Issue 8 of Mygayzine Magazine and We’Re Pleased to Announce Our Publication Has Expanded to Include Both the North and South of the Border

HI FROM US

We’re back with issue 8 of MyGayZine Magazine and we’re pleased to announce our publication has expanded to include both the North and South of the border. This means more juicy stories, news and pictures from Plus all our regular contributors all across Ireland. spread across 7 sections. Misty’s chatting pride fashion, Chris This month we’ve McMurray gives her thoughts on brought you more news, entertainment and shares a contributors and articles poetry helping, Maurice reviews than ever. There are his recent trip to the Algarve, Peter interviews with Ryan Francis Fahy discusses Queer Fear Jagger and Jessie K and Ryan Dior’s disappointed by the ahead of their 2013 pride current situation on the Manchester performances, Mister gay scene. Underground discusses his battles with mental We’re also pleased to welcome Lucy health, Father Joseph is Lashes as our resident agony aunt. back with his update on the election of the new She’ll be taking your questions via pope and his thoughts email: [email protected] or via on the Irish Constitution text message on our shout out zone vote on equal marriage number: 07564877618. and Lucy Lashes gives us the lowdown on the We won’t take up any more of your emerging Donegal LGBT time. Thanks to everyone involved. Scene. Enjoy x

MAY 2013

Equal Marriage NI On April 29th we saw yet another motion calling for marriage equality defeated at the Northern Ireland Executive, this time by 53 votes to 42, with 3 abstentions.

The motion of marriage equality; through a ‘petition of was tabled by and calls on the concern’. Sinn Fein MLA’s Executive to bring Caitríona Ruane, forward the necessary The DUP continue Barry McElduff legislation to allow for to put up barriers same sex marriage” for LGBT people and Bronwyn by refusing to McGahan An alliance allow a straight following an amendment which forward democratic overwhelming emphasised the assembly vote vote in favour of freedom of churches decide on this issue. a referendum on to practise and legalising same- define marriage as Finance Minister sex marriage in they choose was Sammy Wilson, of the Republic of also voted down the DUP, defended Ireland. at the assembly his party’s use meeting (46 for, of the petition of 51 against, 2 concern saying it was The motion read: abstentions). important to stop “This Assembly “reckless legislation”. recognises the The largest opposition importance of to last month’s bill He insisted the the Constitutional came from Unionist motion would not Convention; notes representatives, promote safeguards the participation particularly the DUP or equality and he did of parties from the who effectively not believe a balance Assembly; welcomes vetoed the motion in of opinions had been the 79 per cent the days leading up to accurately reflected majority vote at the the assembly debate during the debate. Constitution in favour

4 Newry and Armagh Alliance Party huge significance for UUP MLA Danny leader David Ford a number of religious Kennedy said he who stepped denominations and was opposed to any down as elder at other faith groups”. change in legislation Second Donegor due to his religious Presbyterian Church Colum Eastwood of beliefs which he said earlier last month, the SDLP said he were consistent with around controversy believed that if two the teaching of the surrounding his people of the same Presbyterian Church. support for equal gender loved each marriage added: other and wanted to The Presbyterian commit their lives Church had sent “Equal marriage together they should messages to all is a matter of great be supported. MLA’s in the run up importance to many to the discussion in our community, to One of the most warning politicians many citizens who passionate and well that marriage for have a legitimate informed speeches same-sex couples expectation that they of the day came would “effectively will be treated equally at the close of the demolish” by the state, but I also discussion when generations and acknowledge that Caitríona Ruane centuries of societal it’s an issue of great took to the floor... norms. sensitivity and of

5 MAY 2013

(Continued) With the amazing is still hope the surge tidal wave of equal of equality will reach “…Attitudes marriage sweeping us one day. Only by in Ireland are the globe lately it making the most of changing, changing was difficult not to every opportunity because people get a little excited by to raise the debate do not want to see the approach of last can we ever make others discriminated month’s debate. progress towards against, changing adding our name to because the LGBT Unfortunately the the list. community have DUP have shown said enough is they will consistently Chair of The Equal enough. They are wield their “petition Marriage NI John standing up for of concern” weapon O’Doherty reassured themselves and whenever LGBT the LGBT Community their communities. issues are being that the motion’s They understand discussed and it’s defeat is just a that if they don’t difficult to see how, setback in what [stand up], the they, while still our looks set to be a hateful words of the majority party will long and hard fought never, never, never ever allow this motion battle: ”We are not brigade will continue to pass. Other disheartened at all, to fan the flames parties who leave we will continue to of homophobic the issue of marriage fight the good fight” behaviour. They equality to “personal and Canon Charles understand that if conscience” should Kenny the Secretary they don’t stand show more leadership of Changing Attitude up and become and unity within Ireland believes that visible more young their parties by recent developments people will die by getting to grips with only bring us closer suicide, because if understanding this to equality: “The year they don’t hear a issue once and for is drawing nearer counter voice to the all and adopting it as when the love and vitriolic gay bashing their party policy. justice expressed they will internalise in the gospels will it... it is not a waste Same-sex marriage win out and sweep of time talking is now legal or in away the faith-based about rights… or the process of being prejudice against protecting our legalised in fourteen gay and lesbian children.” countries and there couples”.

6 Share your thoughts Online at www.MyGayZine.co.uk Equal Marriage NI on Facebook: “Disappointing outcome today but the fight for equality has always been an uphill battle. We stand together as a community fighting for equality, confident in the belief that marriage equality will become a reality in Northern Ireland. We shall overcome.”

It’s clear to see that at the recent May ‘What do we want? the debate can only Day Rally in Belfast Equal marriage! When be seen as progress and appeared to do we want it? Now! but it has also be reignited by the If you won’t vote for highlighted stubborn debate at Stormont us or ours, we won’t barriers in the beliefs in April. The group vote for you or yours. of others who fail to got an applauding Through the courts recognise LGB&T reception in Belfast or on the hill, equal people as entirely and there were chants marriage, yes we will’ equal. of support from the crowds as they We’ll leave it at that. Equal Marriage walked through city NI were present centre yelling:

Share your thoughts Online at www.MyGayZine.co.uk 7 MAY 2013

Poots’ Blood Ban Debate Update Northern Ireland Health Minister Edwin Poots’ decision to maintain the lifetime ban on gay men giving blood in Northern Ireland has been debated in the High Court.

Mr Poots himself a born-again Christian who disapproves of same-sex relationships, said it was taken purely on health grounds to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Northern Ireland David Scoffield Attorney General QC said: “Working The gay man John Larkin, the chief that figure into challenging the ban legal adviser to the the increased has been granted Stormont Executive, risk of one anonymity due to his questioned the infected donation perceived vulnerability legitimacy of the per billion, we and is now seeking challenge. estimate the a High Court ruling Minister is to bring Northern Earlier in the week, concerned about Ireland’s policy into Mr Justice Treacy an additional line with the rest of was told the lifetime infected donation the UK. prohibition was being made disproportionate, roughly every The Belfast Telegraph with an estimated 50,000 years.” reports that the man one additional HIV revealed in court that infection per billion Following final he has now become a blood donations submissions Mr born-again Christian if a 12-month Justice Treacy who now disapproves deferral period was reserved judgment of gay relationships. introduced. in the case.

8 Contact Us: [email protected] Pride Season in Ireland kicks off this month with Kerry’s 1st ever Pride

Kerry Pride DATES: 20th May- 26th May PARADE: 25th May

Waterford Mardi Gras DATES: 27th May- 2nd June PARADE: 1st June

Dublin Pride DATES: 21st June- 30th June PARADE: 29th June

Belfast Pride DATES: 28th June- 6th July PARADE: 6th July

Cork Pride DATES: 29th July- 5th August PARADE: 4th August

NorthWest Pride DATES: 12th August- 18th August PARADE: 17th August, Sligo

Foyle Pride DATES: 20th August- 25th August PARADE: 24th August

Newry Pride DATES: 26th August- 31st August PARADE: Pride Ball - 31st August

Limerick Pride DATES: 30th August- 8th September PARADE: 7th September

We would like to wish everyone a happy and joyous 2013 Pride

Anyone Fancy A Big Gay Lunch?

Celebrating Solidarity at the Big Gay Lunch Members of the Northern Ireland LGBT Community celebrated the European Day of Solidarity between Generations with a very special Big Gay Lunch at the end of last month, 29th April at QueerSpace in Waring Street, Pictured left to right: Lynn Johnston, Belfast. Gareth Barnes, Patricia Lewsley-Mooney, Commissioner for Children and Young People EU day of Solidarity and Colin Flynn, QueerSpace. between generations highlights the need for greater intergenerational share their personal NI Commissioner solidarity in an experiences, food, for older people, ageing society. friendship and fun. Claire Keatinge and NI Commissioner ‘The Big Gay Lunch’ The event reflects for children and was organised the ethos of The young people, by Gay and Big Lunch - valuing Patricia Lewsley- Lesbian Youth NI, what everyone in Mooney, opened the QueerSpace and the community event to encourage Linking Generations can bring to the promotion of NI to bring together the table and dialogue and mutual younger and older building stronger support between members of the community spirit. generations of the LGBT community to LGBT community.

104 Contact Us: [email protected] ‘The Big Gay Lunch’ was organised by Gay and Lesbian Youth NI, QueerSpace and Linking Generations NI to bring together younger and older members of the LGBT community to share their personal experiences, food, friendship and fun.

Together they made Everyone attending through having this statement: The Big Gay Lunch their voices heard.” was encouraged to “We are delighted to bring to the table The Big Lunch, open the event this an item that meant an Eden project, evening together. something to them, funded by Big Ours is a stronger sharing fashion, Lottery helps and better society music and personal reduce isolation when people of all treasures and and encourages ages understand, memories. stronger respect and value relationships one another. This Together everyone between event celebrates the prepared the neighbours and benefits of increased refreshments, local people. understanding helping ‘break the between generations. ice’ and paving The idea is that the way for more anyone can have “For the Lesbian, serious discussion. a Big Lunch from Gay, Bisexual fundraisers to and Transgender “This successful street or garden community there event highlights parties or picnics is added value and the benefits of in the park with significance in events bringing different friends and such as this, as older generations neighbours– the people and young together to share main ingredients people have many experiences, get to are food, friendship issues in common. know each other and fun. and offer support “Young people in to one another. The main date is particular can benefit Sunday 2 June from hearing about There are many when neighbours the experiences, cross generational and communities issues that provide and learning about all over the UK ways that older an opportunity are encouraged to people have dealt for generations to get together and with challenges engage with one throughout their another and make have their own Big lives.” a positive change Lunch.

To take part simply About The 2012, an increase order a free Big on previous years Lunch pack at Big Lunch – the best part of www.thebiglunch. 1 million people in com and bring • The Big Lunch 2009 and 2010 and 2 people of all ages takes place annually million in 2011 together to share on the first Sunday good old fashioned in June, but events • The Big Lunch community spirit. can be held on is led by the Eden another day if it Project, funded When you host a Big works better for the by The Big Lottery Lunch in Northern community. The Big Fund and supported Ireland this year Lunch 2013 will take by MasterCard, you could win place on Sunday 2 Kingsmill and Asda £1000 to bring the June. good ideas in your • The aim is neighbourhood or • The Eden Project simply to bring as group to life. started The Big many people as Lunch in 2009 in possible together the belief that we’re for lunch with their For further better equipped neighbours once a information to tackle the year and encourage contact Lisa challenges we face the sharing of James at when we face them conversation, Carlton Baxter together. ideas, skills and Communications resources. on 028 9032 5533 • The Big Lunch or email lisa@ is led by the Eden • 8.5 million people carltonbaxter.com Project, funded took part in Big by The Big Lottery To request Lunch or Big Jubilee Fund and supported your free pack Lunch events in by MasterCard, visit www. 2012, an increase Kingsmill and Asda thebiglunch.com on previous years or contact grainne. – the best part of • 8.5 million people mccloskey@ 1 million people in thebiglunch. took part in Big 2009 and 2010 and 2 com or call Lunch or Big Jubilee million in 2011 07703189048 Lunch events in

12 Members of the Northern Ireland LGBT Community celebrated the European Day of Solidarity between Generations with a ‘Big Gay Lunch’ yesterday, 29th April at QueerSpace in Waring Street, Belfast.

Pictured left to right: Colin Flynn, QueerSpace, Patricia Lewsley- Mooney, Commissioner for Children and Young People, Mark Brown, GLYNI and Vicki Titterington, Linking Generations NI.

13 MAY 2013

Of the 11 asylum Lesbian asylum seekers seekers Bennett interviewed, one are asked ‘inappropriate’ gained asylum at the first decision, six questions by UK judges gained asylum after several appeals, and four are still going One lesbian through the system. seeking asylum from homophobic The government persecution in has never released Uganda was statistics from reportedly asked immigration tribunals by a judge whether on how many people she’d ever read each year apply for Lesbian asylum Oscar Wilde. asylum claiming that seekers in the Others were asked: they face persecution UK are regularly “Why have you because of their being asked not attended a sexuality. “inappropriate Pride march?” and and insensitive” one immigration However it is believed questions by judges judge woman from by support groups it has emerged. Jamaica he did not that around 98% believe she was gay of such claims are Research from because she did not rejected first time the University “look like a lesbian”. of Southampton around. - based on Claire Bennett, Home Secretary interviews with a researcher at Theresa May told 11 lesbians from the University of MPs in March that countries including Southampton, told the Border Agency’s Pakistan, Saudi The Independent: performance was Arabia, Uganda “I thought I was “not good enough” and Jamaica - quite unshockable and confirmed it has found that just in terms of would be split with immigration judges how dehumanising its work moved back often do not believe criminalising the into the Home Office. LGBT asylum whole asylum process seekers are gay. is. I was wrong.”

Chris McMurray 14 ARGENTINA BELGIUM CANADA ICELAND NORWAY SOUTH AFRICA

SWEDEN URUGUAY SPAIN PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS DENMARK

NEW ZEALAND New Zealand joins the growing list of countries with equal marriage.

New Zealand became the Uruguay which introduced equal 13th country in the world to marriage earlier this month. legalise equal marriage. New Zealand is the second MPs voted in support of New Commonwealth country to Zealand’s Marriage (Definition of legalise equal marriage. Canada Marriage) Amendment Bill – with legalised equal marriage in 2005. a majority of 33. Seventy seven MPs voted in favour - 44 voted Before MPs voted, New Zealand against. Labour MP Louisa Wall, who introduced the legislation, said that The bill introduces equal marriage the time is right for change. for all regardless of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. “Marginalising and It will now go for royal assent, after discriminating against which it will come into effect within particular sectors do not four months. benefit society and families,” she said. Same-sex marriage is now legal in the following countries: “It is a simple choice; do we Argentina, Belgium, Canada, support discriminatory laws Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, or not? I know I don’t and New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, hopefully that is true of most South Africa, Spain, Sweden and of the members of this house.”

Chris McMurray 155 MAY 2013

Former US president NBA Star Jason Collins Bill Clinton has praised Jason Opens Up His Closet Collins for going public about his sexuality, becoming the first NBA player to come out as gay and continue their career. He said in a statement: “I have known Jason Collins since he was Chelsea’s classmate and friend at Stanford. Jason’s American “I’m a 34-year-old announcement basketball star NBA centre Back. today is an Jason Collins has I’m black. And important moment spoken for the I’m gay. “I didn’t for professional first time about set out to be the sports and in the his sexuality, first openly gay history of the LGBT confirming he’s athlete playing in community. It is also gay in an article to a major American the straightforward Sports Illustrated team sport. But statement of a good magazine last since I am, I’m man who wants no month. happy to start the more than what so conversation. I many of us seek: to He’s the first openly wish I wasn’t be able to be who we gay athlete in one of the kid in the are; to do our work; the big-four American classroom to build families and team sports to come raising his hand to contribute to our out as an active and saying, ‘I’m communities. player. different.’ If I had my way, someone Thousands of allies, Collins, who has most else would have fans and celebs have recently played for the already done this. tweeted their support Washington Wizards Nobody has, which for Jason Collins: and the Boston is why I’m raising New York Mayoral Celtics, wrote: my hand.” hopeful Christine

16 Collins also noted that he wore the number 98 jersey for every game in the 2012/13 season, as a mark of respect to Wyoming student Matthew Shepard, who was kidnapped and murdered in 1998.

Quinn, NBA star Collins said: “My decided to picket Kobe Bryant, actor one small gesture NBA Playoff matches Neil Patrick Harris, of solidarity was because the games singers Ricky Martin to wear jersey are “full of fags” as and Lance Bass, number 98 with the well as branding the Boston Red Sox Celtics and then the Jason Collins a “filthy baseball team, former Wizards. Beast”. England rugby star Ben Cohen, the NFL’s The number 98 has Let’s hope the bravery Chris Kluwe, Brendon great significance to of this professional Ayanbadejo, NBA the gay community sports star will inspire Commissioner David in the US as one of others to summon Stern and countless the most notorious the courage to “come others. anti-gay hate crimes out”. Homophobic occurred in 1998. abuse and problems Michelle Obama Matthew Shepard, keeping advertising tweeted from a University of contracts are often the First Lady Wyoming student, the reasons many of the United was kidnapped, pro players choose States (FLOTUS) tortured and lashed to live their lives Twitter account, to a prairie fence. He in the closet. Until commending him died five days after perceptions of gay for coming out, and he was finally found. people in sports saying “We’ve got change there is your back”. Barrack Collins, has since unlikely to be more Obama also gave been subjected to a stars following his support saying tirade of abuse on Jason’s lead. that he “could not be the social networking Will challenging prouder’ of Collins. site Twitter, including homophobic a number of death attitudes in sport Collins also noted threats. One Twitter encourage more that he wore the user said: ”Jason sports personalities number 98 jersey for collins comes out to leave their closets every game in the the closet! Kill that behind? Or will more 2012/13 season, as biiitttchhhh!!! @nba sports stars come a mark of respect to lol”. out as gay and act as Wyoming student catalysts for changing Matthew Shepard, Unsurprisingly the homophobic who was murdered in hate filled Westboro attitudes? We’ll have 1998. Baptist Church have to wait and see.

175 China: Lesbian couple stage street 'wedding' to demand LGBT acceptance

But Xiaoyang had been disappointed when most media outlets only reported the PM’s visit, completely ignoring the existence of the PM’s wife. “Such a phenomenon in a way reflects how China still doesn’t quite approve of same-sex marriage or © Yang Cheng Evening News homosexuality.” Many passers-by were reportedly confused when Xiaoyang and Xiaoxiao approached Over the weekend we heard them with a sign reading: “Marriage about a brave lesbian couple in is not about hims or hers, please give South China, who dressed up lesbians your blessings.” as brides and smooched openly in a busy street to demand At one point, security officers even public acceptance of same-sex tried to chase the brides down the relationships in the country. street, meanwhile some straight couples shook their heads and According to Yang Cheng Evening showed their disapproval. News, Xiaoyang and Xiaoxiao However, a few young people donned white wedding gowns and offered their blessings and asked to took to the High Street in Guangzhou. have photos taken with the couple. While many shoppers scuttled away One guy even scolded the security in embarrassment, some younger officers and said: “Hey! Why don’t people showed their support. you let a woman love a woman?” The girls’ demonstration was timed Homosexuality was decriminalised deliberately to coincide with the visit in China in 1997, however it is still to China by Iceland’s Prime Minister early days for LGBT people in terms Johanna Sigurdardottir and her wife of public acceptance. As of yet no Jonina Leosdottir. anti-discrimination laws to protect Xiaoyang said, “The news (of Prime LGBT people have been introduced, Minister Sigurdardottir’s visit) has and same-sex marriage is not legal in made so many gays, and lesbians in the country. particular, both thrilled and excited.”

Chris McMurray 18 IDAHO Day 2013

The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) was created in 2004 to draw the attention of policymakers, opinion leaders, social movements, the public and the media to this issue. It is not one centralised campaign; rather it is a moment that everyone can take advantage of to take action. IDAHO day is now celebrated in more than 100 countries, in all world regions and in places as diverse as Australia, Iran, Cameroon or Albania. The date of May 17th was specifically chosen to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. For more information on how you can get involved in organising an event, visit www.dayagainsthomophobia.org The organisers are calling on LGBT communities and our allies to get “Flying the Flag” for May 17th 2013. Keep your eyes peeled for the IDAHO Global Rainbow Flashmob!

Harvey Milk Day 2013

On May 22, many public schools in California, USA observe Harvey Milk Day and remember the achievements of the gay rights activist who was assassinated in 1978. On October 11, 2009, Californian governor Arnold Schwarzenegger established Harvey Milk Day to be held as a significant observance on May 22, which is Milk’s birthday. Visit http://www. harveymilkday.co/participate to see how you can get involved.

195 SHOWBIZ NEWS Chris McMurray

She said that she and Portia de Rossi: Ellen are smitten with each other and happily Ellen and I don’t want kids settled.

has talked about how “We’ve settled into she and her wife Ellen do happily married life. We not feel the need to have really support each other children. in whatever we’re doing and we’re incredibly She said: “You have to happy, which is why you really want to have kids, don’t see us in the press and neither of us did. So so much. There’s no it’s just going to be me drama to report.” and Ellen and no babies.” Ellen and Portia recently The ‘Arrested travelled to Portia’s Development’ star said native Australia, where For those of us who she never felt the pressure Ellen filmed ‘The Ellen don’t have kids and to procreate like many DeGeneres Show’ in are not planning to women do when they are Sydney and in Melbourne. get sprogged up any in their mid-30’s. time soon, sometimes The talk show host let slip, reading about all the “There comes some “I shouldn’t put it out there happy ‘celesbian’ pressure in your mid- but I can see us living here families can feel a bit 30s, and you think, ‘Am one day. I’m moving here; alienating. I going to have kids it’s so beautiful.” so I don’t miss out on So it’s refreshing when something that other While Ellen continues you hear one half of the people really seem to her daily daytime world’s most famous love?’ talk show, Portia will lesbian couple saying be returning to the that they’re enjoying life “Or is it that I really small screen on May as a couple and they’d genuinely want to do this 26th when Netflix rather NOT start a family. with my whole heart? premieres a brand new I didn’t feel that my 15 episode season of In an interview with Out response was ‘yes’ to the comedy ‘Arrested magazine, Portia di Rossi the latter.” Development’.

20 ‘Arise Sir Ian & Sir Derek’.... To The Top Of The Viewing Ratings

said: “The basic schtick in Vicious is high-camp bitchiness, a form that reached an apogee in the American sitcom Will & Grace. This is a sadly depleted version, though, and it’s delivered by McKellen and Jacobi as if they’re playing in Wembley Stadium and only the upper tiers are occupied, with a heavily semaphored effeminacy that seems Vicious - Monday’s @9 on ©ITV to belong to an entirely different era.” Legendary actors Sir for almost 50 years and Ian McKellen along seen them hosting a wake Gabriel Tate, from Time with Sir Derek Jacobi to mark the passing of a Out, praised the show: won the ratings war dear friend. “It’s a very traditional for Monday 29th April studio sitcom setup, made as their new sitcom Some TV commentators watchable by its stars and ‘Vicious’ opened with have criticised Vicious for enjoyable by a waspish 5.53 million viewers, pandering to old fashioned script. 23.0% of all viewers gay stereotypes. However, at 9pm while another writing in the Guardian, Also, in its combination 344,000 viewers saw it Ben Summerskill, chief of old age and on the +1 channel. executive of gay rights homosexuality, it could charity Stonewall said the be argued to have broken Created by Will and Grace programme represented a little ground.” He also writer Gary Janetti and progress for gay added: “Not that creators award-winning playwright representation on TV. Mark Ravenhill and Mark Ravenhill, it sees Gary Janetti much care McKellen and Jacobi Tom Sutcliffe, from The about that: this show is play Freddie and Stuart, Independent, criticised all about low blows and a bickering gay couple the show’s excessive use easy laughs – at which it who have been together of canned laughter. He excels.”

21 SHOWBIZ NEWS

Daughter of anti gay marriage MP creates pro- equality musical ‘Misérable Lesbians’

The writer and director of Misérable Lesbians Sandro Monetti said: “Gay rights is a hot topic around the world right now and through our comedy musical we hope not only to make people laugh but also to make them think. “Our show is about The daughter of an have my own views and women in 19th century MP who recently I am very pro-gay rights, France locked up for the voted against same- even though I am straight crime of falling in love with sex marriage has myself I believe everyone each other. They – and the “dreamed a dream” should be treated equally brave rebels who support and is developing a and I am proud to do them – dream a dream new musical to support my bit to support gays of gay marriage one day LGBT rights called and lesbians and raise being legal. ‘Misérable Lesbians’, awareness of this very a spoof version of ‘Les important issue. I am sure Amess and Monetti are Misérables’. Katie Dad is happy I am finally raising finance to develop Amess, daughter of working. Mum’s watched Misérable Lesbians Tory MP David Amess, the film, but Dad hasn’t.” through the crowdfunding said: “I have always website Indiegogo, and been pro-gay rights. In ‘Misérable Lesbians’, are aiming to stage the Misérable Lesbians Katie Amess plays show in Edinburgh and is a jokey title with a Courgette – a play on off-Broadway in New very serious message, the character of Cosette York. David Amess, who which is that everyone in the original Les represents Southend deserves equal rights.” Misérables. Courgette West, was among 175 is a young girl who MPs to vote against She said: “I love my father “fights the good fight” same-sex marriage in the and he’s entitled to his in revolutionary France House of Commons vote opinion but I disagree with to help a rebel band of in February. him on gay marriage. I lesbians achieve their goal of sexual freedom. Chris McMurray 22 Russell Tovey ‘Playing Gay Could Be Risky’

Actor Russell Tovey, former star of BBC’s hit supernatural series ‘Being Human’ says he believes his career is unique because he always plays straight characters. Speaking in an interview with The Independent said “Every character I play is straight, which is unique, my agent says, because it’s not really been done before that someone who is completely out is able to play straight roles. So for me to play gay it has to be something special, because it might actually be more of a risk. So I’m waiting for that role – I want it to be something that moves things forward.”

Richardon Shocked by Sexiest Male Nomination

Hollyoaks star Kieron Richardson says he’s “shocked” to have made the sexiest male category in this year’s British Soap Awards when he was talking to the Liverpool Echo. The out gay actor, 27, went on to say “It’s a bit of a laugh but being competitive I want Hollyoaks to win as many awards as possible.

Mentioning Hollyoaks co-star Danny Mac, Kieron said: “I love Danny to bits. He’s better looking than me. But I’ve got good cheekbones and an all-right face. I’m doing it for all the people who hate going to the gym and love eating crisps, burgers Holluoaks-©Channel 4 and kebabs, and also for gay people.” Weekdays 6:45pm

23 Movies & Music Update

Available May 2013

We’ve sifted through those boring, tedious lists and charts to present you with a selection of the best releases and entertainment purchases available this month. Check back each month and keep up to date with the latest and greatest entertainment releases. May brings with it a bumber month of Blockbusters, DVD’s and Downloads in the lead up to the Summer release Bonanza. Check out this month’s cinema releases below and find out when this month’s hottest DVD’s, Singles and Albums will be available to purchase on the next page.

@ The Cinema The Great Gatsby - 10th May Leonardo Di Caprio, Toby Maguire The Hangover Pt III - 24th May Bradley Cooper, John Goodman After Earth - 31st May Will Smith, Jaden Smith Now You See Me - 31st May Morgan Freeman, Michael Cane Star Trek - 17th May Benedict Cumberbatch, Chris Pine

244 Out on DVD Safe Haven 7th May Jack Reacher 14th May Cloud Atlas 14th May A good Day to Die Hard 14th May Beautiful Creatures 21st May

This Months Singles 30 Seconds to Mars ‘Up In The Air’ - 5th May Little Mix Ft. Missy Elliot ‘How Ya Doin?’ - 5th May Chris Brown ‘Fine China’ - 12th May Stooshe ‘Slip’ - 12th May Paramore ‘Still Into You’ - 19th May

...and Albums Alison Moyet - 6th May The Minutes Little Boots - 6th May Nocturnes Amelia Lilly - 20th May Be A Fighter Daft Punk - 20th May Random Access Memories Stooshe - 27th May London With The Lights On 255 interview

jessie k

Those of us lucky enough to get a listen to Kerri Foster aka Jessie K on Blast 106.6 last month will be fluttering with excitement in anticipation of her Newry Pride performance on Saturday 29th August.

With the help of a creative team put together by her management Kerri has beautifully transformed her appearance and persona to match that of Jessie J in a transformation that would fool even The Voice UK judging panel.

Not only does she bear a striking resemblance to the global superstar, Jessie K has also risen to the challenge of mimicking her incredible vocal abilities and after months of intense training with vocal coach (and Diva Dolls member) Alex Jay she’s ready to take her tribute act to venues across the UK.

We decided it was time to find out more about this insanely talented local artist before she takes to the stage in Newry later in the year. Find out just how similar she is to the real thing in our exclusive entertainment Photography by interview on the next page. Simon Crawford

26 You blew us away on the radio last month and our readers can listen to clips of your performance on your website www.jessiek.co.uk but just what made you take up the challenge of creating a tribute to one of the world’s most talented singers?

The decision to challenge was not an easy one. Over the years I’ve been asked to take on tributes but swore I’d never open myself up to the criticism that would come with it. That was until Jessie came along and I found so much respect for her as a very “real” artist with an Jessie refers to her fans as attitude keeping true to herself I felt “hearbeats” because her fans someone should step up and try to “ensure her survival” and because put together a tribute that would do she suffered heart problems when her justice, and why not wee me! she was younger. Other than Newry Pride where can your very In 2012 Jessie J became the own “heartbeats” expect to see first solo artist in the UK to you appearing this year? have six Top 10 chart singles from one album and she has My very own heartbeats can expect written and covered many to see me at many huge events in more. Which of her collection the very near future including some of massive hits and songs Pride events across the Province. In can we expect to hear at your particular Newry Pride which is into its performances this year? 2nd year & I’m proud to be part of it. On 29th June 2013 I will be part of a You can expect to hear practically fabulous line up for Newphonic Festival every song on her album & her new in Newry also supporting Mr Saxobeat one which is set to be released this singer Alexandra Stan. I’m really looking month which i am excited about. forward to this event as other acts such Jessie J also performs tracks live as Starboy Nathan & The Diva Dolls will for her fans which have never been be performing too. All details are on my released including her version of website with links for tickets etc. My Rihanna’s ‘We Found Love’ which is Management Team are also working on just remarkable. a brilliant plan so that Heartbeats can 27 (continued) come and enjoy How long has it house etc... People may my show like they would taken to perfect your have heard me perform if they went to see Jessie voice to perfect such at weddings, Christmas live in London, but it’s in a realistic similarity parties and clubs over it’s early planning stages to Jessie J? the years I was in a & details will be released popular function band in the coming months. You never stop working for many years and more to achieve that level of lately have been working There’s an perfection so I continue alongside my good unbelievable amount to work hard. She is friend as part of a duo of emotion poured a vocal acrobat. I am performing on a regular into Jessie’s singing, very fortunate to have a basis across Belfast. especially songs like brilliant team behind me “Who You Are” and who are so professional Which of Jessie J’s “Big White Room”. & very experienced with songs do you enjoy How do you get this great vision & whilst performing most and kind of emotion into I do the hard work of why? your performances? practising & have been doing so for a number of Although I find it very I believe I can achieve months they continue to emotional to sing I the amount of emotion work equally hard on the particularly enjoy Who’s as through my own production & concepts. Laughing Now. I was experiences in life I I have continuous bullied at school which can relate to many of performance & vocal still affects me to this Jessie’s lyrics. From help from my mentor. very day and although I chatting to Heartbeats This is to ensure that we have not seen the fame on Twitter I can clearly produce the best show or success. My bullies see that her lyrics have possible & at the same have since been at helped so many young time pay tribute to such my performances and people. No matter what a talent that is Jessie J. approached as if they struggles you may be were my friends and going through whether it When did you first not girls that picked on is sexuality, race, religion get interested in me and at times made or body image there singing? (and where my life a misery. But is nothing we cannot might we have heard I’m stronger, wiser & conquer & it does not you perform before?) have great support from mean we have to do my family & very good it alone! Jessie’s lyrics I first got interested friends. I’m proud of repeatedly emphasise in singing as a child what I do & who I am & this & I can connect with growing up listening to Who’s Laughing Now them as I’m sure many my mums wonderful really just hits me! of your readers will be voice and seeing her able to also. perform in the opera 28 Over 12 million were to raise millions for thank her for inspiring people in the UK charity I would shave me to be who I am in tuned into Comic my head, I think it is a my darkest times and Relief this year when very small thing to do come through any Jessie J shaved her when there are so many hardships I have had to hair off for charity. suffering in this world. face a stronger person. What’s the craziest Everyone from time to thing you’ve ever What would you do/ time needs to be told done? Would you say if you ever had “it’s ok not to be ok”. go as far as shaving the chance to meet That line from Who You your head? your idol? Are has kept me going on many an occasion. I am sure there are some That has to be the most crazy things I’ve done difficult question as I Visit the Jessie K that I can’t mention lol would have so many website for further one that does come things I would love to information and to mind was abseiling say to my idol but the event bookings - down the Europa Hotel first thing I would do www.jessiek.co.uk for charity. Oh yes, if it would be to hug her and

29 30 You blew the partied with in my life! sound that I can’t wait for crowds away at last I could literally feel the you to hear… I’ll sing it year’s Belfast Pride love up there on stage live at Belfast Pride 2013, Festival performing radiating from everyone so let me know what you in front of thousands and it was amazing to think. in Custom House have such a good time Square, what have while also sending out What do you like most you been up to since a strong message of about Belfast? we last saw you? positivity, equality & unity. Homophobia sucks! The city, the people, the Belfast Pride blew me Guinness. away, not the other way B.Y.O.B went down around! The crowd was a treat at last year’s Have you always awesome and went Belfast Pride and wanted to become a crazy with me as soon we’ve heard rumours musician? as I jumped on stage. of a new track in It was the first time I’d the pipeline for your I’ve never dreamed of been to Northern Ireland 2013 Pride Tour. What doing anything other and I’ll never forget it. I details can you reveal than music, writing feel lucky that I got the about the new song it, recording it and chance to share my you’re working on? performing it to as many music with you and I’m people as possible. I’ve so excited to be coming ‘Bring Your Own Booze’ always scribbled song back for Party in the is my most popular tune ideas since I was a geeky Square this summer so far and the crowds kid in school with pictures to do it all over again! always sing and chant of Michael Jackson Since I saw you, I’ve it back at me. I wrote it glued all over my books. been busy in the studio a few years ago while I wasn’t academic but writing & recording my suffering a hangover music was something debut E.P which will from a house-party the I could just do. Writing be on iTunes in twenty- night before. I’d got gave me identity and thirteen. loads of texts asking if got me through some it was “B.Y.O.B” bash tough stuff that other You’re certainly no and I was all “Hell yeah, guys & girls reading this stranger to taking I haven’t won the lottery probably went through, to the stage at pride and I’m not buying your or are going through, as a events, how do drinks all night” and I just teen. I believe you have to the Belfast crowds thought it was a cool dream big and follow your compare to others idea for a song. I took a heart in everything you you’ve played at? 2-year hiatus from making do, whether it’s creating music but I’ve finally catchy-as-hell pop songs Belfast Pride 2012 was recorded a new single or something more hands-down the biggest called ‘Bombshell’ which important. and the best audience has really sexy lyrics over I’ve ever played for and this hard, euphoric club (Continued ->) 31 What do you love/ along the beach late at think he ever felt the hate most about the night, on the sand, under same way about me! music industry? the stars, listening to music. Who is your all-time I love music, but hate the favourite musical industry. It’s a money- 2012 saw you work inspiration? making machine that alongside some of destroys talent and the UK’s hottest Michael Jackson, the favours profit. It’s sad talents and singing King of Pop. when artists with so with the likes of much promise disappear Alexandra Burke and Who do you like most from the charts, dropped The Wanted. Which on the current pop after their first album, celebs have you music scene? or even their first single, enjoyed meeting the because the record label most? I try and keep my finger has moved on to sign on the pulse and my ears up the latest, “hottest” It’s always fun sharing on what’s in the charts at act. You can have a a gig line-up with the moment, but I mainly million-pound deal, and celebrities and I’ve been listen to underground, be a “has-been” before lucky enough to open under-the-radar club Dj’s you’ve even recorded for some really talented who make incredible a song… I think that artists. The Wanted were sounds that really inspire talent competition that’s the coolest boys I’ve me. Shout out to Dj on telly every year is to met so far, I supported Lucky Luciano & Dj Ben blame. It’s money over them in Birmingham C, who remixed my song music. I feel blessed that and hanging out with ‘Star Sign’. I make my own music, them backstage was in my own time, for my awesome. Before the Have you any guilty fans… only they can tell show we drank pear pleasures on your me what to do, and what cider, did vocal warm ups MP3 Player? they wanna hear from and sang an acapella me. version of Michael I have too many guilty Jackson’s ‘Human pleasures on my iPod! What do you like to Nature’ together. One I’m in love with Barry do in your free time? thing I’ve learned though Manilow & cannot is that it doesn’t matter resist singing ‘Mandy’ Music is my life, but how many famous, or ‘Copacabana’ on when I’m not doing that chart-topping acts are karaoke after a beer I like chilling with my playing, it’s always the or two… I’m such a friends, watching movies crowd who are the real ‘fanilow’! I also like and working out when stars of the show… country music & I’m a I can be bothered. I live they make it. Oh, and if sucker for Dolly Parton, in Cleethorpes which is you were wondering, I her original version of “I a small, quiet sea-side fancy Nathan from The Will Always Love You” is town, I love running Wanted… but I don’t beautiful.

32 If you were left That would be pretty awesome twitter stranded on a desert special, I love his wildlife followers from Northern island what three documentaries, and his Ireland tweeted Pride items would you like voice. and told them they to have with you? wanted me there on How excited are you July 6th. It’s all down 1. Friends (actual ones, to be back at Belfast to them requesting not the DVD box-set) Pride ‘due to popular me, and their support 2. A boombox. demand’ and what means the world to 3. David Attenborough. can we expect from me so I’m going to He could take me on a your show? come back with an tour of the island and even bigger show, tell me what all the I couldn’t be more even louder music & tropical animals & birds hyped to be returning together I reckon we’ll were… and which ones to Belfast, especially have the biggest party I could eat… and which because I was asked of summer 2013. ones would eat me! back only after my Bring it on!

33 International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival Various locations, Dublin City 06th - 19th May

Dublin is going ‘wilde’ in May to celebrate ten years of international gay theatre. Musicals, drama, dance, Opera, drag, cabaret and comedy from five continents will be presented in over 200 performances in Dublin city centre venues during May 6th to 19th 2013.

Founder Brian Merriman explained what to expect at this year’s festiva:. “We present works by gay authors or that have a gay character, theme or relevance such as feminism, masculinity or gender identity in small theatres throughout the city centre at reasonable prices... There are some free events including a nightly festival club where casts, crews and audience socialise” continued Brian Meriman. “The Festival presents the best in new writing that appeals to a mainstream audience and we are delighted to welcome visitors during the ‘Year of the Gathering in Ireland’ for a unique theatrical and social experience” he concluded. The 30 play programme features productions from Ireland, the UK, USA, Canada, South Africa and Australia and is available for online booking in April on www.gaytheatre.ie

The festival began in 2004 to mark the 150th anniversary of Oscar Wilde’s birth in Dublin and since then the IDGTF has grown to become the largest of festival its kind in the world, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. Patrons include Tony Award winner Terrence McNally, award-winning author Emma Donoghue and Senator David Norris.

The programme for the festival changes entirely each week. Weekend and Bank Holiday matinees start at only €10. For the full programme and secure online booking see the website above for more info. Box office and phone booking opened in late April.

34 The Festival creates new opportunities for visibility and affirmation for existing and emerging gay artists and theatrical works. The Festival’s criteria for inclusion into the programme are broadly interpreted to include works by gay writers, works that have a gay relevance or theme, or works that include either performance or another artistic contribution by gay people. Participation and attendance is open to all who wish to witness and acknowledge the immense contribution of gay people to theatre in all its forms.

35 WHO? WHERE? WHEN? WHAT? The MyGayZine guide to What’s On and What’s Hot.

WHO? Sparkplug WHO? North West 200

WHERE? The Mac Theatre, Belfast WHERE? Various Locations WHEN? 8th May WHEN? 12th - 18th May WHAT? Part of the Cathedral Arts WHAT? The International North West Festival, this Irish Times 200 is one of the world’s Award 2013 nominee takes top three motorcycle road you on an adventure into races. This adrenaline- the heart of surreal rural packed event follows the landscape the combines famous circuit between lyrical comic storytelling the towns of Portrush, with original music and Portstewart & Coleraine. songs played on a variety As part of the Festival, of intriguing instruments. Coleraine Borough Council He’s got the blues bad is providing entertainment and things look gloom but such as plus a full week across the meadow he sees of stunt shows, outdoor a vision…his boat has come concerts, fireworks, in. exhibitions and marquees.

WHO? Derek Acorah WHO? The Drifters

WHERE? Waterfront Hall, Belfast WHERE? Waterfront Hall, Belfast WHEN? 26th May WHEN? 09th May WHAT? Derek Acorah`s, of the Most WHAT? The Drifters return to the Haunted TV series brings Waterfront to celebrate their his sincere and friendly 60th Anniversary with their approach and his psychic Diamond Dynasty Tour, abilities to the big stage at featuring the current line the Waterfront Hall. This is up Pierre Herelle, Michael sometimes a controversial Williams, Ryan King and topic and his “gifts” have Carlton Powell. The Drifters been questioned by have seen massive chart many but he was recently success on both sides of described by The Guardian the Atlantic and across the newspaper as `The Model world, with over 114 million Of The Modern Medium`and album sales, 214 million is he’s quickly filling singles sales and a vast theatres across the land. catalogue of hits.

Got an event that you’d like to feature? Get in touch - [email protected] 36 WHO? WHERE? WHEN? WHAT? The MyGayZine guide to What’s On and What’s Hot.

WHO? Meat Loaf WHO? The Big Reunion

WHERE? Odyssey Arena, Belfast WHERE? Odyssey Arena, Belfast WHEN? 14th May WHEN? 17th May WHAT? Meat Loaf, one of the WHAT? Due to the extraordinary most successful recording fan response to ITV2’s hit artists and world’s leading show ‘The Big Reunion’ performers, has announced and tickets for the hotly that he will be returning anticipated Hammersmith to the UK with his “Last Apollo show selling out At Bat” tour to bid a final almost immediately, all six goodbye to his fans. This acts from the show (Atomic series of incredibly special Kitten, 5ive, 911, Honeyz, dates will see the singer B*Witched and Liberty X) perform a two-act show will be hitting the road this that will include some of May to wow audiences in his greatest ever hits and arenas all over the UK & songs from his debut album Ireland. ‘Bat Out Of Hell’

WHO? Can’t Forget About You WHO? Forbidden Fruit Festival

WHERE? Lyric Theatre, Belfast WHERE? Kilmainham, Dublin City WHEN? 23rd May - 16 June WHEN? 01 - 02 June WHAT? While primarily a very funny WHAT? Kasabian and Primal comedy, Can’t Forget About Scream will headline this You touches on deeper year’s Forbidden Fruit themes such as grief, loss, festival in Dublin City. sexual mores, cultural The two-day event, will identity, sectarianism feature sets from Chic, and the question of how Crystal Castles, James Northern Ireland moves Blake and Four Tet. Some on from the politics of the of the Irish acts include Le past and faces the future. Galaxie, Fight Like Apes Can’t Forget About You is and Tieranniesaur will the first play written for the Lyric by David Ireland, one also perform. Tickets are of Northern Ireland’s hottest on sale from online www. young writing talents. ticketmaster.ie and usual ticketmaster outlets.

Check back each month for a nosey at what’s going on around Ireland 37 WHO? WHERE? WHEN? WHAT? The MyGayZine guide to What’s On and What’s Hot.

WHO? Belfast Continental Market WHERE? Belfast City Hall WHEN? 24th - 27th May WHAT? Belfast sees a return of the ever popular Continental Market and thats not all this year there is a second Market at the Titanic Maritime Festival over in the Titanic Quarter on the 25th 26th and 27th May. With traders from as far afield as Morocco, India, Belgium, France, Russia, Tanzinia, Spain and China. There’s always something for everyone.... Oh and the beer tent is back too. WHO? Sing- A- Long A Greece WHERE? Grand Opera House, Belfast WHEN? 22nd - 23rd May WHAT? Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a T-bird or a Pink Lady but never quite felt cool enough to pull it off? Well, now is your chance to don those pink jackets, grease up those quiffs and let your inhibitions go for an evening where you are the stars. Watch Danny & Sandy and the gang, while singing and dancing along to the lyrics. It couldn’t be easier or more fun! Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential. WHO? Cat Laughs Comedy Festival WHERE? Various Venues, Kilkenny City WHEN? 30th May - 03 June WHAT? Founded in 1994 in response to the burgeoning wealth of Irish comic talent with no clear national outlet for expression. It is known as a more intimate and laid back festival as there is no competition between the comedians to win awards or sell tickets to shows. The world-class programme blends the top Irish and international talent in shows featuring globally renowned comic stars as well as newcomers and break- through acts. 38 Got an event that you’d like to feature? Get in touch - [email protected] 27 MAY 2013 GUIDE

DROP US AN EMAIL TODAY AT [email protected] FOR INFO ON GETTING YOUR BUSINESS LISTED

CHECK BACK EACH MONTH FOR INFORMATION ON IRELAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND’S BEST LGBT AND LGBT FRIENDLY VENUES.

40 NORTH OF THE BORDER

Kremlin El Divino Club Glam

The 25th of May Located in Belfast, Join Pat Kent and sees Glam host their The Kremlin is one of Titti Von Tramp Supherhero theme Ireland’s largest gay on Monday nights night at Bar Zu, nightclubs & presents in the gorgeous Rosemount Factory. a variety of popular surroundings of El Hosted by Fi Fi club nights every Divino for three floor Fontaine and Shania night of the week of music, cheap drink Laa Rue. Spot Prizes except Mondays. & entertainment. for best dressed.

Fox’s Den Mynt Belfast SPICE

Twanda is back Belfast’s fab to health and has polysexual venue, Join SPICE for a Eurovision Night resumed her role as bar opens its doors Special on May 18th. hostess of the Den Of to everyone and Iniquity on Friday’s in anything goes. Great Listings for future the den. Join Twanda for a quick spot of SPICE @Deer’s Head and DJ Mo for a night lunch. Hosts a variety can be found on of karaoke fun and of different live acts facebook. entertainment. and themed nights.

SILK? Union Street Bar Sunflower

Public House & Live Music. Opened in Union street is at December 2012 the the heart of Belfast’s Sunflower Public gay scene and is House is a hub of well known for it’s live music a stone’s extremely popular throw from the heart Sunday Bingo Show. COMING SOON of the Cathedral Quarter.

41 SOUTH OF THE BORDER

Dignity Bar Loafers Bar, Ruby’s, Cork Cork Situated in the heart Ruby’s hosts Corks of the Johnstown biggest gay club Quarter of Waterford One of the oldest gay night every Friday City, offering bars in the whole of in Cork’s City Centre. customers a chilled, Ireland. Hosts a from 11pm til Late. relaxed atmosphere lesbian night on Bar and club host “with the fun & frolics Thursday’s. A trendy theme nights and of your holidays neighbourhood style special appearances. thrown in. bar.

31 Thomas St Front Lounge Panti Bar, Dublin Dublin

Limericks Premier 2 level bar regularly gay venue for the hosting lots of fun Established since the events. They’re ultimate night out on 1990’s and nestled in especially fun when the town. Set over the heart of Dublin, hosted by Panti three floors with two the Front Lounge is a herself: one of modern bars and a classic modern pub. Irelands best known dedicated club. Regularly hosts a Drag Artists. variety of events.

The Dragon Chamber’s Bar, Cork

The bar’s Georgian Such is the popularity of Chambers since it façade is little became a fullt-time gay bar and club on August indication of the 1, 2009 that it has forced the closure of two other extravagance inside. venues in the city. Chambers is packed from An array of the Tuesdays-Sundays, with Thursday officially being hottest names on the Lesbian Night (guys ARE welcome) and Friday Dublin Dance scene being the only NON gay night (bouncers will keep the dance let you know) as Chambers opens up to Cork’s anthems pumping Salsa community. EUR5 cover Fri & Sat. throughout the week.

42 Check back next month for more pics, reviews and info on the hottest LGBT nightlife venues and club nights across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

43 The crowds packed into SPICE for last month’s visit from sisters Diamond and Ruby Sitges, organised in aid of the NI Hospice. We visited to take some snaps of the event and see what all the fuss was about. 44 The drag acts brought bags of upbeat, Sitges energy and atmosphere with them and despite the Belfast rain, everyone present got more than a little taste of Spain. Thanks to Desy and the team for a great night. 45 LIFESTYLE MAY 2013

Submit your recipes to [email protected] COOKING & we’ll publish some of the best each month.

Show of your cookery skills this May with this easy to follow recipe for a meal for four. Its Father’s day on June 16th so it’s also an opportunity to “get your Gordon Ramsey on” and impress your family when the big day arrives. Healthy meals that are incredibly quick, easy to follow and you can pick the ingredients up at your local supermarket.

1. Heat oil in a large pot on noodles in boiling water for Chicken medium heat 20 minutes. Noodle Soup 2. Add onions and thyme 6. When chicken is cooked and saute until onions are through, remove from pot translucent, about 2 - 3 with a slotted spoon and let minutes cool for about 15 minutes. Ingredients 3. Add ginger and saute for Using 2 forks, shred the 30 seconds. meat from the chicken and • 2 Tsp oil 4. Add chicken legs and discard the bones. • 1 cup diced onions saute with onions and 7. Turn the heat to high, add • 1 sprig fresh thyme ginger for 5 - 6 minutes. in the noodles and carrots • 1 tablespoon grated Season with salt and and bring the pot to a boil. root ginger pepper to taste. Let the noodles cook for • 3 whole chicken 5. Pour in water, add 5 minutes then add the legs - drumsticks and star anise, cover pot and chicken meat to the soup. thighs, skin removed bring to a boil. Reduce Taste for seasoning and • Salt and pepper to heat to low and let cook adjust if necessary. taste for 35 minutes or until 8. Remove pot from • 10 cups water chicken is cooked through. heat and stir in chili and • 1 large whole star Meanwhile, soak the rice green onions and serve. anise • Boiling water • 5 oz broad rice noodles • 1/2 cup diced carrots • 1 whole chili, thinly sliced (optional) • 1/2 cups sliced green onions, white and green parts

46 Cook up a storm in the kitchen with this delicious 2 course meal for 4 recipe. Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup and Garlic Beef recipe for you and your friends.

Garlic Beef with 1. Slice your beef into 3. While you cook the Green Beans & long, thin strips. Heat 2 onions and green beans, Red Peppers tablespoons of olive or heat 1 tablespoon of olive peanut oil in a large saute or peanut oil in a small pan over high heat and sauce pan over medium Ingredients: add in your beef. Cook for heat, then add in your 3-5 minutes, until almost minced garlic. Cook for • 2 tablespoons olive or completely cooked (it can 3 minutes, until fragrant, peanut oil still be a little pink, as it will then add in the rest of the • 2 pounds sirloin/top continue to cook a bit on sauce ingredients. Stir to round/filet/flank steak the plate) and remove with combine, then cook over (whatever you have on a slotted spatula onto a medium-high heat for 3-5 hand), sliced into long, plate with paper towels so minutes until bubbling and thin strips the juices drain a bit. slightly thickened. • 1 onion, diced, 2 2. Drain all but 2 4. Add the sauce to the peppers, diced tablespoons of juices out pan with the onions and • 1 pound green beans, of your pan and add the green beans and cook over cleaned and de- diced onion. Cook for 5 medium-high heat until stemmed minutes over medium-high thickened a bit more (about • ¼ cup water (if heat until softened, then 3 minutes). Add in the needed) add in the cleaned and beef and cook until heated • Rice, cooked according de-stemmed green beans. through (about 3 minutes). to package directions Add in ¼ cup of water, if Serve over rice or more (for serving) needed (just enough so the vegetables. Serves 4 (or beans can steam), and cook serves 5 when served over For the Sauce for 5 more minutes, stirring rice). frequently. • 1 tablespoon olive or peanut oil • 6 cloves garlic, minced • Two thirds of a cup of Hoisin sauce • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons low- sodium soy sauce • 1 to 2 teaspoons Sriracha • One third of a cup water

47 HOLIDAYS PORTUGAL ALGARVE

This month I have decided REVIEW BY MAURICE DICKSON to write about our recent holiday to the Algarve in WWW.GAYAWAY2TRAVEL.COM Portugal and in particular the beautiful resort of Praia Da Rocha. As a lovely and tourist centre at the end of the 19th romantic St. Valentines century, when it was the favoured present from my financé Paul summer resort of families from, not we set off from George Best only Portimão, but also the rest of City Airport on 24th April the Algarve and Andalusia; and then and experienced the best 7 in the winter with English visitors. days we could possibly have The Hotel da Bela Vista with its Belle dreamt of. Epoque architecture dates from this time and stands out amongst Stunning and breath taking the modern buildings along the sandy beaches, delicious cuisine beachfront, it is presently ranked the and friendly locals made it a number 1 place to stay. holiday we will never forget and we will definitely be returning The beach itself is vast, even again next year. in the middle of summer there is plenty of space. The avenue, There are daily flights from both Tomás Cabreira, which runs along Belfast International and a daily the top of the beach, is full of early morning flight from George restaurants, cafes, and shops and Best City Airport operated by is particularly lively at night with Aer Lingus. We took off at a variety of bars, and clubs to 6:30 am landed at 9:30 at Faro choose from. Airport and headed for our coach transfer, which took an hour to The accommodation in Praia da reach Praia da Rocha. Rocha is mostly hotel and high-rise apartment block based, but you’ll Praia da Rocha is the beach find that they are well spaced out resort next to Portimão marina, and close to all the local amenities, another bustling holiday resort those lucky enough to be facing the in its own right. It became a

48 HOLIDAYS BY www.GayAway2Travel.com “A welcome break away from Gay Life and a Beach lover’s paradise. Praia Da Rocha is the jewel of the Algarve” sea will have wonderful views.

Praia da Rocha is popular all year around and it was lovely to see people of all ages enjoying the April sunshine, taking a stroll, relaxing on a bench or enjoying a drink at one of the many cafes.

The resort is ideal for anyone who wants to be close to a fantastic beach, have plenty of places to wine and dine or party until late. There is also a casino along the avenue that hosts a show every night, with dinner, dancing and an opportunity to have a flutter on the tables! You’ll find that most of what you need is right on your doorstep and there’s not much need to rent a car. If you want to wander around the main shopping centre then Portimão is only a short walk or bus ride away.

There are all sorts of water sports available on Praia da Rocha, and If you want to travel a little further a variety of boat trips are available afield then there are lots of things from the Portimão riverfront (along to do within easy reach of Praia da from the marina at the eastern end Rocha. The water park, Slide and of the beach). A lot of events go Splash, is in Lagoa - just a short on throughout the year - fantastic distance away and the Zoomarine fireworks and live music to celebrate near Albufeira isn’t far either. New Year, powerboat racing or jet skiing on the river, and lots of The Zoomarine has outdoor pools beach sports and events during the (so don’t forget your swimming gear) summer. It is also very popular for as well as dolphin shows, sea lions cruise ships to dock and visit, you’ll and birds of prey shows which are notice them sailing across the bay at amazing! We visited Zoomarine on some stage. the Monday and the shows were incredible. We also enjoyed the rapid

More DEALS and PROMOTIONS are available on our Website 49 beach has plenty of the orange rock formations ZOOMARINE and arches shown in photos and postcards from Portugal. Nestled between Alvor and Portimao, a beach known as “Gay Eye” can be found. Our river ride (warning- by boat from the river tip is to hire mountain you’ll get a bit wet!), the front at Portimão. It is bikes and cycle along Harakiri water slide, 4D very picturesque and the strip and cliff shore cinema and a few other the castle is the largest line to the town of smaller amusement in the Algarve, quite Alvor a short distance rides. We advise pre- spectacular. away. You will find lot booking this with expensive hotels with Gayaway2 Travel before If you are a serious signs saying beach you go as it works out shopper, then take a restricted to guests only cheaper than in the trip to Algarve Shopping but this is not allowed resort itself and return Mall near Guia. The mall under Portuguese law, transport is included. is easily reached along keep continuing past the A22 motorway - Alvor and you will come We mustn’t forget golf take the turning for to a nature reserve and - one of the Algarve’s Albufeira/Guia, follow a dirt track, follow this big attractions - there the signs for Guia and and keep along the are several excellent the mall is on the left coastline. From a high courses within very over the road bridge. rock, we were able to easy reach of Praia da see few guys walking Rocha, including the down on a perfect championship course Beaches beach and they were of Penina and newer naked! Not everyone Do you know the courses near Silves was naked but there movie The Beach with (one designed by Nick was something going Leonado di Caprio? Faldo and the other by on at one end of the It is about tourists Christy O’Connor jnr). beach. It seemed that arriving in Thailand there is a tiny passage who dreams about To get a taste of inland to another beach finding the perfect Algarve then pay a that naked guys were beach and is willing to visit to Silves - an passing back and forth do whatever it takes historic town with a from. It was indeed one to get there. We think large, well preserved, of Praia da Rocha’s we found one of the Moorish castle. One most perfect beaches, it most beautiful beaches way of getting there is can be hard to find but in the Algarve, the well worth it.

50 HOLIDAYS BY www.GayAway2Travel.com The Praia da Rocha beach is not to be overlooked either. PRAIA DA ROCHA Take a stroll to the eastern end of the beach you’ll come to a fort, the Fortaleza da Santa Caterina. From the top of it you can look down the whole length of Praia da Rocha and see it in its full glory.

If you look over to the left, you can see the fantastic multi- coloured marina and across the river towards Ferragudo. Gay Scene various entertainment Many visitors like to from drag shows, come to the fort to One thing Praia Da dancers and all night watch the sunset. Rocha lacks is an fun with mainly local Portuguese clientele established gay scene There are plenty of but friendly and as such, but in the fun things to do at welcoming. neighbouring town of the beach including jet skis, pedalos, Portimão, you can find There are however windsurfing and a few local small gay numerous Irish Bars paragliding. venues, which well and nightclubs, next to worth a visit especially Club Praia Da Rocha The eastern end at the weekends. where we stayed is also has an area for Daly’s Irish bar, great beach sports where We took a visit to staff, live entertainment many competitions Boémio Disco Club, and theme nights. take place during the open Wed-Sun from summer. 11pm to 6am, situated The area is very gay close to town centre friendly and we even Praia da Rocha is beside the river and walked hand in hand supervised and the old bridge and only along the beach and is classed as an about 10 mins taxi ride, seen other gay couples ‘Accessible Beach’. this small club offers doing the same.

More DEALS and PROMOTIONS are available on our Website 51 LIFESTYLE MAY 2013

MAURICE DICKSON HOLIDAYS WWW.GAYAWAY2TRAVEL.COM

Where to Stay?

We stayed at the Club Praia Da Rocha a 3* on an All Inclusive basis which we found to be great value for money.

We booked a studio and were given a spacious 1-bedroom apartment that was Eating Out menu with local cuisine. clean but a tad out We both enjoyed dated but who spends Claire’s on the top of lovely meal, wine and all of their holiday the strip we could not great ambience and appreciating the décor fault, you pay the price atmosphere is definitely in their accommodation. of a main course and get popular choice amongst your starter and dessert locals and we could see The pool was spacious free! Great choice, why. and clean and the stip wonderful friendly and beaches are within service and loyalty Fusion Bistro Bar – 5 minutes’ walk. Food scheme buy 6 meals this is situated on the was repetitive so we and get 7th free, the right near to the Spar decided to eat out a owner even marked our supermarket. The few nights and amazed scheme valid forever! La woman serving told me value for money Gioconda – is located her mother is the chef restaurants around. next to Claire’s, tucked and the restaurant uses The top place to stay away in the corner. fresh local ingredients in is Bela Vista 5* Hotel & We were persuaded the style of homemade Spa which set on the by a nice looking guy Portugese cooking, just sea front cliff offering (not much persuasion pity it was our last day, a boutique stay in a needed really!), and glad but definitely on the list stately historic building we did. The restaurant for when we go back costing from £100 per was busy but great next year. night. service and an Italian 52 Visit our website for more travel deals and information www.GayAway2Travel.com LIFESTYLE FASHION

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55 importantly there is no place READER’S RANT to get sexual advice in a location I feel comfortable and accepted. Make an appearance in next month’s issue: It is said that in times Email your rant to: [email protected] ahead that the LGBT communities will have to salt-of-the-earth residents, stand shoulder to shoulder when it comes to LGBT we to fight against inequalities and discrimination but how are unrepresented and a can the LGBT people in little out in the cold. the South West of Northern Ireland stand together in their Mentions of a Fermanagh community when there isn’t I have lived in a small Rainbow Community lasted one to speak of. village on the outskirts a few short months after of Enniskillen in Co. last years LGBT float at the There are loads of dating Fermanagh all my life and St. Patrick’s day festival but sites that people avail of never really wanted to down here meaning that most move anywhere else in the even that has now fizzled of the people here in my view country. If you’re familiar out. Search “gay Enniskillen” are still hiding in their closets with my surroundings you on google and your greeted and meeting up from time will know that this place is by a barrage of dodgy dating to time to express their true one of the most beautiful sites, search “gay Belfast” nature and then return to their in all of Northern Ireland. and your laughing all the world of straightness. Maybe way to the Kremlin. it’s because there is no way I came out to my family else these people can learn when I was just 17, I had no I see the gays out and that being gay is OK and real experiences but knew about in Enniskillen but being gay isn’t something it was right for me as I had there is still no dedicated that needs hidden away, been fighting with myself only to be expressed twice a internally with feelings of self gay bar or club to serve week at a car park followed loath and worthlessness. us. I’ve literally no choice by days and days of self I am now just coming 22 but to travel up to Belfast, hatred and low self esteem. It and have travelled quite Strabane or Derry to get a is so important for everyone well to gain my experiences night out and socialise in a to have access to this kind in other parts of the Island place I can truly relax and of help and down here in of Ireland and the UK. I be myself. Not only this but backwardland we are in need therefore realised that while there is no organisation more that most. Fermanagh is stunning and here to help with struggling completely filled with real youths or people. More Shane McKinnely. Enniskillen.

56 Whether your feeling passionate about something, annoyed by someone or just wanting somewhere to express your feelings, we would like to hear from you. TEXT US YOUR COMMENTS 07564877618 SHOUT OUT ZONE

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Happy 3rd Anniversary Great to see Lady Portia to Gerry and Darren on the front cover. from Dublin. Hope for Looking as good as ever many more happy years Larry, Antrim together. Nichola & Dan.

Hiya to Bazcam, Happy 40th to Big well done for joining (KE-)Babs McKenna the Mygayzine team Got a message in Derry. Love from congrats to both of you Bronagh for someone Shauna, Dungannon that you’d like to Well done on the printers see here? Text Loved last month’s issue story! Great to see us today at your and look forward to people are taking action standard network meeting you at pride. against these bigots! Willy, Liverpool message rate. Text Lisa, Dundrod us your photos and comments, Brilliant night at the A year ago I stopped we will publish a Deer’s Head. can’t wait becoming a christian selection of the to see the pics thanks to Richard JohnP best and most Dawkins, I am straight memorable ones but fully support all aspects of gay culture, in every months I can’t get Ibiza out of my especialy the right to issue. head! marry. GH, Lisnaskea S. Jacques Get TEXTING...

57 FEATURES Mister Underground Dealing with Depression

Christopher Preston is no stranger to MyGayZine Magazine and has already contributed to two previous editions. This time he’s back for an open and honest chat about his battles with mental health, the challenges in his personal life and how it has influenced his musical creativity.

I have recently been There eventually came There are a few people talking to Aware NI a point where I felt I I help out at the about helping others had to do something moment who would with depression/mental about it because it was send me emails etc and health problems. controlling me and I would work with them This to me has a very affecting my daily life. on a one to one basis personal meaning as I Everything from my job, have also experienced the relationships with my and will hopefully assist anxiety and depression family and my social life. them and help them at first hand. overcome this disorder. Feeling so low and Ever since around the reaching this rock bottom People find it difficult age of 18 I had major situation also started to opening up about this anxiety problems which cause me distress and I issue and me being so have included panic was losing sleep at night. open and honest about attacks/depression. I thought that I could my experiences will start using my negative There were days I past and flip it into hopefully show people couldn’t leave the house something positive by there is light at the end or didn’t want to get out helping others who are of that tunnel and there of bed… It was a very suffering with anxiety/ are people out there dark time for me. depression. who can help. 58 Photography by BigBad Llama (Tony Webster)

The stigma attached to reflect on how you have beeping gadgets, their mental health problems changed as a person. relationships, jobs means that few are and everything else to willing to chat about their It’s a beautiful pause a moment for experiences and explore thing to be able to thought and take stock the issues in full. communicate with of their own state of mind. people through music, People have been it’s a way to send a quick to criticise my The past few months music and can be quite message to people have been quite rough judgemental of the going through the same as I’ve been dealing role I play as Mister thing and in a way my with an intense break Underground. music is like my own up. It’s difficult when very public diary. When you love someone and I use my music as a I think about the lyrics you know that their scapegoat to free my from a song I’ve written feelings for you have mind. My anxiety/ I recall the emotions changed completely. depression was I was experiencing at becoming less and less I feel the best way that time. the more I was working to deal with it is to on my music. completely cut ties with That to me is what them in your life or to being an artist is all I feel if you write your at least stop talking to about, living for now feelings down it can lift a them for 30 days. After but having your past to huge amount of weight this time you will feel it look back on and learn off your shoulders and gets easier.. Time really from. Most people are months down the line is a the best healer. you can read back and too absorbed in their 59 Mister Underground New Single & Video

62 63 FEATURES Peter Francis Fahy queer fear

demons who tormented him all his life had now come to claim him.

Old wood creaked as the creatures climbed the stairs, coming closer, closer, until the bedroom door cracked and burst into splintering bits as the monsters made their thunderous entry.

First came the hell howling priest, his eyes on fire, ablaze with the ferocious light of his own righteousness, holding his ancient Bible high in the air, a Bible as black as death and as heavy as a tombstone, a black Bible to bash the sodomites with dogma and damnation!

Do youse wanna hear a really Beside him was the other creature, scary story? a buck naked female, horny as hell and squeezing at her breasts, Let’s see what my twisted mind circling her hips and pushing her can conjure up.... pelvis out, exposing the monstrous mouth between her thighs, wet lips Deep into the darkest hours of the puckering open, a bloated tongue night, 3AM, the witching hour, gay licking at the greasy flaps and two Greg lay alone in bed. Outside, sharp rows of shark teeth jutting furious winds howled and hollered, out from the pink folds, a hideous shaking the window pane and mouth that would chomp on gay whistling into the cold room. Greg’s genitals and suck every seed out of him, creating babies, babies, The faint fog of gay Greg’s trembling babies, forcing him into fatherhood. breath disappeared into the dark. All around the priest and girl swirl the He shuddered from the freeze, but ugly unborn baby heads, fluttering he shuddered more for the fear, fear like moths, screeching ‘daddy’ over because the creatures were here, the and over again. 62 Queer fear, as the name suggests, is a sub-genre of horror that explores homosexual anxieties and pressures, serious subjects such as AIDS and homophobia, all deconstructed and reconstructed into fantastical forms.

Gay Greg trembled in terror and females hounded or harassed by a screamed in fear as heterosexuality demonic male antagonist, and the was forced upon him. films usually end with a heterosexual male rescuing the female. They The wild wind shattered the glass become the straight survivors, the inward as the priest grabbed building blocks of a nuclear family. Greg’s kicking legs and hauled him from his bed, into the depth of To expand on that idea, conventional darkness, where he’d be twisted and horror serves an important social transformed into someone he was function: it reinforces heterosexual never meant to be. relations and ensures heterosexuality is the predominant social code. Aarrrrgggh! Think about some of the most popular and prolific horror films: The How’s that for horror? It’s a bit of Exorcist, Nightmare on Elm Street, a hack job, but it’s what’s known in Halloween, Poltergeist, all these the entertainment industry as Queer films feature fractured families - a Fear. destabilization of the family unit, and it’s when the family is in danger that So what is Queer Fear, and how the boogeymen barge in. does it differentiate from regular fear? The ‘family in crisis’ theme is one of the common denominators in Horror is the perfect genre to cinematic horror, and because of dramatize social fears and concerns. that patriarchal and heterosexist message, gay viewers can feel It’s a magic mirror for humanity’s alienated from the movie experience darkest dreads: murder, genocide, - we’re unable to fully appreciate the social dissolution. Queer fear, as dreamlike participation or voyeuristic the name suggests, is a sub-genre frission of cinema because we can’t of horror that explores homosexual completely relate to the characters or anxieties and pressures, serious themes. subjects such as AIDS and But now, in the 21st century, homophobia, all deconstructed and there’s opportunities in film reconstructed into fantastical forms. and publishing for homosexual horror, for sexually specific Conventional cinematic horror is, to representations and stories that use Judith Butler’s term, notoriously would not have been permitted or heterosexist. We see heterosexual tolerated in the 20th century.

63 “Who hasn’t seen The Lost Boys? Would you say there’s a homoerotic subtext in this movie? There definitely is, not just because Joel Schumacher, the director, is openly gay. The film is peppered with homosexual hints and references.“

A great example would be the Destruction and No Night is Too Long groundbreaking anthology of made a bit of a splash in box-offices homosexual horror stories called around the world, and proved to Queer Fear. The stories all have movie-makers that successful horror the common ingredients of horror: doesn’t have to be heterosexually murder, monsters, mutilations, encoded. mysteries, but told from a However, that’s not to say homosexual perspective. The stories homosexuality never surfaced move away from heterosexually in horror films before. Harry M. encoded horror and let gay writers Benshoff explores the cinematic dramatize their fears and concerns. presence of homosexuality in his book ‘Monster in the Closet: Michael Rowe, the editor for the Homosexuality and The Horror Queer Fear anthology, won numerous film.’ Writing from a post-modernist awards for his project and has perspective, Benshoff reviews the already released a second volume. history of horror films, specifically I should get in touch with the guy the role of the movie monster, and and see if I can get some of my gory argues that a homoerotic subtext stories in the third collection. existed in films from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. But beyond the books, homoerotic horror has proved popular in film Movie monsters are essentially as well. Gay horror films such melodramatic and monstrous as Hellbent, Zombies of Mass representations of ‘the other’ or the

64 Peter Francis Fahy queer fear unknown, and it wasn’t uncommon and new vampire Michael. How to demonize something that does Michael become a vampire/ was feared and misunderstood queer? He just has to exchange throughout the 20th century i.e. some bodily fluids with David. And queer sexuality. who could forget Michael’s wee brother Sam, who dresses up in Consider ‘The Creature from the shirts that would put Elton John to Black Lagoon’ (and we’ve all went shame. And to top it all off, there’s one with one) - a bog beast that that cracker scene where Sam emerges from the swamp to attack opens his closet, and what do we men and drag them back to a murky see pinned to the door but an erotic lair. Benshoff argues that if you poster of Rob Lowe. Could you be scratch the surface of this movie more queer? monster, you’ll see a dramatic demonization of homosexuality. It So it’s good to know that gays makes sense - back in the 1950s, aren’t entirely excluded from the homosexuality horrified mainstream horror genre. And if you want to society, and this mucky movie read some homoerotic horror set monster is a distorted reflection of in bloody beautiful Belfast then those fears. check out The Unspeakable, my collection of gory gay stories. Yes, But let’s move forward to films we it’s shameless advertising, but all know and love. Who hasn’t what do you expect from a lost boy seen The Lost Boys? Would you like me? say there’s a homoerotic subtext in this movie? There definitely is, not just because Joel Schumacher, the director, is openly gay. The film is peppered with homosexual hints and references.

Think about it: there’s a gang of strange and dangerous boys who live on the fringes of society. These hot young vampires terrorize the happy seaside town. Substitute the word ‘vampire’ for ‘queer’ and you’ll get a different perspective on the characters.

Then there’s the sizzling sexual tension between gang leader David

Check out Peter’s book “THE UNSPEAKABLE“ - Available Now on Amazon.co.uk 65 FEATURES Father Joseph Ryan papa francisco - the new pope

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was announced as the 265th successor to Saint Peter. When I eventually got to see the announcement for myself, with the new pontiff stepping out on the balcony, the names of two popes came to mind right away – Blessed John XXIII (he who established Vatican II) and Paul VI who succeeded him.

Blessed John XXIII unleashed the Holy Spirit in the church through the calling of Vatican II and always seemed to have that most basic and simple of On Wednesday 13th March, I was ways about him which typified his travelling on the train towards being a man of the earth and of the Belfast when my mobile phone people. Paul VI (despite the Humanae rang with a colleague advising Vitae debacle) steered the church me that a new pope had been through difficult times post-Vatican II elected and the announcement and done it in a strict but humane way, from the balcony of St Peters was most notably the improved relations imminent. between Orthodox and Catholic.

I had a flashback by almost 8 years Firstly, let me reflect on Pope Francis or to when the exact same moment the ‘Papa Il Poverello’ as he has become announcement of now Pope Emeritus known which means the Pope of Benedict XVI was made and the sinking the Poor Little One and this is very feeling so many people experienced. evident with every word, gesture and My prayer as I sat waiting to hear the deed he has uttered, implemented new pope being named was that the and imparted. Gone is the majestic gift of early retirement of Benedict XVI vestments and clothing, most notably would not have been squandered by the red Prada leather shoes, the red the cardinals at this critical juncture mozetta (cape), the sharing of the of the history of the Roman Catholic bus-ride with his cardinals, back to the Church. Santa Martha hotel after being elected as pope, where he also insisted on And thank God they did not fail us or paying his bill and now lives. indeed the Holy Spirit as the then-

66 He has chosen a gold plated ring over laicisations than heretofore promised. the ornate Fishermans Ring normally Oh the honesty of him.... worn by pontiffs; he has kept his own plain silver pectoral cross and wears ‘Where there is despair, hope’ regular clergy clothing under the white (St Francis of Assisi) papal cassock. Secondly, I firmly believe that he will I could go on about these minor but hold the line on the church teachings important changes in symbolic terms, on many issues as all and any pope but it is important to note that he has before him has done but he is reaching gone further than just mere clothing out in a way not really seen before and etc in his duties. He has visited local I only hope and pray that he continues churched to celebrate Mass and after as he has begun and indeed wish and which he goes outside and greets all pray for him that he be guided at all who attend Mass and chats, shakes times by the teachings of St Francis. hands and blesses each and all. This holding the line on church ‘Preach always....and use words teachings has become very evident where necessary’ and to the fore in the last while with (St Francis of Assisi) Francis continuing the process begun under now Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI He visited the juvenile prison for the in relation to the American nuns and washing of the feet, and caused some sisters. This has been a questionable, consternation when he washed the feet divisive and very challenging process of (wait for it now) 2 young women and and looks as if it is going to take a lot one of whom was not even catholic!! of patience and understanding before it Oh the humanity of him.... ever reaches an amicable conclusion.

Each time he speaks, the words of It is a time of great change and mercy, compassion, love and justice challenge within the hierarchy and come from his mouth and practised by indeed for all of us who remain on him in deed and action. One only has the fringes – whether by choice or to reflect upon him lifting the child from otherwise – and not unlike St Francis, an audience member and holding him as we ourselves seek guidance, dear to him and giving the child a kiss Let the Holy Spirit guide us so that of peace to which the child reacted and Where there is hatred, let me sow love; hugged the pope, before returning the kiss of peace. Oh the humility of him.... Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; He has decried the abuse of minors in Where there is despair, hope; the church and has instructed swifter Where there is darkness, light; and justice be brought against those who Where there is sadness, joy. have betrayed the people of God, If Pope Francis can do it, what excuse with more excommunications and do we have for not doing it?

67 FEATURES Father Joseph Ryan the constitutional convention

get married in church, then you give 3 months notice to the civil registrar of your intention including date venue and officiant. This is because the State licences religious celebrants to officiate at both the religious and civil ceremony which we collectively refer to as the wedding.

This is almost unique in Europe where otherwise you would be obliged to be civilly registered as husband and wife by going to the local state registrar and once that is done, whatever denomination you are (if any) you can then get married according to that denominations rituals.

I now reflect on Sunday 14th The Irish Roman Catholic Bishops have April, just one month after the threatened the Irish Government that naming of the new pope; and if it proceeds with granting same sex this day now being somewhat couples the right to marry (as opposed historic here in Ireland as the to civil partnership as is currently Constitutional Convention stands) then they (the Bishops) will announced its overwhelming vote instruct their clergy to cease acting as in favour for the Government to state registrars at weddings and only hold a referendum on same sex perform the religious rituals. marriage. This would be so done so as to protect It is perhaps only right that we remind the special place of marriage in society ourselves of the response of the Irish according to the Bishops but yet Roman Catholic Bishops to the near discriminate against same sex couples. reality of same sex marriage being made possible via referendum in How contradictory to the pope they are Ireland. behaving and indeed to Christ Himself whose message of ‘do unto others as A little something to keep in mind is you would have done unto you’ should that in the Republic, if you wish to be giving their Graces food for thought.

68 79% OF DELEGATES AT THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION IN DUBLIN LAST MONTH VOTED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CONSTITUTION BE AMENDED TO ALLOW FOR SAME- SEX MARRIAGE, WITH 19 PER CENT AGAINST AND THE REMAINDER HAVING NO OPINION.

As a member of the LGBT community doubt the good Archbishop will then and as a priest, I have hope and do the inevitable Pilate and wash his confidence in Pope Francis who hands of his own comments when such obviously believes in practising what trouble will occur. Indeed, the problems he preaches but as for closer to have begun in France with 14,500 home, well I will not hold my breath. registrars saying they will not officiate at same sex marriage ceremonies if it We are living in interesting times becomes law. indeed, and the move towards joining New Zealand which recently became Here in Ireland, one has to wonder the 13th country in the world to will those in such positions to officiate permit and legally recognise same exercise their consciences according sex marriage with France now looking to the Episcopal (bishop) diktat or increasingly likely to be the 14th. according to the words of Christ: It is regrettable that Archbishop Vingt- “A new command I give you: Love Trois of Paris recently stated that to one another. As I have loved you, so permit same sex marriage in France will you must love one another. By this result in protests and perhaps violence everyone will know that you are my on the streets and such inflammatory disciples, if you love one another.” language will encourage just that!! No (John 13: 34-35)

69 poetry corner Chris McMurray

Write Me A WOMAN’S TOUCH Something Beautiful Dimensions of space and time So many aspects of the divine Within the arms of trust a calm Write me My lover’s lips a soothing balm something So sweetly my love be gentle beautiful Finding in your eyes such hues without a single Things you say to me and do sheet of paper Tonight I am moved by you or the use of a Letting down my guard tedious pen Letting you inside my heart Feeling your depth & warmth I want the ink to Flowing ever so freely forth spill Touches so tender and light from your Knowing your strength holding tight tongue, My spirit and flesh meld on this as your lips night against mine Only a woman’s touch feels so right become the Every moment with you is beautiful words, Feeling so connected beyond this and the fluidity plane your hands Knowing you in such expansive ways creates the We bond ever closer from night to punctuation. day Passions yearning to be expressed Our breath Making love discovering new depths will craft the Silence and whimpers all in a direction, symphony as our kisses Feeling your heartbeat as you lay slowly next to me turn into We unite and find our piece of paragraphs, heaven allowing the Knowing the moments are freely movement given of our bodies Precious are the expressions we to create the share chapters You are a woman that is beyond of this perfectly compare... written novel.

70 Cassie Harold

but i am here waiting, Give into god only knows how much i try, me... you know as well as i do, a punch in the stomach, my tears for you shall oh yes i see very never run dry, clearly, oh yes you, you and all i see the troubles and the sexual desire that pain you endure, seeps from your pores, i see those weeping that spark of electric eyes, energy, demanding that i hear the words you i take you now, speak, i would love to put but tell me is that the these words into action, truth? a slip of the tongue or so to speak, or are the bitter words but it’s you, you alone you harbour a smoke must take the reins. screen for your pain? i can see you’re see... when all that expecting me to be the denial is turned into one you lean upon, truth, but sorry my dear.... you’ll find a new way you must go on your of hitting the roof, way and sing your own i listen, song. i hear the deep breaths, shaking as you oh i feel the feelings exhale, you carry deep inside, i see the words you long i see all that you are, to say already set like but your denial and fire in your eyes, truth collide, i know that tough at war with yourself, exterior is a disguise, trying desperately not that smile on your face, to give in, you know that one you you thought i would just only use for me, crumble, give your mind a rest did no one tell you that and set yourself free, i am built like an ox? steady your thoughts, i am not the type to give into me, give into bow down. me.....

71 FEATURES Lucy Lashes emerging gay scene in donegal

Donegal’s Breakout Project

Lucy Lashes is an established prevalence of the community as in drag performer in Co. Donegal any part of the world – but Donegal and is known as one of Ireland’s never had a place for us to call our own...now we have far from few! I was few live-singing queens! You fortunate enough to see it built from may have read her articles in the beginning and take part in it. Rainbow MSM and seen her appearances on BBC and Sky Breakout, a youth LGBT group was Television. She has ran her own set up by Donegal Youth Service in transformation service, strutted 2009 in Letterkenny and Buncrana her stuff across Northern Ireland with the aim to support LGBT down as far as Cork and has teens and their families in a safe joined us for this issue to tell the environment. readers what it’s like to be LGBT in Donegal and what they have The way in which this group has to offer for the LGBT community impacted on people is phenomenal; after years of building a scene. ‘I didn’t realise I needed Breakout until I started going!’ The group In my eyes, the LGBT community meets in Donegal Youth Services in Donegal has come a long way. HQ in Letterkenny every Saturday For years there has always been a afternoon for cups of tea, chat,

72 training and outings. This group and their work have been in the public Lucy Lashes & Ms. Scarlett Rose eye of Donegal since, particularly their event ‘Chalk it up’ where they took to the streets of Letterkenny and covered the pavements with positive messages about LGBT in chalk.

The amazing thing about it was that everyone passing joined in too! Since then, ‘Chalk it up’ has appeared throughout Donegal! 2010 saw the start on Donegal’s first LGBT group, Amuigh (‘Out’ in Irish). This new social group allowed people from all over Donegal and beyond to meet up in Letterkenny in a safe environment, attend talks, or even go to the pub for a few drinks! In the same year, Amuigh organised Donegal’s first big gay night ‘The Pride Factor’. I remember seeing it in the papers and all over Facebook and thinking; ‘Holy f#@k! Donegal made and Letterkenny was buzzing with history!’ I never seen anything like it its new sleek gay venue! Myself and and I never thought I’d ever see it in Ms. Scarlett Rose (another fabulous Donegal! queen from our neck of the woods) became the resident hostesses with A large function room in Arena 7 the mostesseessssss! We even had covered in pride flags with people acts up from Galway and Dublin and from Donegal and beyond singing crowned a Mr. and Ms. Gay Donegal! at the top of their voice! (Scarleh for Since then the Donegal gay scene has some of them though because they had more facelifts that Joan Rivers with can’t sing for sh*t!) I had the lovely the launch of Rainbow Club, Indigo opportunity of hosting Amuigh’s first and Koko...all the same venue! Well, Alternative Prom....except I wasn’t too you know what they say! Perfection bothered about wearing a prom dress! takes more than one attempt! While that was sorting itself out, myself and Word wasn’t long spreading that the Scarlett Rose teamed up to make the gays were coming out to play, and live-singing drag duo Donegal Divas within weeks ‘The Eden Experience’, and toured around Ireland! We went to Ireland’s premier travelling gay night the most of the main prides, had gigs in came to Letterkenny! What was hotels, festivals, pubs, clubs...and the supposed to be a monthly event straight people LOVED IT! ‘Do you like magically turned into a weekly event our legs? They make lovely earrings!’

73 FEATURES Lucy Lashes gay scene in donegal

Each individual had a different Donegal embraces LGBT culture story and picture to show their personality. This Breakout project included students, couples, brothers, sisters, mothers, teachers, An Garda Síochána and people in the public eye. The exhibition was a massive success and these stories showcased by a very talented photographer Christina Jose Irwin remained on It was strange doing drag in Donegal display in the Regional Cultural because people really didn’t get it! It Centre for two weeks. Christina has was only when we started to immerse even done photography for Civil ourselves into the entire community, Partnerships and was a massive they seen drag for what it was – support to the project and is available entertainment! through www.facebook.com/ ChristinaJIrwinPhotography. Like all good things the club came to an end, but with a promise that it The exhibition is planning its display would return. The club might have in other venues throughout the come and gone, but the community country on a national level. If you have was still here and so was their spirit. a venue you would like to display the I didn’t go anywhere! I stuck around exhibition in, please contact Sinead like a bad smell and continued my Murray (Breakout) on 0035386- shows! Since then, Donegal had its 1247968 or email sinead.murray@ first ever pride event in conjunction donegalyouthservice.ie. with Northwest Pride. How did we do it? We found one of the straightest Letterkenny has also started up a new pubs in Letterkenny and turned it gay LGBT clubbing venue called Shine! for a night! The amount of support Situated in a safe and central location, shown that night from all over the Shine has brought gay clubbing back county and beyond made a clear to Letterkenny! Shine launched its statement that Donegal is still gay brand new monthly event in Oceans and proud! Recently several faces Bar, a former top-class casino and from the LGBT community in Donegal restaurant with sleek style and sexy came out and told their story in the surroundings. LGBT Faces of Donegal Exhibition in April.

74 LGBT Faces of Donegal Exhibition, April. Photo by Christina Jose Irwin

The opening night was in March and We’re the friendliest county in was such a success that the venue Ireland with the sexiest accent started running out of supplies due (apparently!) Don’t knock it till you to the demand! Shine just had a UV try it (not the accent!) Come down Glow Party on May 4th and it was to Donegal for a visit...and ask for mental! The organisers came back Lucy Lashes.....she’ll keep you right! with a vengeance with more supplies, more staff and it went extremely well – possibly the largest gathering of LGBTs in Letterkenny as people came all the way from Belfast to check out the fuss! The next night is scheduled for June and promises to be a great success! You can keep up to date with Shine’s events at https://www. facebook.com/shine.letterkenny

I’ve been born and raised in Donegal, and I think it’s a great place to be if you’re a member of the LGBT community!

Do you have a problem or a question that’s burning inside you like syphilis? Then don’t forget to look at Lucy’s Agony Aunt column in the next issue!

75 misty falls presents what’s the t?

PRIDE FASHION

So in this month’s ‘What’s inspired by our late colleague the T?’ We look a few months PA MagLochlainn who passed into the future and talk about away last November - PA was one of the biggest social and one of the founder members cultural event in the LGBT of Belfast Pride and worked calendar, the Belfast Pride tirelessly for LGBT rights for Festival, and what to wear, many years and his focus on and further more what NOT Equality has inspired your new to wear, to release the inner Pride committee to consider the Queen in us all. origins of Pride as well as its purpose. The Bright Colours of For a Drag Queen, Pride outfits the Rainbow flag representing can start being planned months the diversity of LGBT people and in advance, I know in previous reflecting a diverse, entertaining and thought provoking week of years as well as this coming year events while encouraging us all I’ve spent a good few months to think about the rights that we planning different ideas before still lack and to speak up and settling on a chosen design. make positive, Bold Statements for Equality during the parade Other Queens that I know are and the entire festival.” having pieces shipped from around the globe and order This year I have started plans these long times in advance to well in advance, bought the base make sure they are here for the for my outfit in January, the big event. rhinestones in March and the fringe in April, all I need to do This year the theme for Belfast is piece the different elements Pride is ‘Bight and Bold’ - Bright together to make my costume colours and Bold statements for this year. for equality. Belfast Pride had this to say “The theme has been For those of you in a creative

76 mindset, Belfast City Centre has a good selections of material shops as well as places to buy outfits and then customise them yourself, I get all my material in The Spinning Wheel, where I had to hound the counter woman for fringe. You don’t know how hard it is to buy until you actually start searching for it. For those less creative and looking for that extra special something, Belfast also has a great range of designers for people who love to make a statement, one of which is Van Der Simon Knitwear whose fabulous creations been worn by Ireland’s top drag artists and appeared at Belfast Fashion Week.

Creativity isn’t only required when selecting or designing an outfit, drag performers also need to plan their make-up, wigs and accessories. No-one wants to look the same as another Queen and we go all out to make sure it doesn’t happen. To keep up with all things Pride This years I predict to see every colour this year and for years to come of the rainbow embodied at Pride as make sure to LIKE the Belfast well as a return of Neon Print and Pride Festival Facebook page colour variations. It’s going to look as though a factory full of skittles and follow them on Twitter @ exploded over Belfast with boy George belfastpride and mention them inside. This year Belfast have to make in comments #Bproud2013. Also a real statement after another Equal follow my Pride Outfit progress marriage motion was defeated at and all things Misty on FB:www. Stormont last month. The louder and facebook.com/missmfalls , more colourful our message, the more of a statement we will be sending to on Twitter: @MissMFalls and those in opposition to equal rights. Instagram: @MuckleFalls . Primark have a great range of Neon accessories in store at the moment, so Love Misty xxx get yourself down and stock up!

77 ARIES March 21 - April 19 TAURUS April 20 - May 20

May should provide more The enormous energy of the time to re-appraise and fortify Sun and Mars, empowered by situations. Consolidation is a keyword. transformative Pluto, is providing fresh Adopt a calm and practical approach, courage and motivation to move beyond especially around security issues and the familiar. Overall, taking the initiative finances. From late last month you may early this month, and playing within the have felt the cost of living going up, and rules, can produce rewards before the how important it is, in family situations, month is out. The financial opportunities to have mutual support are coming through across the last week, and money making ideas launched then can hit the jackpot.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20 CANCER June 21 - July 22

You may be busy finishing up Friends can be a huge support the details on something, or now, and you may even find madly trying to get something together some old pals getting back in touch at in time. A word of advice – slow down the right time. Group activities are also in and breathe occasionally too. Haste can season, and new friendships can evolve make waste you know. Important - worry though similar interest clubs or subjects. will achieve nothing, except to make You’re increasingly in tune with the things harder. Whatever will be – will be. collective and radiating the right signals to like-minded people.

78 LEO July 23 - August 22 VIRGO August 23 - Sept 22

Communicative Mercury is This time of widening horizons highlighting friends from the may coincide with physical middle of May onwards and the winged travel, moving, or key in with expansive messengers union with congenial new interests with an eye to the future. Venus over the last week can bring In some cases there can be a second people together around you. This is chance involved, particularly applicable advantageous for Leo students, writers, to alliances or relationships. If you’ve and those who work with the media or moved on from a partnership, you’ll start directly with the public. to feel more confident on your own.

LIBRA Sept 23 - Oct 22 SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

On a personal basis relationships Overcoming the fear of being will either strengthen through greater alone, and being responsible for commitment, or divide through a lack of your own decisions is a big part of this it. You’re more likely to see situations in eclipse energy, as is finding an internal black and white, and it’s helpful to do that peace if you’re within a relationship. now. One thing to be careful of is to be You also have self-sufficient Saturn in giving out a lot more than you’re getting Scorpio this month putting the onus on back. If other people are too demanding, self-responsibility, this is essential to let them know that it’s a two way street. continue your spiritual development.

SAGITTARIUS Nov22 - Dec21 CAPRICORN Dec22 - Jan 19

Take note of dreams, intuitive The inner planets are aligning hunches, and recurring feelings, in your house of pleasures and as they are telling you something enjoyment. Not surprisingly this is also important about yourself. Something your house of ‘creative self-expression’. is surfacing that you may have denied The easy advice is be yourself – and because it meant walking a different and remember just who that really is. The risky road. Now is the time to face that mid-month Solar Eclipse also provides a fear of the unknown. timely reminder to live for the moment.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

Although the planets are dealing You may be doing some extra more with your private life than study, attending some think public one, new projects can certainly be tanks, or more involved in negotiating or launched. However realize that you are sales. There may be more intermediate really starting from the ground up and it travel attached to this, Outside of may be a good six months before some professional settings you can still be things reach realization. connecting up with people more than usual. 79 a minute or four with ryan dior

Well Hallo, have I got news for on the club front, well the Gay you... Where do I start???? Village in Manchester. Booze- Before I do, just have a squint fuelled revellers could kill the Gay outside, at what you might ask? village in Five Years I’ve been The sun is shining again!!! Maybe told. You know what a greedy a bit damp now and then but hey world this is and it’s only getting we have to take the good days worse. I am ashamed to say that and milk them. Go out as often the gay businesses are cutting as you can, especially in the sun their own throats, no I take as you get the feel good factor that back I’m not ashamed, but totally free and you can top up maybe they should be as they’re on your vitamin D as well. Now I blatantly ripping off their own. don’t know if you’ve heard, but At one time many moons ago, my play was an absolute blinder when being gay was illegal and of a success, both the opening any gay social activities were night and the press night were banished underground, everyone packed and we got standing looked out for each other and ovations on both nights, you shared information. Bars that can see pictures online. What were gay friendly had to hide a fabulous review by one of the behind banners that wouldn’t Uk’s Top Critic’s and we are about attract attention and gays were to start an adventure round the accommodated discretely. This UK on tour, then over to the south was a time when big businesses of Ireland and after that we will be hadn’t yet monopolised the gay gracing Belfast. The rehearsals scene and held people to ransom were hard work and consumed a with extortionate door taxes and lot of my time, I’m definitely glad drink prices. There is a stark to see the back of them. Well difference between then and now, done to Bruce Jones for such back then there was camaraderie a great performance, next stop towards their own kind, unlike Dance House Theatre Oxford today when the gay pubs and Road, Manchester. clubs can’t get enough of our Now I have some worrying news cash.

80 MAY 2013 EDITION

Ryan’s back with us this month and taking time out of his hectic schedule to present another edition of “A minute or four”. This month he’s discussing the huge success of his new play, speaking about the issues facing the Manchester gay scene and being his usual quirky self.

Look at Pride, we need to start warned the area must clean up again with that fest in my opinion. its act soon-or face disappearing Why? Well open your eyes, I have forever, Councillor Pat Kearney touched on this in an article in a said “ Late-night drinking has past issue, £3 for a pack of chips, ruined the Village, I Pioneered £3.50 for a hamburger, that really the 24 -hour city but if the village does taste of anything other than doesn’t get its act together it’s beef, maybe horse, now £30 for got five more years. There is a a weekend pass armband. Then problem with community safety after paying all that the Village and crime and it’s attracting pubs double their prices. Now people it was never intended to”. many of the stall holders are All these issues are causing many now having to tender their bid members the community to stay for a pitch, and the highest bid away. Well guys and gal’s if we wins, again in my opinion the don’t change things soon then organisers have forgotten what it’s back to the old days. So come Pride exactly stands for!! Last on Manchester Village you are on year I sent some guys over to a the world stage now, show some stand and what they came back ball’s and clean up your act! with was worrying, one said “You Now I know you’re probably will never guess what that guy wondering where the problem over there told his worker”, when and answer section is this month, I asked what I was shocked!! “ well give me a break!!! I have just Just give them the burgers we come of stage with Talk but boy had condemned” he whispered. have I got some great stories you I immediately told a steward and have sent me and am pleased to my reply was I’m not gay mate go say I will be including them in my and see the organisers”… Any bit next month’s column, now until of wonder the Village is cracking. then play safe and may your God Late-night drug dealing, disorder go with you. and drunken violence are also big problems on the Manchester Ryan Dior XXXX scene. The city centre boss has