MESSAGE from the MARDI GRAS BOARD Welcome to the 40Th Anniversary of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras

MESSAGE FROM THE MARDI GRAS BOARD Welcome to the 40th anniversary of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. No matter whether you are joining us from near or far, your journey brings you to a place that always was and always will be Aboriginal land. We acknowledge and pay our respects to the traditional custodians of the land on which our celebrations are held, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation.

Our history as a community and as an organisation is remarkable and this year we look back and celebrate 40 Years of Evolution. At our events, including Fair Day, Queer Thinking, Parade and Party, we will revel in a brighter future as we remember and rejoice in everything that has brought us to where we are today. Mardi Gras’ Museum of Love & Protest will provide a forum for us all to reflect on the stories and artefacts that have so richly coloured our shared history. Mardi Gras is a time for us to come together and stand united. It is a celebration of what makes us unique and makes us a community.

The past year has been incredibly hard for members of our community. Our events are spaces to come together and support each other, reach out and make new connections and nurture those we love. We especially welcome those among us who face additional barriers; young people, First Nations people, the trans community and our LGBTQI elders. In 2018 the whole world will be watching Sydney and we invite you to share in this journey. No matter whether you are joining us for the first time or for the 40th, this promises to be an unforgettable Festival. You are part of our history and you are part of our future. You are part of our Evolution and we can’t wait for you to be a part of our 40th anniversary.

Happy Mardi Gras!

CEO’S WELCOME Welcome to Mardi Gras 2018 – 40 YEARS of EVOLUTION! We are so excited to share our 40th celebrations with you and hope that you will fully immerse yourself in the wonderful Festival program that is on offer.

Our 2018 Festival has something for everyone – carefully crafted to ensure we are embracing and welcoming to our wonderful and diverse community. Mardi Gras is for everyone and this year you will see new spaces and events for more of our community and families to enjoy and share - from our Museum of Love & Protest, Queer Thinking programs, Koori Gras, to our fabulous Luna Park Family Fun Day and Mardi Gras Season at Seymour Centre.

Our 2018 events will be more accessible for those with mobility needs or experiencing disability and we welcome a number of new creative and corporate partners to work with us to ensure Mardi Gras is for everyone. Through our truly authentic partnership with ANZ, we are thrilled to announce our wonderful ANZ Mardi Gras Community Grants Program that will provide grants to community groups from across Australia for a broad range of activities that benefit LGBTQI communities. We are also delighted to welcome back Google who work with us to provide the Google Mardi Gras Parade Grants to assist a range of community groups develop their creative ideas for the Mardi Gras Parade.

Our history is our strength and Mardi Gras is built on the backs of those that came before us. The amazing activists, leaders and staff over four decades who have worked tirelessly within and for our community. While we celebrate all we have achieved over 40 years, we remember and acknowledge our older LGBTQI community including our 78ers who have paved the way and fought for our rights. At the same time we invite new friends from across Australia and the world to join us at Mardi Gras, and we encourage our younger community to celebrate, to protest and share their stories that will in turn inspire others and transform into new histories.

It is time to be bold, have your say, meet new friends and come dance with us to celebrate 40 years of Mardi Gras amazingness! It’s all possible at Mardi Gras and we do change the world!

Terese Casu CEO, Mardi Gras Arts

PREMIER’S WELCOME The NSW Government is pleased to support the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, one of the largest and most successful LGBTQI events in the world.

This year we mark the Festival’s 40th anniversary with a celebration of our vibrant and diverse culture. The event has grown over the past four decades to become such an important annual fixture. I congratulate all those who have been involved over the years to make the Mardi Gras the huge success that it is. I warmly welcome everyone to this year’s event and wish you all a happy Mardi Gras!

Gladys Berejiklian NSW Premier

MINISTER’S WELCOME I am pleased to welcome you all to the 2018 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, the 40th anniversary of this iconic event. This is a hallmark event on the NSW calendar, with the 2017 event attracting 38,000 overnight visitors to Sydney and injecting $39 million into the NSW visitor economy. This year’s event is expected to be bigger and better than ever as the city comes together in celebration of pride and diversity.

I encourage all visitors to take some time during their stay to explore everything the city has to offer. For those with more time, I also encourage you to expand your visit to enjoy regional NSW. From stunning coastlines and beaches, to iconic landmarks and world- renowned restaurants and shops, there is something for everyone. I wish everyone an enjoyable stay and a happy Mardi Gras.

Adam Marshall MP Minister for Tourism and Major Events

LORD MAYOR’S WELCOME The 40th anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is a milestone in the long history of this important cultural event. This year’s theme is ‘evolution’, highlighting the journey for social justice that the LGBTIQ community has been on since the first event in 1978. The City of Sydney is proud to have a long history of support for one of Sydney’s most significant community festivals.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras attracts visitors from all over the world and contributes to our reputation as a diverse, welcoming and inclusive city for all. As we celebrate the significant achievements throughout the history of the event, we also acknowledge the barriers to equality that continue to exist. We will continue to support the LGBTIQ community to celebrate diversity, achieve equality and deliver social justice for everyone.

The City is proud to support the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in its 40th year, and I look forward to joining all our communities to celebrate throughout the Festival.

Clover Moore Lord Mayor, City of Sydney

CREATIVE DIRECTOR’S WELCOME The 2018 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras program is big, really big - full of sensational shows, spectacular celebrations, fabulous community events and wild parties. With more than 100 diverse events, there is something for everyone just about everywhere.

For 17 hot days and nights we take over Sydney and celebrate our extraordinary 40-year history together. Showcasing four decades of specialMardi Gras memories, immerse yourself in the Museum of Love & Protest at the National Art School in the heart of ‘Darlo’ - the original ‘gay ghetto’. There will be special moments honouring our 78ers, and you’ll see stunning showpieces from the entire history of the Festival.

In the inner-west, our new venue partner Carriageworks will be transformed into a new Mardi Gras hub over the middle weekend of Mardi Gras featuring Koori Gras and Queer Thinking – plus a new event for the under 30s, the inaugural SISSY BALL with the support of Red Bull Music. Just down the road the Seymour Centre becomes a performance hub throughout the Festival, with theatre, cabaret, play readings and live music. In the city, kick off your celebrations in style at Trevor Ashley’s Mardi Gala at the Sydney Opera House, get your gear off at the Pool Party at Ivy, experience Queer Art After Hours at The Art Gallery of NSW or bring the kids along to our a fabulous new family day at Luna Park.

We look forward to seeing you all at our most iconic events too. Fair Day’s back taking over the huge Victoria Park, and the Parade and Party will both set new benchmarks for Mardi Gras entertainment. We have plenty of surprises up our sleeve that are sure to delight our partygoers, including new chill-out spaces and the return of some old favourites. Mardi Gras is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever for 2018, as we highlight our amazing evolution, momentous achievements, extraordinary individuals and wonderfully diverse communities. See you there!

Greg Clarke Creative Director, SGLMG

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Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, who are the traditional owners of the land on which our celebrations are held on. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land. ______

40 YEARS OF EVOLUTION

40 years on from the original 1978 street Festival turned protest, Mardi Gras continues to evolve as a platform for social justice, providing a voice for our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex people across Australia and around the globe.

Join us as we salute four decadent decades of love, protest, diversity, acceptance, endurance, activism, satire, pride, family and fabulous creativity.

Our 2018 theme is 40 YEARS of EVOLUTION, which will be woven across our entire season of events and will showcase how our lives, communities, culture and society have evolved over four decades of Mardi Gras. We’ll celebrate our defining moments, be inspired by personal stories and create amazing new memories.

The spotlight is on our communities and we’re ready to sparkle like never before. Is Mardi Gras 2018 a protest, or a celebration? It’s always both, and so much more.

Let’s show the world who we are and where we’ve come from. 40 years united against all odds, we stand proud, join hands, and march on toward a brilliant future together.

Your story is our story, your evolution is our evolution. Happy 40th, Happy Mardi Gras!

MARDI GRAS DIGITAL TIMELINE Our Mardi Gras story is revealed online as an interactive timeline on the GoogleArts Culture platform. You’ll find four decades of Mardi Gras passion, protests and pride, with each year’s heroic moments creating Australia’s unique life-affirming kaleidoscope of LGBTQI self- expression. visit mardigras.org.au/timeline

COMMUNITY CITY OF SYDNEY’S RAINBOW FLAG RAISING CEREMONY

Happy Mardi Gras! The Rainbow Flag Raising Ceremony hosted by Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore at Sydney Town Hall is the first official welcoming event of the Festival each year.

The rainbow flag originated in San Francisco about 30 years ago and was designed by artist Gilbert Baker for the Californian city’s Gay and Lesbian Freedom Day Parade. Since then it has become a worldwide emblem of gay pride and gay-friendly areas.

The red in the flag symbolises life, while orange signifies healing, yellow is for sunlight, green represents nature, blue stands for harmony and violet signifies spirit. City of Sydney is proud to show its support for its many LGBTQI residents, workers and visitors.

As a government partner of Sydney’s Mardi Gras Festival, the City will fly the rainbow flag above Sydney Town Hall throughout the 2018 Festival from Friday 16 February until Sunday 4 March.

SYDNEY TOWN HALL 483 George St, Sydney

Friday 16 February FREE

EXHIBITION MUSEUM OF LOVE & PROTEST PRESENTED IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ART SCHOOL

Our signature event for the 40th anniversary celebrations, the Museum of Love & Protest looks back across four amazing decades and presents an immersive exhibition of original costumes, photographs, rarely-seen film and video footage, iconic posters, storytelling, music and artefacts.

Presented in association with the National Art School (NAS), the Museum celebrates 40 years of love, protest, diversity, acceptance, humour, pride, family, passion and creativity. The Museum’s theatrical design combines visual spectacle and moments of intimacy for visitors to discover the extraordinary stories, artists, communities and images of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Featuring interactive elements, the Museum invites visitors to contribute their own memories and stories of Mardi Gras for others to share. As a special treat, on Friday and Saturday evenings at 6pm, the Museum of Love & Protest really comes alive as fabulous Mardi Gras identities entertain you with their unique spin on Mardi Gras history.

NAS GALLERY NATIONAL ART SCHOOL Cnr Forbes & Burton St Darlinghurst

Friday 16 February - Sunday 4 March Sun to Thu 11am – 5pm, Fri and Sat 11am – 8pm (6pm Sat 3 March) FREE Wheelchair Accessible Large Print Materials

BAR MARDI GRAS BAR OF LOVE & PROTEST AT NAS

Come together with friends for a drink after the exhibition in the heart of Darlinghurst at the Mardi Gras Bar of Love & Protest. on Mardi Gras history.

NAS GALLERY NATIONAL ART SCHOOL Cnr Forbes & Burton St Darlinghurst

Friday and Saturday evenings FREE Wheelchair Accessible

WORKSHOPS FAMILY WORKSHOPS AT NAS

Express yourself in our experimental drawing, costume-making and ceramics workshops for rainbow families. For families with children aged 6 and over. on Mardi Gras history.

NAS GALLERY NATIONAL ART SCHOOL Cnr Forbes & Burton St Darlinghurst

Saturday 17 February, 9:30am – 12:30pm and 1:30pm – 4:30pm Kids $10 – Parents $20 FREE Wheelchair Accessible CONCERT TREVOR ASHLEY’S MARDI GALA

The only way to kick-off the 2018 Mardi Gras season, join “Mardi Gras Royalty” Trevor Ashley on stage at the iconic Sydney Opera House Concert Hall along with a veritable fruit bowl of his famous friends.

Wear your best black tie or outrageous outfit at the perfect replacement for the iconic “Stars Come Out” of yesteryear. This variety gala is part concert, part chat show but ALL fun! Together with a 14-piece orchestra, the season will kick off right with a night of laughs, music and fabulosity, celebrating forty years of Mardi Gras.

After his sell-out concert last year with Diamonds Are For Trevor, Trevor Ashley will be joined by the incredible showman Todd McKenney, uber-diva Paul Capsis, pop-queen and jungle-queen Casey Donovan, the crown prince of comedy Joel Creasey and the legend herself, Carlotta!

The Gala will conclude with a post-show party, featuring DJ Richard Weiss and boasting the best views of Sydney Harbour. Don’t miss out on this night-of-nights!

$5 from every ticket goes to support Mardi Gras’ community grants program. history.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE CONCERT HALL Bennelong Pt, Sydney

Saturday 17 February, 8pm From $69 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible COMMUNITY FAIR DAY PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ANZ

Our communities shine in the sun at Fair Day, Mardi Gras’ free family friendly carnival of rainbow festivities, featuring a plethora of activities for the young and old, the tame and the bold!

Kick off your heels and enjoy a picnic with friends and family and experience an amazing array of performances, DJs and special guests on the Main Stage. Get amongst it in the Sports Village, sample the food stalls and admire the drag queens in all corners of the park.

There is always something for everyone at Fair Day, even our fur babies are a part of the action. Bring your beloved pooch to Fair Day to strut their stuff at our world-famous Doggywood competition.

Whoever you are, Fair Day is the must-do event of the year. See you there!

VICTORIA PARK 1001 City Rd Camperdown

Sunday 18 February, 10am – 8pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible Auslan Interpreted

TALKS & IDEAS QUEER THINKING

Leading thinkers and thought provocateurs, both national and international, from all walks of LGBTQI life will take to the stage for two exhilarating days of illuminating ideas, featuring queer writers, community leaders, panel discussions, talks, debate and personal stories.

With a focus on social justice, Queer Thinking in 2018 will look back over the 40 years of Mardi Gras, from its early revolutionary beginnings through to its evolution to becoming one of the leading LGBTQI celebrations in the world. Included in the program, 78er Julie McCrossin will be in discussion about how far we’ve come and what fights are still left to fight, and we’ll also hear the stories of First Nations artists on the Koori Gras Speakers Platform.

Queer Thinking will also aim to inspire discussion and gather new perspectives on current social justice issues that are important to LGBTQI communities in Australia and throughout the world today.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Saturday 24 February, 11am – 9:30pm Sunday 25 February, 1pm – 4pm Tickets from mardigras.org.au Wheelchair Accessible

TALKS & IDEAS TRANS STORIES – 40 YEARS

In this unforgettable Queer Thinking co-presentation with Trans Sydney Pride, a diverse range of trans people will share their experiences and truth in an evening of storytelling covering STRUGGLE and SEQUINS, LOVE and LIFE. Hear stories of survival, resilience and finding happiness in their authentic selves.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Saturday 24 February, 7pm Tickets from mardigras.org.au Wheelchair Accessible

COMMUNITY KOORI GRAS PRODUCED BY MOOGAHLIN PERFORMING ARTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS AND CARRIAGEWORKS

BLACK NULLA WORKSHOPS A series of creative development workshops for First Peoples queer performers, facilitated by Black Foot (Alberta Canada), performance artist Cherish Blood and local guest artists. Workshop participants will be given the opportunity to perform as part of the Black Nulla Cabaret; a First Peoples queer performance event with local, national and international guest artists.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Monday 19 – Saturday 24 February FREE Wheelchair Accessible

BLACK POINT Koori Gras presents a community forum with dinner and drinks for local and interstate guests to discuss relevant issues and challenges for First Peoples communities.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Friday 23 February, 6pm – 9pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

SPEAKERS PLATFORM An international panel of influential thinkers and artists come together to discuss queer performance from First Peoples’ perspectives. Guest speakers include Associate Professor of Creative Industries at University of the Sunshine Coast, Dr Sandy O’Sullivan, Creative Director of Yirramboi First Nations Art Festival, Jacob Boehme, performer Cherish Blood known as Black Foot and more to be announced.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Saturday 24 February, 11am – 12:30pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

BLACK NULLA CABARET Dance the night away and enjoy the rich diversity of queer performances by leading local, national and international guests, plus the Black Nulla workshop participants, your favourite drag artists, DJs and special guests.

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Saturday 24 February, 8pm - late $25 – Concession $15 Wheelchair Accessible

PARTY SISSY BALL PRESENTED BY SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS AND RED BULL MUSIC

For one night only, clubbers will be transported to a Vogue dancefloor borne from the living history of New York’s underground Ballroom scene.

Expressions of identity become the focal point as bodies collide in the ultimate throwdown of style, precision, and attitude, in a showcase set to transfix. In true Vogue style, extravagance on the runway will be matched with a soundtrack that weaves through disco, house, bounce, pop, performance and much more.

Curated by local interdisciplinary artist and club icon Bhenji Ra, Sissy Ball at Carriageworks is sure to be a festival highlight. Full line-up to be announced soon

“The term “Sissy” is used amongst Asian and Pacific queer communities as a term of endearment and sisterhood. The reason why I chose this is because it’s definitely a term widely used amongst the younger generation of queer people of colour and there’s a global understanding of reclaiming it as a positive affirmation opposed to its slur history” - Bhenji Ra

CARRIAGEWORKS 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

Saturday 24 February, 5pm – 11:30pm Buy tickets from mardigras.org.au Wheelchair Accessible

FILM MARDI GRAS AT SEYMOUR CENTRE PRODUCED BY SEYMOUR CENTRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS

CAMERON LUKEY, DON’T BE DOWN PRODUCTIONS AND SEYMOUR CENTRE PRESENT STRANGERS IN BETWEEN by Tommy Murphy

Shane has fled his family and is seeking refuge in Kings Cross. Confused and naive, he struggles to reconcile himself with events from his past. But how can he move on when he can’t even use laundry powder? A contemporary Australian classic from the writer of Holding the Man, this exciting new production stars AFI and Logie winner Simon Burke.

SEYMOUR CENTRE Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St Chippendale

Thursday 15 February – Friday 2 March 7:30pm, Saturday 3pm From $35 Wheelchair Accessible

TREVOR ASHLEY PRESENTS MITZI MACINTOSH: A LIFETIME IN LIPSTICK

Sydney drag legend Mitzi Macintosh returns to Australia in her first ever one-woman show! She will be performing all your favourite numbers, as well as telling hilarious stories from her first time in drag, to gossip about all the legends of the golden mile...from Scooters, The Albury Hotel and Bingay to being Mardi Gras Parade Director and star of The Imperial Hotel, Mitzi’s done it all.

Chock-full of glamour and gags, it’s a not to be missed stumble down memory lane... in pretty high heels.

SEYMOUR CENTRE Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St Chippendale

Thursday 22 February – Saturday 24 February Thurs 8pm, Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm and 9:15pm $65 – MG Members $59 Wheelchair Accessible

SEYMOUR CENTRE PRESENTS COURTYARD SESSIONS

Celebrate Mardi Gras’ 40th anniversary with a series of free outdoor concerts from up-and-coming local musicians representing the LGBTQI community, in the leafy courtyard of Chippendale’s Seymour Centre. Join us under the trees for good food, cold drinks and great live music.

SEYMOUR CENTRE Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St Chippendale

Saturday 17 February – Friday 23 February Sat 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Sun 5pm – 7pm, Fri 6pm – 9pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

SEYMOUR CENTRE AND SIREN THEATRE CO PRESENT PLAYLIST: A PEEK AT, A TASTE AND CELEBRATION OF NEW WORKS BY LGBTQI WRITERS

Playlist invites writers, theatre makers and new talent to share bold, unique LGBTQI stories on stage for audiences hungry for new voices. If you have a completed script, first ideas or anything in between - we want to hear from you.

Selected works will be presented on Saturday 17 February. This will be a full day of readings, presentations, pitches and performance. Siren Theatre Co’s director Kate Gaul will lead the curatorial program and produce a program of readings, showings and discussions.

Artists are invited to submit their proposals by December 4. Program announced January 15.

SEYMOUR CENTRE Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St Chippendale

Saturday 17 February FREE Full details at mardigras.org.au Wheelchair Accessible

COMMUNITY LUNA PARK FAMILY FUN DAY PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDIBANK SUPPORTED BY IVF AUSTRALIA

For one day of the year Luna Park will go rainbow for this fun and fabulous party for kids and their LGBTQI families and friends. All the fun of the fair - featuring unlimited rides all day, the wildest kids’ dance party ever in the stunning Crystal Palace and surprise performances by Sydney’s favourite drag queens.

This will be a special fun-filled treat for kids of all ages and an awesome action-packed day for the whole family.

Ticket includes entry to the Crystal Palace Dance Party and unlimited rides all day.

LUNA PARK 1 Olympic Dr Milsons Point

Saturday 24 February, 11am – 4pm $25 + booking fee Wheelchair Accessible

PARTY POOL PARTY

An elegant oasis awaits you. Every year Mardi Gras fills Sydney’s sleekest poolside venue, creating a decadent event that’s the epitome of summertime glamour.

Set among gently swaying palm trees and uniting a cast of outrageous friends and beautiful strangers, Mardi Gras’ Pool Party transforms the Ivy Pool Club into a sexy and intimate playground, where you can frolic in style as handsome lifeguards survey the stunning scene.

Delicious cocktails, cabana lounges, cool local DJs… snd Speedos galore. The Pool Party is the perfect way to make a splash this Mardi Gras season. Let’s get wet.

IVY POOL CLUB 4/320 George St, Sydney

Monday 26 February, 2pm – 11pm From $55 + booking fee Wheelchair Accessible

PERFORMANCE | VISUAL ARTS QUEER ART AFTER HOURS PRODUCED BY SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS AND THE ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES

Queer Art After Hours returns in 2018 after last year’s hugely successful inaugural event. Once again the Art Gallery of New South Wales will go queer, featuring a star-studded shimmering line-up of queer performances, fabulous DJs, live music, gallery tours and delicious drinks.

Come face to face with some of Australia’s sensational new queer performance artists set against the charming backdrop of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Grab a glass of sparkling and sashay your way around the Gallery discovering incredible art and performances around every corner.

Queer Art After Hours coincides with Robert Mapplethorpe: the perfect medium. This comprehensive exhibition of one of the most influential American artists of the late 20th century showcases an extraordinary selection of his photographic work. From floral still lifes to portraits, figure studies and erotic imagery that charted his involvement in New York’s gay scene of the 70s and 80s.

ART GALLERY OF NSW Art Gallery Rd, Sydney

Wednesday 28 February, 5pm – 10pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

PARADE PARADE PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY DESTINATION NSW

With 40 incredible years of passion, pride and protest, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade has grown to a bustling extravaganza that brings Sydney to a standstill, and shines a light on the issues affecting LGBTQI people around the world.

The 40th anniversary Parade looks set to be the biggest and most exciting yet, with a sparkling procession of over 200 groups and jaw- dropping floats showcasing the best our community has to offer. Dykes on Bikes, outrageous drag queens, community heroes and talented queer performers will join many more LGBTQI groups and allies from all walks of life to create stunning showpieces.

Join us for our biggest night of the year. A Festival of love that knows no bounds, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. It’s big… it’s really big… and everyone’s invited!

Oxford and Flinders St Darlinghurst

Saturday 3 March, from 7:30pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

PARADE VIP VIEWING – DIAMOND CLUB PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ANZ

Treat yourself, you deserve it. Upgrade your Parade experience at Diamond Club, our exclusive cocktail event in the heart of Taylor Square.

New multi-tiered standing viewing areas will ensure you are heads above the crowd and don’t miss a moment, as you mingle at the private bar, gourmet food trucks, or dance to our party-starting DJs. No bustling crowds, our Diamond Club is better than ever so you can enjoy the stunning Parade in style.

Diamond Club is an over 18s venue.

Taylor Square Darlinghurst

Saturday 3 March, 6:30pm – 11pm $145 – MG Members from $105 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

PARADE VIP VIEWING – SIDESHOW PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ABSOLUT VODKA

Take your spot and enjoy an unparalleled view of the Parade in our family-friendly area.

There’s a choice of either seated or standing access, each with exclusive access to bars, great food stalls, live screens, bathrooms and delightful hosts Portia Turbo and Andrew Mercardo who’ll give you an outrageous running commentary as the Parade rolls past.

Take the hassle out of Mardi Gras and join us at Sideshow… you’ll be glad you did!

Flinders St Darlinghurst

Saturday 3 March, 7pm – 11pm From $61 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

PARTY PARTY

The Mardi Gras Party is Australia’s biggest LGBTQI Party of the year. It’s our tribe, our people… our time for excess.

If you’ve never been… this is the year to do it. Expect big surprises, incredible DJs and entertainers, mind-boggling lighting and extraordinary theatrics… both on and off stage! As reality becomes a faintly-remembered dream, you and 12,000 of your newest and closest friends will dance until dawn. Join revellers from the Parade and beyond, all bringing their light and energy to the Party for the ultimate all-night adventure.

Take your spot and enjoy an unparalleled view of the Parade in our family-friendly area.

Take the hassle out of Mardi Gras and join us at Sideshow… you’ll be glad you did!

Playbill Venues 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park

Saturday 3 March, 10pm – 8am From $99 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible Auslan Interpreted PARTY LANEWAY

Laneway returns to its ancestral glory as the Beresford Hotel joins forces with The Flinders Hotel for the ultimate recovery party.

Featuring the hottest DJs, surprise performances and an eclectic mix of spaces catered for every part of your journey. A cherished tradition, Laneway has evolved from a portable stereo and a couple of milk crates on Hill Street into a spectacular street party celebration that takes over the Beresford and Flinders Hotels, and the street in between.

All good things must come to an end, but there is no ending quite like Laneway. VIP tickets are available for access to the Mardi Gras Absolut VIP Bar – surprises and special guest performances to be announced.

Beresford Hotel and Flinders Hotel, Surry Hills

Sunday 4 March, 2pm – 1am From $75 – MG Members from $65 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

FILM QUEER SCREEN’S 25TH MARDI GRAS FILM FESTIVAL

From romance to comedies, documentaries to dramas, and everything in between, Queer Screen delivers a huge 25th Mardi Gras Film Festival with an exciting and diverse array of new films and classics.

Celebrating the massive milestone of reaching 25 years, Queer Screen is very proud to continue showcasing queer stories on the big screen.

The 2018 Festival will feature a raft of Australian and Sydney premieres from all corners of the globe. Highlights include the hotly anticipated Beach Rats, a multi-award winning film the Hollywood Reporter called “Dark, dreamy and entirely engrossing,” and Signature Move, a comedic and heartfelt look at the complexities of love in its many forms as a Pakistani, Muslim lawyer begins a new romance with a confident and sexy Mexican-American.

After premiering at Cannes, the arty and quiet They comes to the Mardi Gras Film Festival. Following two years of medication and therapy, 14 year old J has to make the decision whether or not to transition.

One of the many documentary highlights arrives to us from Japan, diving into the world of the “Urisen”, young guys who have sex with men in Boys For Sale. Insightful and candid, with superb use of animation, it’s one film not to miss.

Delving into our past we will showcase a number of retrospectives and new films that investigate the history of the LGBTQI community including a celebration of the remarkable strength of the 78ers, with a screening of the digitally restored 1980 Australian documentary Witches and Faggots, Dykes and Poofters.

All these films and more will be on sale from November 8. The launch of the full Festival program is on January 10.

Event Cinemas 505-525 George St

Thursday 15 February – Thursday 1 March Buy tickets at mardigras.org.au Wheelchair Accessible

MORE TO EXPLORE – PREMIER EVENTS

There are more than 100 other events in the Mardi Gras Festival program. The following pages include community events, theatre productions, cabaret shows, talks and workshops, live music, art exhibitions and parties.

For the full list of Mardi Gras events, and to purchase tickets, head to mardigras.org.au

We encourage you to get out there and experience our amazing, beautiful, and diverse LGBTQI communities, artists and performers. There’s so much more to explore!

ART EXHIBITIONS | TALKS & WORKSHOPS

THE FIRST MARDI GRAS: WAS THE PAIN WORTH THE GAIN? AN AFTERNOON WITH THE 78ERS The first Mardi Gras Parade certainly wasn’t fun for the participants. For all the trauma and pain inflicted, was it worthwhile? What changes did it make to our communities, our politics, our lives? Come and join the 78ers for a discussion of these issues, followed by a drink at the pub.

Saturday 17 February, 2pm – 4pm Gold Coin Donation Venue: mardigras.org.au for details Wheelchair Accessible

40 YEARS OF QUEER ART: REBELLION AND SUBVERSION

A celebration of 40 years of queer art in Australia showcasing works by over 20 LGBTQI artists who have created sexy, thought provoking, stylistically varied works that subversively engage with the politics of identity, community and activism from 1978 until now.

COMBER ST STUDIOS 5 Comber St, Paddington

Thursday 22 February – Thursday 8 March, 11am – 5pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

LUSCIOUS ALL SORTS

Boomalli Aboriginal Artist Co-operative presents: “Luscious All Sorts” Mardi Gras Exhibition, showcasing works from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQI artists from across Australia.

Opening Night: Friday 23 February from 6pm to 8pm. Special Guest: Former NRL player and Indigenous model, Casey Conway. Performances on opening night.

BOOMALLI ABORIGINAL ARTISTS COOPERATIVE 55-59 Flood St, Leichardt

Friday 23 February – Sunday 1 April, 11am – 4pm Open Wednesday to Sunday FREE Wheelchair Accessible ROSS WATSON HOMINES UNIFORMIS

Watson’s distinctive, highly detailed, realistic paintings are a celebration of the male form, in its uniformed and its natural glory. This exciting exhibition features rugby players, naked surfers and pop-star Alfie Arcuri. Stephen Fry wrote of the exhibition’s centre- piece “Ross Watson has created another dazzlingly provocative, witty and enchanting take on a classic painting.”

YELLOW HOUSE GALLERY 57-59 Macleay St, Potts Point

Thursday 22 February – Sunday 4 March, 11am – 7pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

COMMUNITY AUSTRALIAN LGBTI AWARDS

Courtney Act, Kyle Sandilands, Conchita Wurst and The Veronicas are just some of the names nominated for Australia’s biggest awards celebrating the LGBTI community and their allies. The Australian LGBTI Awards are a chance to say thank you to individuals and to celebrate the diverse community that we have in Australia.

THE STAR SYDNEY EVENT CENTRE 80 Pyrmont Rd, Pyrmont

Friday 2 March, 6pm – 1am $419 Wheelchair Accessible

EQUALITY DANCE AUSTRALIA FESTIVAL

LGBTQI + roll up! to our Equality Dance Australia Festival 2018. Day: Ballroom competitions for every level of same sex dancers competing with mainstream teams. Evening: Gala Ball with buffet dinner, live music, social dancing and floorshows. This Festival is a wonderful chance to take to the floor to celebrate equality and inclusion.

MARRICKVILLE TOWN HALL 303 Marrickville Rd Marrickville

Saturday 24 February, 10:30am – 5pm, 6pm – 11pm Day from $20, Gala ball from $95 Wheelchair Accessible OXTRAVAGANZA

Celebrating Oxford St and Surrounds unique subcultures. Local retailers and venues will be putting on events, showcases and specials to raise money for Twenty10 inc GLCS NSW (social support and counselling for LGBTQIA+ youth).

Event schedule closer to the date.

Oxford St and surrounds DARLINGHURST

Saturday 24 February, 12pm – 12am FREE Wheelchair Accessible

PLANETDWELLERS TOURS, TRAVEL AND EVENTS

Don’t miss our Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise, flirt with our MC, enjoy the DJ’s tunes or shake your toosh!

Join our small group day tours to the iconic Blue Mountains, have a wildlife adventure, enjoy gourmet food and wines on our Hunter Valley Winery or South Coast beach tours. Don’t forget our famous Sydney Gay Village walking tour.

Only Planetdwellers has been giving you these amazing experiences over the past decade!

Various Locations

Monday 19 February – Tuesday 7 March $49 - $659 COMMUNITY PROUDLY IN LOVE

Proudly in Love is Australia’s first same sex wedding Festival and expo that celebrates love, bringing together the finest and most sought-after wedding suppliers, unique venues, hotels and destinations along with the best in entertainment, design and living.

FOX STUDIOS – STAGE 7 Entry via Entertainment Quarter. Gate 3 via Errol Flynn Boulevard

Sunday 25 February, 10am – 4pm FREE Wheelchair Accessible

RAINBOW RUN SYDNEY

Come dressed in a colour from the rainbow and walk or run 2km, 4km or 6km for same sex marriage this Mardi Gras. Listen to the beats of DJ Sveta as you go around the beautiful Sydney Park, but watch out for those infamous drag queens who have water pistols and aren’t afraid to use them!

All proceeds go to the hard working, volunteer based Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby.

SYDNEY PARK Sydney Park Rd, St Peters

Sunday 25 February, 9am $35 to $50 + booking fee Wheelchair Accessible PARTY APOLLO THE PARTY

It’s time to trip the light fantastic as we celebrate the 40th year of Mardi Gras with a super-silly day of glitter and gay at Sydney’s most over-the-top dance party! It’s a playdate like no other filled with colour, sound, smiles and fabulousness.

Expect the truly insane as we rocket towards our confetti-filled climax! Apollo pushes the boundaries of party production and you should expect nothing less than OMFG at our next instalment.

THE METRO THEATRE 624 George St, Sydney

Sunday 4 March, 2pm – 10pm $95 + booking fee Wheelchair Accessible

APOLLO THE PARTY

Expect the truly insane as we rocket towards our confetti-filled climax! Apollo pushes the boundaries of party production and you should expect nothing less than OMFG at our next instalment.

THE METRO THEATRE 624 George St, Sydney

Sunday 4 March, 2pm – 10pm $95 + booking fee Wheelchair Accessible

DAYWASH

Expect the truly insane as we rocket towards our confetti-filled climax! Apollo pushes the boundaries of party production and you should expect nothing less than OMFG at our next instalment.

THE IVY 330 George St, Sydney

Sunday 4 March, 12pm – 10pm $35 - $85 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

EXTRA DIRTY

Expect the truly insane as we rocket towards our confetti-filled climax! Apollo pushes the boundaries of party production and you should expect nothing less than OMFG at our next instalment.

THE CLUB 33 Bayswater Rd, Potts Point

Sunday 4 March, 10pm – 5am $35 - $65 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

FINALLY FT. CECE PENISTON

Let’s kick off Mardi Gras week with a huge Dance Party featuring Multi Platinum International sensation CeCe Peniston supported by local and international DJs and performing her signature Dance hit Finally, the world wide smash which was featured on The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

Set to be one of the biggest events during Mardi Gras 2018!

ARQ SYDNEY 16 Flinder St, Darlinghurst

Sunday 25 February, 8pm – 5am $39.95 - $100 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

GIRLTHING MARDI PARDI: VAULTS OF HEAVEN

Sydney’s biggest GiRLTHING returns for Mardi Gras 2018! 3 rooms / 30+ acts / sold out 8 consecutive years…

THE METRO THEATRE 624 George St, Sydney

Saturday 3 March, 9pm – 3am $40 - $60 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

HEAPS GAY PARDI GRAS

Indie Westie Party Starters Heaps Gay are transforming Manning Bar in Chippendale into a party spectacular! An all immersive and inclusive Festival of music, art and performance featuring local Aussie acts across 3 stages! Indoor and outdoor vibes! Expect the unexpected yo! Check them out on Facebook for more deets and lineup info!

MANNING BAR Manning Rd, Camperdown

Saturday 3 March, 10pm $19-$39 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

KIKI POOL PARTY

In 2018 we’ve got the most divine, delectable and delicious KiKi yet and it unfurls in style at the sensational Ivy Pool – complete with al fresco cabanas! As the closing party of the weekend to end all weekends, you will not want to miss our extra juicy, thick and meaty, totally loved-up KiKi, so grab a gaggle of gays and get your tickets nice and early to ensure you don’t miss out and nobody’s mascara runs.

IVY POOL CLUB Lvl 4, 330 George St Sydney

Monday 5 March, 12pm – 8pm $25 - $55 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

MATINEE LA LECHE THE MAIN EVENT

World famous La Leche is back bigger and sexier with an all new production. Premier circuit DJs Phil Romano & Thomas Solvert join the hottest international and local party goers.

Everyone was talking about last year’s event The Island and we can’t wait to be back to put on one hell of a show for you. Australia are you ready…?

HOME THE VENUE 101/1-5 Wheat Rd Darling Harbour

Sunday 4 March, 3pm – 9:45pm $25 - $55 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

MEGA MALEBOX

Sydney’s hottest male pick up night is heating up this Mardi Gras. Across 3 floors and 4 bars this is a night not to be missed. DJs Dom De Sousa, DJ Ryan John and Tom Pritchard. Shows featuring Sydney’s hottest male dancers from Boys Bar Up. Join your Hostess Marilyn Mootrub and sexy Maleman Cristiano. Malebox is now in its 19th year at Stonewall Hotel and is Sydney’s busiest wednesday night on the strip.

STONEWALL HOTEL 175 Oxford St Darlinghurst

Wednesday 28 February, 9pm $10 - $5 MG Members Wheelchair Accessible

PAPA BLACK PARTY

Papa Party returns to Mardi Gras after their 2017 world tour sell out at ARQ Sydney. Founded by Eliad Cohen during Tel Aviv Pride 2010, PAPA PARTY has become one of the most well-respected brands in the world.

Taking each city worldwide by storm with world-class DJs, unique concepts, exceptional performances and an incredible energy throughout the night, PAPA PARTY presents its black party concept: black and sexy.

ARQ SYDNEY 16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst

Sunday 4 March, 3:30pm – 10:30pm $30 - $60 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

SYDNEY’S BIGGEST UNDERWEAR PARTY GETS SEMI NAKED

Sydney’s Biggest MEN Only Underwear party returns to ARQ Sydney, celebrating 11 years. After selling out 6 years in a row this is one party you do not want to miss.

For men, dress code: swimwear, underwear, footy wear and jock straps.

ARQ SYDNEY 16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst

Thursday 1 March, 8:30pm – 5:30am $40 - $100 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

BEAR ESSENTIALS 22 - WET

Large men! Moist fur! Party hard! Welcome everybody!

HCB welcomes all to participate in BE22 - the two little ducks - WET. A mix of regular and new events - 15 in total - there will be something for everybody. Favourites like Underbear, Wet Furr, and Press Paws will be running plus new events like a trip to Wet and Wild, and a night getting Wild and Wet.

Various venues

Friday 23 February – Sunday 4 March $5 - $90 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

WERK! FEAT. WILLAM, AJA & TS MADISON LIVE!

WERK! is a dance party on the opening night of Sydney Mardi Gras weekend held at the biggest superclub in Australia, Home. Expect a full night of dancing, shows and dancers starring RuPaul’s Drag Racer Super Stars Willam & AJA and hosted by the BDB herself TS MADISON!

Full lineup of DJs and performers online.

Doors open at 10pm and run all night long.

HOME THE VENUE 101/1-5 What Rd Darling Harbour

Friday 2 March, 10pm $30 - $90 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

PERFORMING ARTS AN ACT OF GOD BY DAVID JAVERBAUM

Mitchell Butel stars as GOD in David Javerbaum’s An Act of God. Sinfully funny and wickedly satiric, God delivers a radical re-write of the Ten Commandments. From 13 time Emmy Award winning comedy writer for The Colbert Report and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, David Javerbaum’s hit Broadway production makes its Australian Premiere at Darlinghurst Theatre Company.

DARLINGHURST THEATRE CO At the Eternity Playhouse 39 Burton St, Darlinghurst

Friday 2 Feburary – Sunday 25 February Tues to Sat 7:30pm, Sun 5pm Sat matinee 17 & 24 Feb 3pm $38 - $54 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

FUCKING MEN BY JOE DIPIETRO

A provocative and funny play about a chain of hook ups amongst a group of gay men. Underneath the hot man-on-man action is an ironic and truthful look at the conflict between the desire for monogamous love and the thrill of sexual freedom.

“Brings Grindr to life” BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE

NEW THEATRE 542 King St, Newtown

Tuesday 6 February – Saturday 10 March Tues to Sat 7:30pm, Sun 5pm, Sat 4 & 10 Mar 10pm $20 - $35 - $25 MG Members Wheelchair Accessible IGNITE: SYMPHONIC DANCE ANTHEMS

IGNITE recreates your favourite dance floor anthems with a full orchestra, live singers & electronic musicians. Those tracks that you’ve thrown your hands in the air to since the Mardi Gras party began. Sia, Whitney Houston, Massive Attack, Madonna, Kylie & Chicane. House, trance and pop anthems as you’ve never heard them before!

THE ENMORE THEATRE 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown

Friday 2 March, 7pm $80 - $100 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

MAMA ALTO: QUEERLY BELOVED

Queerly Beloved, we are gathered here today in celebration of our divine love. Gender transcendent diva, jazz singer and cabaret artiste Mama Alto leads you over the rainbow to empowerment, empathy and ecstasy. Mama’s national tour of fierce queer affirmation comes out at Mardi Gras: love is love is love.

THE RED RATTLER 6 Faversham St, Marrickville

Monday 26 & Tuesday 26 February, 8pm $15-$50 + booking fees – ‘pay what you feel’ Wheelchair Accessible

METAMORPHOSES BY MARY ZIMMERMAN

“Bodies, I have in mind…”

Savage, tender, queer and irreverent, with vivid imagery and visionary theatricality, Ovid’s poem of ancient Greek tales is reimagined for the 40th anniversary of Mardi Gras and roused to soul-stirring life. Suitable for audiences 18+

OLD FITZ THEATRE 129 Dowling St Wolloomooloo

Thursday 8 February – Saturday 10 March Tues – Sat 8pm, Sun 5pm $38-$45 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

THE KING’S SINGERS

The King’s Singers – GOLD

Acclaimed worldwide for their virtuosity, life-affirming energy and heart-gripping harmonies, The King’s Singers take you on a mesmerising musical trip from the Renaissance to now, in the majestic surrounds of St Mary’s Cathedral, joined by special guests the Choristers of St Mary’s Cathedral Choir.

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL St Marys Rd, Sydney

Saturday 3 March, 7:30pm $29 - $99 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

COURTNEY ACT – UNDER THE COVERS

Courtney has been under the covers with many, but not usually in front of a live audience. It’s time to get tucked in and lay back as she strips songs down and flips others on their back to show you just how gender and genre fluid a great song can be!

SEYMOUR CENTRE – The Everest Theatre Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St Chippendale

Thursday 1 March & Friday 2 March, 7:30pm A Reserve $50 – VIP $70 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible

TALKS & WORKSHOPS RAINBOW REFLECTIONS, 40 YEARS OF LGBTI HISTORY PRESENTED BY LANDER & ROGERS LAWYERS AND THE SGLBA

Over the last 40 years, the LGBTI community has evolved and achieved a great deal. Join us at our Q&A-style event as we discuss where we’ve been and where we’re going. We will be bringing together people from business, the law, journalism, politics, religion, NSW Police, 78ers and millennials.

SYDNEY UNIVERSITY The General Lecture Theatre The Quadrangle Building Parramatta Rd, Camperdown

Thursday 22 February, 6:30pm – 9:30pm Student $30 – GA $45 + booking fees Wheelchair Accessible IN CONVERSATION WITH JUSTICE KIRBY AND UNCLE JACK CHARLES, ACTOR, MUSICIAN, POTTER AND GIFTED PERFORMER CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE LGBTQI COMMUNITY TO LAW AND THEATRE

In conversation with Justice Michael Kirby and Uncle Jack Charles, we celebrate the contribution of the LGBTQI community to law and theatre.

Presented by Belvoir, NSW Young Lawyers and the Inner-City Community Legal Centre, proceeds from the event will go to support legal assistance programs for the LGBTQI community.

BELVOIR ST THEATRE 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills

Monday 19 February Doors 6pm, 6:30pm – 8:30pm Under 30s $40 – GA $50 + booking fees

ACCESS AND INCLUSION

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS Wheelchair access varies from venue to venue. To check a venues wheelchair accessibility, look for the wheelchair access symbol on the page listing and on the event page on the website.

AUSLAN INTERPRETED Auslan interpreters will feature at several Mardi Gras events and performances. To check an events Auslan Interpreted status, look for the Auslan access symbol on the page listing and on the event page on the website.

LARGE PRINT A copy of the event program will be available in large print, look for the large print access symbol on the page listing and on the event page on the website.

ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS Assistive Listening Systems provide hearing augmentation and amplification.

COMPANION CARD Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras proudly supports the Companion Card program. Patrons who require the assistance of a companion or carer can receive a complimentary ticket issued to the Companion Card holder.

ACCESSIBLE PROGRAM FORMATS Large print PDF and large print Word versions of the program can be downloaded from the Mardi Gras website mardigras.org.au/access A braille copy of the program is available to use at our headquarters at Suite 6, 94 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst.

HERE TO HELP Please get in touch with our team to discuss your access requirements and notify us of your needs.

+61 2 9383 0900 [email protected] mardigras.org.au/access

TICKETS

HOW TO BOOK

ONLINE Please visit mardigras.org.au for details on how and where to book tickets online for each event.

TELEPHONE For Mardi Gras Party tickets please call Ticketek on 13 28 49. For all other events please check online ticketing information.

IN PERSON For Mardi Gras Party tickets please visit your nearest Ticketek outlet. For all other events please check online ticketing information.

MEMBER DISCOUNT AND CONCESSIONS

Check events for concession pricing and member discounts. We offer generous early bird discounted tickets and tiered release pricing that everyone can take advantage of.

Some of our associated events offer concession tickets. Please check individual listings for details.

CONTACT US Suite 6, 94 Oxford Street Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia +61 (0)2 9383 0900 Fax: +61 (0)2 9383 0966 [email protected]