found was dashed when she suffered myself thinking ‘Who am I? a back injury at the age of 18. What should I do now?’ I also Songwriting proved her felt guilty because I’d failed to salvation, and, after her 2008 live up to what people expected debut impressed the bigwigs at of me. Epic Records, she went on to Did you channel those record her follow-up with emotions into your songs? producers including Dan Carey Yes, because the only way I (Kylie, Sia) and Dave could deal with what happened McCracken (Beyoncé, Shakira). “When the doctors told me I’d was to write songs to get those The results? Sufficiently thoughts out. I wasn’t thinking impressive to earn her a destroy my body if I tried to ‘OK, now I’ll be a musician’; it support slot on Katy Perry’s was about escapism. In real life California Dreams tour, which dance again, it was devastating” there were so many things I rock ‘n’ rolls into London on 14 couldn’t do because I couldn’t October. a dark side? my attention, someone who even move, but in my songs I Now residing in New York, we Definitely! Oh Land isn’t just was always disappearing only could do whatever I wanted. By met up with the striking about everything being to come back later saying he the time I healed, I didn’t even Brooklyn-ite to find out more… beautiful and cute. Many of my needed me. I used the idea of want to return to dancing lyrics are quite dark - my song the sun as it’s a really bright, because music had taken over. How would you describe the Oh ‘Sun Of A Gun’ even features positive presence… but if you Finally, given your former Land sound? the line “I wanna live in stare at it for too long, you get passion for ballet, what did you It’s the music you’d hear inside darkness”. My album definitely blinded. make of Black Swan? a snow globe. Imagine a has two sides - one that’s very Does Mr. Destructive know it’s I loved it! You know, the ballet landscape with a little city and up-tempo, bright and about him? world isn’t actually a crime snow-capped mountains and optimistic, and another that’s No, I never tell people when scene, but the intensity that the lots of animals. Everything’s more introverted and I’ve written a song about them. film captured is pretty much very dreamy and beautiful, but melancholy. If he’s smart, he’ll figure it out accurate. I mean that in a it’s a place where anything can What sort of thing do you write for himself and besides, I don’t positive way – to create happen – there might be songs about? want to flatter him too much! something so sublime, you need elephants walking around with My songs are based on people You’ve also spent time in the to give 100% and you need to be snow on their backs and things and experiences in my life - recording studio with Pharrell uncompromising. like that. and love in all its forms is a big Williams. Why don’t those You list several horror films as inspiration. For example, ‘Sun tracks appear on the album? Oh Land’s self-titled album is out on influences on your Facebook Of A Gun’ is a love song, but it’s The album was pretty much download now. A physical release follows page - even Rosemary’s Baby! a destructive love song. It’s done when I went to write with in October. The single ‘White Nights’ is Does Oh Land also have quite about someone who needed all him. I felt that the songs we also out in October.

28 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 29 TOMBOY leads andcarefully balanceddrama, Sciamma ensures thatit’s always enchanting. doesn’t work becauseshe’s fatand‘pre-nant’”). sink) andmakes thekind ofhilariousobservations thatonly achildcould(“Mummy prances around inaballerinacostume(while Laure practises spittinginthebathroom gigglesome, whileLévana almosteclipsesHéran littlesisterwho asthescene-stealing intothemix.Inparticular,‘funny’ Laure’s playdough solutionforgoingswimmingis without usingthewords and‘sensitive’. Whilewe’re ‘sweet’ atit,we mightaswell throw WARMING SLICE OF GENDER-BENDINGCINEMA... FRANCE’S CÉLINE SCIAMMADELIVERSAHEART- 30 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK TOMBOY Out: 16 September (this ain’t no from achild’s-eye-view, sheeffectively putsafresh comedies spinoncross-dressing Laure rightfrom fingerprints are allover hersophomore feature film–Sciammakeeps thefocustighton touch thatliftedherfeature debut weighty ideas, director CélineSciammahandles (Malonn beenupto. Lévana), getswindofwhathersibling’s can’t lastforever, though,andthingsgetcomplicatedwhenLaure’s younger sister, Jeanne her comrades. Thecharade ‘gung-ho’ andmischievous as football-loving ladwho’s justas it either:convincing asa with herfamily. She’s notbadat moves toanewneighbourhood pretends she’s aboywhenshe called Laure (ZoéHéran), who actually a10-year-old girl She’s notwrong –Mikael is wistful, feather-weight drama. potential newgirlfriendinthis notes 10-year-old Mikael’s “You’re notlike otherboys,” Tomboy Thanks toSciamma’s thoughtfulapproach, it’s almostimpossibletorefer to Proving filmsdon’t needtogetboggeddown that even themostissues-oriented by

FILM: isn’t allsweetness andlight,butwithitsnaturalistic framing, captivating young White Chicks

REVIEWS Tomboy ’s openingshotand,by exploring notionsofgenderandidentity ). Water Lilies . TheFrench director’s delicate Tomboy withthesamelightnessof JW Tomboy

A screenings aheadof Fashion Week. September, withselected London together. The film’s outonDVD on19 looks backontheirdecadentlives point,thefilmcollection asastarting of thecouple’s elaborate art Pierre Berge. Usingthe2009auction four-decade relationship withpartner career of Yves St Laurent andhis insightful documentary examing the fashioned policethriller. in thiswell-shot butpredictable, old- both culture andpoliceprocedures, happens to begay –cueaclashin Nash (Paddy Considine), whojust teamed upwithconscientiousDC To helphim,Statham’s DCBrant is down aserialcopkiller(Aiden Gillen). style London policemantracking LATTER DAYS BLITZ DVDs... Month’s This THOR L’AMOUR FOU release from TLAReleasing. tale –which marksthefirst Blu-Ray humour andpathos inthistouching Jay Cox successfullybalancesboth and shy Aaron. Thankfully, director C. one, butheendsupfalling for sweet Christian isdetermined to seduce California party boy apartment, Mormon boys move into hissouthern sweetly gay spin.Whenagroup of dizzying amountof specialeffects. engaging blockbusters andoffers a of thissummer’s more funand Hemsworth ( result, starring abeefed-up Chris comics’ superhero. Thankfully, the for thisbigbudget take ontheMarvel perhaps surprisingchoiceof director Britain’s Kenneth Branagh was the Pierre Thoretton’s Fashion fans willnotwant to miss Jason Statham stars asa

Romeo AndJuliet Out:26 September

Out:12September Out: 26 September Out: 19September Home &Away L’Amour Fou love story given a Dirty Harry Dirty ), was one –an -

REVIEWS: JOSH WINNING AND DAVID HUDSON

talking gay co-worker whofrequently popsinto save usfrom thesopwithawell-timed crack orasentiment-free nugget of wack boring, bedsheet-swamped sex scenesandsympathy-straining family plotsmeanit’s sterile andboringlypredictable. Thank God opens by confidently lampooningromcom tropes (“Damn you, Katherine Heigl!”Kunis screams at onepoint) whileestablishing likea Out: 28 August Out: 9September THE SKINILIVEIN 32 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK may thinkit’s better thanmostpredictable romantic comedies,butitisn’t fooling anyone. opulent. at thecentre ofzany, melodramatic storylinesinmovies thatare asoutrageous astheyare director hasbuiltasuccessfulcareer makingfilmsaboutthefairer sex: positioningthem Pedro Almodóvar maybegay, butthat doesn’t stophimloving women. TheSpanish edgier leadsand busting storytelling. too extreme. Butit’s never anything lessthan100%involving –afearlessstabatbrain- on revenge, genderandgrief. Thesubjectmatteris, atbest,tricky, and,atworst, almost his native Spanish.Inscrutable, cruelandobsessive, Banderas hasn’t beenthis‘on’ inages. for Banderas whathedidforPenelope Cruzwith audiences, butAlmodóvar rewards thefaithfulwithfertile, febrilematerial.He alsodoes snaps therestraints entirely. Thefilm’s central nuclearbombofatwistwilldivide melodrama you expect ofhim. constructs aninvolving drama, layer by layer, gradually buildingtothepanting, screaming other filmsonlyrunskindeep(nopunintended).With humour, vividcolours. Doalittledigging, though,andit’s clearthatthecomparisonstohis pig forhisresearch, lockingherinhishome. in thisventure isthemysterious Vera (ElenaAnaya), whomLedgard isusingasaguinea troubled pastby experimenting withthecultivation ofatougherkindskin.Helping him The Skin ILiveIn Almodóvar hasalways nudgedtheboundariesofgenderrepresentation, andhere he Many ofAlmodóvar’s favourite callingcards are here: rape, music,violence, sly Antonio Banderas playsRobert Ledgard, anaccomplishedsurgeon who’s escapinghis If theconceptsoundsfamiliar, it’s becauseasimilarpremise was cooked upfor thisyear’s woeful Natalie Portman/Ashton Kutc It’s notlong,though,before

FILM: The Skin ILiveIn

Easy A REVIEWS ’s Will Gluckin thedirector’s chair, JW isnever easy. Amidthehistrionicsisagenuinelyunsettlingtreatise FWB isnodifferent. losesitsswagger. While promising arealistic romance, itcan’t escapethose clutching romcom clichés–picture perfect locat super-soundtracked puffof candyfloss, When isaromcom that thinksit’s notaromcom really justaromcom? Uh,whenit’s FRIENDS WITHBENEFITS the messy feelings. Whoare they tryingto fool? the BigApple,two bemoan theirinability to committo relationships. The solution? Have strings-free sex without Los Angeles director. art She’s Jamie,aNew York recruiter. WhenDylanishead-hunted by Jamieandlandsajobin than asheepinwolf’s clothing. comedy (the film’s press notes continuallyanddemonstrably usetheword ‘pointed’), butintheendit’s nothingmore

FWB That’s despite somesnappy chemistrybetween leadsJustinTimberlake andMilaKunis. He’s Dylan,ahigh-flying Volver already onthecompetition,andfor hasaheadstart awhileitskates alongnicely. Snarky andsarky, The Skin ILiveIn , giftinghimafascinatingrole in JW thedirector Friends With Benefits wants to bemore thanjustanothergeneric romantic y wisdom.Intheend, for Woody Harrelsen, playing astraight- her vehicle, bly eccentriccharacters. scandal at thisyear’s Cannes Film Danish director LarsVon Trier courted has allof Von Trier’s trademarks – MELANCHOLIA Out: 30September the invading planetdisruptstheirlives. increasingly irate. Andthat’s before ceremony hasClaire becoming her growing apathy regarding the Alexander Skarsgård’s Michael),but The former’s getting married(to and Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg). quandary are sisters Justine(Dunst) quietlyby?with usordrift Facing that approaching But willitcollide Earth. plot –ahuge planet,‘Melancholia’,is movie yet. For ithasalinear astart, but stayed defiantly ontheevent’s radar. ensuring hisgenre-blending oddity didn’t get lostintheensuingsquall, that thefilm hewas there to promote But it’sHitler”). to Von Trier’s credit sympathising soundbites (“Iunderstand Festival, offering upprovocative Nazi- its mostmemorable. Melancholia through thefilm’s closingcredits. heck of afinale that reverberates right deliciously darkperformance and one which setsasuitably operatic tone. Kubrick’s montage of painterly shotsthat echoes opening 10 minutes: anarresting sexuality. Mostimpressive isthefilm’s stark imagery, raw emotion,violent

Melancholia Poignant andpunchy, Controversy isVon Trier’s metier, Other pluspointsincludeDunst’s Friends With Benefits No Strings Attached 2001: ASpaceOdyssey islavish melodrama at Friends With Benefits ishismostmainstream Melancholia . Aglossy, ions, . With its FWB

,

REVIEWS: JOSH WINNING AND DAVID HUDSON WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 33 THEATRE: REVIEWS AND PREVIEWS Book HIGHLY your SPIRITED tickets STEVEN SPARLING REVIEWS GHOST SKIN FLICK

A production of Mysterious Skin comes to the Drill Hall theatre this month. Based on the novel by Scott Heim, the story was famously turned into a film by cult gay director Gregg Araki. This stage adaptation is by Prince Gomolvilas. The story centres on two young men, one of whom thinks he may have been abducted by aliens as a child. His counterpart, Neil, is a New York street hustler who leads a reckless and directionless life. A singular past event unites the two men. It runs from 18-20 September at the Drill Hall, 16 Chenies Street WC1EX 7EX. Tickets £12/£10 concessions. www.drillhall.co.uk/skin CITY TALES

One of the UK’s most acclaimed writers and directors, Stephen

PHOTO © MARYLIN KINGWILL Poliakoff’s new play is sure to attract attention – particularly when it Who wants to bet on the next Whoopi Bruner, is great; Ivan De Freitas brings happens to be his first in over a Goldberg film to be given the stage Latino hitman Willie Lopez wickedly to decade and marks a return to the musical treatment? After all, she’s got a life, and Mark White is a wonderful old London stage by comedian Tracey good track record: The Lion King, The Color school ‘song and dance’ ghost. But the star Ullman. My City revolves around the Purple, Sister Act… and now Ghost. What’s of the show is Sharon D Clarke as Oda Mae friendship of Richard and Julie, who next? Jumpin’ Jack Flash? Boys On The Brown, the charlatan medium who stumble across their old Side? How Stella Got Her Groove Back? provides a conduit for Sam to right the headmistress lying on a park bench If you’re a Patrick Swayze fan, you could wrongs of his death. Clarke is a comedy besides St Paul’s Cathedral – argue that it’s fondness for his memory genius milking every laugh she can from prompting them to reflect upon their driving this musical adaptation, since the the script, while her song, I’m Outta Here, schooldays and subsequent lives. The late star’s other hit film, Dirty Dancing, has proves that her soul pipes are as strong as production runs from 8 September to proved to be such a huge West End success. her comedy chops. Theatre magician Paul 5 November at the Almeida in Either way, the producers were clever to Kieve also produces a series of jaw- Islington N1. www.almeida.co.uk adapt Ghost – the film grossed over dropping illusions that will have you $500million worldwide so it was a pretty wondering, “How did they do that?” A NEW PLAY safe bet that there would be an audience for a stage version. The story has been tweaked Ghost takes live theatre a step closer The National Theatre has slightly by original screenwriter Bruce Joel to a cinematic experience with fluid commissioned Mike Leigh to create Robin to fit the stage but loses nothing in scene changes and extensive use of another play for the Cottesloe on the the re-telling. Robin provides the book and projections, resulting in a seamless flow South Bank. Details were still vague lyrics, with Dave Stewart (Eurythmics) and of action. At times, the projections multiply at the time of going to press, Glen Ballard adding music. the number of actors on stage, doubling the primarily because Leigh, in his usual The two lovers are a good match: Caissie size of the ensemble – particularly effective fashion, is creating the piece through Levy (Molly) sings beautifully, while for the NYC street scenes. Choreographer improvisation between a small band Richard Fleeshman (Sam) looks butch in a Ashley Wallen brings a pop video of actors and his usual creative team tank top, though the story is such that they vocabulary to the dance sequences, giving – including long-time collaborator spend much of the 2½ hours with little more the musical numbers an urban/street edge, Lesley Manville, who has appeared in to express than stunned grief, which does while director Matthew Warchus keeps the many of his previous films. Also wear thin. However, they are young and pace moving and the story fresh. performing will be Marion Bailey, Sam their love for each other, which drives the It’s always tricky to make a well-loved Kelly and Wendy Nottingham. The storyline, is believable and touching. film work on the stage, but Ghost works at piece – currently simply called A New The supporting cast is strong. Andrew pretty much every level . Play – will run from 14 September-19 Langtree, as the double-crossing Carl October. www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

34 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 35 FOOD: REVIEWS GREAT BRITISH DAVID HUDSON REVIEWS QUO VADIS 26-29 DEAN STREET, LONDON W1 020 7437 9585. WWW.QUOVADISSOHO.CO.UK

You’ll probably be aware of Quo Vadis – with wood parquet flooring, brown lettuce that were positively swimming in even if you’ve never dined there. This leather seating and sofas and pale green melted butter. My friend’s lamb was also Soho institution actually dates back to 1926 walls (it’s been re-painted since the photo well cooked and met with approval. I and features a signature dark green above was taken). The wall opposite the thought our side of broccoli (£4.50) a little frontage and classic stained-glass windows windows is lined with thick mirrors, too crunchy, but my friend thought I was – patterned with a geometric spread of while a marble shelf divides the room in purposely just trying to find at least one green and yellow translucent squares and two. Chunky Gainsborough cutlery lies on fault with the meal. rectangles. The venue enjoyed something the heavy oak tables. In fact, ‘chunky’, We couldn’t find any such quibbles of a ‘moment’ back in the late 90s when it ‘solid’ and ‘traditional’ sum up the design with the dessert. I polished off Toffee was taken over by Marco Pierre White and ethos. Original modern art adds a burnt cream (£7) – a British variation on Damien Hirst – until they had a very public contemporary flourish. crème caramel – while my friend had Bitter falling out and went their separate ways. Food-wise, the ‘traditional’ motif chocolate crunch (£9) and an Espresso Over the following decade it has retained a persists. Head chef Philippe Patruno has Martini (£9.70). loyal following but has not made the same created a refreshingly small seasonal menu sorts of headlines. In 2008, it was taken that changes daily. I opted to start with Taste-wise, Quo Vadis certainly hits over by new owners – brothers Sam and Dorset crab with Heritage tomato Salad the spot. It knows exactly what it’s Eddie Hart (owners of Barrafina) – who (£11), while my companion went with the doing and does it very well. I’m pleased have quietly set about consolidating the Cornish seafood salad (£11.50) – a to report that the service we experienced venue’s reputation as one of Soho’s finest concoction of muscles, crab, squid and was also exemplary. dining rooms – despite the arrival of stiff tomato all doused in olive oil. My salad was Portions are not oversized, and neither competition in the shape of the Dean Street tasty crabmeat with three thick slices of myself or my companion left feeling like Townhouse – which lies just across the red and purple tomatoes, topped with we had to loosen our belts. If they are in road and offers a similar sort of menu and thinly sliced fennel. Both dishes were light any need of boosting business, they could an additional ‘new kid on the block’ buzz. and suitably summery. We followed it up also perhaps shave a fraction off the cost. Décor-wise, Quo Vadis is formal and with Rump of lamb, broad beans and baby Then again, cost-cutters can head straight classic. The stained-glass windows make onions (£21.50) and River Tweed wild for the pre- and post-theatre menu, for a light and airy room but one that feels salmon and peas and baby gem (£19.50). offering two courses for £17.50 and three private and exclusive. The ambience My fish was perfectly and pleasantly for £19.50. Whatever you pay, you’re could be described as country house chic undercooked – sat atop fresh peas and unlikely to leave disappointed.

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SCENE HIGHLIGHTS OUR PICK OF THE BEST EVENTS IN TOWN...

SEPTEMBERA 2011 ACCESS ALL AREAS OUR GUIDE XXL BIRTHDAY TO EVENTS One of the biggest dates in the XXL calendar is the club’s birthday party, which always takes place in September. This year marks the 11th birthday of the club – which quickly established itself as arguably the most famous bears’ club in the whole wide world! The team, led by promoter Mark Ames, will be celebrating IN AND with a typically lavish bash on Saturday 17 September. Doors will be open for a whopping 12 hours – from 9pm till 9am. Expect Christian M to be pumping out the anthems on the main floor, with Joe Egg working his inimitable and delightful mix of retro tunes, rock and pop in the back bar. The place is sure to be rammed AROUND with the big and hairy, along with muscle boys, lads, twinks and everything in between. Or ‘one size fits all’, as the club’s motto puts it! TOWN Tickets are £8 for members and £15 for guests. The action will all take place at Arcadia, 51/53 Southwark Street SE1. More details at www.xxl-london.com, with advance tickets at www.xxl.clubtickets.com

HiFi Sean

CHIC SHINKY G-A-Y DIRECTION IDOLIZE MASSIVE EGO

One of our favourite midweek outings, camp and Fans of The X Factor will need no introduction to ‘I Idolize You’ is the new single from cult favourites silly pop night Shinky Shonky celebrated its 14th One Direction. The boys all auditioned individually Massive Ego. The band’s first single in several birthday last month. However, promoter Boogaloo for last year’s show, but were put together to form a years, it’s also an original composition and marks a Stu and his team have never been ones to rest on group – and subsequently came third, behind departure into somewhat more industrial dance their laurels and have plenty more action planned Rebecca Ferguson and winner Matt Cardle. They territory (think Depeche Mode and Propaganda). for the month of September. As always, the recipe immediately signed a big record deal with Simon Singer and songwriter Marc Massive will be for the night is simple – retro pop tunes and Cowell’s Syco label, and now they’re getting around showcasing the track – available now from online uplifting chart hits, crazy cabaret, crude and to releasing their debut single, ‘What Makes You retailers and at www.massiveego.co.uk – at the next gratuitous audience participation games, plus Beautiful’. To celebrate, they’ll be performing a instalment of electro-pop-retro night Club-i, which ‘sweets’n’treats’! Special guests during September headline show at G-A-Y on Saturday 17 September. is returning to Factory, 65 Goding Street, Vauxhall, include ‘boylesque artist’ Captain Kidd (7 Sept – You can expect the place to be rammed with on Friday 2 September. The night will showcase pictured above), new dragster Vicki Vivacious (14 screaming pop fans, enjoying the classic and current synth pop sounds alongside classics from Sept) and club diva Katherine Ellis (21 Sept). current chart hits from the DJs, plus the debut G-A-Y yesteryear from the likes of Soft Cell, Human League Doors are open from 10pm till 3am every show from Niall, Zayn, Liam, Harry and Louis. and Duran Duran. Admission is £5 before midnight Wednesday at Ku Bar, 29-30 Lisle Street WC2. www.g-a-y.co.uk or with a flyer throughout the night, or £10 without.

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 39 OUT IN THE CITY: ACCESS ALL AREAS A SEPTEMBER 2011

Dusty O (third left) and fellow Madonna fans

A MADONNA ODYSSEY PUNK HOSTED THE ANNUAL MADONNA OVERDOSE IN MID-AUGUST…

Now an annual institution, A Madonna Odyssey returned to the West End in mid-August to “Last night I dreamt of San Pedro...” commemorate Madge’s birthday (53 this year!). This year’s event took place again at Punk in Soho and was an absolute orgy of Madonna- Jonny Woo (centre) related sights and sounds. The venue was and friends decked out for a full-on celebration, with helium balloons and posters of the Material Girl everywhere. The night attracts a hardcore following of Madonna fanatics, both gay and straight – with many making the effort to dress up. Many of Madge’s best-known looks were in evidence, from the boy dressed as Dita from her Erotica period to the beauty in full ‘La Isla Bonita’ drag. We especially like the woman in a ‘Get Into The Groove’ outfit, even down to the Boy Toy belt. There was an exhibition of Madonna-inspired artwork, interviews with fans for a forthcoming documentary, DJs such as Dusty O spinning non-stop Madonna tunes, plus entertainment from the likes of BagaChipz and Vicki Vivacious. Partying for a good cause, a percentage of the door proceeds went to gay rights charity Stonewall. It was a great night, We don’t quite remember this and all we want now is for her majesty to period of Madonna’s career... release that eagerly-anticipated new album! PHOTOS © JOEL RYDER

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OUT IN THE CITY: ACCESS ALL AREAS A SEPTEMBER 2011

Lorraine Bowen

Ty Jeffries HOT AUGUST FRINGE THE RVT’S ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF ECLECTIC CABARET...

Back for its third year, the 2011 Hot August Fringe was so stuffed with shows and talent we didn’t know where to start. But we selected “Hands off, he’s mine...!” a few dates… and came up trumps! Dawn Right Nasty acted as a more than competent tech, lighting and sound consultant as well as mistress of ceremonies introducing the acts which, for our fi rst visit, kicked off with northern lass Myra Dubois in From Rotherham With Love. The show was a trip through her life Miss Demeanour illustrated with songs like Britney’s ‘Hit Me Baby’. Best known as the home town of the Chuckle Brothers, other Rotherham gems revealed to us included it as being the location for top telly docu BNP Wives! We also caught a silk housecoat-clad Miss Demeanour (Alicia Upstairs) with a Berlin-Weimar-style cabaret entitled In These Shoes, the fabulous Miss Hope Springs (a character by Ty Jeffries, son of Lionel of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang fame) in Je M’appelle Hope and a gorgeous musical fashion show of pure polyester garments by Lorraine Bowen. Whatever night you went, and we hope you did, the plethora of top talent on show was mind- boggling and, for the admission price, a bargain. Why trek all the way to Edinburgh Myra Dubois when we have it all right here on our doorstep? JEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM CHRIS PHOTOS:

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OUT IN THE CITY: ACCESS ALL AREAS A SEPTEMBER 2011

Boogaloo Stu (right) and friend

SHINKY SHONKY THE KU ’S MIDWEEK CLUB HELD ITS BIRTHDAY IN AUGUST

It’s no secret that we love a party, and if it’s the occasion of one of our favourite nights having a birthday, then we’ll be at the front of the queue. Last month Ku Bar hosted just such a party as Shinky Shonky celebrated 14 years of smutty, slapstick tomfoolery and pop pandemonium with host Boogaloo Stu resplendent in sequins, Lurex and sheer netting. Stu himself worked the decks for the early part of the evening before handing over to DMS Sam who played a more commercial and clubby mix for one of the maddest crowds in the capital. Free dirty-logo badges and tooth-rotting candy were given away, and a cabaret slot at midnight included the fabulous Fake Bush – followed by Shinky Shonky’s ‘unique’ gameshow, Celebrity Holes, where contestants are rewarded with prizes passed through a celebrity hole – don’t ask, you had to be there! With five hours of music and dancing, drinks from a recession-busting £1.50 and free entry all night long, this was the mother of all birthdays and an appropriately madcap way of

celebrating with Shinky Shonky. PHOTOS AND WORDS BY CHRIS JEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM

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OUT IN THE CITY: ACCESS ALL AREAS A SEPTEMBER 2011

PARENT TRAP RICHARD TONKS WOULD RATHER KEEP MUM...

The month of September is one of my favourite times of year, not least because of the annual migration from across the world of a student population who arrive in our city in their bright- eyed and bushy-tailed droves and inject new musical tastes, new fashions, new hopes and aspirations – in essence, a new life blood. But this year I wonder how any student without a small fortune manages to make the move to London. It was hard enough to get by during my own days as a student, but I coped (and always had enough for a set breakfast after DTPM). With university rapidly becoming the preserve of a privileged few, thanks to fees “FOR ME, THERE HAVE and the ever increasing cost of living, this ALWAYS BEEN important life journey seems to be increasingly dependent on the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’. BOUNDARIES AND THERE And while I expect to see throngs of ARE SOME THINGS aspiring, skinny-jean wearing scene-sters over the next few weeks, confident in spending MOTHER DOESN’T HAVE mum’s hard-earned cash while discovering the TO KNOW” nocturnal delights of the big smoke, I have also noticed the steady increase of another curious phenomenon across the capital’s hottest flaccid. Imagine if that was my own mother! scene hotspots: the clubbing parent. Does this make me horribly provincial? Steven Sharp and the This isn’t any self-hating queer talking here, Orange crew present a Now in principle I have absolutely no it’s just for me there have always been GETTING ‘Clockwork Orange 13th problem with the socialites in town who are boundaries, and there are some things Mother ON THE Birthday’ on Sunday inclined to party on with their parents. Perhaps doesn’t have to know. And my Orange-at- GUEST LIST night/Monday morning a sociable drink in the West End to reassure 9.30am-in-the-morning face is one of those 11 September at Fire. mother that her beloved is just like everyone things I hope she will never experience. Main floor residents else out there? It’s all part of that bonding As the family reunion continued at Fire The Oli, the Sharp Boys process between parent and gay offspring to that morning, Mother left to go to the bar to get The Wig Out crew go and Paul Martin will say: “Hey, Mum, look, I’m completely normal, and me a juice and returned with a shot and a 80s crazy on Saturday join Fat Tony and guest look how happy and fabulous my life is now”. I daughter: the twin sister of the boy to whom I 10 September at vocalist Tonnic for a accept that this is a perfectly healthy activity. had continued talking. The shot did little to Ghetto Factory as juicy house, disco and But imagine my surprise when earlier this reduce the bizarreness of the situation, and I Toyah hits the stage soulful vibe while David month, in between the hi-octane sound of felt relief when the family left shortly after as with her classic brand Jimenez and Gonzalo Orange’s Monday morning trashiness and the daughter had to be ‘dropped off at college’. I of pop-punk, while on Rivas mix up darker über-social smoking area, I found myself gave my head a shake and went back inside. the 24 September, flavours in the Raw chatting to a cute twenty-something in Fire – Saffron (Republica) room, with house head and was promptly introduced to his mother. Perhaps we’ll see a rise in clubbing joins the crew on stage Paul Heron. The first 13 Surely this is the stuff from which clubbing parents as the relationship between young for a hi-octane set of people through the nightmares are made. Making a predatory people in the capital and those that raised pop-indie tunes. Expect door can buy a bottle beeline through the club for the cute guy with them continues to change. Certainly the madcap pop and dance of champers for only the fringe flopping all over his face for a quick parents of the 60s and 70s are very different to silliness across a large £13 if – so set your snog is fair game at Orange at 9.30am in the those raised in the austerity of the 50s (like my venue packed with alarm... morning, but is it really the best time to be own), and with more young people staying at students, reprobates Open 11pm till super introduced to his mum? home and more reliant on their parents for and late-night drinkers. late. Entry £6 with an financial assistance for longer, is it any wonder Wig Out is every ad before 1am, £12 Just the concept of her watching me grope their parents want a slice of the action to see Saturday at Ghetto before midnight her pride and joy fills me with horror. If I spend where all those pennies go? Factory at LSE. without. more than 10 seconds thinking about it now, I However, when it comes to clubbing, in my www.popstarz.org www.fireclub.co.uk get this overriding sense of feeling rather book, ‘mum’ should always be the word...

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Delicious lads at Dirty Trix Wild Fruit wildlife

Dirty Trix at Rebel

Wild Fruit WILD FRUIT THE BRIGHTON CLUB’S GAY DANCE WEEKEND

At almost 20 years old, Wild Fruit is the south coast’s best known clubbing brand. Its Brighton Pride parties always a sell-out. This year was no exception, as the team made the gorgeous Audio on the seafront its HQ for the Fat Tony, Jeffrey Hinton and Lee Freeman weekend as well as utilising some of the best venues around Brighton. Opening on Friday night with the Gaydar Latino Lovers open-air terrace to welcome the party posse to town, the theme for the weekend was set. Saturday night saw the venue transformed for the major Wild Fruit SuperQueeroes, with the terrace rigged to resemble an Ibiza beach-front. Super hot go- gos danced above the heads of a packed crowd with tunes provided by a whole host of DJs including Seamus Haji, Guy Williams, Fat Tony and Jeffery Hinton. Inside, another dance floor rocked to the same tunes, and downstairs Freddie Dimanche and others provided a harder sound in the club. After dancing under the stars until 3am, the party continued at the Beyond Pool party on the beach, then it was all back to Audio for a 12-hour Sunday Sundae session before finishing up at Rebel’s Dirty Trix as the sun rose on Monday morning… There’s a reason Wild Fruit has made it to 20 years, and with its offerings over the Pride weekend it cemented Wild Fruit Dirty Trix at Rebel its position at the top. Here’s to next year! WORDS AND PHOTOS: CHRIS JEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 47 OUT IN THE CITY: SCENE GUIDE A SEPTEMBER 2011 GOING OUT SCENE GUIDE AND PARTY SUGGESTIONS...

VENUES: Street, W1. 020 7494 www.comptons-of-soho.co. Saffron 4041. Tottenham Court uk CENTRAL Road tube. Mon-Thu 5- LONDON 11.30pm. Fri & Sat 5pm- THE DUKE OF 2am. Sun 5-11pm. Long- WELLINGTON, 77 79 CXR, 79 Charing Cross running and famed Wardour Street, W1. 020 Road, WC2. 020 7734 lesbian bar. 7439 1274. Piccadilly Circus 0769. Leicester Square tube. Mon-Thu noon-11pm, tube. Mon-Sat 1pm-3am, CIRCA, 62 Frith Street, Fri & Sat noon-midnight, ‘til Sun 1pm-10.30pm. Cover Soho, W1D 3JN. 10.30pm on Sun. Traditional charge after 11pm. Large, Tottenham Court Road and fun gay pub over two cruisy, bar - always busy tube. Soho gay bar, offering fl oors, attracting a good after 10.30pm with those pop and r’n’b tunes, drag cross-section from across who don’t want to head hosts and cute bar staff. the scene. home too early. Open 4pm till 1am daily. www.circasoho.com THE EDGE, 11 Soho ADMIRAL DUNCAN, 54 Square, W1. 020 7439 WIGGY WONDER Old Compton Street, W1. COMPTONS, 52 Old 1313. Tottenham Court As we reported last month, the wonderful Wig Out has returned to London 020 7437 5300. Leicester Compton Street, W1. 020 Road tube. Noon-1am, with a new weekly residency at Ghetto Factory at the LSE (London School of Square tube. Friendly, 7479 7961. Leicester Sun 2pm-11.30pm. Economics). This long-running Saturday night shindig has a huge following famous, traditional gay Square tube. Noon-11pm. A Stylish, hip gay bar by offering a simple formula – 100% unpretentious pop – from 70s cheese pub - just look out for the Soho institution. Large, spread over four intimate to current chart-toppers. If a song is likely to prompt a mass outbreak of purple and pink exterior! traditional gay boozer on fl oors, with regular nights sing-along action or uninhibited dance moves, then it’s very likely to feature two fl oors, attracting a from top DJs, regular on the play list! CANDY BAR, 4 Carlisle butch and manly crowd. piano bar and tasty food. The crew took over this lovely little warehouse venue last month. Expect cheap drinks all night (2-4-1 happy hour and £2.50 specials), plus trashy ESCAPE, 10a Brewer sounds from DJ P, Lady Lloyd and Tommy Turntables plus special guests. In Street, W1. 020 7734 fact, following the opening night PA from Pete Burns (Dead or Alive), the 2626. Piccadilly Circus promoters have just confirmed two more live appearances. Get along on tube. 5pm-3am. Cover Saturday 10 September for an exclusive performance from former punk charge after 11pm. Every priestess Toyah (known for such hits as ‘I Wanna Be Free’ and ‘It’s A night’s a party at this late- Mystery’), followed on Saturday 24 September by former Republica singer night video dance bar. Saffron (‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’, ‘Ready To Go’). You’ll find Ghetto Factory at the LSE, Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE. FIRST OUT CAFÉ, 52 St More details at www.popstarz.org Giles High Street, WC2. 020 7240 8042. Tottenham Court Road tube. 10am- G-A-Y BAR, 30 Old Stylish, three-fl oored late Popcorn. Check www.g-a- 11pm. Sun 10.30pm. Over Compton Street, W1. 020 night gay venue, with bar, y.co.uk for details 20 years old and still going 7494 2756. Leicester dancefl oor and nightly strong. Long-running Square tube. 12pm-12am. promotions. Attracts a very THE KINGS ARMS, 23 community café bar. Huge, poptastic gay bar, mixed crowd. www. Poland Street, W1. 020 with a multitude of video greencarnationsoho.co.uk 7734 5907. Oxford Circus FREEDOM, 66 Wardour screens, pop tunes and tube. Mon-Thur 12pm– Street, W1. 020 7734 drinks promotions. www.g- HALFWAY TO HEAVEN, 7 11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am, TRAPPED! 0071. Piccadilly Circus a-y.co.uk Duncannon Street, WC2. Sun 12pm-11.30pm. We do like gatherings of bears – and even more tube. Opulent style bar, with 020 7321 2791. Charing London’s bar for bears and so when admission is free – so we were late-night club promotions G-A-Y LATE, 5 Goslett Cross tube. Mon-Thu blokes. Traditional interested to hear about Bear Trap, a new for a mixed, metrosexual Yard, off Charing Cross noon-11pm, Fri & Sat atmosphere plus pool Monday evening outing at the lovely Lo Profile. crowd. Road, WC2. Tottenham 12pm-12am. Old-style gay table. Sunday night The night is bring promoted by Manuel Garcia www.freedombarsoho.com Court Road tube. 11pm- pub spread over two karaoke very popular. (Ursus) and features a rotating line up of DJs, 3am. Late-night sister venue fl oors. including Ben Jamin, Leonardo Glovibes, Phil FRIENDLY SOCIETY, 79 to G-A-Y Bar – more video KU BAR, 30 Lisle Street, Marriot and others. Doors are open from 9.30pm Wardour Street, WC1. screens, camp pop fun and HEAVEN, The Arches, Leicester Square, WC2. until 2am, and besides the free entry, pints of Piccadilly Circus tube. cheap drinks.Gets very busy Villiers Street, WC2. 020 7437 4303. Leicester beer will cost just £2.50 all night. You’ll find Lo Trendy and unique, intimate most nights of the week. Charing Cross Road tube. Square tube. Large, award- Profile beneath Profile bar at 84 Wardour Street, basement bar with quirky Huge, world-famous gay winning, upmarket gay bar Soho W1. Check the Facebook page at décor and fun atmosphere THE GREEN CARNATION, club, which is now home spread over three fl oors, ‘BEARTRAP @LO PROFILE’ for more details. – attracts a mixed crowd. 4-5 Greek Street, Soho, to G-A-Y, along with mixed/ open till 3am daily and W1. 020-7434 3323. studenty Monday nighter always busy throughout

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the week. www.ku-bar.co. early morning through till sauna (first floor), with VIVA VAUXHALL uk 11pm – when the action occasional late-night There’s entertainment of moves downstairs. www. parties. Open Sun-Thurs one form or another every KU BAR SOHO, 25 Frith profilesoho.com noon-2am, and till 7am single night at the Royal Street, W1. Leicester Friday and Saturday. www. Vauxhall Tavern in Square tube. New, smaller THE QUEBEC, 12 Old sweatboxsoho.com. September. Catch the sister venue to Lisle Street Quebec Street, WC1. 020- return of Femmes by the Ku Bar, with entrances on 7629 6159. Marble Arch VAULT 139, 139 Whitfield Thames on Wednesday 7 Old Compton Street and tube. Long-running and Street, W1. 020-7388 September. Rosie Wilby’s Frith Street - open till 11pm huge pub, on two floors, 5500. Central, daytime evening of female stand- daily. The first floor houses attracting an older crowd. and evening intimate up talent will be throwing a Gay Tourist Office from Open till 3am at weekends. cruise club, for a men-only a special bash to noon-6pm each day (www. Off the beaten Soho track crowd. Open 1pm-1am celebrate Ms Wilby’s gaytouristoffice.co.uk). but well worth checking seven days a week. www. birthday, with special www.ku-bar.co.uk out. www.thequebec.co.uk vault139.com guests Sara Pascoe and Grainne Maguire, plus a LO-PROFILE, The THE QUEEN’S HEAD, 25 VILLAGE, 81 Wardour full live band backing Ms Basement, 84-85 Wardour Tryon Street, SW3. 020- Street, W1. 020 7434 2124. Wilby – her first musical Street, W1. Swanky, 7589 0262. Sloane Square Piccadilly Circus tube. 12- performances in over a sophisticated, 400- tube. Popular, very long- 1am, Sun 11.30pm. Late decade! Admission will be capacity late-night running, cosy gay pub – a night door charge. Soho’s £6 (or £5 if you too are a basement bar and club Chelsea institution. original gay café bar, Virgo and can prove it!). space – from the people spread over four floors, Dr Sketchy returns with Sister Mary McArthur that bring you gaydar.co. RETRO BAR, 2 George and now with basement his avant-garde and saucy uk. Open 11pm-3am Court, WC2. 020 7321 dancefloor and discos. life-drawing class on Wednesday 21 September (£10 entry), followed by high- Thursdays, and 10pm-4am 2811. Charing Cross tube. Popular with a youngish kicking fun from Sister Mary McArthur on Wednesday 28 September (£8). on Fridays and Saturdays. Mon-Fri noon-11. Sat 5pm- crowd of boys and girls. Special shows on Thursdays kick off on 1 September with a mixed www.loprofile.com 11pm, Sun 5pm-11pm. A performance production entitled Political: A Gender! Expect a night that traditional boozer for the THE YARD, 57 Rupert aims to “celebrate gender-transgressive voices and the powerful people MADAME JO JO’S, 8-10 gay scene’s indie, Street, W1. 020 7437 behind them. Cabaret, comedy, music, poetry - it’s all here, and every penny Brewer Street, W1. Long- alternative and student- 2652. Piccadilly Circus of profit goes to gender-diversity advocates Gendered Intelligence.” running, late night gig types – Tuesday’s pop quiz tube. Mon-Thur 4pm-11pm, Performers on the night will include Lashings of Ginger Beer, pianist and venue, nightclub and is an institution. Fri & Sat 1pm-11pm, Sun singer CN Lester, stand-up comic and film-maker Jason Elvis Barker, plus cabaret bar - open to very 1pm-10.30pm. Busy gay Elaine O’Neill, Noah Gibney, Hel Gurney, James Webster, Jo Johnson, and mixed crowd. Home to RUPERT STREET, 50 bar with hugely popular Naith Payton. The show will kick off at 8pm, with admission £7 all evening popular Wednesday Rupert Street, W1. 020 courtyard area, outdoor (till 2am). Entertainment for 8 September is still to be confirmed, but taking nighter Trannyshack. www. 7292 7141. Piccadilly balcony and cosy loft bar. place on Thursday 15 and 22 September will be SONG – a new event aiming madamejojos.com. Circus tube. 12-11pm, Sun to showcase new singer-songwriter talent from London and beyond. Hosted 10.30pm. Large, designer- by samelovemusic – the online music magazine dedicated to artists who are MOLLY MOGG’S, 2 Old style bar, popular with SAUNAS out in the music world – it’s a chance for new and emerging talent to perform Compton Street, W1. 020 professional gay boyz and in front of a home crowd of supporters and likeminded music fans. Catch 7434 4294. Tottenham post-work drinkers. CHARIOTS WATERLOO, 101 Paul Mosley and Jo Bywater on 15th and Owen Duff and Lianne Hall on 22nd Court Road tube. Small, Lower Marsh, Waterloo, SE1. (admission £5 on both evenings). intimate little gay pub, with SHADOW LOUNGE, 5 020 7401 8484. Waterloo Weekly regulars at the RVT include Amy Lamé’s long-running Duckie every regular drag shows Brewer Street, W1. 020- tube. Well-presented, popular Saturday and the S.L.A.G.S/Chill-Out session each Sunday – both of which attracting a mixed crowd 7287 7988. Piccadilly sauna, open 24/7. www. are absolutely heaving with their respective fans. Don’t forget that there will of theatre folk and tourists. tube. Exclusive, gorgeous, gaysauna.co.uk be an extra S.L.A.G.S/Chill-Out on bank holiday Monday (29 August), as well late-night bar and club for PLEASUREDROME, 124 as the annual RVT Sports Day, in conjunction with GMFA. The Big Bingo NEW BLOOMSBURY SET, A-list gays and celeb- Cornwall Road, Waterloo, Show with Timberlina and Hey Baylen takes place each Monday evening, with 76 Marchmont Street, spotters. Open from late SE1. Waterloo tube. Big the brilliant Bar Wotever every Tuesday – providing a platform for queer WC1. 020 7383 3084. each evening. venue with lots of different talent and have-a-go DJs. Friday night clubs at the venue include soft rock www.newbloomsburyset. www.theshadowlounge. areas – open 24 hours, night Speedwagon (2 Sept) and Massimo Paramour’s new Loud night on 9 co.uk. New, intimate com 365 days of year. www. September, playing synth pop, 80s and New Wave – with a live PA from basement bar and lounge, pleasuredrome.com Pauline Henry (The Chimes). Anthem – Old Skool Reunion returns on Friday beneath Snappy Snaps on THE STAR AT NIGHT, 22 16 September, with DJs Sean Sirrs and Rich B spinning the classic trance and Marchmont Street - half Great Chapel Street, W1. SAUNABAR PORTSEA, 2 house sounds, while indie night Marvellous rocks on again on 23 September. way between Russell Tottenham Court Road Portsea Place, Marble The line-up is rounded off by recently launched pop party Push The Button Square and King’s Cross tube. Relaxed, mixed gay/ Arch, W2. 020 7402 3385. on 30 September. tubes. Open 4-11pm Mon- lesbian bar – in traditional, Marble Arch tube. Small Don’t forget, advance tickets for many of the nights can be purchased from Sat (2-10.30pm Sunday). bistro-type surroundings. and friendly gay sauna www.ticketweb.co.uk Great food menu and with masseurs. www. The Royal Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall SE11 5HY PROFILE, 84-84 Wardour cocktails. Open 6-11.30pm gaysaunabar.com Tel: 020 7820 1222 – www.rvt.org.uk Street, W1. 020 734 3444. Tue-Sat. www. Piccadilly Circus tube. thestaratnight.com SAUNABAR COVENT Upstairs bar above Lo- GARDEN, 29 Endell Street, and rest rooms. Check Ramillies House, 1-2 basement sauna. www. Profile, owned and run by SWEATBOX, 1-2 Ramillies Covent Garden, WC2. 020 website for discount entry. Ramillies Street, Soho, W1. sweatboxsoho.com the team behind Gaydar. Street, Soho, W1. 020- 7836 2236. Covent www.thesaunabar.co.uk 020 3214 6014. Oxford Stylish gay bar/diner, open 3214 6014. Exclusively gay Garden tube. Basement Circus tube. Gay-owned NORTH for food and drink from gym (ground floor) and sauna with pool, sauna SWEATBOX SOHO, and run gym and

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 49 OUT IN THE CITY: SCENE GUIDE A SEPTEMBER 2011

hardonclub.co.uk).

THE FORT, 131 Grange Road, SE1. 020-7237 7742. Small cruise club, open till 11pm throughout week, with regular boots- only and underwear parties. Check website for full listings. www. thefortlondon.com

FIRE, South Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, SW8. Vauxhall tube. Infamous, late-night gay venue beneath the Vauxhall railway arches, host to the likes of Orange, A:M, Later and Juicy. Open around the clock at weekends. www.allthingsorange.com or www.myspace.com/ firelondon or www. clubtickets.com

LONDON tube. Bespoke club space friends. www.oakbar.com Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat 9pm- Lane, SW8. Vauxhall tube. THE GEORGE & on three floors, hosting late, Tue 9pm-2am, Sun Long-running, Friday DRAGON, 2 occasional gay club nights 9pm-late. Vauxhall tube. night gay Latin and salsa BlackheathHill, Greenwich, THE BLACK CAP, 171 and after-hours sessions. SOUTH Large, club-bar with night. Open 11pm till SE10. 020 8691 3764. Camden High Street, www.egglondon.net LONDON nightly promotions. 4am. www.exilio.co.uk Deptford Bridge DLR. Mon- NW1. 020 7485 0538. Tonker (Fridays) and Thu 4pm-1am, Fri & Sat Camden Town tube. THE GREEN, 74 Upper AREA, 67-68 Albert Horse Meat Disco FACTORY, 65 Goding 4pm-4am, Sun 4pm-2am. Shufflewick Bar: Mon-Thu Street, N1. 020-7226 Embankment, SE1. (Sundays) are particularly Street, SE11. Stylish, Late-night pub with nightly Noon-1am, Fri-Sat 12noon- 8895. Angel tube. Gorgeously-designed, popular. www. railway arch Vauxhall entertainment and cabaret. 2am, Sun Noon-10.30pm. London’s first ‘gay gay- hard dance club and eaglelondon.com venue, hosting occasional www.gandd.org.uk Club: Mon-Thu 10pm-2am, stropub!’ Stylish, Islington cabaret rooms, with dance and cruise nights, Fri-Sat 10pm-3am, Sun bar, serving full food menu eclectic roster of different EXILIO, Bar Rez, Club such as the infamous THE HOIST, Arch 47c, 10pm-1am. Long-running, and wide range of gay nights and one-off Colosseum, 1 Nine Elms Hard On (www. South Lambeth Road, famed gay pub – probably cocktails. Mixed, chilled promotions, including the most famous cabaret crowd. Friday nighter Onyx and CRUNCH TIME DJ Steven Geller pub in London. www. new Sunday nighter Cementing its theblackcap.com KW4, 77 Hampstead High Booster, amongst others. reputation among Street, NW3. 020-7435 www.areaclub.info Vauxhall’s 24-hour CENTRAL STATION, 37 5747. Large, cosy, party crowd, Barcode Wharfdale Road, N1. Tel: traditional old gay pub, BARCODE VAUXHALL, in Vauxhall has 020 7278 3294. Kings with regular Arch 69, Albert recently launched two Cross tube. Big, late- entertainment, beer Embankment, SE11. 0207 afterhours events – opening gay bar on three garden and food. One of 734 3342. Vauxhall tube. providing intimate floors, with ground floor London’s longest-running Open 7 days a week. Mon- parties for those who cabaret and infamously gay establishments. www. Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sun don’t want their cruisy cruise nights in kw4.co.uk 4pm-4am. Very popular weekends to end. basement. Upstairs B&B club bar, with dancefloor Bodyshakers is the accommodation. www. THE LOAD OF HAY, 207 and mezzanine chill-out Saturday morning centralstation.co.uk Pinner Road, Watford, space - gets busy at afterhours, running 01923-441113. Watford’s weekends. from 4am till late. It’s CLUB KALI, The Dome, 1 only gay pub, with big followed on Sunday Dartmouth Park Hill, beer garden and regular CLUB COLOSSEUM, 1 mornings, again from Tufnell Park, N19. World’s entertainment. www. Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall, 4am till late, but biggest lesbian and gay loadofhay.co.uk SW8. Huge, late-night Crunch, with DJ Steven Southern Asian music venue for after-hours Geller offering up the night, running every third THE OAK BAR, 79 Green crowd – hosting various chunky and uplifting Friday of the month. Lanes, N16. 020-7354 monthly promotions such house while the sun Always busy and rather 2791. Manor House tube. as Bootylicious (www. rises outside. For a unique. www.clubkali.com Friendly, diverse gay bar bootylicious-club.co.uk). taste of what to with late-night club expect, download a free podcast from his website at www.stevengeller.com. EGG, 200 York Way, promotions (open ‘til 3am THE EAGLE, 349 Admission to both sessions is £5 all morning. King’s Cross, N7. 020 at weekends). Very popular Kennington Lane, SE11. You’ll find Barcode at 69 Albert Embankment, Vauxhall SE1 7TP. 7609 8364. King’s Cross with lesbians and male 020 7793 0903. Mon, Tue,

50 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK OUT IN THE CITY: SCENE GUIDE SEPTEMBER 2011 A

THE TRAFALGAR ARMS, 148 Tooting High Street, SW17. 020-8767 6059. A spacious, lively, attitude- free, gay-friendy pub. Excellent food served all day. Weekly DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. Karaoke on Wednesdays. IMAGE © CHRIS JEPSON

THE TWO BREWERS, 114 GLORIOUS GUTTERSLUT Clapham High Street, One of our favourite monthly outings, and SW4. 020 7819 9539. responsible for some debauched and decadent Clapham Common tube. East End memories, Gutterslut returns for its Mon-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri & regular shindig at East Bloc on Saturday 24 Sat 5pm-4am. South September. This small but hip venue will be London’s most famed gay packed out with Shoreditch trendies, gay cabaret venue. Large bar guttersluts and drag terrorists – all presided and separate dancefloor over by the promoters known as the ‘Dalston room. www.the2brewers. Gay Mafia’. The event will be hosted by Miss com Krystilina, while DJs on the night will include Nic Fisher, Popcox and Squeaky in the main UNION, 66 Albert rooms, with MC Miss Crystal on the Embankment, SE1. 020- microphone, plus Laurent, Ralf and the fellow 7793 9262. Cruisy dance DiscoSlut DJs in the smaller DiscoSlut room. club which hosts regular East Bloc, 217 City Road EC1. Doors are open promotions. Plays areas from 11pm till 6am, with admission £5 before and hot go-go’s. www. midnight and £10 after. clubunion.co.uk and www. ma1.co.uk Wed. Pulls in 1,000+ XXL, Arcadia, 51-53 customers each Saturday CHARIOTS STREATHAM, Southwark Street, SE1. with uplifting dance 292 Streatham High www.xxl-london.com. anthems and occasional Road, SW16. 020 8696 London Bridge tube. Huge guest DJs. 0929. Streatham station. SW8. 020 7735 9972. DJs at weekends. Lane, SE11. 020 7840 world-famous club for Large sauna, with weekly 10pm-late. Door charge 0596. Opening times bears, big men and SAUNAS theme nights (bears, men and strict dress code. One LITTLE APPLE, 98 vary. Vauxhall tube. Huge, admirers, on Sat and of colour, etc). www. of London’s most famous Kennington Lane, SE11. traditional and historic dress-code and cruise 020 7735 2039. gay pub, with long history clubs - busy with a men- Kennnigton tube. Open 7 of hosting cabaret. Packed only crowd. Open Friday- days a week. Small, to rafters on Saturday Sunday and occasional traditional gay boozer for (Duckie) and Sunday Thursdays (SM Gays every local gay boys and girls - (S.L.A.G.S/Chill-Out). third Thursday of the open till 1.30am Fri-Sat. Check www.rvt.org.uk or month - www.smgays. the facebook group RV org). www.thehoist.co.uk PARIS GYM, 73 Goding Taverners for information. JACKIE’S JUKEBOX, Street, Vauxhall, SE11. THE STAG, 15 Bressenden Rivoli Ballroom, 350 020 7735 8989. Vauxhall Place, SW1. 020 7828 Brockley Road, SE4. First tube. Huge, well-equipped 7287. Victoria tube. Mon & Saturday of the month, men-only gym with large, Tue midday-midnight, 7pm-midnight (£7). Gay devoted following. Regular Wed-Fri midday-2am, Sat IMAGE © CHRIS JEPSON ballroom and Latin classes. Tourists welcome. 5pm-2am, Sun 4pm- BEYOND TURNS TEN dancing night, attracting Check website for entry midnight. Dark and Up until 10 years ago, the biggest afterhours party in the capital was Trade. up to 300 dancers a details and membership. atmospheric gay bar in It was thought that nothing could come close to toppling it from its throne, month to the glam 1950s- www.parisgym.com Victoria, with occasional but that all changed in 2001 when Beyond was launched. Set in the heart of style Rivoli Ballroom. PULSE, 1-4 Invicta Plaza cabaret and DJs at Vauxhall, it provided a new afterhours alternative for all those Vauxhall boys Crofton Park BR. www. (corner of Blackfriars weekends, plus upstairs who didn’t fancy trekking over to the other side of central London to therivoli.co.uk Road and Southwark theatre space. continue their Saturday night partying. Beyond is still going strong, and this Street), SE1. Southwark month it will be celebrating its 10th anniversary, with a party that is sure to KAZBAR, 50 Clapham tube. State-of-the-art, 286, 286 Lewisham High be one of the month’s unmissable dates for hardcore hedonists and High Street, SW4. 020 5,000-capacity megaclub, Street, SE14. 020-8690 dancefloor junkies. It all takes place on the morning of Sunday 25 7622 0070. Clapham hosting occasional gay 7648. Large, late-opening September from 6am until Sunday afternoon. The crew will again be rocking North tube. Mon-Thu parties and one-off gay venue, with regular the whole of Area, with resident jocks including Steve Pitron, Mikey D, 4pm-midnight, Fri 4pm- events. www.pulse-club. entertainment, DJs and Gonzalo Rivas, HiFi Sean, Jonny M, Sharp Boys, Paul Heron, The Oli, Paul 1am, Sat noon-1am, Sun info cabaret. Open till 2am Christian and Fat Tony pumping out the house music across the three noon-midnight. Clapham Sun-Thur and 4am Fri-Sat. rooms. If you want to avoid the queues, get your tickets now – with limited video bar, popular ROYAL VAUXHALL www.two8six.co.uk advance tickets available now from www.clubtickets.com throughout the week, with TAVERN, 372 Kennington

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 51 OUT IN THE CITY: SCENE GUIDE A SEPTEMBER 2011

gaysauna.co.uk Soca and funky). 9pm-4am. Entry £4 gay pub and club, open before midnight and £7 throughout the week. CHARIOTS VAUXHALL, THE BACKSTREET, after. www.gaylicke17.co.uk Wednesday’s Amateur 63-64 Albert Wentworth Mews, off Strip is an institution. Embankment, Vauxhall, Burdett Road, E3. 020- THE JOINERS ARMS, 116 www.bjswhiteswan.com SE1. 020 7247 5333. 8980 8557. Over 25 years Hackney Road, E2. Tel: Vauxhall tube. Large, old – small but legendary 020 7739 9854. modern sauna in East End dress code Debauched decadence – SAUNAS converted railway arch. leather club, open Thur- old-skool boozer popular www.gaysauna.co.uk Sun. Very strict rubber with post-club crowd at CHARIOTS LIMEHOUSE, and leather dresscode, weekends. Gets busy later 574 Commercial Road, THE LOCKER ROOM, 8 ensuring a wide and loyal in the evenings. E14. 020 7791 2808. Cleaver Street, following. www. Limehouse rail station. Kennington, SE11. 020 thebackstreet.com KINGS HEAD, 11 Church Multi-level, well- 7735 6064. Kennington Street, E15. Tel: 020 8534 established sauna. tube. Long-running, BISTROTHEQUE, 23-27 0197 Stratford BR and Themed parties such as intimate gay-owned and Wadeson St, E2. Tel: 020 tube. Intimate and ‘Big and chunky’ each run sauna. www.the- 8983 7900. Bethnal welcoming East End gay Monday evening, amongst lockerroom.co.uk Green tube. Very mixed, pub – regular cabaret. others. www.gaysauna. gay/straight crowd of Open till late throughout co.uk STEAMWORKS, 309 New trendy metrosexuals. the week. Peter Rauhofer Cross Road, New Cross, Great bar, restaurant, plus CHARIOTS SHOREDITCH, SE14. 020 8694 0606. separate cabaret room. THE OLD SHIP, 17 Barnes 1 Fairchild Street, BRAVO BRAVA! New Cross/New Cross www.bistrotheque.com Street, E14. Tel: 020 7790 Shoreditch, EC2. 020 Promising to be among the biggest and most Gate station. Small, long- 4082. Limehouse DLR. 7247 5333. Liverpool well-attended club nights taking place over the running establishment. DALSTON SUPERSTORE, Small, local, traditional Street station. Biggest gay bank holiday weekend is undoubtedly Brava. www.steamworkslondon. 117 Kingsland High Street, gay pub, with regular sauna in UK, with a maze Not only is it a brand-new promotion from the co.uk E8. 020 7254 2273. cabaret - five minutes’ of rest rooms. Very people that gave us We Party (Madrid) and Highbury & Islington tube. walk from BJ’s White popular (particularly at Beyond (London), but it will herald the grand EAST New, two-floor mixed gay- Swan (see below). weekends). www. relaunch of the Electric Brixton – the venue straight venue - café by gaysauna.co.uk formerly known as The Fridge! This infamous LONDON day and fashionable VOGUE FABRICS, 66 space has been lavishly and lovingly performance space and Stoke Newington Road, E15 CLUB, 6 Leytonstone refurbished (to the tune of £1 million), with the THE ANGEL, 21 Church club promotions at night. N16. New, underground Road, Stratford, E15. 020 new owners aiming to host top club nights and Street, E15. Tel: 020 8555 Open from breakfast until and arty hangout for the 8555 5455. Stratford live concerts – aiming to fill a gap in the 1148. Stratford BR and 2am every day. Dalston set. Mixed crowd tube. Deceptively large market created by the closure of the Astoria in tube. Big gay pub, always but regular gay events. sauna behind a discreet central London. popular at weekends, with GAY LICK, Club Lick, 58 facade. www.londonnoise. “There isn’t a premier venue of this size in regular cabaret, DJs and Hoe Street, E17. BJ’S WHITE SWAN, 556 com/e15 central London at the moment, and the music disco nights. New night Walthamstow tube. Twice- Commercial Road, E1. Tel: industry is crying out for one,” new owner Hidden InDa Hood each monthly gay promotion at 020 7780 9870. WEST Dominic Madden told the Evening Standard. Tuesday (8pm till late - a cruisy club space. Every Limehouse DLR. A large, The venue has a capacity for 1,500, which the offering r’n’b, bashment, first and third Friday from legendary, long-running LONDON Brava promoters are very likely to hit. Expect lavish production, cutting-edge technology, SOHO PINK THE HOPE & ANCHOR, plus hard dance sounds from DJs Pagano, Paul SUNDAY 20 Macbeth Street, Heron and Luigi, plus very special guest Peter Following its Hammersmith, W6. (020 Rauhofer (pictured above). inaugural launch 8748 1873). Gay pub for Doors will be open on Sunday 28 August from last year, Soho Pink Hammersmith and 11pm till 6am, with advance tickets costing just Sunday is set to Chiswick. Traditional £10 (clubtickets.com and the usual Soho return to boozer with nightly outlets). Full details at www.bravalondon.com Westminister on entertainment – open Sunday 18 noon-11pm throughout September. The week, with popular West Brompton tube. - particularly at weekends. event was launched karaoke at weekends. Mon-Fri from 7pm-late, www.west5ealing.com in 2010 as a closed Sat & Sun. Small, replacement for THE RICHMOND ARMS, West London cruise club. WINDSOR CASTLE, 152 Soho Pride, after 20 The Square, off Dark and sleazy. www. Bath Road, Hounslow,

the latter event IMAGE © CHRIS JEPSON Princes Street, Richmond. tedsplaceuk.co.uk TW3. 020 8577 6590. failed to secure 020-8940 2118. Long- Hounslow West tube. adequate funding. Soho Pink Sunday follows a pretty similar template. You running, traditional gay WEST 5, Popes Lane, Large, local gay pub with can expect the afternoon to kick off with a drag race around the streets of pub, with regular cabaret South Ealing, W5. 020- regular cabaret and Soho at 2pm, followed by an afternoon and early evening of drinking and bar- and entertainment. One of 8579 3266. Large, entertainment throughout hopping. At the time of going to press, full details had yet to be confirmed, gay London’s better locals. popular gay pub with the week. www.thewinz. but expect Old Compton Street to be closed off to traffic, and Ku Bar and Piano Room and cabaret co.uk most of the other Soho bars all signed up to take part in the fun and TED’S PLACE, 305a bar, open till late at frivolities. Collections on the day will be donated to charity, so make sure you North End Road, West weekends with TO UPDATE LISTINGS, PLEASE take along some spare change! Brompton, W14. 0207 entertainment and DJs. SEND INFORMATION TO 385 9359. Earls Court or Attracts a big local crowd [email protected]

52 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK

COMMUNITY READING PRIDE The last big southern England Pride festival of the year, the annual Reading Pride, returns on Saturday 3 September…

After Birmingham, London, Brighton and Manchester, you may be all Pride-ed out! However, keep some energy back for Saturday 3 September as that’s when the annual Reading Pride festival returns to the town’s Kings Meadow Park! If you’ve already been to Reading Pride, you will know that this well-organised and fabulous event attracts quite a large number of people – both from Reading, London and surrounding counties – and organisers are hoping for at least 15,000 to turn up this year. The day will kick off with a Pride parade through Reading town Eli Prime centre. This will assemble at 11.30am at the Civic Centre, before setting off down seeking to acknowledge those who have Broad Street, across Market Square, made a positive difference to the lives of down Forbury Gardens and on to Kings LGBT people in Reading and the Thames Meadow by noon – a nice, short stroll! Last Valley area. Categories include year’s parade attracted 300 participants – ‘Community Champion’, ‘LGBT with plenty of drag queens for added Organisation Award’ and ‘Scene Queen’! colour. Expect more of the same this year! The festival site, Kings Meadow, is a Reading Pride is free to attend, but if Booty Luv beautifully grassy park, where you will find you want to enjoy VIP treatment you bars, food stalls and a large market area. can buy a £10 ticket for the VIP Reading Pride is run entirely by There will also be plenty of live enclosure. Here you can enjoy a fast-track volunteers, and the organisers are still entertainment. This year, the main stage bar, front of stage access, all-weather cover keen to hear from anyone who can help will be headlined by dance duo Booty Luv. and possibly the chance to mingle with out on the day. They need stewards for the The girls were formerly part of the group some of the acts when they relax away parade, volunteers to help set up the site, Big Brovaz, before scoring success in their from the stage. fundraisers, backstage assistance and much own right with giant chart hits Boogie more. For more details on how to become a 2Nite, Shine and Don’t Mess With My Man. Founded in 2003, Reading Pride volunteer, please email volunteer@ Other acts appearing on stage will include remains very much an old-fashioned readingpride.co.uk boy band Eli Prime (formerly Injustice), sort of Pride event. By that we mean it’s a If you live locally, you’ll need little Mark Madison and Nicolette Street good-natured and celebratory parade encouragement to attend this great day out. (debuting her anti-bullying anthem Sticks followed by a free festival in a park – the Reading is also very easy to reach from & Stones), Alexis Houston and Drag With sort of Pride event that seems to be London, with mainline trains taking No Name. Hosting the stage throughout becoming less common with each passing approximately 30 minutes from Paddington the day will be Sandra, Wilma Fingadoo, year. The aims of the event are simple: ‘To station, and return fares from just £16 Lola Lasagne and Chris Kenna. promote equality and diversity, advance when booked in advance. Following their popularity in 2009 and education and eliminate discrimination in 2010, the event will again feature the relation to gay, lesbian, bisexual and For more information, visit

Reading Pride Awards, which will be transgender (LGBT) people.’ www.readingpride.co.uk HUDSON DAVID © PHOTO MAIN

54 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 55 CAMPAIGN OPENING DOORS CONNECTING LIVES As part of its ongoing campaign to highlight the work carried out by Age UK’s Opening Doors London project, Out In The City chats to service user and volunteer Keith Hodge…

Keith, 70, lives in Luton. He has spent his life in a variety of jobs (‘’a jack of all trades”), working as a chef, farm hand, machinist, merchant sailor and postman, among many other roles. He knew he was gay from an early age and met his partner, Chris, in the late 1960s. They were together for 37 years, until Chris’ death in 2003. Aged 64 and grieving, Keith chose that year to retire. He’s greatly enjoyed his retirement, and although he has friends locally, values the service OPENING DOORS offered by Opening Doors. He frequently attends social gatherings Out In The City is running an awareness-raising organised by the service in London, campaign around the work carried out by Age where he enjoys chatting with other UK’s Opening Doors London project. older gay men. Running for the past six years, Opening Doors London is a unique project providing information and support services to LGBT men What do you enjoy about attending You were with your partner for a long time. and women aged 50 and above from across Opening Doors events? Does it feel strange to see gay couples London. The organisation estimates that there I attend three groups – Just Friends, Metro now getting married and to reflect upon are around 100,000 older LGBT men and in Greenwich and Opening Doors. Just how times have changed? women in London, many of whom are socially Friends do trips out – theatre trips or Well, it’s what we’ve always worked isolated, cut off from family and friends and speakers turn up – and Opening Doors is towards. I was quite active in CHE and not in contact with appropriate services, or still the same sort of thing. It’s all to do with some of the other groups of the time. I still hiding their sexuality or gender identity socialising. Opening Doors also provides don’t think we’re fully accepted in the way because of fears born from very real negative services – it can point you in the direction we want to be – there is still some work to experiences. of counselling services, although I’ve never be done. Peter Tatchell could probably The organisation is a lifeline for many hundreds felt the need to use them, and financial express it better than I can! of older LGBT people. It runs both men’s and advice, if you want it. They can help you How secretive did you have to be about women’s group and helps organise social with that sort of thing. your relationship back when you first met events, workshops, talks, as well as offering Some people may be surprised to learn your partner, Chris? advice. Regular men’s group meetings take that people often travel some distance to Well, we wasn’t. We never had a problem place on the first and fourth Tuesday of the attend Opening Doors events. Do you feel with any of our neighbours. I never month, from 6pm, at Henderson Court cut off from gay life, living where you do? actually told my parents that I was gay, I Resource Centre, 102 Fitzjohn’s Ave (entrance Where I live in Luton, it’s pretty desperate. just didn’t go out with girls. If anyone ever round the corner on Prince Arthur Rd) NW3 Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to get into asked me, I was straight with them and 6NS. There’s usually a guest speaker on the London. There’s gay life in Luton for a said: ‘’Yeah, I am gay’. I never had a second Tuesday and a film screening on the younger crowd, but most of the older problem with it. If anyone didn’t like it, fourth Tuesday. Other regular events take place people I know just stay at home. they could jog on – it didn’t bother me. I each month at the Black Cap in Camden and in Is ageism a problem in the gay community? told my father when my mother died Covent Garden. For full details of these and Yeah. When you read through the media, because from what I’d seen from my women’s group events, check the latest they just don’t want to know anyone over mother’s reaction to what she saw on newsletter at www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk the age of 30-35. They’re not interested in television, I knew it would really upset her. Like many charities, Opening Doors has faced anyone over that age. I don’t see that many I never had to tell her. I introduced her to challenges to its funding. In order to continue younger volunteers. When I was with CHE Chris. She knew about Chris from the time to expand its current services, it still needs to (Campaign For Homosexual Equality), we I met him because I used to take him home secure funding. If you are able to donate, click used to do outreach with people, especially for Sunday tea and all the rest of the social on the donate button at the website: when AIDS first presented itself. So I don’t things you do with the family. I moved in www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk know what happened. I don’t have the with Chris before she passed away, and For more information, you can call LGBT energy to get involved with things today in they came to ours for Christmas and other Development Coordinator Nick Maxwell on 020 the way that I used to, so I don’t know how things, so it wasn’t as though they didn’t 7121 3335. much younger people get involved or not. know Chris was a big part of my life.

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NEWS IN THE NEWS... Gay stories from the UK and further afield...

GAY MARRIAGE FOR SCOTLAND? A poll in Scotland has found that 61% of Scottish people believe that lesbian and gay people should have the right to marry, as opposed to simply being allowed to form civil partnerships. The result shows a marked increase in opinion in favour of gay marriage over the last decade. The SNP-led Scottish government has promised a consultation on the issue. Tim Hopkins, from the Equality Network, urged ministers to move quickly, telling the PinkNews.co.uk website: “These results show that a Scottish government bill on equal marriage would have broad popular support.” GAY CHOIR spokesperson for the choir what we wanted to do was to MAN ASSAULTED ON said they would be avoiding help to break down some HAMPSTEAD HEATH SIGN MAJOR obvious or camp choices and barriers and misconceptions Police are appealing for information RECORD DEAL instead offering their own of what gay people are.” after a gay man was attacked, robbed unique interpretations of “We wanted to concentrate and sexually assaulted on Hampstead alternative and rock singles by more on the music,” adds Heath in the early hours of Monday 8 Brighton and Hove Gay artists such as Ian McCulloch, Musical Director Jason August. The attack took place near Men’s Chorus were Radiohead, Neil Young, The Pimblett, “and not necessarily West Heath Drive. Police are awaiting celebrating after signing a Enemy, David Bowie and Nine be pigeonholed into, ‘Oh, you results of toxicology tests to find out deal with a major record Inch Nails. The album will can do that, but you can’t do if the victim was drugged. The label. The 30-man choir are also feature one original song. that’. There was room in suspect has been described as a slim, rumoured to have signed a “Rather than being a gay Brighton for an organisation white male, aged around 20-21 years deal worth £1million with chorus, we’re a chorus of men of gay men who wanted to old, 5ft 9in tall, with blond or ginger Universal, who are aiming to that happen to be gay,” sing but didn’t necessarily hair. He was wearing a white hooded release the group’s debut explains B&H GMC Chairman want to do the repertoire you top and called himself Ryan. You can album in October. John Hamilton. “When we would normally associate with call the police on 020 7421 0203 or Announcing the album, a started the chorus, part of a gay men’s chorus.” Crimestoppers (anonymously) on 0800 555 111, quoting crime reference 2325588/1. LAST GAY CAMP

STICKER MAN SURVIVOR DIES CONVICTED AGAIN The Muslim teenager found guilty of placing anti-gay stickers around the Rudolf Brazda, who was East End earlier this year has been believed to be the last living charged with another criminal damage gay man to survive being sent offence. Mohammed Hasnath and to a Nazi concentration camp another teenager, Muhammed Tahir, because of his sexuality, has both 18, admitted spray-painting burkas died. Brazda, known as ‘the last over street ads of scantily-clad women. of the Pink Triangles’ because They claimed to be acting for the greater of the tell-tale badge that gay good as they believe women should be prisoners were forced to wear, not seen uncovered. was 98. Born in 1913, Brazda Hasnath was fined £100 in June when lived openly as a gay man and found guilty of placing anti-gay worked as a roofer. Following stickers in Tower Hamlets. He and the Nazi takeover in Germany, Tahir were arrested when members of he was arrested in 1937 and and roofing from 1942 until the awarded France’s Legion of the public spotted their actions and jailed for six months. He was camp was liberated in 1945, Honour in April this year. It’s called the police. They were each told later arrested again and, after after which he moved to believed between 10,000 and to pay costs of £283 and were initially being imprisoned, was France and met his life partner 15,000 gay men were sent to released on a 12-month conditional sent to the Buchenwald (who died in 2003). Despite his concentration camps by the discharge. concentration camp. He age, he continued to speak out Nazis and that few survived to worked there in heavy labour against persecution and was be liberated.

58 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK “I was terrifi ed of being gay, so I didn’t really feel sexual until I was about 26… I was quite inhibited. I feel like I’ve reached a place that I’m happy with and worked out things I will never do. It’s taken me years to work that out.”

Singer Will Young reveals that it took him some time to feel comfortable with his sexuality

AND FINALLY... WORLD NEWS TORCHWOOD ‘TOO GAY’ Despite cutting a gay sex scene from the current series of Torchwood, the BBC says it has still received complaints that the series is ‘too gay’. Torchwood: Miracle Day stars John AUSTRALIA GETS GAY Barrowman reprising his role as RETIREMENT HOME bisexual hero Captain Jack Harness. Construction on Australia’s first The star himself has said that gay retirement home is due to audiences new to the show might begin in 2012. Linton Estate, assume the character was exclusively situated in Ballan in Victoria, has gay because of a number of raunchy GAY’S THE WORD ATTACKED “There is clearly a lot of unrest and now received the official go- scenes. In responding to the unpredictable energy in parts of ahead. It will feature 120 two and complaints, the corporation posted a Gay’s The Word bookshop in London right now, and there may be three bedroom units, as well as message on its website saying: Bloomsbury was among the many some people wanting to exploit this facilities including a tennis court, “Captain Jack Harkness is an businesses to suffer damage during fact and use it as cover to express bowling green, spa, gym and established character in the series. the London riots. It was, however, their malice for those they do not café. The development is The audience over the previous series the only business to suffer damage like,” said a spokesperson on the rumoured to be costing around of Torchwood have known him to be in Camden on the evening of bookshop’s Facebook page. The $30million (AU$), but managing promiscuous and bi-sexual [sic] so Sunday 7 August, and the owners shop’s front window was smashed, developer Peter Dickson says he we felt the content was justified in believe the attack was and eggs were thrown into the store, has already received a couple of terms of the context and characters.” homophobically motivated. damaging stock. hundred enquiries from LGB people from all over the world DOLLY SPEAKS OUT about the development. Country music TORY MP BACKS legend Dolly Parton EQUALITY has apologised after ‘COMPROMISE’ a lesbian couple As we reported last month, the complained about Equality and Humans Rights the way they were Commission has been criticised for treated by staff at announcing it intended to the singer’s ‘compromise’ when balancing the Dollywood theme park. Olivier Odom rights of religious believers to ITALY TOLERATES and partner Jennifer Tipton were express their faith and the rights of DISCRIMINATION visiting the Dollywood Splash Country other minority groups. It highlighted Campaigners for gay rights in Italy waterpark, when staff asked her to two cases where Christians claimed were left dismayed when the turn her T-shirt, which bore the slogan they had suffered discrimination country’s parliament rejected a bill ‘Marriage is so gay’, inside out so not because they refused to serve gay to protect LGBT people from to offend other visitors. Alerted to the people. Now a Conservative MP has discrimination. In late July, the incident, Parton told ABC News: “I am tabled a motion supporting the Chamber of Deputies voted by 293 truly sorry for the hurt or Gary Streeter EHRC’s new stance. Gary Streeter, votes to 250 not to approve the embarrassment regarding the gay and MP for South West Devon, said he believed religious people have been legislation – despite Italy banning lesbian T-shirt incident at Dollywood’s marginalised but denied that his early day motion backs discrimination. He said discrimination on the grounds of Splash Country recently. Everyone he regarded the move as a “long-overdue recognition of the need to defend race, religion, ethnicity and knows of my personal support of the religious liberty and [that it] marks an important development in relation to a nationality. Paolo Patane, head of gay and lesbian community. better understanding of the role of faith in public life”. gay rights association Arcigay, told Dollywood is a family park, and all Although an early day motion requires no action from ministers, it is one way of news agency AFP: “This families are welcome.” debating a specific issue. Fourteen MPs – from all three main parties – initially parliament has betrayed justice Parton has a large gay following and signed the motion, but three have subsequently removed their names after and civility and has decided to is known for her long-standing criticism from the likes of Stonewall and Peter Tatchell. Streeter himself denied support the violent.” support of gay rights, including the that his motion was anti-gay, saying: “I don’t have a homophobic bone in my right to marry. body. I believe in ‘live and let live’.”

WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 59 PARENTING THE ALTERNATIVE FAMILIES SHOW RETUR NS! If you have any interest in having children and creating a family, the annual Alternative Families Show offers an unrivalled wealth of information and advice…

Following the success of its SURROGACY IN AMERICA arrangements and UK and inaugural event last year, the Karen Synesiou, Director of the Center international surrogacy for gay men. THE OFFICIAL Alternative Families Show – for Surrogate Parenting, and Dr Guy SPONSORS FOR THIS organised by Square Peg Ringler, from California Fertility OTHER SEMINARS INCLUDE: YEAR’S ALTERNATIVE Media in partnership with Partners, demystify the surrogacy Celebrating difference - different Citypink – returns to London journey, commenting on issues such families in schools FAMILIES SHOW ARE: this month. Bigger and better as how to choose an agency, Surrogacy and IVF for same-sex than last year’s event, it will all understanding medical insurance couples and singles THE LONDON WOMEN’S take place on Saturday 17 issues, obtaining birth certificates and Becoming a foster parent CLINIC: HEADLINE SPONSOR September at the Grand passports, citizenship issues, medical Crisis, what crisis? Donor Sperm Connaught Rooms in Covent aspects of surrogate parenting, from the London Sperm Bank The LWC provides IVF and Garden, London. advantages of US-based medical International aspects of parenthood fertility treatments to assist The event is aimed at anyone clinics and taking your baby home. Surrogacy 101: how surrogacy can couples and individuals who may need help in fulfilling work for you overcome their difficulties in their dreams of becoming a IS SHE MINE, IS SHE YOURS, IS SHE Considering donor conception conception and pregnancy. It parent – whether that be single OURS? LEGAL PARENTHOOD, Looking after yourself before and has over 20 years’ experience would-be parents or gay men ADOPTION, SURROGACY, CO- after conception and operates one of the and lesbians. Like last year’s PARENTING AND THE LAW Making arrangements for your most successful show, the event has attracted Peggy Ray, partner of Goodman Ray, family programmes in the world. some of the leading experts and and Deirdre Fottrell, barrister of First generations www.londonwomensclinic. authorities in the field – from Coram Chambers, discuss the issues Lesbian and single mothers: using co.uk all over the world! of international and domestic a known sperm donor Visitors will gain exclusive adoption and surrogacy including Fostering and adoption DAWSON CORNWELL: access to advice and legal parenthood and the advantage of Support networks/first generations OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER presentations on fertility entering into a co-parenting The latest in IVF, egg donation and treatment, co-parenting, agreement before the child is born. surrogacy trends for successful family A firm of national and surrogacy, adoption and creation international lawyers fostering, legal issues SEARCHING FOR DONORS AND Maximising success and minimising renowned for dealing with all surrounding parenting rights DONOR SIBLINGS: WHAT SHALL WE expense for European couples aspects of family law. This and ethical issues surrounding TELL THE CHILDREN? pursuing parenthood via IVF user-friendly and highly- parenting by single people or Dr Tabitha Freeman, of the Centre for Donor conception in the United regarded team has expertise gay couples. Family Research at Cambridge States – ‘Going Abroad’ and frequently acts in cases Besides exhibitors, a key part of University, will discuss the issue of ID- Changing perceptions of alternative involving civil partnership, the event are the dozens of release donation. Will children want to families same-sex couples, surrogacy seminars that will be taking find out about their donor and donor Affordable surrogacy in India and adoption (including place, with experts delivering siblings? And if so, what will they do Sperm banking in the 21st century inter-country). in-depth information. with this information? And what www.dawsoncornwell.com happens if donor relations get in touch Spaces for each of the above The seminar programme will with each other and meet up? seminars are limited. For more THE BRITISH SURROGACY include the following: information on all seminars and CENTRE: OFFICIAL FAMILY TIES AND THE LAW: to book your tickets, visit www. SURROGACY PARTNER INSEMINAR: EGG-SHARING AND SINGLES, GAYS AND LESBIANS alternativefamiliesshow.com DONOR INSEMINATION Leading fertility lawyer Natalie Over just the past eight Managing & Scientific Director, Dr Gamble, from Natalie Gamble years, the team at the BSC Kamal Ahuja, from the London Associates, shares her experience in has matched over 35 couples Women’s Clinic, provides women with shaping the law and working with and singles with surrogates, all they need to know about treatment same-sex and solo parents, both traditional and using donor sperm and egg-sharing. covering donor conception, gestational, and with egg co-parenting donors, resulting in the birth SINGLE MOTHERS BY CHOICE of 45 babies! All of these Susanna Graham, from Cambridge couples have been University, will explore the growing matched with surrogates phenomenon of single women choosing in the USA. The BSC is to have a child without a partner. The dedicated to building talk will detail the motivations and families of the future. experiences of choice motherhood and www.britishsurrogacycentre. how children in these families might com fare.

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PARENTING ADOPTING PARENTHOOD Have you ever thought about adopting a child? Out In The City speaks to prospective adopter Jeffrey Baker...

Jeffrey Baker is a prospective “As PACT is an independent adopter with PACT (Parents agency, its social workers are And Children Together). As a only involved in adoption; they social worker with plenty of don’t get diverted by other experience of working with priorities or get put under children, Jeffrey is justifiably pressure dealing with other confident that he will make a social work issues.” great dad. He has always had a “I spoke to members of New strong desire to have children, Family Social, the lesbian and which was with him at the age gay adoption support group. of 16 when he came out. But They had good things to say Jeffrey was aware then that the about PACT, its staff and its option to become a parent in reputation as an agency with an the traditional way wouldn’t be open attitude.” available to him. “As I live in London, I picked In the early 2000s, gay friends an agency with a London office. of Jeffrey adopted three It makes it easy for me to meet children in America. He saw up with my social worker and them experience prejudice and, attend the local preparation harder than that, learning to groups, but I also know they become parents through trial cover most of southern England.” and error. Jeffrey explains: “I “When I am approved to think gay parents are adopt, PACT will use its sometimes held to a higher extensive contacts and networks standard, but seeing Peter and across all the UK local Anthony growing as parents authorities to find the right child and making their fair share of for me. It won’t be constrained mistakes along the way gives by geography, which feels like the me comfort. Gay parents, like right approach when it comes to straight parents, will struggle at a child who needs a home.” times, and we don’t need to be “I’ve heard lots of negative perfect in order to prove we stories and rumours about what have the right to be parents.” you can go through when Jeffrey also found it important adopting as a single person to give himself permission to and/or a gay person. It can be pursue his dream. “My desire to offputting and confusing, but become a parent has always my experience with PACT has been obvious, and I could been excellent. The preparation imagine being a parent, but groups were personal, and I felt despite knowing that it’s included both as a single perfectly legal and legitimate adopter and being gay. Amy is for single gay men to adopt, it on hand to guide me through took time to allow myself to do the process and, when the time this, to have the confidence that is right, to help me find the I would be taken seriously.” child who will make me a Jeffrey is now in his mid- parent. This time next year I thirties, settled in his career hope to be spending the summer and comfortable with the holidays getting to know my financial and time Jeffrey Baker new son or daughter.” commitments that come with being a parent. know my PACT social worker, PACT has been consistently PACT is actively recruiting potential Amy. She’s been friendly and welcoming, professional and adopters and is currently supporting Having decided to adopt, optimistic, and I feel that efficient, and I feel well eight LGBT couples and single Jeffrey took some time to everyone I’ve come across at supported on my journey.” people. For more information about find the right agency and PACT wants me to succeed. At PACT Adoption, visit www. subsequently chose PACT. first I was concerned that the Here are some of the pactcharity.org/out or call 0800 “Being approved to adopt is a assessment would be about considerations for Jeffrey 7592 3923. PACT will also be present serious and thorough process, looking for reasons why I when he chose to adopt at the Alternative Families Show on but I’ve enjoyed getting to couldn’t or shouldn’t adopt, but through PACT: 17 September.

64 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 65 PARENTING FIGHTING YOUR CORNER Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, Head of Social Work at the British Surrogacy Centre, looks at the work of US-based attorney Tom Pinkerton…

Over the years, many people base diligently and give 100% to have given myself and my every case I’m working on. The partner, Tony, credit for gay community really needed promoting gay parental help to gain parental rights rights. However, the true credit during the mid-1990s, when no has to go to those who diligently one else was coming forward. work behind the scenes to make As surrogacy and egg donation the legal system more open and was my ever-growing interest transparent for people from all and I could see the large uptake walks of life. Equality has always of same-sex couples starting to been hard to gain, but there are arrange surrogacies, I knew a handful of people around the that it was an area I wanted to world who spend their lives become involved with. It was fighting for what is right – often important to me to make sure to little acclaim. American that same-sex couples had the attorney Tom Pinkerton is one same rights as any other couple. of these people. Since the early days of I first came across Tom in surrogacy, have you worked the late 90s in LA. I had found with many European clients on an egg donor and surrogate their surrogacies? mother who would help me Our international couples have create my own family, but I always been a huge part of my needed to ensure I would be practice. From the very legally regarded as the parent of beginning California was seen a child born via this process. At as the surrogacy leader to the that point, I was working with world. Dealing with European another great lawyer, Will Halm, clients has been an enriching who had recently had a baby girl and interesting experience for with his partner, Marcel. With me. Although it has always been regards to establishing parental puzzling to me why most rights, Will told me he knew a European countries have brilliant attorney who had negative surrogacy laws, I helped him not only to get a learned very early the parental order arranged for him importance of our networking and his partner but had also with legal professionals in our convinced the court that both advances in this important and for a gay couple using a clients’ home country so that their names should appear on fast-changing area of law. He’s gestational surrogate and egg we can work together to create the birth certificate. It was an also someone who has personal donor. This ordered the a seamless experience for our amazing result, particularly at a experience of the surrogacy California Department of Vital clients. Preparing for the legal time when same-sex surrogacy process. Back in 1990, as a Records to put two men’s names environment in our clients’ arrangements were a relatively practising trial attorney, he was on an original birth certificate in home country is as important as new phenomenon. I am happy also awaiting the birth of his September 1998. Almost 13 years navigating the legal to say I have used Tom’s services first child. Kaitlin was born later, the UK now also offers environment here in the States. for many years since. with the help of a surrogate something similar to this with Have you been over to England mother, Tom’s sister Judith, the parental order. yet? Over the past decade, using the egg of his wife, We hope to finally visit Thomas M. Pinkerton has Darlene. Tom then successfully Ahead of Tom’s first visit England, the homeland of mine devoted his entire law argued for both he and his wife to the UK, to speak at the and Darlene’s ancestors, in practice to assisted to be listed as parents on upcoming Alternative September 2011, where I will be reproduction law, including all Kaitlin’s birth certificate, Families Show in September, presenting at the 2nd annual legal aspects of surrogacy, egg overturning an earlier decision I asked him a few questions: Alternative Families Event in donation, and sperm donation. that he and his sister be listed Tom, some people consider you London. We plan to experience He is a nationally recognised as the father and mother! ‘a straight man with a gay the London I have only read expert in this unique area of Over the next few years, agenda’ – what would you say about in books. I read the entire law and has lectured, written Tom’s client base in this unique to that? Sherlock Holmes stories, and we and given frequent interviews area grew into a thriving Tom: [Laughs] Well, I certainly are looking forward to the and legal commentary on business. Determined to push never started out to gain that quintessential London! assisted parenthood. He is the boundaries of fertility law title but, to be honest with you, known for his uniquely and claim rights for the gay I’m very pleased that the gay www.britishsurrogacycentre.com insightful legal approaches that community, Tom obtained the community has taken me to www.alternativefamiliesshow.com have brought about many first Superior Court judgment heart. I work for all my client

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PARENTING SURROGACY SCANDAL Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, from the British Surrogacy Centre, says a recent baby- selling case in California should act as a warning to anyone looking to start a family through surrogacy – or overseas adoption – to get the best in legal advice...

The issue of surrogacy, even at the best of times, has a tendency to raise eyebrows. And when a widely-respected expert in the field is accused of ‘selling babies’, it illustrates the importance of following proper procedure and seeking out the best advice beforehand. Some critics say that California has become the capital of reproductive malpractice. The ‘Theresa Erickson Baby Selling Scandal’ has recently made headlines in the US. Erickson built her reputation over the past 15 years as one of the leading legal minds on surrogacy and adoption in the US state. She is a published author on the subject and has worked on hundreds of cases, PHOTO POSED BY MODELS © DREAMSTIME often working with many of the big surrogacy agencies in this light when a pregnant conspiracy to commit fraud. thinking about surrogacy country, too. surrogate, concerned that she She has been ordered to pay abroad – whether in the USA, might be getting involved in each of the 12 couples $10,000 India, Ukraine or wherever – US prosecutors charged criminal activity, contacted in restitution and up to your first port of call should be Erickson with malpractice the authorities. $250,000 in fines to the the BSC. We will be able to after it became known that government. She and two other direct you to the right places to she was involved with a It is estimated that at women face up to five years in start your quest and probably sophisticated ‘baby-selling least 12 babies were born and prison when they are sentenced save you thousands of pounds ring’. Usually, a couple hires a sold this way. Full details about in October. along the way, too. Our links surrogate to carry and deliver a the practice surfaced in a with legal and medical teams child for them, but in this case, federal court in San Diego in This case once again around the world are second to Erickson and her associates early August, after Erickson highlights how important it none; our professional team is arranged for women to become pleaded guilty to fraud charges is for prospective parents to the longest serving surrogacy pregnant and then found in a case that prosecutors say get thorough legal advice team anywhere in Europe and prospective buyers for the baby highlights the need for more when embarking on the has been working on surrogacy once the mother had passed the protection for adoptive parents, surrogacy journey. That said, journeys since 1997. We will 12-week pregnancy stage. children and surrogate mothers. Erickson was one of the most work within the UK’s legal Prospective surrogate widely-respected individuals parameters to help you achieve mothers were flown to Lviv in In a plea arrangement, working in this field – and was your surrogacy and bring your the Ukraine. Here they were Erickson pleaded guilty to often recommended as a baby home. We have implanted with anonymous egg the elaborate scheme that laywer in such cases. Given her caseworkers based in the UK, and sperm donations. In the stretched across two reputation, it’s not surprising Spain, Germany and France, Ukraine, doctors do not insist continents. Erickson she was able to get away with who can take your calls on seeing surrogacy contracts reportedly paid the surrogate the scam for as long as she did between 8am and 6pm. We before performing such mothers between $38,000 and (it’s believed the idea for the have a California office that procedures. Prospective parents $45,000 for each successful scheme was hatched around operates and takes calls when were told that the pregnancy pregnancy, and she and her six years ago) or that several much of Europe is sleeping! was the result of a surrogacy associates split the bulk of the couples should have needlessly Having a 24-hour team arrangement but that the rest of the money between lost hundreds of thousands of available to you helps bring biological parents had decided themselves. Erickson also dollars in their quest to extra peace of mind. And what to withdraw from the deal, and admitted to filing false become parents. we don’t know about surrogacy therefore the resulting child applications for the surrogates The British Surrogacy is not worth knowing! would be available for adoption to California’s state insurance Centre (BSC) is one name you once born. Prospective parents program to subsidise the can trust. It has built strong Barrie Drewitt-Barlow is Head of Social were then charged between medical costs of the deliveries and trusted relationships with Work at the British Surrogacy Centre, $100,000 and $150,000 to adopt of the babies. experts in the field over a Essex. Tel: 01621 878650. www. the baby. The situation came to Erickson pleaded guilty to number of years. If you are britishsurrogacycentre.com

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PARENTING THINKING ABOUT BECOMING A FATHER? Toyin Jegede, Donor Recruitment and Campaign Officer at the London Sperm Bank, looks at the issue of known and unknown sperm donation…

There are now a number of ways that gay men can become fathers. This could be by becoming a sperm donor either anonymously for someone you don’t know or as a ‘known’ donor for a female friend or relative. Surrogacy treatment is becoming more popular among same-sex male couples via a surrogate mother and sometimes an egg donor, too. With the help of our parent company, the London Women’s Clinic, we can assist you in all three ways.

BECOME AN ‘UNKNOWN DONOR’ The sperm donor shortage means that thousands of women are denied the chance of having children. If you are a healthy male, aged between 18 and 45, you can help. By becoming a sperm donor you will be helping a single woman or a couple conceive under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority’s transmitted infections and arrangements are performed overseas). Most jurisdiction. This means you genetic screening tests. You will coordinated through a successful arrangements will not have any financial, also have a consultation with surrogacy agency. However, in require the involvement of a parental or legal responsibilities our doctor. To find out more Britain it is important to note lawyer and very strict but have the potential to have a information about becoming a that ‘commercial’ surrogacy – in counselling. For more genetic offspring who could sperm donor, please visit our which the carrier receives information on surrogacy make contact with you once website, www. payment – is not allowed. treatment or becoming a known they reach the age of 18. londonspermbank.com or call There are two types of donor, please visit the London As a sperm donor you will be us on 020 7935 9004. surrogacy available: the first is Women’s Clinic website, www. able to claim both travel when an egg donor provides londonwomensclinic.com or expenses and loss of earnings BECOME A ‘KNOWN SPERM DONOR’ eggs that are fertilised with call 020 7563 4309. while on the programme. Apart You may have a single female sperm by IVF (in vitro from this you will receive, free or lesbian friend who would fertilisation) and ICSI The London Women’s Clinic of charge, a comprehensive like you to become a sperm (intracytoplasmic sperm is proud to be sponsors of the health screen, which involves a donor for them. This would injection) and the embryos are Alternative Families Show sperm count test, test freeze, make you a ‘known donor’ then transferred to the taking place on 17 September. screening for sexually rather than an anonymous surrogate mother for Both the London Sperm Bank donor to unknown recipients. pregnancy and delivery (known and London Women’s Clinic Our parent company, the as ‘host surrogacy’). The will be holding seminars London Women’s Clinic, can second type is when the relating to sperm donation, help you and your female surrogate herself provides the surrogacy and known sperm friend(s) to have treatment. For egg, which is fertilised with donation as well as exhibiting more information, visit its sperm by IVF and ICSI. It is at the event, so if you are website at www. important to note that only one planning to attend please feel londonwomensclinic.com partner’s semen sample can be free to come and speak to us. used for treatment. Advance booking for seminar SURROGACY The treatment is complex, with places is recommended – see Surrogacy is a very many potential difficulties over www.alternativefamiliesshow. complicated process with parenthood and citizenship com for more details. many potential challenges, (particularly when the which is why most surrogacy arrangement is www.londonspermbank.com

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COMMUNITY BIG GAY CAREERING LIFESTYLE 2011 AHEAD Put 22 October in your We preview this year’s Diversity Careers diary now! Show – a must-attend event for all LGBT job seekers and graduates… The Big Gay Lifestyle Show is a new event that will take place for the first time this autumn in central London. What with government cuts, a static interest rate that refuses Taking place at the Grand Connaught to budge and little evidence of economic growth, the UK’s Rooms in Covent Garden on Saturday recruitment market is fiercely competitive. Many people are 22 October, the show will feature facing redundancy, and thousands are trying to find employment in stalls, exhibitors and performances – a depressed jobs market. If you are looking to find work, are highlighting issues of importance to considering your career options or looking for a career switch, then LGBT people, showcasing lifestyle you will definitely want to attend the third annual Diversity products and services and offering some fun and Careers Show, due to take place at the Grand Connaught Rooms entertainment in the process. in Covent Garden on Friday 21 October (the day before the Big Gay In the grand surroundings of the Connaught Rooms you’ll be able to Lifestyle Show!). Around 100 of the country’s most influential explore the ‘Lifestyle Village’, with sections devoted to ‘Parenting’, employers are exhibiting at the show, demonstrating their ‘Fashion’, ‘Home & Property’, ‘Careers’ and ‘Health and Beauty’. commitment to employing a diverse workforce. The show, now in Throughout the day, you can enjoy entertainment on the main stage – its third year, seeks to be bigger and better than ever before, with which will continue throughout the evening – with the cabaret investment banking giant Societe Generale as headline sponsor, concluding at 1am – so you can make a whole day and night of it! supported by private and public sector champions of diversity, Headlining the event will be the ever-popular Pam Ann – the trolly Google and the RAF. The show is organised by leading LGBT dolly creation of the brilliant comic Caroline Reid. The Very Miss media and exhibition organisation Square Peg Media (publishers of Dusty O will be hosting the stage, supported by a gang of her pals Out In The City), in partnership with gay-rights charity Stonewall. from the fabulous Trannyshack club night. Europe’s biggest gay vocal Last year saw over 2,500 candidates – students, graduates and other ensemble, the London Gay Men’s Chorus, will offer some of their jobseekers alike – attend the show, and hundreds of delegates have own stirring interpretations of classic songs, while acclaimed new already registered for this year’s event. The show primarily targets songwriter Elouise will showcase her original material. Avant-garde LGBT candidates but welcomes jobseekers from all backgrounds. cabaret star Scottee, athletic performers A Circus Of Men, London- based dance troupe Slum Civilians, choreographer Alyx Steele, Exhibitors taking singer Jill Jackson and comedian Julie Jepson are among other part in this year’s names confirmed on the bill, which is growing by the week. DJs event come from confirmed for the event include Tony English, of SupermartXé and a variety of Lovechild fame. sectors, spanning The Big Gay Lifestyle Show has been organised by Square Peg Media investment Ltd, publishers of Out In The City. Director Sarah Garrett comments: banking, law, “In the past, similar events have been weather dependent or in less retail, property, approachable postcodes. This is Covent Garden in the appropriately and the public named Grand Connaught Rooms; this really will be a big day out.” sector among others. Exhibitors Tickets are available now via the official website. They cost £6 for a daytime ticket, to date include big allowing entry between 11am and 5.30pm, or £20 for a combined daytime and names like American Express, Asda, Ernst & Young, the FSA, HSBC, evening ticket (11am to 1am). Children under 12 are allowed free before 5.30pm, but London Fire Brigade, National Audit Office, Waitrose and London are not allowed to the evening event, which will be for over-18s only. 2012 among others well known brands and organisations. In www.biggaylifestyleshow.com addition to recruiters exhibiting on the day, this year’s show will also showcase a full seminar programme to help candidates with key topics that challenge the LGBT community in the workplace. The event will also feature the return of the very popular one-to- one CV workshops, to help candidates get dedicated advice about their resumés from real-life recruiters.

Managing Director of Square Peg Media Linda Riley comments: “This year, we’re focusing on one big show in London, providing our pool of top-quality candidates with the opportunity to meet, network and be inspired by recruiters from some of the most exciting organisations in the UK. We’ve packed this year’s show full of great benefits for candidates and recruiters alike – creating a truly exceptional opportunity for jobseekers from a diverse range of backgrounds to seek employment and helping both candidates and recruiters make the most of diversity in the workplace.”

Dusty O Pam Ann For full details, check www.diversitycareersshow.com

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CAREER MAN ON TOP Vincent Francois, of banking giant Societe Generale, talks to us about his work

FOR ANYONE NOT Q FAMILIAR WITH SOCIETE GENERALE, CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE ORGANISATION? Societe Generale is one of the largest European financial services groups. It offers services in retail banking, corporate and investment banking, specialised financial services and insurance as well as private banking and global investment management. We have offices in 85 countries worldwide, including the UK, and we employ over 157,000 people from 128 different nationalities – so we can truly claim to be diverse!

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT Q YOUR ROLE AND WHAT IT INVOLVES? As the Regional Head of Audit, based in London, I am responsible for the numerous audits that are performed by a very accomplished team both here in the UK as well as in our offices abroad. I coordinate the development of the bank’s audit strategy together with senior management in Paris as well as strengthening Audit’s relationship with other Vincent Francois businesses in the bank. It is a challenging and demanding In the very short time that the School of Management. I TO GET INTO YOUR SPECIFIC role, yet extremely rewarding. LGB Network has existed, we started my career in 1996 at LINE OF WORK? have already accomplished Societe Generale in Frankfurt First and foremost, I would say DOES SOCIETE GENERALE many things. I am extremely in Credit Risk Management. I to all people, do not neglect Q HAVE AN LGBT NETWORK? proud to announce that Societe then worked for two large your people skills, i.e., the way Yes, I formed the LGB Network Generale is the headline investment banks before you are able to communicate, in October last year and, since sponsor at the 2011 Diversity finally returning to Societe your ability to work in a team its inauguration, the number of Careers Show, which will take Generale in August 2007 in the and the way in which you share members has rapidly increased, place at the Grand Connaught UK as Regional Head of Audit information, and certainly do and I am pleased to say that we Rooms in London on 21 for Europe, the Middle East not be afraid to ask for advice are already making an impact. October 2011, and we and Africa. or an explanation if you do not The purpose of the network sponsored the Stonewall understand something. I have here at Societe Generale is to Summer Party at the WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST seen far too many people who champion LGB issues, Kensington Roof Gardens in Q ABOUT YOUR JOB? are technically very able but contribute to the bank’s June this year. The people I work with – my who fall down when they can’t inclusion and diversity agenda management, my colleagues communicate well or work and raise awareness of the HOW DID YOU COME TO and my team. They are, effectively within a team. impact of relevant legislation. Q ENTER YOUR PROFESSION? without exception, a talented Generally speaking, for my line The network also supports I studied Pure Mathematics for group of individuals. They of work in Audit, I am looking LGB employees to ensure no two years at the University of possess amazing team spirit, for people with some sort of employee is held back simply Caen, Normandy, France, and and I am exceedingly proud of chartered accountancy because of his/her sexual then I graduated with a double all of them. qualification, e.g., ACA or orientation and to encourage degree (MBA equivalent) at ACCA, but as I’ve said, I give a the recruitment and retention the Business School in Caen in WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU lot of credence to people skills of talented LGB employees. partnership with the Frankfurt Q GIVE TO ANYONE LOOKING and team spirit.

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COMMUNITY DIVERSITY CHAMPIONS The first European Diversity Awards take place in September at the Savoy Hotel in London. Out In The City previews the event and examines the idea behind awarding those who champion minorities…

Despite re-opening towards the end of last year after its hugely acclaimed £220million refit, we’ve still not had an opportunity to check out the revamped Savoy – one of London’s most iconic and famed hotels. That’s partly why we are so excited about the upcoming European Diversity Awards show, which take place in the Savoy’s ballroom on Thursday 22 September. The awards themselves promise to be a glitzy affair. Presented by BBC newsreader Jane Hill, this inaugural awards ceremony has been arranged by Square Peg Media Jane Hill Ltd – the publishers of Out In The City and G3 magazine. The headline sponsor for the awards is internet giant Google. The awards seek to celebrate all those who have advanced equality within their field or area. Given that equality measures and laws still vary greatly among the countries of Europe, the organisers believe that it’s all the more important to acknowledge those who stepped up and led the way.

The awards organisers invited the public to make submissions and to nominate across a range of categories. They have had over 250 submissions, including such well-known names as IBM, L’Oréal, Farnell Europe, American Express (Europe) Limited, Royal Bank of Scotland, Lloyds Banking Group, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, the Army and Societe Generale. The submissions have now been broken down into a shortlist of nominees by a panel of leading diversity professionals from across Europe. Many of those nominated are expected to attend this glittering event, but members of the public can also purchase tickets. However, at the time of going to press, there were very few tickets left! For full details, check www.europeandiversityawards.com

EUROPEAN DIVERSITY Group ü Royal Navy, Army & Royal Air Governance ü In-Trust Merseyside Generale ü Newlon Housing Trust Force (combined entry) Proud2Serve. Transgender Network ü Pop Up AWARDS SHORTLIST net ü Focused Women’s Network at Festival of Stories CAMPAIGNER OF THE YEAR the Royal Bank of Scotland Group ü Recognising the outstanding ICON EVENTS INTERNATIONAL Societe Generale ü Supplier Diversity UNITEDHEALTH GROUP DIVERSITY contribution of individual POLITICIAN OF THE YEAR Europe ü The Co-operative Group – TEAM OF THE YEAR campaigners to equality, diversity Recognising the outstanding Respect ü The Bank of America Recognising the outstanding and inclusion. contribution of European politicians Merrill Lynch Disability Affinity Group contribution of teams that have Barbara Lindsay ü Peter Tatchell ü Dr. in the field of equality, diversity and delivered change in the field of Theo Gavrielides ü Vanessa Vallely ü inclusion. ABERCROMBIE & FITCH DIVERSITY equality, diversity and inclusion in Lord Alli Lord Alli (UK) ü Operation Black Vote CHAMPION OF THE YEAR AWARD their organisations, this award is – BME education ü Matteo Renzi Recognising the outstanding work of open to diversity teams from the SOCIÉTÉ GÉNÉRALE CHARITY OF (Italy) ü Jean-Francois Cope (France) individuals who have championed EDI corporate and public sectors from THE YEAR THIS AWARD ü Councillor Sanchia Alasia in their organisations. Open to across Europe. This award recognises the leaders in corporate/public sector Kulbir Shergill – Genesis Housing outstanding work of charities from CAST MEDIA GROUP JOURNALIST from across Europe. Association ü Societe Generale – across Europe in the field of equality, OF THE YEAR Paul Polman (Unilever) ü Patricia Diversity Committee ü Lloyds Banking diversity and inclusion. Open to journalists in the broadcast, McCabe (Trident) ü Lars Mikkelgaard- Group’s Rainbow Network ü The Stonewall Equality Ltd ü Agapedia print and online media from across Jensen (IBM) ü Lt Commander Mandy Guardian – Yasir Mirza ü London Romania Foundation ü EmployAbility Europe. McBain (Royal Navy) ü Deborah Women’s Clinic ü Lancashire United Ltd ü Clean Break Julie Bindel ü Paul Burston ü Frank Milsom (GE Capital) ü Chris Sullivan Against Hate Partnership Gardner ü Rasa Navickaite ü Edith (RBS) ü Chris Dedicoat (Cisco) ü CISCO COMPANY OF THE Meinhart Anthony Watson (Barclays) MARKETING CAMPAIGN OF YEAR AWARD THE YEAR This award recognises companies OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE RUNNYMEDE TRUST COMMUNITY Open to television, cinema, radio, that demonstrate a long-term NETWORK GROUP OF THE YEAR PROJECT OF THE YEAR internet, event, print campaigns and commitment to equality and have Open to network groups from Recognising the outstanding other events including an element of delivered significant progress in corporate and public sector contribution that community groups creative marketing within Europe. creating a diverse and inclusive employers across Europe. make to equality and diversity. Metropolitan Housing Partnership ü workplace. American Express PRIDEUK Network Minority Ethnic Access Development McDonalds ü Royal Bank of Scotland Farnell Europe ü IBM Corporation ü ü IBM – EAGLE Employee Network Project ü L&Q – The Woman in Lloyds Banking Group ü Societe L’Oréal ü Vodafone Group

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1. Flowerpot pendant 2 Striped vase 03 Rob Ryan plate set This vibrant pendant looks The danger with buying Rob Ryan’s whimsical paper- We Want fresh as a daisy, which is homeware from major cut images have been impressive when you learn retailers is that your flat embedded on stationery, THIS MONTH’S HOT that it was designed by Dane could be burdened with a bags and now plates. Subtly Verner Panton in the 1960s! mass-produced and instantly referencing the passing PRODUCTS FOR THE HOME He seems to have created a recognisable piece of seasons, the designs show a classic as it’s remained in furniture. It’s a problem that’s tree draped in lush foliage or style ever since. With an sometimes associated with as barren branches, established heritage like that, more popular lines from a depending on the time of this is one light fixture that certain Scandinavian retailer year. Admittedly, the poetic should look good for many we otherwise love. Matalan’s passages may be overkill, but years to come. furniture division isn’t quite the cobalt blue saves things RRP £177 of that stature yet, so it’s still from becoming too soppy. www.cloudberryliving.co.uk safe to pick up this cheap but RRP £27.99 stylish vase. www.giftedpenguin.co.uk RRP £8 www.matalan.co.uk 78 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK HOMES

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4. Mini cupcake maker 5. Water-powered can clock 6. Drip noticeboard 7. Memo pad 8. Vintage moleskin chair If you’re a lover of cupcakes, Cheap, colourful and With the drip noticeboard, a Here’s another gorgeous The chair is supposedly then you might find some ecological, this quirky water- thick splodge of paint is a apple pad with soft curves, vintage – or vintage-inspired retailers charge an powered clock is a winner. sign of style nous rather than cute colours and an inventive – but the price certainly isn’t. extortionate sum for a lump Developed using a form of that of a sloppy apprentice design. It’s much cheaper However, the chair itself is a of sponge and icing. For a ‘long-life H20 technology’ decorator. Made from than most other notepads on looker. Finished with soft cheaper option, this cupcake (whatever that means!), this powder-coated steel, the the market, though. Cleverly moleskin and sturdy, shiny maker creates toasty, fluffy innovative contraption simply product comes with double- designed to resemble the chrome it should withstand batches of the confections in requires a serving of water to sided foam tape so you can fruit, its paper slices tear off the bums of time, and with minutes. The aroma of start ticking. After six-12 stick it to the wall in a jiffy, neatly. Thing is, if you pluck looks not based on current home-baked goods is months it’ll need and its small size should away too many you’ll styles, it shouldn’t fall out of undeniably intoxicating, so replenishment, and then the encourage you to tackle all eventually be left with a fashion either. take a minute to enjoy it cycle starts all over – it’s all those to-do lists quickly – no pruned core so we’re inclined RRP from £749 before drenching your much easier than chance of them going to leave it in its decorative www.haloliving.co.uk creations in synthetic icing remembering to water your unnoticed behind a takeaway form. and glacé cherries. house plants. menu here. RRP £6.50 RRP £19.95 RRP £9.99 RRP £15 www.bouf.com www.prezzybox.com www.greenstamp.co.uk www.allupandon.co.uk WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 79

HOMES: INTERIORS SWEET DREAMS Given how much time you spend in bed – and what you get up to while there – you deserve to splash out on the best you can afford…

Did you know that most of us spend one third of our lives in find if a bed is right for you is to lie on it, so don’t be shy when out bed? Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for the day ahead, so shopping as taking the time to try as many beds as possible is a buying a comfortable bed is definitely a long-term investment. small investment to ensure you get years of comfortable sleep. When buying a bed, comfort is one of the most important things to Although most people want to buy the biggest bed they can fit in consider. The mattress is the heart of your bed, and the secret is to the room, you have to remember to leave enough space for the ensure the mattress and base work well together. The only way to other furniture, so plan the room carefully.

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1. Ikea Nyvoll double bed 2. Bo Concept walnut 3. Warren Evans slatted 4. Moulin Noir, a 5. Dreams black high 6. Silentnight PocketZing frame veneer with black leather wood bed frame. contemporary version of a gloss with walnut effect 3 divan and mattress. RRP £179.72 double bed frame RRP £295 Louis XV double bed frame. double bed frame RRP from £599 www.ikea.com RRP £849 www.warrenevans.com RRP £1,099 RRP £599 www.silentnight.co.uk www.boconcept.co.uk www.ivorypearlinteriors. www.dreams.co.uk

co.uk WORDS CLARK BY LYNDA

82 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 83 TRAVEL A TASTE OF NEW YORK David Hudson never tires of the city that never sleeps. He offers some pointers for New York virgins and veterans…

Few would disagree that New is just over eight million – York is one of the most making it the most densely famous and iconic cities on populated city in the US. the planet. Unsurprisingly, it’s Manhattan, home to 1.6m of long been a favourite travel those inhabitants – an eye- destination for gay tourists. It watering 71,000 residents per was voted ‘Best Global square mile – is an island, Destination’ for the second which explains all those year running in the most recent skyscrapers: they can’t spread and well-respected Trip Out out so have to build upwards! Gay Travel Awards (www. In terms of the sights, first- tripoutgaytravel.com), and its timers will certainly want to gay-friendly reputation is set to tick off a handful of the most rise further with recent world-renowned landmarks. If changes in the law allowing gay you’re planning on doing so, marriage in the state. Many you’d be wise to invest in a same-sex couples rushed to CityPass – which is a book of legally bind their admission vouchers to some of relationships in the best-known sights. late July, and It costs $79, the coming but that’s months opposed are sure to the to see $146 you plenty would fork more of such out if paying ceremonies. to gain entrance It’s seemingly impossible to find to all the sights someone who’s visited New individually. This York who didn’t fall in love with allows you entry to the Empire the place. If you’ve already State Building, the Museum been, you’re unlikely to need of Modern Art, the much persuading to return. If, Metropolitan Museum of Art on the other hand, you haven’t, (which recently held a hugely a first-time visit can seem popular Alexander McQueen intimidating. The city is huge retrospective), the and offers a kaleidoscope of Guggenheim Museum, and sights and sounds. A true the Statue Of Liberty and melting pot of cultures and Ellis Island among other races, it was the first port of call attractions. Check www. for many European immigrants citypass.com for details. But who crossed the Atlantic in not everything charges search of a better life in the 19th admission. Free sights for any and early 20th centuries. first-timer include Times Consequently, there are Square, the Brooklyn Bridge arguably more languages and Grand Central Station spoken in New York than in any (with its iconic and instantly other city in the world. recognisable ticket hall). Grab a salted pretzel from a For the complete NYC virgin, street vendor and wander in New York City is split into awe along Fifth and Sixth five boroughs – Manhattan, Avenues, ending up at Central The Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn Park – 843 acres of greenery and Staten Island. Ideally, you and woodland in the centre of should stay in Manhattan, Manhattan. Rightly or wrongly, home to the most famous sights one of the city’s more sobering and landmarks. But if you don’t tourist attractions is Ground mind catching the subway into Zero – the site of the 9/11 town, accommodation is terror attacks. It is sure to slightly cheaper in the other feature heavily on the news boroughs. The city’s population this September as the city

84 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK Clockwise from below: 1. Manhattan as viewed from the Empire State Building 2. The Brooklyn Bridge at night 3. Grand Central Station 4. Central Park PIC CREDITS PIC

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The new World to be clustered downtown Trade Center around the West Village and Chelsea, with a handful to be found in the midtown West/ ACCOMMODATION Hell’s Kitchen area. Boxers (37 West 20th Street) is the largest Yotel gay bar in the city – a cavernous sports bar for a mixed and preppy crowd. It’s a couple of blocks from nearby Splash (50 West 17th Street) – a well-established Chelsea bar and club that can easily hold several hundred. Those wanting an earthier vibe can head down to Christopher Street. Pop into the famous Stonewall Inn (43 Christopher Street), or check out the bears at the tiny Ty’s (114 Christopher Street). Rock (185 Christopher Street) – formerly the Dugout – is another Accommodation in New York can vary Want something a little more flash? popular hangout for the big greatly in price – hotels.com reckons The latest W hotel Stateside is the and hairy – most of whom the average room will set you back W New York – Downtown, which move on to the infamous Eagle £166 a night. However, looking to drag opened in 2010 on a site directly (554 West 28th Street) – a that average down a chunk is the new overlooking Ground Zero. Rooms – large, cruisy late-night club. Yotel. The company already has ‘pod’ as you would expect from the W For further information, hotels at Heathrow and Gatwick brand – are sumptuous as is the there’s also a long-running airports, but this American branch reception lobby and bar – which LGBT Center (208 West 13th marks a whole new expansion – 669 features a signature, illuminated and Street), with helpful and rooms in a development on 42nd curved ceiling. Again, there’s an informative staff. Street. There are 600 standard outside roof terrace which will really In terms of getting around, rooms, which although a little on the impress once construction work on those iconic yellow taxi cabs small side, are clean, minimalist and the new World Trade Center is are considerably cheaper than refreshingly modern. If you’re only complete. London’s own Hackney looking to use your room as a basis Proving its gay-friendly credentials Carriages, while a $2.25 for exploring the city, you’re unlikely to and to celebrate the arrival of same- subway ticket (approx £1.40) want for more. Huge double beds sex marriage in NYC, W Downtown is commemorates the 10th will take you anywhere on the recline horizontally at the touch of a running a ‘Right To Unite’ package anniversary of the attacks. subway system – which again button (giving more space when not for anyone who may be visiting town However, you can now also puts London to shame. in use), while bathroom units are to get hitched! The package includes view the construction work of state-of-the-art. On the fourth floor a car service to and from City Hall, the replacement World Trade you’ll find large public spaces, an champagne and wedding cake. Center (a single skyscraper impressive restaurant (Dohyo) and A stay at W New York – Downtown due to be completed in 2013), terrace roof bar. Free muffins and starts from £219 (converted from which will be joined by coffee for breakfast are included in $358) per double room per night, permanent memorials in the the price – with standard rooms including taxes and charges. To footprints of the original Twin beginning at just $249 (approx £151) book, call 00800 325 25252 or visit Towers. It’s a symbol of the per night. www.whotels.com/ city’s defiance in the face of an www.yotel.com newyorkdowntown unprecedented attack – to once Momo Sushi Shack again stand tall, both W New York - Downtown metaphorically and literally. Not a New York virgin? The city always offers something new. Check out the High Line (www.thehighline.org) – the acclaimed and hugely popular urban park atop an old, disused railway line. The first section opened a couple of years ago, but was joined by a second extension this spring – so it Stonewall Inn now stretches nearly 20 blocks from Gansevoort Street, in Like in other major cities, the Meatpacking district, up to the NYC gay scene may have 12th Street. contracted over the last Although it can be tempting decade, but there’s still more never to set foot outside of than enough venues to keep Manhattan, venturing further any barfly happy. Venues tend afield will offer you a different

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THE OUT, NYC BEARS ON ICE Just as we were going to press One of our favourite annual with our New York report we events, the yearly Bears On Ice received further news about Festival, returns to Iceland this the city’s fi rst major gay hotel, month. This small, friendly THE OUT NYC. We’ve reported event usually attracts 30-50 before that the development bears from all over the globe to view of the city. To New genial host Phil serves up was in the pipeline, but plans the northernmost European Yorkers, the Number 7 subway Japanese madai, Scottish are now under way for the capital. Given it’s so small in out of Grand Central may just salmon belly, alongside fresh establishment’s unveiling. size, you can’t help but get to seem like another commuter sea scallops and Big eye tuna “The complex, situated on know everyone else over the line, but once it emerges from and tilefish from nearby 42nd Street between 10th and course of the weekend, and it’s the underground and runs Montauk, NY. Feast on pizza at 11th Avenues, will encompass a great way to discover the along its elevated railway Roberta’s or American cuisine a 105-room boutique hotel, wonders of Reykjavik and some tracks in Queens, it at the Vermont-themed the 11,000 square foot XL of the sights of Iceland! affords spectacular Northeast Kingdom, before nightclub, lounge and cabaret, Running from 8-11 September, views of the city and enjoying a beer at the straight- a 24/7 café and restaurant events taking place include a carries you through a but-cool Anchored Inn called Kitchen, three Golden Circle tour (visiting local glut of vibrant or Kings Country . courtyards, a business/ geysers and the awe-inspiring neighbourhoods. The In fact, if you love food, conference center, function Gulfl oss waterfall) and a trip to route was bestowed the you’ll love the whole of space, and a wellness center,” the famous Blue Lagoon status of ‘National New York. Period. says a spokesperson for geothermal spa (pictured Heritage Trail’ in 2000 – Not only is the city Parkview Developers, the below). There will also be a heritage path that overfl owing with company behind the project. parties each night, with special captures part of the restaurants, The fi rst phase of the project guests including Britain’s own American spirit. refl ecting its to open will be XL nightclub, Dreambears, DJ Barney Philly multicultural mix, which will launch in the (USA) and DJ Dramatic Alternatively, head out but the famed NYC autumn. It will be the fi rst (Iceland). to Brooklyn. The area of delicatessens and seven-nights-a-week gay For full details, including hotel Bushwick, near grocery stores will make dance club to open in NYC in recommendations and ticket Williamsburg, has been you realise how poorly the last 15 years. prices, check the website at dubbed ‘New York’s new London’s convenience “This is an idea whose time www.gayice.is/boi bohemia’. It’s an area stores appear in has come,” says Ian Reisner, of In terms of getting to Iceland, where hipsters have comparison. Parkview Developers. “THE both Iceland Express (www. staked a claim among Embrace the culture OUT NYC will become a ‘can’t- icelandexpress.com) and the neighbourhood’s and accept the fact miss’ for gay tourists as well as Icelandair (www.icelandair. many culturally diverse that you’re likely to the epicenter of gay life for com) run direct flights from communities and return a few pounds LGBT New Yorkers.” London airports. reminded me of heavier; your love London’s Dalston. aff air with the city Enjoy imaginative refreshed and sated dishes at Momo in every possible Sushi Shack, sense. where

David Hudson flew to New York with Icelandair. Icelandair flies from London Heathrow, Manchester and Glasgow to New York (JFK) via Reykjavik. Passengers can take advantage of a stopover in Iceland of up to seven nights at no additional airfare. While there they can explore glaciers, geysers, waterfalls and more. Prices to New York (JFK) including an optional Iceland stopover start from £513. www.icelandair.co.uk Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

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HEALTH / WELLBEING / ADVICE / FITNESS / NUTRITION / GYM

decide you are ready for and deserving of it. The old adage ‘you must love yourself before you love another’ comes to mind. I know it feels to you as though you are trying very hard to find love, but perhaps you are not looking in the right places. You have to look at yourself. Beneath your efforts to keep a positive outlook lurks the belief that you do not really think that love can happen to you.

Many gay men meet through sex. That can be very satisfying at first, but it can also feel you are constantly trying to prove your worth to others. RELATIONSHIPS Trying to find love through sexual PAGE 94 encounters is a bit like shopping for furniture before buying an apartment. Try getting to know people before you have sex with them. The ones you want to meet will respect you for it. You don’t need to feel envious of your friends who have recently announced their civil partnership. You think they have something you don’t have. But therein lies the problem. You do! You should try to focus on the positive, as Help me Out! it is that which tends to be attractive to others. We all like people who have Soren Stauffer-Kruse offers words a positive outlook and a belief that good things will happen to them. That of advice and guidance… is the shift needed in your life and GROOMING what, in the long term, is more likely PAGE 96 NO ONE WANTS THE think I’ve got so much love to give to attract a partner – because they LOVE I HAVE TO OFFER someone, but no-one seems to want it. want to be on this exciting journey M with you. Dear Out, Please help! I can’t seem to find or Dear M, You have hooked your insecurity keep a boyfriend! I know I’m not Let me reassure you that the size of about your body to the peg of ‘no- exactly model material, but I’m not a your penis is not your problem. Love one loves me’. It is wonderful that complete dog’s dinner. I look OK, and can come to you no matter what size you have a lot of love to give, but you I have a good circle of friends, and your penis is. We live in a world that need to learn to love yourself more, I’m pretty sure I’m not self-centered is fixated on physical appearance looking beyond any physical or a bitchy person. However, I know I and, because so many people place imperfections. Don’t worry about the can sometimes be a little bit camp, far too much importance on it, this size of your penis or about how camp and I’m also a bit paranoid about the has affected your confidence. As gay you may be at times. A big penis isn’t size of my penis. Going only on the men we are particularly hooked on interesting for very long. A man with guys I’ve slept with, I know I’m a bit trying to derive self-confidence from confidence who feels good about on the small side. People say it physical attributes like a big penis or himself – from the inside out – is so BODY TALK doesn’t matter, but guys that a large bank account because we’ve much bigger where it really matters. PAGE 98 previously seemed enthusiastic grown up often feeling inadequate suddenly seemed to lose interest about ourselves at a deeper level. after they’d had sex with me. This is GET IN TOUCH really beginning to depress me – Let’s start by looking at your concept Soren Stauffer-Kruse is a particularly as good friends of mine of trying to find a boyfriend. Most Chartered Counselling Psychologist recently announced their civil guys do not want to be found and and an expert in gay relationship and partnership. I am happy for them, but kept. The ones who do are the ones sexual issues. If you have a problem I can’t help wondering whether it will you may want to avoid, and generally and are seeking advice, email ever happen to me. My longest they go after the men with big penises [email protected] relationship was six months, but that and big bank accounts anyway. Love We regret that Soren cannot enter was three years ago (I’m 37 now). I is something that finds you when you into personal correspondence

VWWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 93 RELATIONSHIPS SEXUAL HEALING Never been to a sexual health clinic? Dr Andy Williams, of Barts and the London NHS Trust, tells you what you can expect – and why all sexually-active gay men should make it a regular part of their health and fitness regime…

In the 30 years since the identification of the virus now known to be HIV many thousands of column inches have been devoted to the importance of early diagnosis and regular HIV antibody testing. Less discussed are the multitude of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis and herpes, to name but a few. With nearly 2,500 new HIV infections and almost 5,000 gonorrhoea diagnoses in gay and bisexual men in the UK in 2010, evidently the safe sex message still needs to be shouted from the rooftops. Sexual health clinics, staffed by doctors and nurses specially trained in the diagnosis and management of STIs, exist all over the country. Many larger units have dedicated services for men who have sex with men. It is due to the importance of early infection diagnosis and the public health consequences of increased infection rates that people are able to walk in off the street and see a specialist in these clinics rather than wait for a referral from their GP – as with most other NHS services. However, quite what happens behind for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B – although be made by the clinician on the spot. the clinic doors still remains a mystery to you don’t have to have an HIV test if you Genital ulcers will require more specific many and, consequently, that all- don’t want one. If you’ve noticed anything testing to distinguish the various causes. important sexual health screening, much untoward, you’re likely to see a doctor or Many clinics now offer speedy HIV like the dental check-up, can be specialist nurse to provide a few extra tests, processed in the clinic and giving indefinitely postponed. details prior to the samples being taken. results within about 20 minutes of In fact all you need to do is cross over The staff should do their utmost to testing taking place. Results for the the threshold of the clinic and present alleviate any anxiety or embarrassment. majority of STI tests will not be available yourself at the reception, stating something Remember that they see hundreds of on the same day so the clinic will arrange as suitably vague as, “I’d like a check up, people’s genitalia every week! a convenient means of getting the results please”. The receptionist doesn’t need to to you within approximately 10 days such know the specific details of your problem. There are a number of other services as by text message. You’ll then be asked to fill in a offered by these specialist clinics such registration form. While fake names are as vaccination for hepatitis B, a Now that you know what a sexual not ideal, if you really don’t want to give preventable sexually transmissible health check-up involves, the next issue your precise personal information, you virus, the opportunity to speak to a is how often you should have one. There don’t have to do so. You may also need to health adviser to discuss strategies to isn’t a straightforward answer to this fill in a form stating the reason why you reduce sexual risk taking and help question but the most practical advice came to the clinic to ensure that you are contact sexual partners if you have been would be after any unprotected sex and at directed to the most appropriate member diagnosed with an infection. If you have the start of every new relationship. If you of staff. A standard infection screen would had sexual contact with someone known to have multiple partners or frequent changes test for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, be HIV positive or believed to be at high of partner, it is best to get yourself a screen hepatitis B and HIV. If you feel risk for HIV, it is worth mentioning this as every three months. Think of it as a sexual absolutely fine and have no – if the time frame is right – you could be health M.O.T! symptoms whatsoever, started on post-exposure prophylaxis you’ll quickly see a nurse (PEP), a combination of anti-HIV Dr Andy Williams is a Specialist Registrar in Sexual who will take a urine medications to reduce the chances of Health and HIV Medicine for Barts and the Royal sample, throat and rectal you contracting HIV. London Hospitals. The Royal London Hospital has a swabs for chlamydia and The diagnosis of genital warts dedicated clinic for gay and bisexual men on gonorrhoea and a blood test will not require any tests and can Tuesday evenings (020 7377 7306).

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GROOMING GO WEST David Hudson reviews K Spa in Shepherd’s Bush – recently crowned the UK’s best luxury hotel spa!

The K West Hotel, situated just a stone’s throw from Shepherd’s Bush tube station, has been open for the past 10 years. It’s a successful part of the Landmark Group, and has a reputation for attracting a media-savvy crowd and a healthy proportion of music biz types – there are recording studios and record label offices nearby. Partly to reflect this, the hotel features a funky bar area with its own in-house DJ at weekends. Anyone is welcome to use the basement K Spa – whether they are a resident at the hotel or not. Recognising the growth in the grooming and spa industry, the owners invested a whopping £2 million last year on revamping the entire space. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with state-of-the-art facilities that have earned the venue “Best Luxury Hotel Spa, UK” in the recent World Luxury Spa Awards. The hydrotherapy pool Given such acclaim, you’re probably now imagining that laying me face down, Nemanja use of the spa’s other facilities, You won’t be hurried to the place must be super- gently lifted my torso from the which include immaculate leave. In fact, if you went with expensive, but prices remain mat by gripping my arms and saunas, a steam room, a a friend, you could quite easily competitive. Both facials and pulling back; at another point, hydrotherapy pool and enjoy your treatment and then massage start at around £80 for while in the same position, he London’s first ‘Snow Paradise’. hang around for a couple of 60 minutes (shorter treatments stretched my thigh muscles by Basically, it’s a sauna-sized hours in the spa afterwards, are also available). The spa pushing his body weight freezer kept permanently at 10- which, to my mind, gives this does offer a bewildering against my legs and bringing 15 degrees centigrade and full place a significant advantage amount of choice, but the staff them down against my body. of snow. The idea is to pop over some other facilities. explained to me that they are He used an aromatic oil made inside for a couple of minutes very happy for clients to chat from rainforest clove, orange, after you emerge, hot, from the K West Hotel and Spa, Richmond with them in advance to get cedar wood and rosemary. It sauna: from steaming to Way, London W14 0AX. advice on what treatment was a much-needed and freezing and back again. 020 8008 6600. www.k-west.co.uk might be best. invigorating treatment. I felt Although tempted by the deeply relaxed afterwards - K West hotel spa’s unique ‘dry flotation and my thighs remained tank’, in the end I opted for the buzzing a day or two later! K Spa’s signature ‘Muscle Ease Elixir’ massage (£85 for 60 Once the massage was minutes). A nice young Serbian finished, rather than having man name Nemanja took me to to get dressed and leave, a treatment room, where I lay Nemanja pointed me in the on a padded mat on the floor. direction of a relaxation Unlike a sports or Swedish room (the ‘RelaKs Zone’), massage, this treatment where, in my K Spa robe, I incorporated elements of could recline on an angular traditional Thai massage – with chaise longue and listen to lots of gentle pressure applied trippy, chill-out tunes to my limbs followed by lots of through headphones. Clients pulling and stretching. After are encouraged to make full

96 WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK WWW.OUTMAG.CO.UK 97 FITNESS My body Andrew Sweet

WHEN DID YOU START HOW TO GET A QWORKING OUT? BODY LIKE I’ve been working out regularly ANDREW’S since the age of 21, when I joined a big chain health club group. I had always wanted to become a 1. Ask advice from bodybuilder, but I knew it would other bodybuilders! take time. The first couple of Befriend the guys at years were more about learning your gym. It will how to train the different muscle make visits to the groups and get my general fitness gym more sociable, levels up. I was never a fan of PE and you’re more classes at school as I wasn’t likely to keep exactly a keen sportsman. Then, returning if you’ve three years ago, I met my closest made friends there. friend, Glen, who is a bodybuilder. At the time I 2. If you want to build weighed 70kg. I asked him for muscle, you will advice. He said: “Come and train almost certainly with me, but be warned you have have to increase your to be committed and I will push protein intake. you.” I knew what I wanted, and Protein shakes are three years later I am 103kg with the quickest and excellent muscle mass. So I want easiest way to do to say a big thanks to my amazing this – particularly friend, Glen Skinner. after a workout – in addition to taking in WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL GYM extra protein in your QROUTINE? diet. Again, ask I train Monday to Friday in the around for advice on evenings after work. On Mondays the best shakes. I do my mid-back and lower back. On Tuesdays I do my arms 3. Concentrate on (biceps, triceps and forearms). On technique – over and Wednesdays I do my legs and above increasing the gluteals. On Thursdays I do my weight you lift. upper back and shoulders. On Consistent Fridays I do my chest (otherwise repetitions at a lower known as my disco tits!). weight, performed properly, will yield WHAT SORT OF WEIGHTS DO better results than if QYOU LIFT NOW? you are struggling

If you are looking to gain muscle PHOTO © CHRIS JEPSON with a weight that is mass. it is important not to lift simply too great for weights that are too heavy or too the morning with my complex Learn the techniques of each your muscles. Watch light. There is a difference carbohydrate cereal. Then I have exercise properly before yourself in the gym’s between bodybuilding and power one later in the afternoon increasing the weight. Ask the mirrors to keep a strength training. Generally, I tend (post-workout) and another guys in the weights area for check on your to train using 65-75% of my 100% directly after training. I usually advice. Each of them started from technique. maximum failure strength. A lot of stick to a simple whey protein scratch, and they are usually more people make the mistake of using shake with a high protein to carb than happy to help and share too heavy a weight too quickly. ratio since I eat a lot of complex advice. Create a diet plan. I made You have to build it up it gradually carbs in my meals, although I do the mistake of counting calories to and learn the most effective add an additional carb fuel increase size and got very bloated technique. Weight-lifting powder to my protein shake and also raised my cholesterol technique is the most important post-workout to give my muscle level. Create a diet plan, and eat aspect to learn or you can do that extra bit of fuel that has been the correct type of carbohydrates yourself some serious damage. lost during the workout. and proteins at the correct time of day. Finally, be committed. You do DO YOU TAKE ANY DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE have to put in a lot of time and QNUTRITIONAL QOR TIPS? effort, but if you stick to it, you SUPPLEMENTS? If you are just starting out, do not will begin to see the benefits and I usually have three protein rush into trying to match the more rewards quickly. shakes a day – one first thing in experienced guys at the gym.

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