clubs | bars | cabaret | life 18 #QXGayLondon
GAY LONDON Suitable only for persons of years 18 and over.
print + web /0tAPRIL 2015 QXMAGAZINE.COM iPad + iPhone What’s it like to be an Asian guy in a world of gay hook-up apps where Despite ‘white gays’ doing exactly that some users just say ‘No Asians’? dehumanising thing I describe above, the Yes, angrily capitalised message has a point. You’d think being dehumanised by casual ignorance as ‘gays’ would be bad enough, but instead of rebelling against that by By Patrick Cash celebrating and expressing our humanity, we Asians instead pass on the oppression. And one of our own minorities who really suffers is gay Raise your hand if you like the term ‘gays’. New Republic entitled ‘Dear Politicians, Stop men of South-East and East Asian ethnicity. Like not ‘gay people’ but as in the ‘God Hates Calling People “Taxpayers”’. ‘No Asians’ is totally plastered over those Gays’ placards wielded by the pitifully sad In it she writes: ‘While “people” windows of hook-up apps like Grindr as if and ever-increasingly desperate Westboro designates the broadest possible public as they were newsagents run by UKIP. Guys Baptist Church, an organisation who are the the subject of a political project, “taxpayer” claim they’re not being racist, because it’s a media equivalent of a toddler who does a shit advances a considerably narrower vision – personal sexual preference, but who stops to on the floor to get attention. and that’s why we should eliminate it from think about the effect seeing those words will But their use of ‘gays’ or ‘fags’, or even political rhetoric and punditry.’ When you’re have on Asian men? Many of those perfect- ‘homosexuals’, is calculated. It’s a lot a taxpayer you’re no longer considering the bodied, headless torso profiles are not from easier to hate a dehumanised ‘gay’ than human needs of people on benefits, it’s all closeted guys, but out-but-not-proud Asian a living, breathing person who feels the about the cost to your income. guys scared of rejection. same emotions and bleeds the same colour As that old dragged-up mademoiselle In a recent report from Public Health blood. This use of derogatory language of fate would have it, just as I was writing England it found that gay/bi men from an is widespread to make minority groups this introduction a meme flashed up on my ethnic minority have ‘significantly higher rates ‘other’: n*ggers, scroungers, immigrants, the Facebook news page from ‘Common Gay Boy’: of suicide, self-harm and mental illness’. It crackheads and crazies of Bethnal Green. also found that ‘the personal testimonies’ of Language can even be used to separate “EQUALITY” scream the white gays with these men often go untold. So we spoke to people with power from their humanity, and LEGALIZE GAY across their shirts & “NO three gay, Asian men from the scene to find their emotional thinking. Elizabeth Stoker BLACKS NO ASIANS NO FEMS” across their out their own stories, and what they think of Bruening published a piece last month in the Grindr profiles that horrible ‘No Asians’ tag.
Marc Abe Photographer
I moved to London from Tokyo when I was 18. I like taking pictures. I live a settled life with my partner and two Siamese cats. I grew up in Tokyo so my perspective isn’t relevant, but all I can say is that I never really notice my ethnicity when I’m in London, but I think I’m fortunate to say I have not. Although, I do get people “guessing” my race and getting it wrong all the time and it drives me insane. “I’ve been to China,” isn’t the cleverest opener… I was never active on any of those hook-up apps, but I am aware of the profiles with racial preferences. For me personally, “ASIANS ONLY” or “NO ASIAN” are both equally rude. Sure, everyone has a type, but I think it’s a little too much. I don’t walk around with a placard saying I am Asian. No one does. I just don’t get involved, as their mindset and not realising that it is offensive to some just offends me. I don’t see my Asian-ness in London. You get so many different people from all around the world here and that’s a great thing. More interest and knowledge towards each other’s culture is the key to understanding and acceptance I think!
‘For me personally, “ASIANS ONLY” or “NO ASIAN” are both equally rude.’
2 qxmagazine.com Alexander Han Personal Trainer and promoter for club Bang!
‘Trying to understand who you are becomes even more confusing when you don’t even know what you are trying to understand.’
Growing up as a gay, Chinese man in I can sit on the fence where the two I’m in my 30s and only now can I start to fully London was very lonely and challenging, yet different cultures assimilated and look at comprehend the true meaning of that. some of the most important and rewarding both sides of where I came from and what I Being faced with racial prejudice has few years of my life. Being 16 is a confusing have become. It broadens my horizon and made me stronger, and who I am today. It’s time for most boys and being gay and a definitely gives me a whole new perspective, very upsetting at the time, especially when foreigner, I was totally lost. I could hardly but I also believe that every color is unique, it comes from within the gay community. It’s meet any other gay Chinese guys like me and they all vibrate under the sun. Everyone has one thing that I cannot change and hurts there was no role model that I could look up a unique personality, background and life me the most. But I slowly understand it’s a to. Trying to understand who you are becomes experience, that’s what makes us different; result of one’s ignorance and self-hate. They even more confusing when you don’t even those sharp edges will make us spark when don’t know me, they have no right to put me know what you are trying to understand. we collide together. in that box, as long I am sure of myself as a I felt odd, I felt isolated and started to Gay, Asian men have been the subject person and as an individual, everything else question everything about myself. Was of prejudice and have been fighting for is irrelevant. it my skin color? My eyes? My hair? The our existence and acceptance in a straight In terms of the hook-up apps, it’s a place way I dress and pronounce, all these man’s world for too long. We are refusing to where people take measurement over moral doubts eventually crashed my confidence be stuffed into pre-labeled boxes, because grounds. I’ve seen things that are way worse completely and forced me into the journey each one of us is unique! If we can’t accept then racial preferencing, all I can say is listing of stereotyping. I have tried to change ourselves, and worse let that negative the ‘dislikes 101’ does not make you more everything that I possibly can in the attempt feeling project on to others, then we have assertive or attractive in anyway. to alter my identity and erase my past. another problem, internalized homophobia London’s LGBT community is very diverse For many years I hated to speak Chinese is something that most gay men have and active, with all the new legislation that is in public and have seriously considered experienced consciously or unconsciously. protecting us now and the significant change having plastic surgery to make me look We are working harder, partying longer of the social attitude towards gay people, more Westernized. Going to the gym five with more drugs and even more casual sex, which has made gay life so much easier. If times a week just for the sake of six packs pushing us to the limit and taking everything we can all just be more accepting to each and big arms: I was only trying to fit into to the extreme. It’s merely a desperate effort, other’s differences and let the technology that stereotype. Trying to be accepted. trying to compensate for the fact that we can’t do what it’s meant to do - making our life The funny thing is no matter what I do, I come to peace with ourselves. And all the easier, and better at reaching each other. will never be able to look like one of those prejudice and racial preferencing is only the Hopefully, another young Chinese male poster boys that the gay community has side-effects. “If you don’t love yourself, how would find it easier growing up as an ethnic been desperately perpetuating. the hell are you gonna love someone else?” gay man in London. ´
3 qxmagazine.com Mark Taylor Menswear Designer for Mark Thomas Taylor
I’m half-English and half-Thai although there’s some Irish, Italian, Chinese and Welsh thrown in there somewhere, too - I guess that’s pretty standard in London though, eh? I moved to the UK when I was 18 from Washington DC and remember being in a gay bar, and while waiting for my drink to be poured just politely turned to the guy next to me and said: “Hey, how’s it going?” I didn’t fancy him, I was simply being nice while we both waited. His response: “Haha… No, not into Asians mate, better luck next time.” I was so shocked I just turned back to face the bar and wait for my drink, calling him a cunt under my breath. Let’s face it, the Asian community both East and South are the least represented within the gay community in the marketing, the advertising, etc… I have no issues with that, but one does have to question why that is? There are always jokes around when I ‘Guys who are nasty about race on these apps date guys that they’re suddenly rice queens, are just showing their true selves, which makes but could it be that they just fell in love with an Asian guy? As a society we have dictated them look shallow and ignorant.’ to us what beauty is and being Asian is certainly not at the forefront. Unless, of course, you turn to the massage pages in the stating it upfront to not waste anyone’s time, be nasty and then just block them with no back of any gay mag (awwwkwaaarrdddd) and I hate playing the race card but I’d say sense of guilt. I certainly don’t think that’s “Halloo massass mister?” it’s a pretty racist thing to say. “Gaycism”, right nor does it build strong foundations In recent years it’s improved considerably. as I call it, is still really prevalent even today for a community already marginalised I think one of the misconceptions when which is shitty. You wouldn’t write, “I’d love within society. But, hey, everything is forever guys see an Asian guy in a bar is that they to be friends with everyone except blacks or changing so maybe one day you’ll have a might not speak English. I had a douchebag Asians” and if you did, well, I sure as hell dancing dragon with a bashment queen dutty come up to me two weeks ago and say: wouldn’t want to know you. whining on it for a flyer. (Kidding). “HEEELLLOOO, WHEEEREEE AREEEE We all have a type, and when I do Overall, we are moving forward as a YOUUUUU FROOOOM?!?!” occasionally use these apps I prefer to write society. I’ve met some beautiful, inspiring To which I responded, “I’m Asian, not about “I am looking for” rather than what and supportive people in this crazy city and sloooow dude.” I laughed and did my shot repulses me. Anyone who has a long list of continue to meet more everyday. of tequila, then danced off to Robyn. This negatives isn’t going to get along with me. I think I’m able to safely say that things will must have been at least the fourth time that’s At the end of the day I’m half-Asian and continue to improve. Not out of tolerance but happened over the seven years I’ve been back that’s not changing and I’m very happy about out of acceptance. You can’t knock guys for in the UK. The other response is “OMG, but that. Guys who are nasty about race on these having a type, I think some people just need you speak English so well…” which is a total apps are just showing their true selves, which to learn a little more tact and work on softer boner/conversation killer. makes them look shallow and ignorant. I’m delivery when looking for their shags or future We’ve all seen “No blacks, no Asians” - It’s sure some would argue they’re just being BFs. I’m happy to say the people I surround much worse in the States and Canada than “honest”… Or, as I call it, an asshole. myself with all realise that we aren’t defined it is here, but it definitely exists. Whatever I think that apps have made it worse, it’s by our race, but by our actions. Hey, try an floats their boat. They may feel that they’re taken the humanity out of it all. People can Asian, apparently we have soft skin!
4 qxmagazine.com
Fade to Black After over 50 years as one of London’s most iconic LGBT venues, By Cliff Joannou the Black Cap closed its doors on Sunday 12th April...
There has been much in the great success with events like the Drama Faucet Inn for its lack of engagement with media lately about the relentless march of Queens, but it failed to innovate like this fast the community. Would redevelopment have gentrification that is slowly scrubbing any enough. And let’s face facts: if the venue had saved the ‘Cap? We’ll never know. Questions mark of individuality and community from been supported by the gay scene during that remain. Why did the recent hearing at inner-London. The LGBT community has time, it would likely still be here today. Camden Council go ahead if the building suffered as have many others, but the effect But at the same time, I don’t think any was sold last year? And who are the new on ours seems so much more brutal. When of us envisaged a time when we’d lose so owners of the property? it comes to us it’s more apparent simply many famous venues like the Joiners Arms The transformation of the Black Cap because after years of painful recession that and the ‘Cap in such a short time. Maybe we from almost forgotten gay scene memory saw the number of queer venues slashed by grew too comfortable in our belief that the to popular destination over the past 18 half, we’re now having to fight to keep alive scene was just a destination to get pissed in? months under the stewardship of Meth and what little we have left. Maybe we forgot that the heart of any gay the Familyyy Fierce, alongside managerial The nature of gay venues means they scene is a supportive community? support from George Antony and Jamie are often ramshackle spaces, occupying run Yet, on the flipside of that, it’s not easy Henderson, showed the venue had a future. down or less than glam locations. The roof to fly the flag of your local gay bar when its Packed-out cabaret and performance events may be leaking, sweat may be running down parent company, Faucet Inn, is determined and growing club nights were testament to the walls, and the DJ decks are held together to cut the venue in half, and transform its what renewed ideas and energy can give to a by gaffer tape, but we’ve always celebrated upper floors into luxury flats for affluent venue. But maintaining a successful business in said spaces, proudly on the fringes of folk. On her blog, Holestar has been more in the face of London’s unsympathetic, society. Few epitomized this more than level-headed than others of the plans. economy-driven changing landscape is an The Black Cap. Isolated in Camden, away She acknowledges that the venue was altogether different task. from the gay villages of Soho, Vauxhall and severely in need of renovation. From the Has the Black Cap gone forever? What East London, the ‘Cap was steadfast in its dilapidated toilets to the flimsy backstage will the ‘new’ owners choose to do with it? stubbornness to stay away from the crowd. tech, it needed an overhaul, and this would We’ll find out in time. What we should remind Yet, for a good decade it was left to rot have been paid for by those derided luxury ourselves of is that this is not the first time and flounder, both in terms of its physical state flats. Holestar condemns the ‘well meaning the LGBT community has faced the threat of and the creative energy that was invested into but ill informed academics and armchair change. As Myra DuBois so rightly said: “We it. After the passing of Regina Fong, perhaps activists’ who fought so hard to ward off are a community stronger than bricks and the legendary bar relied on its legendary the redevelopment. And she may be right. mortar. Do not forget that.” status too much to pull in a new crowd that Perhaps, had those luxury flats arrived, We are a stubborn lot and we know how needed more than just history as a reason to we’d still have a Black Cap, albeit at the to adapt and survive more than any other jump on the Northern line to Camden and expense of the first-floor Shufflewick Bar community in the face of all sorts of threats. give the girl another chance. It enjoyed some and Regina Fong Terrace. She also criticizes Where there’s a wig, there’s a way… “Where there’s a wig, there’s a way…”
6 qxmagazine.com The community reacts… what the scene said Charlie Hides Michelle on social media * [sic] The Black Cap closed! For over a decade I performed at the Black Cap on a regular Visage basis at least 100+ times in this legendary My heart is broken for Camden. 50+ years cabaret venue. I have many happy memories of LGBT history lost to fatten wallets. So of late night shows there with Kandi Kane- long Black Cap. I’m honored to have been Meth Baxter and Laquisha Jonz, who hosted a part of u. This week we have had to say goodbye to game show night on Mondays for a couple one of the most important queer spaces that of years. Who remembers BLING BLANG London has ever known. The cultural heritage BLUNG? (and Council Bitch Barbie?) and space for community provided there Virgin were undeniable and invaluable. The loss we are all feeling is monumental. It breaks my Xtravaganzah heart to have to say goodbye and it is made Lydia I have no words today. I’m utterly even worse by the fact that so many were heartbroken like many people. It was an denied the chance to say their own goodbye. L’Scabies honour and extreme privilege to host last The decision to close without informing the A large percentage of the fabulous, the night’s show. I only hope I did The Black Cap public was both ill-advised and cowardly, creative, the bold and daring, and fan girls proud. RIP. showing a blatant disregard for the place that alike are burdened with this surprising and this venue held in the hearts of so many. upsetting news. Another venue on the capital’s The Black Cap has been my home for the radar with such rich history, home to many, past 18 months. As an artist, an entertainer, and haunted by its previous successors has Myra DuBois a promoter, a punter, a queer. I owe so been shut down for the sake of “fattening Love you, The Black Cap. Proud to be a part much to her and the staff there who have wallets”. I am proud to say that us three of of your story, even if the role was that of a made this past year and half possible. I am House Of Grand Parade and even our darling musician valiantly playing on as the ship devastated, I am angry but I owe it to the pet Penelope has graced this stage, supported sank. We are a community stronger than old girl to keep on keeping on, made all the and worked with some magical people from bricks and mortar. Do not forget that. more fierce for having had the privilege to near and far, met many a’ wonderful people, have known her and been a part of 50+ and shared some times, but most importantly years of queer history. been a part of that rich history. I had a little day dream about one day DJ Chris Reardon in the far furture there being a “Black Cap I was the resident DJ there from 1989–2007 Museum” similar to that of a Victorian and again in 2013. It was the most magical Crystal indoor reconstructed street with dodgy place to work in. I worked with the best waxworks of Ragina Fong, Danny La Rue, performers you could ever imagine. Yes, we all Lubrikunt and then Meth, George behind the bar had our egos, but we all worked well together I’m going to try not to be as cliche as possible and Vickie throwing out some drunk twink in to put on our shows and music. But I am just but as RuPauls’ ‘Let The Music Play’ just came a Willam Belli T-shirt. Nuhnight one person. There are many others who made on shuffle and it made me reflect on all the this venue. Mrs Shufflewick, Regina Fong memories I’ve had at The Black Cap, this is among the “big” names there over the years. a sad time but we gotta keep positive, the Each and every one of us had our “best time”. future is ours and we gotta make it what it Rubyyy Jones Something holds you there - maybe the spirits is. Perhaps one day The ‘Cap could return, Goodbyyye Black Cap. You were a first of all that have been there in the past. It has to but for now? Raise your glass, reflect on stage, a meeting place and a home to so be said, if the venue had been supported by the memories, live for the friends made many... Let this upsetting upheaval bolster more people, I doubt it would have closed. But underneath its fabulous roof and let the our actions & energyyy in securing the time moves on, and you can’t stop change. All music play, Regina this ones for you. spaces that remain... very sad, but wonderful, wonderful memories.
Photos from the ‘Resurrection Of The Resurrection Show’ aka the last night at the Black Cap by fdphoto.co.uk
7 qxmagazine.com The Shame & Sexuality series BY Trygve Skogrand
“Sexuality was very vulgar, and not something that happened in our elevated circles. As for homosexuality, it simply did not exist.”
Encrusted The terrible light
mbarrassment is one of the actually came from, I stuffed it all away thing: deep, subconsious prejudices against markers of middle-class. behind a friendly and correct virginal mask. yourself. This can result in the worst of Always wary of what anyone Perhaps it would go away? Perhaps I should shames: the shame of being yourself. else may think, we shuffle try a bit harder to fall in love with girls? I believe that many feel such demurely through life behind Some of them were rather pretty after all. shame. Whether you are old, disabled, our paper-thin facades, And so the years passed. Slowly. have mental health issues, are poor, hoping that no-one ever will Being kind, polite and humble is all very unemployed, an immigrant - the list goes Epeek behind. One step out of line, and we well, and it has its rewards. But it is very on and on - you risk ending up with this cringe with shame, hoping that nobody will lonely work, and tiring for the soul. I still deep certainty: I am unacceptable. see us through. fell in love with other men of course, but Around the world a very large group has My family may have been more middle- equally of course never told them. I am a suffered from this: women. class than most. Catapulted into the local patient man, but after too many years of Women have been actively fighting to get spotlight by my father’s work as a country this I saw that this couldn’t go on. It was too their place in the world for over a hundred dean, everything we did was discussed depressing in the long run, my whole life years. They have achieved a lot, but there’s throughout the parish. So we did as little as trickling silently away in hiding. still much left to do, and they have to keep possible. We never had arguments, never So, I decided to change. I quit my job, on working. We gays have been fighting for had conflicting meanings. A kind of very, moved to our capital city, Oslo, attended an just a few decades, so of course we’re not very late-Victorian bubble in the Norwegian art school, and was very curious to see what out of the shame yet. The prejudices are still countryside; discretion, politeness and good more would change. I stopped hiding, got there, in society and in our heads. old Christian family values was the rule for friends, and finally came out of the closet. All the cattiness and meanness everything we did, said and thought. Now at long last I discovered the shame between us LGBTs is just self-loathing And of course: none of us had bodies. At that had held me hidden safely in there. turned outwards. Wouldn’t it be good least not to speak about. Sexuality was very And better still, I saw where it came from. if we could get over our shame, and let vulgar, and not something that happened in We are all conditioned by the society we go of all this? That pride and love really our elevated circles. As for homosexuality, it grow up in, inheriting a host of unwritten could be our true hallmarks? simply did not exist. Of course. rules about how to behave, what is of value, For me, life at least has become a lot When I was 12 I discovered that I fell in and what is less so. Like a subconscious better. Having discovered where the shame love with boys instead of girls. Not knowing book of values, we form our behaviour and came from made me free of it. Just the that such strange love existed, it took me meanings after these invisible rules every fact of discovering that the shame I felt the whole of two weeks to find out that day. Sadly, this book of values also includes was simply me being loyal to some totally this actually was the worst of taboos. Too the prejudices of society. And so, if you’re unfounded prejudices that I had inherited, ashamed to see that I was ashamed, too part of a group that society looks down made me free to disregard these rules. After scared to try to discover where this shame upon, you may end up with this most absurd all, they are rather nonsensical really.
Read more about Skogrand’s upcoming exhibition, and see some of the artworks at the gallery’s website: www.vaslisouza.com/theatreofshame and www.trygveskogrand.com
8 qxmagazine.com
Talking about… Conor Maynard Ahead of performing his brand new single ‘Talking About’ at G-A-Y this weekend, pop boy-toy Conor Maynard spoke to James Egan about car-hopping, cameos and why Craig David makes him cry.
You’re doing a lot of hitchhiking The power of Google Alerts. No, I really want to! It’s annoying because I’ve around Miami in the new video for I know. I’m waiting for the next one to pop got a TV appearance on Sunday Brunch really ‘Talking About’. Do you think it might up now. early the next morning. I don’t know if they’ll have been easier to get an Uber? Or Maybe the Weeknd and Drake will see appreciate me turning up wasted. even Megabus? your cover of ‘Crew Love’ Reeking of gin. It would have made a really crap video. Just That would be amazing. I fall asleep praying Yeah “sorry guys, I was at G-A-Y, had a crazy me in an Uber with some grumpy driver. I’m that will happen every day. night”. actually in an Addison-Lee right now, so I’m Craig’s in crazy shape as well, was he Your first single was called ‘Can’t Say basically a traitor. You’re gonna hear me get lifting weights between takes? No’, so I wanted to follow up on your chucked out in a minute. Oh my God, he’s so ripped. I didn’t know progress: are you any better at turning How was Miami? whether he was gonna sing or beat me up. girls down now? It was amazing, we got to chill with Craig Luckily, he was a really, really nice guy. But, Well, apparently not because I have a David, since he does a little cameo in the yeah, really ripped. girlfriend now. She got me. video. I’d feel like a bundle of twigs standing But that means you kind of have to turn I was going to ask about that! next to him. them down now, right? He lives out there and he invited all of us I got naked, looked in the mirror that night Either that or get my face punched in. I’ll choose over to his apartment, the night before the and broke down into tears. It was pretty the less-painful option of ‘turning girls down’. video shoot. I think he kind of forgot that even depressing. You’ve got to be firm. though his call time was 3pm, mine was 6am. You need Craig David crisis counselling. “Be strong, Conor. Don’t do it!” He was pouring out shots while I was like Exactly. “Please, please, let me go home!” You’re performing at G-A-Y on Wow. How did the cameo come about? Saturday, have you got anything His track ‘Fill Me In’ is one of my all-time special planned? favourite songs, so when I was on tour with A lot of nudity. Just kidding. Last time I Jason Derulo I decided to cover it in my set. performed there I took a glow stick to the face. I think a fan must have recorded it and put That’s not a euphemism, it actually happened. it online. He basically then saw it, which is Someone got really excited and threw their hilarious because he was obviously searching glow stick. It was a great moment and I’ll never for himself, and tweeted me “Hey mate, forget it. I hold it dear to my heart. Conor Maynard is at G-A-Y just saw the cover and absolutely loved it”. Maybe bring a riot shield this time. @ Heaven (Under the Arches, Villiers I literally fanboyed in that moment. I think I might wear a helmet. It was a lot of fun, I’m Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG) even a little bit of wee came out. So then we hoping it’s just as much fun this time. on Saturday 18th April, 11pm-5am. hooked up and ‘Talking About’ happened. Have you partied there before? Discount entry wristbands available at G-A-Y Bar. 10 qxmagazine.com
The who, what, why, where & when of gay London… THE INFORMER16-22 April
The coastal cock capital’s annual pride event is shaping up to be a musical monster! In addition to Hercules and Love Affair, local lad Fatboy Slim and club cutie Jess Glynne, they’ve just announced the addition of Foxes, Ms Dynamite and the ultimate Brighton Tulisa bad-girl-gone-good: ! Bag your tickets now before they’re gone! 1st–2nd August, advance tickets £21/£18.50 conc. Pride www.brighton-pride.org
Hercules and Love Affair
Jess Glynne
Foxes Fatboy Slim Tulisa
Rise Like a Phoenix
‘It’s like coming out all over again’ is the tag line for the Stag’s latest show, written by Paul Emelion Daly, directed by Tim McArthur and designed by Zoe Hurwitz. There are more appropriate moments to disclose your HIV status to a new lover than during the interval of Wicked… That’s just one of the unexpected discoveries made by five newly-positive friends in this exuberant, excoriating new comedy about moving on, moving out, and moving on up. A world premiere.
Above the Stag Theatre, 17 Miles Street, Vauxhall, SW8 1RZ Wednesday 8th April–Sunday 3rd May. Previews £12, £8 after. www.abovethestag.com
12 qxmagazine.com 26th Annual The Verb, ‘To Love’ THT Walk for Life “The verb ‘to love’ has so many meanings...”. Aria Entertainment presents the world premiere of a new musical by Andy Collyer. Calling all action heroes, child stars, and sirens of the silver screen! Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, The Verb, ‘To Love’ is an intimate new Terrence Higgins Trust are rolling out the red carpet with the annual LGBTQ musical exploring the complications of changing relationships, Walk for Life, a 10km sponsored walk around central London, to and the power of different kinds of love. Simon is lost, abandoned help raise funds for people living with HIV in severe financial need. by his partner of twenty-three years. He is alone for the first time, Slip into Dorothy’s ruby slippers, throw on celebrity shades or simply until he finds Ben, a young man seventeen years his junior, and is getting gussied up in your Tinsel Town finest. The walk begins at 11am rejuvenated and fulfilled in a way he never knew possible. They and takes around two to three hours to complete. At the finish line, share the complications of falling in love, undergoing upheavals and participants will be given a medal, which unlocks a range of special experiencing change, until it all falls apart. But does it? offers at bars and restaurants in central London. Bloomsbury Square Gardens (route starts) Old Red Lion Theatre, 418 St John Street, EC1V 4NJ Sunday 7th June. 9:30am. Registration £10. Wednesday 29th April–Saturday 23rd May. Tickets £14/12 conc. www.walkforlife.co.uk www.oldredliontheatre.co.uk
La Voix
Vauxhall, It’s Question Time 2015 Election Special
On May 7th Britain will go to the polls and decide once again what party will govern us for the next five years. For this 2015 Election special David Robson, Chair Wandsworth LGBT Forum, has brought together the parliamentary candidates for Vauxhall: Gulnar Adrian Trett (Liberal Democrats) Kate Hoey (Labour) Hasnain (Green Party), Adrian Trett (Liberal Democrats), Kate Hoey (Labour), James Bellis (Conservative), Ace Nnorom (UKIP). This is your opportunity to air your views, share your concerns and ensure that the LGBT voice is one to consider for anyone who stands in the seat of Vauxhall. It’ll be just like Question Time, only earlier on a Thursday and without Dimbleby.
The Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5HY Thursday 23rd April. Doors 7pm, Starts 8pm. Free. Submit questions to [email protected] Gulnar Hasnain (Green Party) James Bellis (Conservative) ´ 13 qxmagazine.com THE INFORMER The
Since they started Big Run fundraising, Jeremy Joseph, Team G-A-Y and YOU have raised a whopping £302,659 for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. The next fundraiser sees Jeremy risk near death once more as he returns to the streets of London to run his 867th London Marathon. Only this time he’s doing it with a leg injury that threatens to derail his plans. The 26 mile run, including any paramedics being called out, will be live- streamed on Gay Star News.
Jeremy Joseph
Amy Grimehouse: Bette Davis Night
Dust off your eye-patch and send that letter to Daddy, as London’s premier curators of camp, Amy Grimehouse, celebrate the Screen Queen of Mean herself, Miss Bette Davis. Cat-fight concubines, Baby Jayde Sponsor Jeremy at: www.justgiving.com/G-A-Y Adams and Joan Sizzle bitch-slap their way through an evening of high camp, histrionics and the odd dead budgie. Have a go on the Joan dartboard, get your portrait taken in the Grand Chamber, glitter your own eye-patch, even star in a scene from All About Eve! Celebrate the FREE BOOZE AT G-A-Y FOR 2015? cantankerous old broad in a way that would truly make her cackle. From Sunday 19th April to Sunday 26th April when you register at Sutton House, 2 and 4 Homerton High Street, Hackney, E9 6JQ G-A-Y Bar, G-A-Y Late & Heaven by filling in a Raffle Form you go into Saturday 18th April, 7pm. £18 a draw to win your first drink at any G-A-Y venue FREE for the rest of www.amygrimehouse.com the year. To enter all you need to do is make a donation to EJAF. London Gay Symphonic Winds: GEEK! Celebrating its 10th year, the LGSW will be showcasing some of the best geeky music that will appeal to whatever gay geek you are! Gay- mer geeks can look forward to the themes from Super Mario Bros and World of Warcraft, sci-fi fags can geek out to Star Trek, Game of Thrones, Doctor Who, and 2001: A Space Odyssey! There’s even a few ditties from Frozen thrown in for Disney gurls! Dress up in your favourite geeky costume, you might be lucky and see the band dressed up too!
St Sepulchre-without-Newgate, Holborn Viaduct, EC1A 2DQ Saturday 18th April, 7.30pm. £8 advance/ £10 on the door (£8 in geek costume) www.lgsw.org.uk/concerts ´ 14 qxmagazine.com
THE INFORMER © Cody Choi Cody ©
Andrea Walker
If You Leave
Can you stay true to yourself, when everything suggests you change? After sold-out shows in New York, 201’s raw, contemporary hip-hop movement comes to the UK in ‘If You Leave’: a story of two men’s broken encounter. Touching on themes of addiction, obsession, and the true meaning of commitment, choreographer Andrea Walker directs a cast of seven dancers in a fast- paced, intimate performance exploring the relationship of two young men.
Blue Elephant Theatre, 59a Bethwin Rd, Camberwell, SE5 0XT 16th-18th April. 8pm. £10/£8.50 concessions www.blueelephanttheatre.co.uk
16 qxmagazine.com
For full listings see Musts & Maybes, pages 48-53 or the What’s On section at www.qxmagazine.com CLUB NEWS For listings on the go, download the free QX GAY LONDON app at the iTunes store.
16/04/15: The delectable Detox and her Black’n’Decker pecker wreckers will G-A-Y be feasting on the flesh on show tonight, followed by scream queen Porn Idol Sharon Needles next week, 23rd April. Both will be flanked by filthy with Detox mama Mary Mac and batter-dipped bird Baga Chipz. Think you can win and waltz off with £100? Text 07789 553 868 or email [email protected]
Heaven, Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG. 10.30pm-5am. Free entry wristbands available Sharon Needles from G-A-Y Bar
Petiti Meller If you like gays, dancing and Fridays, then you can’t go wrong with this. Hosted by Clayton Wright, they’ll be playing pop, soul, rock and roll, weirdo-disco and indie- schmindie. Plus, they’ve got French internet sensation, Petite Meller coming along to perform her single ‘Baby Love’ too. Party.
17/04/15:
Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club, Reasons 2 Be 42-44 Pollard Row, E2 6BN. 9pm-2am. £6 before 10pm / £7 after. Clayton Wright Cheerful
18/04/15: International DJ Neville Watson will rocking the laser pit basement with his superb brand of raw, jackin’ house, Bastards as the Bastards burst into Dalston Superstore for the first time. He’ll be joining residents Wes dB and Lucious Flajore downstairs, plus the don of Horsemeat Disco, Luke Howard, will be raising the roof in the upstairs area.
Dalston Superstore, 117 Kingsland High St, E8 2P 9pm - late. £5. Neville Watson
18 qxmagazine.com
For full listings see Musts & Maybes, pages 48-53 or the What’s On section at www.qxmagazine.com CLUB NEWS For listings on the go, download the free QX GAY LONDON app at the iTunes store.
Freemasons
If you’re in the market for a night of top pop remixes, then you won’t be disappointed at XXL, where the ultimate musical blacksmiths, The Freemasons, will be taking over the decks and spinning their impressive catalogue of hits. Plus, once you’ve worked yourself into a frenzy on the floor, you can pound it out in the play area. Happy hammering!
18/04/15: XXL Freemasonspresents Pulse, No 1 Invicta Plaza, SE1 9UF. 10pm-7am. £15 guests, £8 members.
You can’t say no to Conor Maynard when he heads to Heaven to perform his new single ‘Talking About’, co-written by none other than Craig David. And if you do, we have one thing to ask: R U Crazy? Catch the pop heartthrob on Saturday in the city’s most prestigious pagoda of pop!
18/04/15: Heaven, under the Arches, Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG. 10.30pm-5am. G-A-Y presents £3 entry wristbands available at G-A-Y Bar Conor Maynard
20 qxmagazine.com
For full listings see Musts & Maybes, pages 48-53 or the What’s On section at www.qxmagazine.com CLUB NEWSFor listings on the go, download the free QX GAY LONDON app at the iTunes store.
If you ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ of Abigail Bailey’s soaring club vocals, then you’re in luck because she’ll be dropping a live PA that will blow you away! Plus, there’ll be the usual explosion of house, dance and R’n’B courtesy of Adam Turner, Sam DMS, Jonathan Bestley and their radioactive friends. Get ready to go nuclear.
20/04/15:
Popcorn Heaven, under the Arches, Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG. 11pm-5am. Free entry wristbands 'Atomic' available from G-A-Y Bar.
Sam DMS Abigail Bailey
Stewart Who?
The horniest fetish-theme dance party in a car park is back for a special one-off Sports edition! Hotwired is expanding the dress code to include sportswear, as well as the usual leather and rubber. Expect the hottest muscle leather men, fit rubber boys and up-for-it sport dudes from across Europe, plus dark, sexy beats from the likes of Jon Delano, Brent Nicholls and Stewart Who? 02/05/15: Hotwired 'Sports' Ewer Street Car Park, 29 Great Suffolk St, SE1 0NS. 10pm–6am. £25 advance www.hotwiredlondon.com
22 qxmagazine.com
G-A-Y Porn Idol with Willam 09/04/15 Heaven, under the Arches, Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG
Words and Photos by Chris Jepson
After last week’s phenomenal perverts on parade at Porn Idol with Courtney Act, we didn’t think it could get any better. How wrong we were. The latest guest from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Willam, was simply superb. In a see-through black dress she came across as all sweetness and light before turning to the audience and innocently asking, “shall I be kind or shall I be Willam?” Clearly the only answer was the latter which opened the floodgates to a barrage of pinpoint accurate and hilarious put-downs. Willam’s victims were a young bunch ranging from 18 to 24 but the final came down to a dance-off (without clothes) between two army boys - Phillip, a Porn Idol regular and Anthony, plucked from the audience in regimental uniform and sporting tattoos and a cheeky smile that helped him cruise to victory. Porn Idol’s winning formula continues this Thursday with Detox and next Thursday with Sharon Needles.
“A barrage of pinpoint accurate and hilarious put-downs.”
24 qxmagazine.com
DISH @ East Bloc 11/0 4/15 217 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JN
Words by Anthony Gilét Photos by Mark Storey
Final call for all Dishes! This Saturday was the last time the sexy Spaniards and sassy Shorebitches descended on East Bloc. We’ve had some amazing/blurry memories at Dish over the years, usually ones that end with us sprawled at the bottom of those deadly stairs while Janisha attempts to peel our face off the floor. So, we were making sure we gave the last one (for now) a proper send-off! It was totally emotional sashaying up City Road, looking like some twisted Mean Girl crew. Borja Peña got things cooking in the main room, but it was the crowd that were really sizzling. *Pats weave* Hostess with the mostest (lip hair) La Pequeña was looking beat to the Gods, obviously - sister-friend never serves anything less than hot Hitler realness. Ray Noir laid that shit like he was Joseph the carpenter, but it was Head Chef Tom Stephan’s set that had our posse pussy-popping to some deep house beats. Thanks for satisfying our hunger/thirst, Dish! Don’t take too long to return - we haven’t enjoyed sweating this much since we bumped into Russell Tovey in the changing rooms at the gym.
“We haven’t enjoyed sweating this much since we bumped into Russell Tovey in the changing room.”
26 qxmagazine.com
A:M 03/04/15 Lightbox, South Lambeth Place, SW8
Photos by nicophoto.co.uk Words by Dolly Disco Knickers
It was a rollercoaster weekend, and we’d only just got our engines going by the time Friday night rolled around. The As One Easter Weekend Festival had debuted to huge applause on Bad Thursday 2nd April with a monumental WE Party that went off with a Bang! – literally. After scraping our asses out of Gravity, we legged it home for a shower and shave before SexCircus and, finally, landing our disco slippers firmly on the floor of the Lightbox at Fire for A:M, the weekly Friday night throw- down of turbo-charged house that never fails to deliver. Easter saw the big guns pulled out as D’Johnny spun back-2-back with Gonzalo, joined ably by Per QX and Jamie Head. The tunes were so sick we couldn’t bear to leave the dancefloor for a split second, let alone a toilet break. Thankfully, this kind of deck service isn’t new to promoter Mikele and co., these bitches serve up this level of quality music week-after- week. Don’t miss Friday nights at A:M - this is where the weekend really begins…
“These bitches serve up this level of quality music week-after-week.”
28 qxmagazine.com
Homoelectric 11/0 4/15 Dalston Superstore, 117 Kingsland Road, E8 2P
Words and Photos by Chris Jepson
This QX pap personally hadn’t been down to Dalston Superstore for some time now, but we’ll always have a soft spot for the place. As always, we were greeted warmly and looked after by the door whore of door whores, the wonderful Bica. Always great to start off the night with her smile! Homoelectric, huh? More like homo sapiens of every denomination, as a very eclectic and pumped crowd built upstairs, with host Ms Ted Rogers entertaining anyone watching with his slutty, happy, hairy self. Oh, and of course, the fiercest 6-inch red Dorothy heels... I’m amazed he stayed up on that bar. I’m sure he was whispering to himself “there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home…” click click! Downstairs was really rammed, wall-to-wall dancing, prancing and whatever it is those young ones do. Werking? Twerking? DJs Jamie Bull, Luke Unabomber and special guest Danielle Moore kept it vibrant, deep and banging, with the crowd loving every beat. We can’t wait to get down there again soon!
“Vibrant, deep and banging, with the crowd loving every beat.”
30 qxmagazine.com London Gay Village Guide Vauxhall & South
BARS warm, inviting interior or in the Monday is a fur fiesta with Hot’N’ music, discussions and much more. 1. The Bridge sunny, secluded garden. Hairy vs Bear Hole, Tuesday and The craziness that is Duckie with 8 Voltaire Road, Clapham Wednesday are Cruise nights, Amy Lamé and crew still dominates SW4 6DH 5. The Griffin Thursday you can #GETLAID and Saturday night, whilst RVT Sundays The Bridge is the newest swanky 8 Wyvil Road Friday is más macho shindig Men feature big dance tunes and bar to swoop into Clapham that SW8 2TH Inc. Saturday nights rotate between entertainment from Charlie Hides offers a beautiful ambience in This independent, traditionally- dancey fun at Carpet Burn and the TV. Plus, there’s a rotating schedule which to share a drink with a date styled pub focuses on real ales horny cruise and play event R18. of nights featuring a smorgasbord or sexy beats by big name DJs to and simple grub, including their Sunday is, of course, the legendary of cabaret, performance, live music, which you can dance your night signature burger. Horse Meat Disco. All this, plus the art, quirky club nights, star names, away with friends… fantastic garden/smoking terrace. fresh talent and an attitude-free, CLUBS friendly crowd of up-for-it funsters 2. Kazbar 6. Barcode 9. Fire from all over the gay community. 50 Clapham High Street 69 Albert Embankment SE11 40 Parry Street SW8 1RT SW4 7UL 5AW Fire is synonymous in the brain of 13. Protocol A fab drinking den in trendy Modern and minimalist in design, many a homoxial Londoner with 6 South Lambeth Place, Clapham that attracts a wide cross- with a sexy, masculine crowd, hardcore good times. Featuring four Vauxhall, SW8 1QX section of Sarf London cuties, with Barcode hosts weekly events like rooms of dancefloor action, there’s One of the Orange group’s plasma screens playing top music Fitladz every Friday for those after a roster of top club nights, such as nightclubs - you know what to expect: videos, hot bar boys and a friendly some proper lad action. Plus, there Gravity, A:M, Later and Orange. hot boys, pumping beats and DJs crowd. are monthly events like Tik Tok lifting you higher. Don’t miss huge and Dirty Disko. You can cruse 10. Lightbox Thursday night gay party Gravity with 3. Two Brewers and schmooze in the front bar 6a South Lambeth Place, resident DJ Fat Tony and a succession 114 Clapham High Street with some top DJs spinning house SW8 1SP of glamorous hosts. SW4 7UJ tuneage, chill-out on the first floor One of super club Fire’s annexes, This long-running, legendary or get thumpin’ and jumpin’ to the Lightbox venue offers sexy late 14. Ministry of Sound cabaret and club venue has played some top DJ talent in the club at night clubbing, brilliant DJs as well 103 Gaunt Street, Elephant host to scores of talented acts and the back. as a hot and mostly topless muscle & Castle, SE1 6DP big names over the years – and crowd. One of the most famous super- still does. Not only that, but there’s 7. Coronet clubs in all of London, everyone a good dose of camp clubbage 26-28 New Kent Road 11. Pulse needs to visit Ministry at least once and great value bar goodness SE1 6TJ 1 Invicta Plaza SE1 9UF whether gay or straight! And even with scores of fun and friendly Colossal theatre-style club space London’s newest superclub in the more reason for the gays to attend local lovelies. Be wowed by drag that houses regular giant club heart of the Southbank, featuring now are the increasing number of deliciousness and then dance ‘til the events, such as Madrid’s WE Party, the most up-to-date sound system, gay-orientated events organized early hours in the club at the back. with a big focus on performance lights and clubbing experience. by the likes of super-gay clubbing and stage shows. Pulse is the future of clubbing and brands Beyond and Matinee. 4. The Roebuck the current home of infamous bear 84 Ashmole Street 8. Eagle London night XXL. MEN ONLY/ADULT SW8 1NE 349 Kennington Lane 15. Bar Berlin Don’t pass the ‘buck! Join the herd SE11 5QY 12. RVT Railway Arches 47b/c, and find out what all the fuss is This truly unique, eclectic and 372 Kennington Lane SE11 South Lambeth Road, about at Oval’s newest pub. This attitude-free venue is one of the gay 5HY Vauxhall SW8 1RH tucked-away gem boasts a huge scene’s most established providers The fabulous and eclectic RVT packs Bar Berlin is a new men only selection of real ales, as well as a of clubbage, booze and merriment. them in every day of the week fetish bar in the heart of Vauxhall, mouthwatering menu of culinary From butch, blokey nights to camp, with their variety of club nights, bringing for the first time ever the delights for you to enjoy in the 80s/90s hands-in-the-air rave ups. cabaret, theatre, comedy, live sexy Berlin fetish vibe to London,
31 qxmagazine.com London gay village / VAUXHALL & SOUTH
27 27
9 26 30
19 12
3 11
SOUTH LONDON’S PREMIER CABARET BAR & CLUB
114 CLAPHAM HIGH STREET, SW4 TEL: 020 7819 9539 WWW.THE2BREWERS.COM The 2 Brewers, Clapham @2BrewersClapham
32 qxmagazine.com 11, 14 , 17,
20, 24 ´
24
06 ´ 21 07, 19, 16 22 12
08
27 27 15 18 13
10
26 09
NINE ELMS LANE
23 30 ´
25 04
05 CLAYLANDS RD
28
OVAL PLACE
WILKINSON ST
01 CLAPHAM ROAD , 02 ,03 , Key Location ´
Bars
Late Bars
Clubs
Gay Friendly Food
Men Only
Shops, Services, Gyms & More ¶ Off Map Vauxhall & South 33 qxmagazine.com London gay village / VAUXHALL & SOUTH
hosting various fetish nights for 8 Cleaver Street SE11 4DP of cheerful gayers enjoying the A new addition to the Vauxhall guys into rubber, neoprene, leather, Open 24 hours at the weekend, delicious food, cakes and authentic scene, when Fire’s vast dancefloors sneakers, sports and sox and this scorching sauna situated on Italian coffee. A real slice of Italian are closed the refurbished rear skinheads. the Vauxhall borders has two sling in the heart of the Vauxhall village. space becomes a bustling haven rooms, a large steam room, 15 of international food, drinks and 16. Chariots Vauxhall man sauna with a built in video 23. Oval House Theatre desserts that’s open during the day 63-64 Albert Embankmen screen, a large underground 52-54 Kennington Oval from lunch until early evening. t SE1 7TP cruising area with cabins, glory SE11 5SW Popular with the post-clubbing holes, turntable and private cabins Renowned for its diverse range of 27. Counter crowd and open until the early equipped with a video screen. gay interest plays, performance, Railways Arches, South hours to accommodate those There is also a heated outside presentations and events, this is one Lambeth Road, hotties with the horn. The Vauxhall smoking area that you can use of London’s foremost fringe theatres. Vauxhall, SW8 1SR venue features two saunas, two naked, plus two large lounge areas Vauxhall’s glamorous “deco meets steam rooms, video screens, spa - with free tea, coffee, soft drinks 24. Paris Gym disco” brasserie serves French & pool, chill-out lounge and endless and free internet access. 73 Goding Street, American-inspired contemporary private rooms in a labyrinth of Vauxhall, SE11 5AW food and drinks while playing host cruisy mazes; it’s a veritable 20. Pleasuredrome This exclusively male gym was to special events like Brunch Off- playground of adventure. Alaska Street, Waterloo the first and only fitness centre Broadway. SE1 8XE for gay men. The membership It’s naughty little brother, 17. Chariots Waterloo This luxurious sauna boasts has now been opened up to BACKCounter, is situated in the 101 Lower Marsh SE1 7AB modern decor, buff men, state of straight and bisexual guys, but the rear. Naturally. Serving up cocktails A horny, cruisy destination of eclectic the art facilities and a laid-back ethos of a friendly atmosphere, and bar food it’s a perfect spot fellas looking for fun. Features atmosphere. There’s two spacious dedicated service and top-notch to start your night and line your a maze of private rooms, video dry saunas, two steam rooms, a sun facilities remains the same. It stomach! screens, sauna and chill out areas. bed, stainless steel spa pool, cafe, covers a massive 8,000 sq ft with deluxe private rooms, dark rooms a huge amount of weight training 28. Oval Lounge 18. The Hoist and a raft of hot, up-for-it fellas. machines, cardio equipment and a 24 Clapham Road 47b – 47c South Lambeth The best part is it’s open 24 hours huge free weights area to get you Kennington, SW9 0JG Road SW8 1RH a day, 7 days a week, so there’s buff for that weekend disco. The cosy bar and kitchen serve Motorbikes, chains, slings and always an opportunity for some fun up top-notch home cooked grub more leather than you can shake and a freshen’ up. 25. Above the Stag Theatre to happy homos, as well as a cow at is the order of the day Miles Street, Vauxhall, catering to special events with their for this always popular venue 21. Union SW8 1SF sophisticated downstairs dining of hard-edged naughtiness and 66 Albert Embankment Above the Stag describes itself as room and gorgeous garden. good times. Featuring a whole SE1 7TP ‘the UK’s LGBT Theatre’ and is an host of events, where some of the Booze, choons and cruise is the award-winning, 60 seat theatre in 30. Fetish Freak hottest fetishists indulge in sweaty, order of the day at this venue, with Vauxhall. They produce the vast 76 Bolton Crescent, leather-bound carnal delights. a variety of nights such as naked majority of their productions and Oval, SE5 0SE There’s also Stark Bollock Naked disco Nudity, the ever-popular regularly play to full houses of their The Fetish Freak store is brand new and Nearly Bollock Naked where leather/rubber/sports night Hard fiercely loyal regular clientele – but and totally independent - bringing you can cruise some horny studs On, and cruisy Friday club night are always open to newcomers too! you an extensive range of fetish in the buff, or add some hardcore Club Wrong. Recent productions include The Gay gear. They stock all the essentials accoutrements or boots. There’s Naked Play, A Hard Rain, Orton such as aromas, condoms and also special nights for those into OTHER and Bathhouse: The Musical. lubes, but made-to-measure items sports kit, CP, skin gear, rubber 22. Caffe Italia are their specialty, offering you a and more. 348 Kennington Lane 26. Vauxhall Street Food choice of hides and different grades SE11 5HY Garden of rubber. So don’t be shy to ask 19. Locker Room This friendly cafe is always full 40 Parry Street SW8 1RT for them!
34 qxmagazine.com
DJ OF THE WEEK Balans Soho Society Adam Turner @ Popcorn Adam Turner’s Popcorn Top 10
1.‘Lotus’ (Original Mix) - Fehrplay Progressive House sounding just the way it should
2. ‘Smile When You Kill Me 2015’ (Original Mix) - Jerome Isma-Ae A tune to get your pulse absolutely racing
3. ‘Trace’ (Origina Mix) You’ve been bizzy getting all sorts of music made. Tell us - Codeko more… This producer is only 18 It’s been a little mad lately - which years old – such a big is always a good thing! I finished future ahead of him off remixing Olly Murs’ latest single the other week. Otherwise, I’ve 4. ‘Seasons’ (Adam been remixing some independent Turner Mix) - Olly Murs artists which is always fun as one Sounding fresh straight out can be a little more experimental. the studio! I’ve recently taken everything into my own studio, too, which has been really liberating; being able 5. ‘Talking Body’ to work when I want and how I (Sanna & Pitron Mix ) - want. I also love getting my tech/ Tove Lo engineer geek on alongside my As mentioned, killer vocals. musical skills - so it’s the perfect fit! Steve and Max on point Who would be your dream pop with this mix too There’s new management at the top, a tweak to the name, a icons to get into the studio? refreshing of the interiors and some additions to the menu. Balans is Can I bring people back from the 6. ‘Belvedere’ (Original ready for the future and we’re very much in favour of it. We popped dead? Hmm… There’s some cool along to Shepherd’s Bush’s mega-city that is Westfield to sample the stuff going on in the pop world Mix) - Rodrigo Deem new look outpost. Amidst a string of big brand name restaurants and at the moment, I guess. I’m a Driving bassline and an retailers, Balans still retains the intimate, familiar feel that made its huge fan of Tove Lo’s voice, and epic breakdown – sounds well-known Soho haunt such an eternally popular destination venue. working with Ryan Tedder’s vocals immense on Heaven’s After our masterfully mixed Porn Star martinis that blended Absolut on the last Olly Murs record was main floor! Blue with vanilla syrup, passion fruit purée and a champagne shot, wicked; I’d love to work with One we salivated over our first starter of thrice-fried chicken, served with Republic or similar. 7. ‘Bora’ - Tom Staar shichimi mayonnaise. It was every bit as delectable as it sounds, and Describe a night at Popcorn to This one goes down so well a welcome addition to the menu. We’ll be having that one again, for the uninitiated… sure. The quesadilla was pretty in its presentation and its standout Be prepared! I have mates who at Popcorn – they love it! ingredients crisp, but it was a touch dull in tickling the taste buds. Or it come down and have no idea could be just that it had a lot to live up to compared to the thrice-fried what they’re in for. Mondays are 8. ‘Good Vibes’ - Kyder, chicken that came before it. usually a tame quiet school night, The Wulf Mains are generous as ever. Sesame Tuna cooked to its medium recovering from the weekend. A 2015 take on Black perfection and served on a bed of jasmine rice, bok choi, garlic, Not at Popcorn - the crowd are Box’s 80s smash “Ride On ginger and soy ticked the right boxes – sharp, sweet, healthy, yet the most up-for-it crowd I play Time”. Sounds way better utterly satisfying. to regularly. The atmosphere than that reads! The ‘infamous’ Balans burger was delivered in the way all burgers is electric, the music is varied should be served: perfectly posited between its brioche buns, with Swiss - there’s literally something for cheese dripping over the crisp bacon. The chips took a lesson from the everyone across the whole venue. 9. ‘ID1’ - Adam Turner chicken and threw themselves into the frying pan three times, and are A cheeky original of mine every bit as flavoursome as you’d expect such an extravagantly cooked I’ve been testing at Heaven side dish to be. Make no mistake, this is the king of chips. and on the radio too. All to Super staff, great drinks and a menu that offers it all. When in be revealed soon! Westfield, be sure to make time for a trip to Balans Soho Society – and don’t forget the Porn Star martinis. 10. ‘Rumours’ (Deniz Popcorn is at Heaven Koyu Mix) - Pep & Rash (Under the Arches, Villiers The original is massive, but Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush, Ariel Way, W12 7GA Street, Charing Cross, WC2N this remix takes it to the 6NG) every Monday, 11pm- 020 8600 3320 www.balans.co.uk next level. 5am. 36 qxmagazine.com
Mykonos Comes To London is a weekend long concept that takes over one of London’s finest event spaces to bring the summer season one step closer. A QX spoke to promoter Markaiu Mason... taste of Mykonos
For those that have not yet You’re a new name to the Cartier is a glamorous diva from experienced the island’s London club scene. What’s Belgium. She brings amazing magic, what do you love your background? costumes and world class talent about Mykonos? I have been in the club scene to our stage every year. Her Mykonos is so beautiful. The for a few years working with numbers are stupendous and golden sand, blue sea, marina Mayfair parties, XXtra and now stick in your mind bringing and cobbled white streets are my own company ‘Cruz’. We drama and beauty to our stage. something from a film and it’s a are the only recurring LGBT Gloria Darling is from Italy, and short plane ride from London. event on any river in Europe. is a legend in Mykonos having They have the best of both We have been going strong for worked there for many years. worlds, a superb party scene and six months now and our next Gloria is an accomplished beautiful beaches and views. event will be in June, we have a entertainer who can do, basically, How will you bring those really cool exclusive crowd that everything: comedy, dance, elements to London? come to our 200 people cruises. drama. And all is done covered Mykonos Comes to London When we were approached to in rhinestones. Our hunky ‘M2L’ is a springtime event to come onboard for the M2L event, dancers Dinn, Patrick, and Nikko kick off summer. It brings in my team and I were very excited are all Greek gods. Big muscles the European and American as their vision for the LGBT scene and trained dancers who work all talent that you would see at in London matched ours, which is winter to create great numbers Elysium Hotel in Mykonos during that we should not just be limited for us. Epiphany Get Paid is the summers to London, for a to Soho. There have been many from NYC and is the host of the
“The London Sky Bar is a unique and beautiful venue inside Millbank Tower with gorgeous panoramic views of London.”
fun party weekend with great Mykonos events and parties in show in addition to singing live, music, phenomenal talent, and London but none to this capacity. dancing, providing devastating gorgeous venues with super sexy It’s going to be the best Mykonos beauty, and making jokes. men provided by my company party in London to date. And there’s a cruise on ‘Cruz London’. The London Sky Tell us about the Sunday? Bar is flying people in from all entertainment… We have three shows on the 17th, over to entertain, this is going to DJ Mays hails from Belgium. He 18th and 19th with a special be an spectacular event. is the resident DJ at Elysium hotel river cruise on the Thames if you The venue is quite unique… in Mykonos and is internationally buy a VIP ticket. The first hour is The London Sky Bar is a unique renowned. His music is top of unlimited free premium alcoholic and beautiful venue inside the charts dance and house, drink, from champagne to shots, Millbank Tower with gorgeous and he always gets the crowd and luxury canapés served by the panoramic views of the Thames going. You’re sure to hear the delicious Cruz London boys. Two and London. It’s a fantastic party best new remixes and the hottest shows a night and DJ Mays will space and can hold up to 600 beats from all over the world. be on the decks. The show alone Mykonos Comes To London is people. Inside you will feel like Performer and host-wise we is worth the ticket price. With on Friday 17th, Saturday 18th you’re in Mykonos and as soon have the Elysium Hotel’s hand- partying until the sun comes up and Sunday 19th April. as you look out the windows, you picked talent by the boss and with the best views in London and More info and tickets from will see the most breathtaking amazing artistic mastermind the hottest guests you can’t beat www.londonskybar.com/ views of London. Vasilis Chouliaras. Vanessa Van this experience. mykonos.php
38 qxmagazine.com
RAISING THE BAR
Circa 62 Frith Street, Soho, W1D 3JN
Sundays in Soho just got a little bit sweeter, as the shiniest gem on Frith Street will be serving up succulent Sunday roasts. They’re also running a Sunday Brunch club from midday ‘til 6pm, meaning you can soak up the last of your gin-based sins with one of their delicious hangover-killing kilners – any breakfast item you want, baked with bread and cheese! Excuse us while we mop up a little drool. Is it the weekend yet?
London Hippodrome Cranbourn Street, Leicester Square, WC2H 7JH
In honour of his daughter, the late Amy Winehouse, Mitch Winehouse will be hosting a fantastic night of music supported by his band and many surprise guest performers on Friday April 17th. All of the funds raised from the gig go to directly help the work of The Amy Winehouse Foundation, supporting projects helping young vulnerable and disadvantaged people. Tickets start at £20 and are available at www.hippodromecasino.com now.
BACKCounter Arch 50, 7-11 South Lambeth Place, SW8 1SP
Counter’s naughtier little brother, BACKcounter, will be hosting Brunch by Request on Sunday April 19th from 1pm ‘til 4pm, with pianist, composer and violinist Carl Joseph. This virtuoso can play anything thrown his way and he’ll be bringing a little bit of Greenwich Village to Vauxhall once a month. Whether it’s Britney or Bach, Sondheim or the Sugababes, Carl can play it! Join them for Brunch, make a reservation and make your request!
40 qxmagazine.com OLD SHIP 17 Barnes St, Limehouse E14 7NW 2 mins from Limehouse DLR Tel: 0207 791 1301 www.oldship.net Sunday 19th April DAVINA SPARKLE on stage at 9.00pm
DJ STEVIE TEE 8.00pm 'TIL MIDNIGHT
Saturday 25th April TITTI LA CAMP on stage at 9.30pm DJ STEVIE TEE 8.00pmp 'TIL LATE Quiz night every Wednesday with SAUCY SOPHIE @ 9.30 Open until Midnight. FREEFRFREEEE Topsie Redfern @ City of Quebec 12/04/15 12 Old Quebec Street, Marble Arch, W1H 7AF
Words and Photos by Chris Jepson
Sunday nights at the City of Quebec are legendary and over the years have attracted almost every cabaret artiste on the scene. In the ten short months new manager Dave (ex of the Queens Arms, Brighton) and his team have been in situ, they have managed to sweep out the cobwebs and are breathing fresh life into this historic venue. We popped along last weekend for Miss Topsie Redfern, one of the ‘new girls’ on the scene who has become a firm favourite of the old guard of Marble Arch. Topsie took to the stage to a Bond theme tune and looked every inch the Bond girl in her floor length black sequin gown. She then gave the crowd exactly what they wanted, with over an hour of ballads, pop and diva classics. Nothing is out of her amazing range and repertoire and she effortlessly moved from Streisand to Queen to Bassey to Carmen in full opera voice. There was a camp 80s medley, a quick boogie to the ‘Timewarp’ and a Disney duet where she took both male and female parts. Between songs, Topsie’s chat and banter was smooth and natural as she moved amongst the audience and she even ‘persuaded’ three guys to ‘volunteer’ to play her hunt for a fiancé game. A pitch-perfect ‘Rise like a Phoenix’ cover brought the show to a close and rightfully rewarded her with thunderous applause.
“She effortlessly moved from Streisand to Queen to Bassey to Carmen in full opera voice.”
42 qxmagazine.com
CABARET
dipped bird Baga Chipz, Tanya Hyde and the CK queens themselves, alongside this year’s ringleaders, La Voix and Titti La Camp! Drag Idol has changed careers of winners and contestants alike, quite literally overnight and we’re certain we can look forward to more fantastic fresh talent flooding the Drag Idol Launch already-thriving UK cabaret scene from this 08/04/15 year’s crop of hopefuls. There will be twists Two Brewers, 114 Clapham High Street, and turns galore in the year’s competition, SW4 7UJ which will be revealed over the coming Words by James Egan weeks. La Voix and Titti have been keeping Photos by Joel Ryder their lacquered lips tightly sealed about proceedings, so watch this space! They did tease us with a promise of celebrity judges for Last week’s Drag Idol launch drew the the final panel though, apparently on a level biggest crowd in the competition’s history thus never seen before! Fingers crossed for Babs far, as well as the most applications they’ve Windsor and Paul O’Grady. Applications are ever received. An amazing night kicked off available from www.dragidoluk.com or there with a series of powerhouse performances is an application form on the back of all the from past winners. The line-up included last flyers found in participating venues, which year’s victor, drag king LoUis CYfer, batter applicants can hand in to the bar staff.
44 qxmagazine.com
SCREEN TEST by Jack Leger MUSICAL DRAMA
Anna Kendrick and Chris Pine and Ben the hot Jeremy Jordan Foster will team sing their hearts out with Jeff Bridges in THE LAST FIVE for Comancheria, YEARS, a musical that about two brothers traces the collapse who become bank of a relationship out robbers to make ends of sequence through NFFUt"OE"SSPX a series of emotive hunk Stephen Amell songs. Gimmicky but (pictured) has joined beautiful. the next Teenage Video of the week Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. Tragically, he’ll MEN ON A play Megan Fox’s love MISSION THE SAMURAI (18) interest. Utterly bonkers, this queer German horror movie centres on a cute young cop (Michel Superb young Diercks) whose quiet night is interrupted by a cross-dressing nutcase (Pit Bukowski) with a actor Jack Reynor samurai sword, who flirts with him while cutting a swathe of destruction through a rural (Transformers) stars town. It’s eerily camp and corny, but there’s a layer of dark subtext that offers food for in the Irish drama thought. Plus some full-on nudity. (Peccadillo) GLASSLAND as a desperate guy trying to care for his alcoholic mum (Toni Film of the week Collette). It’s gloomy CVUXPSUIUIFUSJQt A LITTLE CHAOS (12) Mads Mikkelsen leads Matthias Shoenaerts is still on-screen in Suite Français, and now here’s another chance to THE SALVATION, leer at the almost too-gorgeous Belgian beefcake. This time he plays a landscape gardener a cool, fresh take in 17th century Paris, wooing Kate Winslet while Alan Rickman (as Louis XIV) and Stanley on the Western that Tucci camp it up merrily. Yes, it’s essentially a period comedy, but the sharp, clever script emphasises justice adds nicely dark edges that make it better than expected. instead of revenge. A nice surprise. Petite Meller #JULIASAYS... by Princess Julia
You know, I’m a great supporter room. This is a relatively new night follows the drag stars of London’s #unapologeticpop, we say get of expressing yourself in whatever that fills the rock-n-roll-indie- East End on their hysterical and your arses down there and join way possible. Yes, I’m even saying schmindie gap, this month French revealing journeys. If you missed DJs Denis, Elles, Chris Cuff an ‘underground’ scene still internet star Petite Meller who it’s debut at this years BFI LGBT & Sen for some special needs! exists. But my great quandary has sings little ditty ‘Baby Love’ joins Flare Film Festival, then an Starting at 6pm after Naked always been the ability to be able the gang with a live performance, afternoon screening at the Rio Boys Reading: Sausage to sustain one’s purse strings on DJs Tony & Dan from The Men Cinema, (107 Kingsland High (Brunch Special) and going on the thin air of creativity... let alone Who Fell To Earth and master Street, Dalston, E8 2PB) on ‘til late! muster up a ‘look’ on a shoestring! of ceremonies Clayton Wright Saturday 18th April at 2pm is from Little Gay Brother. Starts where you want to be! *For some unadulterated pop Well, this weekend we’re dwelling at 9pm, goes on ‘til 2am. this week, have a listen to on Reasons To Be Cheerful on Round off the weekend with Markus Feehily ‘Love Is A Drug’ Friday 17th at Bethnal Green Fast gaining cult status, Sorry Not Sorry up at Dalston remixes from 88 Ninety’s ‘Love Working Men’s Club (42 Pollard ‘frocumentary’ Dressed As A Superstore (117 Kingsland Addiction’ and The Longside Row, Bethnal Green, E2 6NB) Girl directed by Colin Rothbart High St, Dalston, E8 2PB) Remix... He’s really going for it rather than sitting alone in our (there’s a Q & A with him btw) on the 19th April... they say now he’s going solo!
DOM POP
HITS, BITS & SHITS
by Dom Top
Look, I know I promised you a full review of fruity foghorn Marina and the Diamonds’ sensational new ode to the greengrocer, but that was before some very important happenings in the pop world occurred. Besides, you weren’t going to read it anyway, you lazy toads, so here’s the abridged version: FROOT is really quite good, buy it. A perfect blend of the pop magnificence that was her sophomore effort Electra Heart and the quirky, incisive lyricism of her debut record The Family Jewels, it cements why Ms Diamandis is the best pop star Wales by way of Greece has ever produced. Which sets quite a low and niche bar, honestly, but you get the gist. lyricism and a selection of electronic beeps alleged ‘rapper’ Jay-Z to promote his new Who left the door open? The comeback you and hoots that work oddly well. Though the streaming service ‘Fuck You, Spotify’ aka never dreamed of nor really wanted has video looks like something you’d make on ‘We Need Another Holiday Home’ aka happened: Daphne & Celeste are back. Photobooth upon raiding the dressing up ‘Tidal’. Highlights included noted academic Undeterred by the abuse, bottles of piss and box at an afterparty after two days awake: Alicia Keys attempting to quote existential (seriously) wheelchairs hurled at them during MISJUDGED. philosopher Nietzsche, Rihanna looking Reading Festival 15 years ago, the ‘Ooh, like a HR consultant who forgot her bra and Stick You’ chanteuses have crawled back out Finally, looking like the guest speaker line- Madge rubbing her vadge across a desk of the woodwork like a pair of obnoxious up of the North American Arrogant Turd whilst signing her Tidal contract. Who needs weevils with a surprisingly….good song? ‘You convention, a selection of ‘stars’ appeared a signature when a snail-trail from your and I Alone’ pulses along nicely with abstract alongside the Camel Lights logo muse and snatch will suffice?
47 qxmagazine.com QX MAGAZINE ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qxmagazine
PLEASE BE PATIENT WHILST THE NEWS FEED LOADS
2 QX MAGAZINE ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/qxmagazine
PLEASE BE PATIENT WHILST THE NEWS FEED LOADS
3 Your guide to the week’s best BAR, CLUB & CABARET events in London
9 April- 16 April MUSTS & MAYBES
Detox @ Epiphany @ G-A-Y Porn London Comes Idol to Mykonos
Thursday Friday
THURSDAY 16TH APRIL playing edgy and upfront house. WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From £15. week with Club Lesley. Get ready CLUBS & EVENTS Expect hot gogo eye candy The legendary central London tp lez out with special guests Maze G-A-Y Porn Idol with guest judge and hosted by fab scene faces. casino and cabaret venue. & Masters! Detox at Heaven, Villiers Street, Get snapped by the legendary TONIGHT: Go on a dream G-A-Y Camp Attack at Heaven, WC2N 6NG. 10pm-5am. resident papper! journey with gorgeous dancers, Villiers Street, WC2N 6NG. 11pm- Discount wristbands from G-A-Y Decoded at Barcode, 69 Albert live theatre and magic! 4am. FREE with wristband from Bar. London’s biggest amateur Embankment, Vauxhall, SE1 Quiz Night at The Roebuck, 84 G-A-Y Bar. Room 1 plays 70s, 80s, strip night. Get yer kit off and 7TP. 10pm-5am. £5. Non-stop Ashmole Street, SW8 1NE. 8pm 90s, 00-05. Rm 2 is ‘05 to present win £100 tonight, or £1000 in pumping house, plus a mix of onwards. £1 entry. Cash prizes day. Musical theme sing-along the final. To enter email info@g- nu-disco and uplifting deep to be won at The Roebuck for in Rm 3 and Life Before R&B (i.e. a-y.co.uk or text 07789 553 vocal house from DJ’s Alex their awesome Quiz Night. Rihanna & Beyonce) with classic 868. TONIGHT: Guest judge Georgiou and Steven Artis at Two Brewers, 114 Clapham High R&B in Room 4. Detox. Vauxhall industrial Barcode club Street, SW4 7UJ. Bar open 4pm- Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street at Grunge at East Bloc, 217 City spot. 2am. FREE b4 10pm, £3 after. 30 Lisle Street, Leicester Square, Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JN. Popular South London cabaret/ WC2. 10pm-3am. FREE b4 11pm, 10.30pm-late. 90s theme pop BARS & CABARET club spot. TONIGHT: La Voix £5 after. Pop perfection and hot and anthems night with alt. Abracadabra at the Bethnal Gossip at West 5, Pope’s Lane, floor fillers as Ku’s hot 3 spin the cabaret, messy drag queens and Green Working Men’s Club, 42 South Ealing, W5 4NB. Open tunes in its downstairs basement club kidz. Pollard Row, E2 6NB. 7pm (show from 8pm. FREE. Ealing’s hugely club spot. Create at the Shadow Lounge, 8.30pm). Ticket price £10, door popular club, bar and cabaret A:M at Protocol, 6a South Lambeth 5 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F price £12. Cabaret terrorist, spot. Place, SW8 1SP. 11pm-11am. £3 0RF. 10pm-3am. £8, £10 with savior, avantguardian David Backing The Stars at Halfway 2 before 1am, £7 b4 6am with QX Gravity (afterhours) ticket. Hoyle comes East for five unique Heaven, 7 Duncannon Street, ADVERT/NUS/Conc, £12 others. Orange Group steps back into evenings of must-see, magical Charing Cross, WC2N 4JF. The original Saturday morning Soho with a new weekly venture alternative performance, protest, Popular central London karaoke afterhours beast that continues bringing a selection of house DJs laughter and song for election fun with Kevin Walsh. to light up the weekend early into this slick new space for a season. The Edge at 11 Soho Square, spinning out boomin’ house beats decidedly hot weekend warm-up. VS at Circa, 62 Frith Street, Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last across two rooms. Ted’s TV/TS Night at Ted’s Place, Soho, W1. 4pm-4am. Munroe entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored Reasons 2 Be Cheerful at the Bethnal 305a North End Road. 7pm- Bergdorf and Adam Turner get gay wonder. Green Working Men’s Club, 42 2am. £5. The night for fellas in you warmed up for Room Service Quiz Night at The City of Quebec Pollard Row, E2 6NB. £6 before frocks and their admirers. with some unrivalled Thursday at 12 Old Quebec Street, Marble 10pm, £7 after. Pop, soul, rock G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, night hotness! Arch, W1H 7AF. 12pm-3am. The and roll, weirdo-disco and indie- off Charing Cross Road, WC2. Rupert Street at 50 Rupert Street, legendary pub holds its monthly schmindie are all on the menu 11pm-3am. Hot pop sounds Soho, W1D 6DR. From 8pm. quiz night with Sonny. tonight. Plus a performance from get played out across the club, Weekly dance session at the French internet star Petite Meller of drink specials, cute guys and an popular Soho bar. TONIGHT: FRIDAY 17TH APRIL her single ‘Baby Love’. almost unrivalled highly electric Enriched with DJ Rich B. CLUBS & EVENTS Call in Sick at Vogue Fabrics, 66 atmosphere. Open 7 days. Dr Woof’s Thursday Surgery at London Comes to Mykonos at Stoke Newington Road, Dalston, Cruise Control at Eagle London, Kazbar, 50 Clapham High Street, Altitude, Millbank Tower, 30 N16 7XB. 10pm-3am. FREE. DJs 349 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SW4 7UL. 4pm-3am. Free. Dr Millbank, London SW1P 4RS. Charles Jeffrey and Lyall celebrate SE11 5QY. 9pm-2am. £3 entry, Woof presents his weekly cabaret 9pm-4am. £50 advance. DJ the young and old. Plus you get a free entry for members. Cruise turn at the funky Clapham bar. Mays, Vanessa Van Cartier, Gloria present on the door! spaces to explore to darker, Comptons of Soho – Tasty Tim Darling and many more from the G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, deeper beats. Teaches House at 51-53 Old Eysium Hotel Mykonos, take over off Charing Cross Road, WC2. Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street, Compton Street, Soho, W1D Altitude to bring a taste of Grecian 7.30pm-3am. Hot pop sounds, Leicester Square, WC2. 6pm- 6HN. 12pm-midnight. One of glamour to the London skyline! drink specials, cute guys and a 3am. FREE. Pop sounds and Soho’s best loved traditional gay Nancy’s + Club Lesley at Dalston pop perfect atmosphere. floor fillers. pubs, always busy and always Superstore, 117 Kingsland High George & Dragon at 2 Blackheath Room Service at Miabella, 12-13 friendly and always fun. DJ Tasty St, E8 2PB. 9pm-3am. Free b4 Hill, SE10. 8pm-4am. The friendly Greek Street, Soho, W1D 4DJ. Tim plays the delicious tunes. 11pm/£5 after. Boys can play at Greenwich local. DJ Tony Tim on 10pm-3am. Don’t you dare miss Sensual Dreams at Nancy’s upstairs, while the girls the decks playing 80s and 90s this fiercely social, sexy club spot, Hippodrome at Leicester Square, are out in force downstairs this camp until 4am.
48 qxmagazine.com FULL LISTINGS AVAILABLE AT WWW.QXMAGAZINE.COM
Freemasons Nik Denton @ @ XXL Higher
Saturday Saturday
Anthem at RVT, 372 Kennington seriously good tunes. West London club, bar and Heaven, 7 Duncannon Street, Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5HY. 11pm- The Hole at The Glory, 281 cabaret spot, with added Piano Charing Cross, WC2N 4JF. 3am. £10. A selection of the finest Kingsland Road, E2 8AS. 5pm- Lounge fun. 9pm-3am. The central London dance and club anthems for your 2.30am. £3 after 10pm. With The Roebuck at 84 Ashmole cabaret hot spot. TONIGHT: partying pleasure from DJs Andy a pub vibe upstairs from 5pm, Street, SW8 1NE. 6-11pm. Special guests Rose Garden & Almight and Sean Sirrs, plus a there’s a queer basement disco Happy hour all night at this Phil Lawrence special PA from Therese! downstairs from 10pm. enticing gay friendly venue in the Kazbar at 50 Clapham High Le Coq Discoteque at East Bloc, Oval area where you can meet Street, SW4 7UL. 4pm-1am. 217 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V BARS & CABARET local lads and sexy drinkers. Free. Funky Clapham bar with 1JN. 10.30pm-6am. £5 before Ku Bar Soho, 25 Frith Street, BackCOUNTER at Counter, South stylish swish. TONIGHT: Kazbar midnight, £8 after. A mash-up WC1D 5LB. Open ‘til 3am. Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, SW8 Retro with all the best from the of pop edits, disco, Italo, house Ku Bar’s little brother stretches 1SR. 11am-late. Newcomer 70s/80s/90s. classics, 90s anthems. TONIGHT: across two floors for that to the Vauxhall scene, The Edge at 11 Soho Square, DJs Martyn Fitzgerald, Guy perfect Soho warm-up drinking BackCOUNTER serves cocktails Soho, W1D 3QE. 12noon-3am. Williams, Jon Booth and Barry session and a little dance with and food in a relaxed, plush FREE b4 10.30pm. Four floors of Linnen. downstairs DJs. environment, with brunch from fun! Ground floor DJs spin top Fitladz at Barcode, 69 Albert The Yard at 57 Rupert Street, 11am-5pm and Lady Diamond 40 and radio edit chart dance Embankment, Vauxhall, SE1 Soho, W1D 7PL. Open till 1am. in residence from 1-4pm. and commercial and chart R’n’B 7TP. 10pm-9am. £8 members, FREE. Renowned as one of Mitch Winehouse Show at on the 2nd floor. £10 guests. The club session for Soho’s most unique and popular Hippodrome at Leicester Square, Comptons of Soho at 51-53 Old horny lads with hot grooves from destination venues, with terrific WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From £20. Compton Street, Soho, W1D the DJs and an extended cruise outdoor space. The legendary central London 6HN. 12pm-2am. The grand space. Followed by Bodyshakers The Two Brewers, 114 Clapham casino and cabaret venue. dame of Soho. TONIGHT: Fat (afterhours). High Street, SW4 7UJ. 5pm- TONIGHT: Amy’s father Mitch Tony from 9pm. Men Inc. at Eagle London, 349 4am. FREE b4 10pm/£7 after. pay tribute to his legendary Central Station at 37 Wharfdale Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 South London’s legendary club, daughter with all proceeds Road, Kings Cross, N1 5QY. 9pm-3am. £5. Free for bar and cabaret spot. TONIGHT: going to the Amy Winehouse 9SD. Open ‘til 4am. FREE Eagle/Paris Gym members. For Drag with No Name Foundation. Followed by Wam b4 10pm/£3 after, £5 after blokes, butch guys, bears and West 5 at South Ealing, Pope’s Bam Late 10.30pm. The super-friendly their pals after a social time and Lane, W5 4NB. The popular Friday Night Live at Halfway 2 Kings Cross bar. DJs ‘til late. FULL LISTINGS AVAILABLE AT WWW.QXMAGAZINE.COM
New Bloomsbury Set at 76 £5 after. The Bastards burst into Faggerston super-pub from Jonny Marchmont Street, Bloomsbury, the Superstore, bringing with Woo and John Sizzle hosts cabaret WC1N 1AG. 4pm-11.30pm. them international DJ Neville on the ground floor and goes Open seven days a week for the Watson, alongside residents Wes clubby in the basement. more social gays around the dB and Lucious Flajore for some G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, Kings Cross/Bloomsbury area underground house and techno, off Charing Cross Road, WC2. 12 Old Quebec Street and those after a refreshing new while Horsemeat’s Luke Howard 11pm-3am. Hot pop sounds, drink Marble Arch, London W1H 7AF experience. London’s only 21+ throws down the disco delights. specials, cute guys and a pop TEL: 020 7629 6159 bar! The Internet Conspiracy at Vogue perfect atmosphere. Camp As Hits at The City of Fabrics, 66 Stoke Newington Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street at 30 FRI 17TH APRIL Quebec, 12 Old Quebec Street, Road, Dalston, N16 7XB. 10pm- Lisle Street, Leicester Square, WC2. 10pm ‘til 3am Marble Arch, W1H 7AF. 12pm- 3am. Free before 11pm, £5 after. Bar: 8pm-3am. Club: 10pm-3am. 3am. Venerable institution of the Launch party for TEIN clothing FREE b4 11pm, £5 after. £3 with Camp As Hits gay scene rocks out some pop label, featuring the sensational wristband/membership. The party DJ GEOFFREY classics for an evening of fun. Samantha Togni, Alex William and continues in Ku’s basement club IN THE CLUB BAR The Edge at 11 Soho Square, Chema Diaz. with hot pop and floor fillers from Soho, W1D 3QE. Midday- Bootylicious at Electric Brixton, Town the DJs. SAT 18TH APRIL 3am. Last entry 2am. FREE b4 Hall Parade, Brixton, London, SW2 Beyond (afterhours) at Fire, South 10.30pm. Four floors of fun! 1RJ. 11:30pm-6am. £10 advance. Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, SW8 1RT. DJ CHRIS REARDON DJs spin a blend of commercial, Bootylicious is back monthly! 4.30am (Sunday morning)-late. IN THE CLUB BAR house, pop and chart remixes. Bringing you the best of old-school £12 before 7am with ad/flyer/ SUN 19TH APRIL Guilty pleasures upstairs. hip hop, R’n’B, dancehall and concession/NUS card. The crazy Circa at 62 Frith Street, Soho, more from DJ Chillz, Biggy C, club beast takes it up a notch 9pm W1D 3JN. 4pm-4am. Soho’s Jeffrey Hinton and more. with a move to Fire for the late intimate but packed-out bar/club Smashed Arseholes at East Bloc, night/early morning house music spot watches Munroe Bergdorf 217 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V session. and friends werq the floor! 1JN. 10.30pm-6am. £7 b4 12am Unchill (afterhours) at Barcode, /£10 after. Back once again with 69 Albert Embankment, Vauxhall, SATURDAY 18TH APRIL the renegade master…Smashed SE1 7TP. 6am (Sunday morning)- CLUBS & EVENTS Arseholes is back with the very super late. £5. Sunday morning G-A-Y presents Conor Maynard at brilliant TINAZ taking over the afterhours with DJs spinning fresh Heaven, Villiers Street, WC2N back bar! Prepare for more music- uplifting house music into Sunday CONNIE LINGUS 6NG. 10pm-5am. Discount meets-fashion madness! morning. wristbands from G-A-Y Bar. The Savage at Metropolis Strip Club, MON 20TH APRIL palace of pop and quite possibly 235 Cambridge Heath Road, BARS & CABARET 9pm the world’s most famous gay club E2 9NN. 11pm-5am. £5. A new Elvis in Vegas at packs out this cavernous venue. weekly Saturday club night from Hippodrome at Leicester Square, TONIGHT: British pop heartthrob the Sink The Pink crew. DJs on WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From £25. The Conor Maynard serenades the rotation Raf Daddy, Jonjo Jury, legendary central London casino HOSTED BY hallowed house of pop perfection Josh You Are, Gaff-E, Severino and and cabaret venue. TONIGHT: Chris Reardon XXL presents Freemasons at Pulse, more at this bonkers venue. The world’s foremost Elvis 1 Invicta Plaza, Southwark, SE1 PlayThing at Eagle London, 349 impersonator. Followed by Soho TUES 21ST APRIL 9UF. 10pm-7am. £15 guests, £8 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, Burlesque Club at 11pm. members. Big, bear night that’s SE11 5QY. 9pm-late. £8, £6 Saturday Market Slash Swap Shop & open to anyone in vast super club advance. The Familyyy Fierce have Xanadu at Halfway 2 Heaven, 7 Pulse. With resident DJs Christian upped sticks to the Eagle, where Duncannon St, WC2N 4JF. Open M, Joe Egg and co. Plus, chill they’re creating a playground of ‘til 3am. Rose Garden provides space and cruise zone. TONIGHT: performance, nightlife and sex Saturday shopping light relief Special guest DJs the Freemasons for your inner child. Expect fun, followed by DJ Justin Swift’s camp rock the bear cave! fantasy, frenzy and freakery! disco Xanadu, 8pm-3am. London Comes to Mykonos at The Shadow Lounge at Brewer Street, Comptons of Soho at 51-53 Old Altitude, Millbank Tower, 30 Soho, W1G 0RF. 9pm-3am. £10 Compton Street, Soho, W1D 6HN. Millbank, London SW1P 4RS. entry, half-price with guestlist. 2pm-2am. The grand dame of 9pm-4am. £50 advance. DJ Soho’s sexy and slick club spot, Soho pulling in a more blokey Mays, Vanessa Van Cartier, Gloria digitally remastered and looking crowd. TONIGHT: Matt Bogard MISS JASON Darling and many more from the hot. from 9pm. THURS 7TH MAY Eysium Hotel Mykonos, take over Sweatbox Foam Party at 1-2 George & Dragon at 2 Blackheath Altitude to bring a taste of Grecian Ramilies Street, Soho, W1F 7LN. Hill, SE10. 8pm-4am. The friendly MONTHLY QUIZZ glamour to the London skyline! 24 hours. 24hr pass £17, 48hr Greenwich local. TONIGHT: NIGHT WITH Higher at Barcode, 69 Albert pass £19. Unwind and release Cabaret from Drag with No Name Embankment, Vauxhall, SE1 7TP. some tension after a stressy week The Imperial Arms at 8 Lillie Road, SONNY 9pm-very late. FREE b4 10pm, £6 with the all the fun of the foam at SW6 1TU. From 7pm. Making First Thursday of every monthth b4 midnight with QX ADVERT/£10 Sweatbox’s original weekly party. West London queerer! Nye & OPENING HOURS after. Vauxhall’s full-throttle late Duckie at RVT, 372 Kennington Jimmy welcome all to their new MON-THURS 12PM-2AM night, industrial chic nightclub. Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5HY. 9pm- venue in Fulham.. FRI-SAT 12PM-3AM TONIGHT: The Saturday night 2am. £6. Alternative London club/ Ku Bar at Ku Bar Lisle Street, SUN 12PM-1AM house party celebrates it’s first entertainment night. Hosted by Chinatown, WC2H 7BA. 8pm- birthday, with special guest DJ Nik Amy Lamé, with music by Readers 3am. One of London’s hottest gay NEAREST TUBE: MARBLE ARCH Denton Wifes. bars and clubs, with the hottest Bastards at Dalston Superstore, The Glory, 281 Kingsland Road, boys both behind the bar and in @cityofquebecW1H 117 Kingsland High St, E8 2PB. Haggerston, E2 8AS. Doors 5pm, front of it, stretching over three facebook.com/CityOfQuebec 9pm-late. Free before 10pm, show 9pm, club 10pm. The new floors. 50 qxmagazine.com FULL LISTINGS AVAILABLE AT WWW.QXMAGAZINE.COM
Matt Bogard The Supreme @ Comptons Fabulettes @ Two Brewers Saturday Saturday
New Bloomsbury Set at 76 G-A-Y Bar at 30 Old Compton 3am. £6. The HMD gymkhana TONIGHT: CK Sunday’s Crystal Marchmont Street, Bloomsbury, Street, Soho, W1D 4UR. Midday- continues to shake Vauxhall D’Canter and Kelly Milde from WC1N 1AG. 4pm-11.30pm. Midnight. FREE. Soho’s palace down every week. Residents spin 4pm, followed by An Evening Open seven days a week for the of pop with the hottest videos super-disco sounds with weekly with Mrs Moore and Tanya Hyde. more social gays around the Kings screened out across the venue, guests. George & Dragon at 2 Blackheath Cross/Bloomsbury area and those great drinks deals and discount SorryNotSorry Sundays at Dalston Hill, SE10. 8pm-2am. FREE. The after a refreshing new experience. entry wristbands for G-A-Y @ Superstore, 117 Kingsland Road, friendly Greenwich local. The London’s only 21+ bar! Heaven. N16 7XB. 9pm-2.30am. Free Duchess hosts the weekly Piano Kazbar presents Push Push at 50 West 5 at South Ealing, Pope’s entry. Don’t spend your Sunday Bar with Ian Parker on the keys. Clapham High Street, SW4 7UL. Lane, W5 4NB. 7pm-3am. The guiltily weeping into last night’s Miss Hope Springs at 4pm-1am. Free entry. Funky popular West London club, bar wig. Smear on some more lippy Hippodrome at Leicester Square, Clapham bar with stylish swish. and cabaret spot, with added and spend your sabbath down WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From £15. TONIGHT: Glendora and Eduardo Piano Lounge fun. the Superstore. Join them for The legendary central London Herrera are giving you a push, Circa at 62 Frith Street, Soho, W1D unapologetic pop and Sunday casino and cabaret venue. push into the weekend! 3JN. 4pm-4am. Soho’s intimate night screamers TONIGHT: The legendary lady Counter and BackCOUNTER South but packed-out bar/club spot with Sundays Social at the RVT at Royal herself takes the stage. Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, SW8 the most amazing DJ booth in Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington Dusty O’s Musical Menagerie at 1SR. 11am-late. Newcomer to town. Lane, SE11 5HY. 3pm-midnight. the New Bloomsbury Set, 76 the Vauxhall scene, Counter The Yard at 57 Rupert Street, Soho, £6. All new afternoon/evening Marchmont Street, WC1N 1AG. serves brunch ‘til 5pm, with Lady W1D 7PL. Open till 1am. FREE. clubbing session slot playing Doors 4pm, show 6pm. Well- Diamond in residence 1-4pm. Renowned as one of Soho’s most huge dance anthems with known scene matriarch Dusty Open ‘til late for cocktails and unique and popular destination cabaret from Charlie Hides TV O hosts a sing-along around food. venues, with terrific outdoor space. G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, the piano with guest vocalists, The Edge at 11 Soho Square, Soho, The Old Ship at 17 Barnes Street, off Charing Cross Road, WC2. singers and pianists at this W1D 3QE. Midday-3am. Last entry Limehouse, E14 7NW. 8pm- 11pm-3am. Hot pop sounds charming basement bar. 2am. FREE b4 10.30pm. Four midnight. Cabaret: 8.45pm. Free. get played out across the club, The Two Brewers at 114 Clapham floors of fun! DJs spin a blend of Local gay bar in East London’s drink specials, cute guys and an High Street, SW4 7UJ. 4pm- commercial, house, pop and chart Limehouse. TONIGHT: Cabaret almost unrivalled highly electric 2am. FREE b4 8pm, £3 after. remixes. Guilty pleasures upstairs. from Maisie Trollette atmosphere. South London’s legendary Pick N Mix at The City of Quebec, Ku Klub Retro Sundays at Ku Bar cabaret, club and pub. Triple 12 Old Quebec Street, Marble SUNDAY 19TH APRIL Lisle Street at 30 Lisle Street, cabaret punch with The Power Arch, W1H 7AF. 12pm-3am. Top CLUBS & EVENTS Leicester Square, WC2. 10pm- of 3! tunes and late night fun at the Beyond (afterhours) at Fire. 3am. FREE. The Paddy’s day Counter and BackCOUNTER legendary gay boozer near Marble 5.30am-late. See Saturday. party continues in Ku’s basement South Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, Arch. TONIGHT: DJ Steve James. Unchill (afterhours) at Barcode club with classic 80s, 90s and SW8 1SR. 11am-late. Brunch The Two Brewers at 114 Clapham 6am-late. See Saturday. 00s tracks from DJ Pablo and By Request from 1 ‘til 4pm, with High Street, SW4 7UJ. 5pm-4am. Later at Fire, 39 Parry Street, Lady Lloyd. Carl Joseph plays anything you FREE b4 10pm, £7 after. Cabaret SW8 1RT. Midday –late. £10. The Ugly House at The Glory, throw at him. Open ‘til late for and clubbing ‘til late at the famous Continue Beyond vibes into 281 Kingsland Road, E2 8AS. cocktails and food. venue. TONIGHT: The Supreme Sunday afternoon as Later funks 5-11pm. Free. John Sizzle and The Imperial Arms at 8 Lillie Road, Fabulettes it up. guests host a cult night of chilled SW6 1TU. From 7pm. Making The Roebuck at 84 Ashmole Street, London Comes to Mykonos VIP out cabaret while guests relax West London queerer! Nye & SW8 1NE. Gay venue in the Oval Cruise at Altitude, Millbank Tower, after the weekend. Jimmy welcome all to their new area. Worship the weekend with 30 Millbank, London SW1P 4RS. Orange at Fire, South Lambeth venue in Fulham. Bar-Buck-Q’s in the secluded 2pm-12am. £150 advance. Road, Vauxhall, SW8 1RT. 11pm- The Roebuck at 84 Ashmole garden. DJ Mays, Vanessa Van Cartier, 8am. £7 before 1am with ad/ Street, SW8 1NE. New gay Central Station at 37 Wharfdale Gloria Darling and many more flyer/concession/NUS card. The venue in the Oval area. Serving Road, Kings Cross, N1 9SD. Open from the Eysium Hotel Mykonos, weekend ends here with funked- top Sunday Roast every week. ‘til 4am. FREE b4 10pm. Cabaret take over Altitude to bring a up house sounds from the The Old Ship at 17 Barnes Street, then DJs ‘til late. TONIGHT: taste of Grecian glamour to the resident disc jocks. Limehouse, E14 7NW. 8pm- Cabaret from Miss Jason London skyline! A luxury boat midnight. Cabaret: 8.45pm. Ku Bar Soho at 25 Frith Street, ride from 2pm-5pm is followed BARS & CABARET Free. Local gay bar in East WC1D 5LB. 12 midday-late. Ku by a sumptuous afterparty at the Halfway 2 Heaven at 7 London’s Limehouse. TONIGHT: Bar’s little brother stretches across London Sky Bar. Duncannon Street, Charing Davina Sparkle three floors for that perfect Soho Horse Meat Disco at Eagle Cross, WC2N 4JF. Open ‘til The Edge at 11 Soho Square, warm-up drinking session and a London, 349 Kennington Lane, 11pm. Long running popular Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last cheeky dance with downstairs DJs. Vauxhall, SE11 5QY. 8pm- Central London cabaret pub. entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored
51 qxmagazine.com FULL LISTINGS AVAILABLE AT WWW.QXMAGAZINE.COM
London Crystal Comes to D’Canter @ Mykonos Halfway 2 Heaven Sunday Sunday
gay wonder. Ground floor DJs bears and fuzzy blokes. Hosted Comptons of Soho at 51-53 Old pop and current hits. spin top 40 and radio edit chart by Dave the Bear and the hirsute Compton Street, Soho, W1D dance and commercial and chart Luis Busto. Dark room, play area 6HN. 12pm-11.30pm. The real BARS & CABARET R’n’B on the 2nd floor. and all-new Suckatorium. queen of Soho. Bar £2.50 on The Edge at 11 Soho Square, The City of Quebec at 12 Old Hard-Up Mondays at Sweatbox, popular drinks from 5pm. Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last Quebec Street, Marble Arch, 1-2 Ramilies Street, Soho, W1F Backing The Stars at Halfway 2 entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored W1H 7AF. 12pm-1am. 7LN. 24 hours. Under 25s FREE Heaven, 7 Duncannon St. WC2. gay wonder. Legendary gay boozer near all day, £16 others. Finding 7.30pm. Karaoke with singer Industry at Circa, 62 Frith Marble Arch features weekly Mondays hard to handle? Relieve Kevin Walsh on hosting duties. Street, Soho, W1D 3JN. Open cabaret. TONIGHT: Cabaret the pressure with this discounted Karaoke at The City of Quebec, ‘til 1am. Delicious Sam DMS from Connie L at 9pm. day for under 25s (ID required) 12 Old Quebec Street, Marble lays on a smorgasbord of R’n’B West 5 at Pope’s Lane, South at Soho’s only gay sauna. Arch, W1H 7AF. From 9pm. Chris classics, chart toppers and deep Ealing, W5 4NB. 7pm-late. FREE. The Big Bingo Show at RVT, 372 Reardon hosts the singing fun at house grooves at Sohos’ snazzy West London’s giant club/bar/ Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY. the famous gay boozer in Marble drinkery. cabaret home invites you to chill Doors 7pm. Eyes Down 8.30- Arch. Swing Patrol at out here. 10.30pm. FREE. £1 per game. Two Brewers at 114 Clapham Hippodrome at Leicester Square, Kazbar presents Flow at 50 Timberlina and Hey Baylen roll High Street, SW4 7UJ. The WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From £10. Clapham High Street, SW4 7UL. their balls out for their weekly landmark south London cabaret, The legendary central London 12pm-12am. Free entry. Funky bonkers bingo sesh. Banter and bar and club. TONIGHT: Mrs casino and cabaret venue. Clapham bar with stylish swish. barmy bingo, plus dancing. Moore’s Monday Night Mayhem. TONIGHT: Swing sensations live Nu disco, funky and deep house Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street, 30 The Old Ship at 17 Barnes Street, onstage! from DJ Eduardo Hererra. Lisle Street, WC2. 10pm-3am. Limehouse, E14 7NW. Local gay See You Next Tuesday at Halfway FREE. DJs play the weekend out bar in East London’s Limehouse. 2 Heaven, 7 Duncannon Street, MONDAY 20TH APRIL on a wave of hot pop. Rupert Street at 50 Rupert Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 4JF. CLUBS & EVENTS G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, Soho, W1D 6DR. The trendy From 8pm. Bette Rinse hosts Popcorn - Atomic at Heaven, of Charing Cross Road, WC2. Soho drinking spot celebrates the Tuesday night revelry at the Villiers Street, WC2N 6NG. 11pm-3am. Late night dancing with 2-4-1 classic cocktails all Central London cabaret hotspot, 11pm-5.30am. £4 b4 1am, £5 spot for pure-pop enthusiasts day! with DJ ME. after, £8 after 2am. FREE with doing the funky chickens. Bar Wotever at The RVT, 372 wristbands from G-A-Y Bar b4 Desire (Tuesday morning) at TUESDAY 21ST APRIL Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, 1am. Massive mixed mash-up Union, 66 Albert Embankment, CLUBS & EVENTS SE11 5HY. 7pm-midnight. £5. with four rooms of top sounds, Vauxhall, SE1 7TP. 1am-11am. Cruise Control at Eagle London, Genderbending cabaret, live from upfront, progressive house Monday’s guilty pleasure: a 349 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, music and performance at the to chart hits, via R&B tuneage. 10-hour house music marathon SE11 5QY. 9pm-late. £3 entry, monumental Vauxhall Tavern. Perfect polysexual party to start with scene favourites Alan K and free for members. Cruise spaces Miss Jason at The City of the week as you mean to go on. Steven Geller. to explore with darker, deeper Quebec, 12 Old Quebec Hot N Hairy vs Bear Hole at Eagle beats to play to. Street, Marble Arch, W1H 7AF. London, 349 Kennington Lane, BARS & CABARET G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, Showtime 10pm. The legendary Vauxhall, SE11 5QY. 9pm-2am. The Edge at 11 Soho Square, off Charing Cross Road, WC2. gay pub in the heart of London £5 incl. drink and coat check. Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last 11pm-3am. The weekend presents a new show to dispel The infamous Eagle London entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored begins early or finishes late to a your mid-week blues with hosts a new night for cruisey gay wonder. melodious mix of classic chart cabaret from Miss Jason.
Jonathan Bette Rinse Bestley @ @ Halfway 2 Popcorn Heaven
Monday Tuesrday
52 qxmagazine.com FULL LISTINGS AVAILABLE AT WWW.QXMAGAZINE.COM
XXL Foam Party @ Sweatbox Wednesday Wednesday
Karaoke at Two Brewers, 114 casino and cabaret venue. cabaret, messy drag queens and night hotness! Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ. The Old Ship at 17 Barnes Street, club kidz. Corps of Army Music: Pop on Parade 5pm-2am. £3 b4 10pm, £4 Limehouse, E14 7NW. Quiz from Create at the Shadow Lounge, at Hippodrome at Leicester after. Sing-along the mid-week 9.30pm. Local gay bar in East 5 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F Square, WC2H 7JH. 8pm. From blues with Kevin Walsh. London’s Limehouse. 0RF. 10pm-3am. £8, £10 with £10. The legendary central Wednesday Naughties at Central Gravity (afterhours) ticket. London casino and cabaret WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL Station at 37 Wharfdale Road, Orange Group steps back into venue. TONIGHT: Sexy soldiers CLUBS & EVENTS Kings Cross, N1 9SD. Open ‘til Soho with a new weekly venture sing the hits XXL at Pulse, 1 Invicta Plaza, 4am. FREE b4 10pm. Cabaret bringing a selection of house DJs Rupert Street at 50 Rupert Street, Southwark, SE1 9UF. 9pm- then DJs ‘til late. TONIGHT: The into this slick new space for a Soho, W1D 6DR. From 8pm. 3am. £15 guests, £8 members. Whore of Hampstead, Sandra! decidedly hot weekend warm-up. Weekly dance session at the Midweek grizzly fun for bears Detained at Circa, 62 Frith Street, Ted’s TV/TS Night at Ted’s Place, popular Soho bar. TONIGHT: and their admirers at the super- Soho, W1D 3JN. Open ‘til 1am. 305a North End Road. 7pm- Enriched with DJ Rich B. cool Pulse club. Circa goes all-out with the 2am. £5. The night for fellas in Dr Woof’s Thursday Surgery at Cruise Control at Eagle London, dance, pop and R’n’B remixes frocks and their admirers. Kazbar, 50 Clapham High 349 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, every Wednesday. DJs Attack Cruise Control at Eagle London, Street, SW4 7UL. 4pm-3am. SE11 5QY. 9pm-3am. Free for Attack Attack, Kingsley, Munroe 349 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, Free. Dr Woof presents his members, £3 guests. Cruise Bergdorf and Kris Di Angelis on SE11 5QY. 9pm-2am. £3 entry, weekly cabaret turn at the funky spaces to explore with darker, rotation. free entry for members. Cruise Clapham bar. deeper beats to play to. The Edge at 11 Soho Square, spaces to explore to darker, Comptons of Soho – Tasty Tim Work! at East Bloc, 217 City Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last deeper beats. Teaches House at 51-53 Old Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JN. entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street, Compton Street, Soho, W1D 10.30pm-late. The midweek gay wonder. Leicester Square, WC2. 6pm- 6HN. 12pm-midnight. One of RnB night returns to the ‘Bloc for Sing Along A Sound of Martha 3am. FREE. Pop sounds and Soho’s best loved traditional gay more urban anthems. at Halfway 2 Heaven, 7 floor fillers. pubs, always busy and always Foam Party at Sweatbox, 1-2 Duncannon Street, Charing G-A-Y Late at 5 Goslett Yard, friendly and always fun. DJ Tasty Ramilies Street, Soho, W1F 7LN. Cross, WC2N 4JF. From 9pm. off Charing Cross Road, WC2. Tim plays the delicious tunes. 24 hours. 24hr pass £17, 48hr Martha D’Arthur hosts the 11pm-3am. Hot pop sounds Quiz Night at The Roebuck, 84 pass £19. If you can’t make midweek drag fun at the central get played out across the club, Ashmole Street, SW8 1NE. 8pm the weekend wet fun, why not London cabaret den. drink specials, cute guys and an onwards. £1 entry. Cash prizes head down tonight? Relieve the Comptons of Soho at 51-53 Old almost unrivalled highly electric to be won at The Roebuck for midweek stress! The foam flies at Compton Street, Soho, W1D atmosphere. Open 7 days. their awesome Quiz Night. 7, 8 and 9pm. 6HN. 12pm-11.30pm. Super Room Service at Miabella, 12-13 Two Brewers, 114 Clapham High Ku Klub at Ku Bar Lisle Street, 30 social pub downstairs, chilled Greek Street, Soho, W1D 4DJ. Street, SW4 7UJ. Bar open 4pm- Lisle Street, WC2. 10pm-3am. club lounge upstairs with guest 10pm-3am. Don’t you dare miss 2am. FREE b4 10pm, £3 after. FREE. The party continues ‘til late pianist tinkling the ivories. this fiercely social, sexy club spot, Popular South London cabaret/ in the Ku basement. EVENTS playing edgy and upfront house. club spot. Expect hot gogo eye candy Gossip at West 5, Pope’s Lane, BARS & CABARET THURSDAY 23RD APRIL and hosted by fab scene faces. South Ealing, W5 4NB. Open Two Brewers at 114 Clapham CLUBS & EVENTS Get snapped by the legendary from 8pm. FREE. Ealing’s hugely High Street, SW4 7UJ. FREE b4 G-A-Y Porn Idol with guest judge resident papper! popular club, bar and cabaret 10pm, £3 after. South London’s Sharon Needles at Heaven, Villiers Decoded at Barcode, 69 Albert spot. famous bar/club. Street, WC2N 6NG. 10pm-5am. Embankment, Vauxhall, SE1 Backing The Stars at Halfway 2 BoomBox at Kazbar at 50 Discount wristbands from G-A-Y 7TP. 10pm-5am. £5. Non-stop Heaven, 7 Duncannon Street, Clapham High Street, SW4 7UL. Bar. London’s biggest amateur pumping house, plus a mix of Charing Cross, WC2N 4JF. 4pm-1am. FREE. DJ DBwoi strip night. Get yer kit off and nu-disco and uplifting deep vocal Popular central London karaoke playing your favourite R&B beats. win £100 tonight, or £1000 in house from DJ’s Alex Georgiou fun with Kevin Walsh. Mary Mac’s Mastermind at West the final. To enter email info@g- and Steven Artis at Vauxhall The Edge at 11 Soho Square, 5, Pope’s Lane, South Ealing, a-y.co.uk or text 07789 553 industrial Barcode club spot. Soho, W1D 3QE. 4pm-late. Last W5 4NB. Open from 8pm. 868. TONIGHT: Scream Queen entry 1am. Soho’s multi-floored FREE. Mary Mac presents her Sharon Needles surveys the BARS & CABARET gay wonder. inimitable quiz. salami VS at Circa, 62 Frith Street, Quiz Night at The City of Quebec Soho Burlesque Club at Grunge at East Bloc, 217 City Soho, W1. 4pm-4am. Munroe at 12 Old Quebec Street, Marble Hippodrome at Leicester Square, Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JN. Bergdorf and Adam Turner get Arch, W1H 7AF. 12pm-3am. The WC2H 7JH. 8:30pm. From £15. 10.30pm-late. 90s theme pop you warmed up for Room Service legendary pub holds its monthly The legendary central London and anthems night with alt. with some unrivalled Thursday quiz night with Sonny.
53 qxmagazine.com Get Your Rocks Off 21/04/15: 31 Club Reunion Listen, class. Hands up if you loved 31-Club? Yes? THURSDAY 16TH APRIL cruise/club sesh! Horny lads, Correct answer, boy. Club CP and Detention club Cruise Control at Eagle hot grooves, plus extended will be holding a reunion for both of these very special London, 349 Kennington cruise space. parties,pa where you can meet old friends, connect with Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5QY. newne ones and maybe find a few boys to play with as well. 9pm-late. £3 entry, free for SATURDAY 18TH APRIL AllAl are welcome and you can use any CP membership members. Cruise spaces to Hard On at Union, 66 cardcaca on the night to get £5 discounted entry. explore with darker, deeper Albert Embankment, beats to play to. Vauxhall, SE11 7TP. BunkerBu Bar, 217 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JN. The Underground Club, 10pm-late. £15 members, 7pm-11pm.7p £6/£5 with CP membership card. 37 Wharfdale Road, Kings £20 otherwise. Suzie Cross, N1. PANTS (1-6pm) Kreuger’s monthly fetish Whitfieldld Street,Street, WW1T1T 5EN. buggersbugg and trackie sluts Whitfield Street, W1T 5EN. Underwear fun. SPANKZ foray. Hot sex show from JP 1pm-1am. £7 b4 7pm/£8 unite! 1pm-1am. £7 b4 7pm/£8 (6pm-10pm) CP night for Richards and Russ Magnus. after. Free drink, cloakroom, Vault: Cruise/Stripped after. Cruising session at this rougher, tougher play. Across the venue horned- re-entry. Dark corners, catch at Vault, 139b-143 Whitfield horny hot spot. Followed by COME TO up guys in the sling area, a dirty movie, indulge your Street, W1T 5EN. CRUISE Cruise Control at Eagle DADDY (10pm-2am). private cubicles or dark carnal side. (1-7pm. £7). STRIPPED London, 349 Kennington Vault: Cruise/Stripped at rooms play away. Strict fetish (7pm-1am. £8). Free drink, Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5QY. 139b-143 Whitfield Street, dress code enforced – no SUNDAY 19TH APRIL cloakroom and re-entry. 9pm-late. £3 entry, free for W1T 5EN. CRUISE (1-7pm. plain jeans/trainers. Chill Out at Ted’s Place, Horny cruise session first members. Cruise spaces to £7). STRIPPED (7pm-1am. Sweatbox Foam Party at 305a North End Road. before naked time (except explore with darker, deeper £8). Free drink, cloakroom 1-2 Ramilies Street, Soho, 7pm-2am. £3 b4 10pm, £5 footwear). beats to play to. and re-entry. Get nude and W1F 7LN. 24 hours. 24hr after. Mixed/gay crowd of The Underground Club The Underground rude. Strictly naked, except pass £17, 48hr pass £19. cruisey guys. at Central Station, 37 Club at Central Station, footwear. Foam from 10pm. All the fun Pleasuredrome at Wharfdale Road, Kings 37 Wharfdale Road, of the foam at Sweatbox’s Arch 124 Cornwall Road, Cross, N1. PANTS (1-6pm) Kings Cross, N1. S.O.P. FRIDAY 17TH APRIL original weekly party. Waterloo SE1 8XE. Open BUTT NAKED (6pm-10pm) (6pm-1am) Yellow fun for Suited at MA1 Backstreet, Buff at MA1 Backstreet, 24/7. £15, £12 under 25 with Strip down and get off with waterworks fans. Wentworth Mews, Mile End, Wentworth Mews, Mile End, ID. FREE towel. Cruise day like-minded guys. HARD E3 4UA. 6pm-10pm. £5 b4 E3 4UA. 6pm-10pm. £8 and night, plenty of rooms to CRUZ (10pm-1am, free entry) WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL 6.30pm/£6 after. The horny members/£9 guests (free play. Licensed bar. Hard cruzing for horny guyz. Vault: Cruise/ cruise night for blokes in drink/coat check). Horny, Buff at MA1 Backstreet, Hard-Up Mondays at Underwear at 139b-143 suits and those that get off naked cruise party. Heated Wentworth Mews, Mile End, Sweatbox, 1-2 Ramilies Whitfield Street, W1T 5EN. on smartly dressed guys. outdoor ‘naked’ smokers E3 4UA. 6pm-10pm. £8 Street, Soho, W1F 7LN. 24 CRUISE (1-7pm. £7) Then Cruise/Darkroom at terrace. members, £9 guests. Horny, hours. Under 25s FREE all UNDERWEAR (7pm-1am. Ted’s Place, 305a North Pleasuredrome at naked cruise party. Dark day, £16 others. Finding £8) Free drink, cloakroom End Road, W14 9NS. Arch 124 Cornwall Road, rooms, smoking terrace, full Mondays hard to handle? and re-entry. Get down to 7pm-midnight. £3. Horny Waterloo SE1 8XE. Open bar. Get a load off. Free for your underwear. night in the cruisey basement 24/7. £15, £12 under 25 The Hoist at Arches 47b under 25s (ID required) at Buff at MA1 Backstreet, club in West London. with ID. FREE towel. Cruise & 47c, South Lambeth Soho’s only gay sauna. Plus, Wentworth Mews, Mile End, The Stable at 29 Endell all day and night with plenty Road, Vauxhall, SW8 1RH. free HIV testing and Hep E3 4UA. 7pm-11pm. £8 Street, Covent Garden, of rooms to play. Licensed S.B.N. (2pm-1am. £12) vacinnations by the 56 Dean members/£9 guests (free WC2H 9BA. 11.30am-2am. bar. Naked cruise club. N.B.N. Street boys (5-9pm). drink/coat check). Horny, £10 b4 1pm, £17 other The Underground Club (7pm-1am) Nearly Bollock Pleasuredrome at Arch naked cruise party. Heated times. FREE use of facilities at Central Station, 37 Naked from 7pm. Regular 124 Cornwall Road, Waterloo outdoor ‘naked’ smokers when booking a massage. Wharfdale Road, Kings S.E.X. (10pm-1am) All fetish SE1 8XE. Open 24/7. £15, terrace. The only licensed gay sauna Cross, N1. PANTS (1-6pm, club. Finish the weekend with £12 under 25 with ID. FREE Foam Party at Sweatbox, in the West End, open ‘til £4) Best undies for the boys. a bang! towel. Cruise day and night 1-2 Ramilies Street, Soho, super late every weekend. ABC (7pm-midnight) Adult Vault: Underwear/Cruise with plenty of rooms to play. W1F 7LN. 24 hours. 24hr Vault: Cruise at 139b-143 Baby club for big kids. at 139b-143 Whitfield Street, Licensed bar. pass £17, 48hr pass £19. If Whitfield Street, W1T 5EN. The Hoist at Arches 47b W1T 5EN. UNDERWEAR Hot N Hairy vs Bear you can’t make the weekend 1pm-1am. £7 b4 7pm/£8 & 47c, South Lambeth (1-7pm. £7). CRUISE Hole at Eagle London, 349 wet fun, why not head down after. Free drink, cloakroom Road, Vauxhall, SW8 1RH. (7pm-1am. £8). Free drink, Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, tonight? Relieve the midweek and re-entry. Horny cruise SBN Afterdark (Arch 1, cloakroom and re-entry. Just SE11 5QY. 9pm-2am. £5 stress! The foam flies at 7, 8 spot minute’s from the West 10pm-4am) where the pants b4 7pm, then cruise incl. drink and coat check. and 9pm. End. dresscode is naked and ‘til late. Cruising for bears and The Underground The Underground Club there’s a live sexshw courtesy S.O.P. at The Underground fuzzy blokes. Hosted by Club at Central Station, at Central Station, 37 of AlphaMale; HARDER Club, Central Station, 37 Dave the Bear and the 37 Wharfdale Road, Wharfdale Road, Kings (Bar Berlin, 10pm-4am) for Wharfdale Road, Kings hirsute Luis Busto. Dark Kings Cross, N1. SWEET Cross, N1. FEET ON FRIDAY dressy, macho, strict. Cross, N1. 1pm-midnight. room, play area and all- WEDNESDAY (1-9pm) for (7pm-midnight) Foot fetish The Stable at 29 Endell £7. Yellow fun for waterworks new Suckatorium. trans girls and their admirers; monthly. Then, PAUNCHY Street, Covent Garden, fans. HARD CRUZ (10pm-1am), (midnight-4am) The club for WC2H 9BA. 11.30am-2am. TUESDAY 21ST APRIL hard cruising for hard men. big bellied men and those £10 b4 1pm, £17 other MONDAY 20TH APRIL Club CP & 31 Club Pleasuredrome at that admire them. times. FREE use of facilities Sportswear/Cruise at Reunion. See box out. Arch 124 Cornwall Road, Fitladz at Barcode, 69 when booking a massage. Ted’s Place, 305a North End Underwear/Naked at Waterloo SE1 8XE. Open Albert Embankment, The only licensed gay sauna Rd, W14. 7pm-midnight. Ted’s Place, 305s North End 24/7. £15, £12 under 25 Vauxhall, SE1 7TP. in the West End, open ‘til £3. Football shorts freaks, Rd, W14. 7pm-midnight. £4. with ID. FREE towel. Cruise 9pm-9am. £8 members, super late every weekend. Speedo lovers, basketball Strictly underwear only. day and night with plenty of £10 guests. Get sexy at this Vault: Cruise at 139b-143 tops (and bottoms), rugby Vault: Cruise at 139b-143 rooms to play. Licensed bar.
54 Wanna get down and dirty? qxmagazine.com Download the ‘QX Gay London’ iPhone app from the app store now and get yerself sorted!
your low cost line
REGIONAL OPTIONS SAVE YOU TIME LIVE 1-2-1 ON THE CRUISE LINE MAILBOXES 18 plus only p 10 Choose from per minute hundreds of guys: NOW WITH » Regular guys 1260 LINES » Skins » Chavs » Bears » Fit lads » Hundreds of 10per p guys on line! minute All Regions Buzzing: » London » South East » Midlands » Wales » South West » Northern England » Ireland » Scotland FEATURES LIVE ONE-TO-ONE CHAT LIVE 1-2-1 CHAT - MAIL BOXES 0872 100 1818 0871 908 3003 18 PLUS. calls charged at bt landline rate of 10p per minute 18+ Calls charged at 10p per minute at all times. Network extras apply. Live calls recorded. at all times. network extras apply. Live calls recorded. service provided by Euro-Worldwide Media Limited. SP=Euro-Worldwide Media Ltd. WC2H 8NH. Customer Service number 0344 820 0594 Helpdesk: 020 7966 2520 man 10 p
per minute huntTM Where real men hang out. Direct access for only 5p per minute Live 1-2-1 0871 550 5811
18+ Calls charged at BT Landline Rate of only 10p per minute at all times. Other Networks may vary. Customer Service Number 0344 900 0028 CHAT.com
CHAT & DATE Flirt with 100s of 10p genuine gay guys on Per minute the phone right now! LIVE 1-2-1
0872 calls cost 10 p per minute
0872 100 1234*
* All call costs quoted are based on BT landline rate. Network extras apply. Information provided by Firststar Limited T/A QX Magazine, 23 Denmark Street, London WC2H 8NH. Customer Service Helpdesk: 020 7966 0018 Visit QXChat.com to see our full range of services HEALTH WATCH by Dr Alex, GP Do you have an emotional or health worry? Contact Dr Alex via email: [email protected]
Hi Dr Alex, dating’ suggest that the majority are not the ideal place to look. Bo^[^^glbg`e^_hkZ`^lZg]Zfhi^gmhaZobg`Z of couples have sex on or I disagree with your friend k^eZmbhglabi[nmhg^blln^l^^flmh[^Z__^\mbg`fr around date 3. that sex is the fastest way to Gay men, as a whole, are get a relationship going. But \hgÛ]^g\^Z[hnm]Zmbg`'B]hf^^m`nrl_khf@kbg]khk likely to have a far more relaxed definitely there needs to be FZgangm_hkZ\h__^^hklhf^mabg`Zg]aZo^aZ]Z_^p attitude to sex and I’d guess that sexual chemistry and attraction. ]Zm^lpbma`nrlBo^f^mZm]bgg^klhkpa^ghnm';nmBkZk^er the majority of couples either So, I do wonder if you are giving have sex on the first date or have out these vibes when you have pZgml^qhgÛklmf^^mbg`lhf^hg^Zg]mablfZd^lf^_^^e sex and then a date! Whilst it’s a date. Kissing, some discreet ZpdpZk]'Fr_kb^g]ll^^fmhmabgdBfZ[bmp^bk]Zg]lZr easy to find someone to have body contact – all that kind of maZmBlahne]lmhi[^bg`lhik^\bhnl'Bmkrmh^qieZbgmhlhf^ sex with, many guys write to me stuff is needed to show your date suggesting that it’s difficult to you are attracted to him and `nrlmaZmmablblcnlmma^pZrBebd^mhieZrbmZg]'p^ee%Bf find someone for a relationship. interested (if indeed you are). You lbg`e^Hg^_kb^g]mhe]f^k^\^gmermaZml^qblma^jnb\d^lm Perhaps we have substituted our can’t be a cold fish! pZrmh`^mZk^eZmbhglabi`hbg`';nmBphne]ik^_^kmh`hlehp kZma^kmaZgaZo^^o^krmabg`hgma^Ûklm]Zm^'FZr[^Bfcnlm “ Perhaps we have substituted our desire for longer meaningful Zghe]phfZgZma^Zkm[nmB]hgmpZgmmh[^\hf^Zlibglm^k relationships with lots of short, less meaningful shags.” Ahi^e^llKhfZgmb\
desire for longer meaningful I’d advise not leaving it Hi Hopeless Romantic first date advice is to keep your relationships with lots of short, too long before having sex Dating in gayland is in danger trousers on. In fact, some big less meaningful shags. because it is easy to fall into the of becoming extinct, so it’s dating gurus think that sex too In your case, you should do dreaded friendship zone. The not surprising that the ‘rules’ early in a relationship is a non- what feels comfortable for you. longer sex goes unexplored, the of dating have become such negotiable rule and the earlier Personally, I congratulate you for more platonic the relationship a minefield. If we look to the you have sex, the less chance not bowing to peer pressure. In can become. Plus, you need advice our straight counterparts that there is of that relationship time I’m pretty sure you will meet to find out if you are sexually get (who knows if this will help developing into anything more the right guy but perhaps apps compatible…unless that was your us though!) then one nugget for meaningful! Statistics of ‘straight like Grindr that focus on hook-ups first message on Grindr?
PHOTOGRAPHER CHRIS JEPSON
CLASSIFIEDS 020 7240 0055 qxmagazine.com classifi[email protected] ESCORTS PLEASE CALL RUSSELL: 020 7240 0055 [email protected] PRESS RELEASES [email protected] DISTRIBUTION M.R.DISTRIBUTION EDITOR CLIFF JOANNOU PRINTERS 020 7240 0055 ACORN [email protected] PUBLISHED BY SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER FIRSTSTAR LTD. CHRIS COLMAN 2nd FLOOR, 020 7240 0055 28 DENMARK ST [email protected] LONDON WC2H 8NJ
NEW BUSINESS SALES EXECUTIVE COVER STEVE GREGORY PATRICKMETTRAUX.COM 020 7240 0055 [email protected]
SENIOR DESIGNER TO SUBSCRIBE TO QX CALL JANNE ÖIJER [email protected] 020 7240 0055 DESIGNER £45 FOR 6 MONTHS SUREN GUNPATH £80 FOR 12 MONTHS [email protected] WITHIN UK ONLY
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT © Copyright in the UK and worldwide, of the JAMES EGAN publishers Firststar Limited, Qx (ISSN 1356-6903). [email protected] QX is published every Wednesday. Deadline for editorial and display advertisement inclusion is INTERNET DESIGN Thursday, six days before the relevant issue cover If6was9design.com date. Sorry, but we cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited manuscripts , illustrations or photographs.
62 qxmagazine.com
2 betw st £1 een ju 7a try m n - E 2 p m
e * v . e 9 r
4 y
0
d
1
a
X
y
Q w
:
i
t
e
h
d
t
o h
i C
s
.
v 5
o
1
u
0
c
2
h
l
i
e
r
r
p
.
V A
a h t l i d 0
3 t
o