Sad you didn’t get to celebrate Pride this year? Looking for a way to unwind after tomorrow’s Black Trans Lives Matter protest? Then look no further, Mariah & Friendz have got you covered.
This Saturday (27 June) the much-loved drag circus cabaret will be hosting a virtual Pride event from Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club. The immersive film, premiering on the night via a live stream viewing party, is hosted by Ru Paul Drag Race UK’s Crystal and the award-winning Baby Lame.
Confirmed acts include burlesque performers Rubyyy Jones and Lady Noelia, aerialist Joe, drag queens Freida Slaves and Margo Marshall, cabaret artist Fancy Chance and drag prinx Chiyo, so expect a queer riot! As well as supporting the performers, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Colours Youth Network, a QTIBPOC-led organisation supporting local provisions for LGBTQIA+ young people of colour.
Speaking of the event, host Crystal said: “We’ve created a really special film that will beam a bit of Pride directly into your homes and we’re proud to be raising money for the Colours Youth Network.”
Placing the event within the wider context of the Black Lives Matter and Black Trans Lives Matter movements, as well as the origins of Pride in the Stonewall Riots, Crystal added: “This year, the focus of Pride needs to be different. Not just because of physical limitations, but centrally, to recognise the global BLM movement taking place around the world.
As queer people, we should understand better than anyone the power of protest in creating an equitable society. Pride is all about this. The BLM movement needs our support and energy now – so while Pride may not be happening physically this year, digital Pride shows are a great way to raise money to support the QTIBPOC community and show solidarity with the BLM movement.”
Mariah & Friendz’ virtual Pride viewing party will debut at 8 pm on 27 June, though catch-up at a later date, with subtitles, is available. Purchase tickets for £7 here.
