York Pride have teamed up with QueerArts UK – to bring a first-of-its-kind stage to the city.
The stage will champion local and homegrown LGBTQ+ talent from singing, dancing, drag, burlesque, stand-up and more.
It will showcase some of the city’s best queer talent, with York singer songwriter Beth McCarthy headlining.
York Pride is on Saturday 3 June this year, with the parade march starting at the Minster before arriving at the Knavesmire for a day of fun and celebration.
QueerArts UK are a new not-for-profit organisation in York committed to championing queer art and culture in the city.
Founder and director of QueerArts UK Wayne Dawson said: “This is an exciting and historic moment for York. I’ve lived in the city since 2015 and I don’t think we’ve had anything quite like this, ever!
“York needs more spaces for LGBTQ+ people, especially ones that celebrate our creativity. A stage like this has never been more needed in York.”
And you have the chance to get involved! Auditions for the stage are taking place this weekend, on Saturday 13 May. If you are interested in auditioning, please email Wayne at [email protected]
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The stage will be hosted by community drag performers The Family Shambles, and will also include a performance from York’s LGBTQ+ choir Colours of the Rainbow.
Managing director of York Pride, Greg Stephenson said: “It’s great to be working with Wayne and the QueerArts UK team to be bringing a brand new stage to York Pride 2023!
“We have an abundance of local LGBT+ talent and we are pleased to be able to facilitate and financially support this new space at York Pride to celebrate and support local talent.”
Find out what else is happening for York Pride this year at their website, and for more information about QueerArts UK visit their Facebook page.