MARCH 2008 CONTENTS

GSCENE magazine THE AQUARIUM

www.gscene.com

PUBLISHED by Beaumont Printing Ltd

TEL 01273 722457
EDITORIAL info@gscene.com
ADS+ARTWORK design@gscene.com

EDITOR James Ledward

DEPUTY EDITOR Vince Laws
SUB-EDITOR Danielle Seitz
WOMEN’S EDITOR Jaq Bayles
ARTS EDITOR Michael Hootman
DESIGN Michèle Allardyce

FRONT COVER SAME DIFFERENCE @ REVENGE

MODEL Rachel Hammond
HAIR Alfie Morgan LESBIAN SPEED DATING @ THE AMSTERDAM
MAKE-UP Sally Hammond
PHOTOGRAPHY Dean Stockings
NEWS & LISTINGS
WWW.DEANSTOCKINGS.CO.UK 6 Editorial & News
36 Listings & What’s On
OUT & ABOUT COVER
MODEL Fizz
PHOTOGRAPHY Studio 27, Queens Rd REGULARS
31 Shopping
CONTRIBUTORS 33 Food
Nick Antjoule, Dex Bailey, Jo Bourne, 57 Dance Music
Jaq Bayles, Nick Boston, Joëlle Brogan,
Camel Gupta, Andrew Hanuman, David
57 DJ Profile: Daz Bailey
Hodgson, Nick Holloway, Michael 60 Arts News
Hootman, George Leach, Enzo Marra, 62 Art Matters
Trevor Martin, Netty, Eric Page, Marcus 63 Classical Notes
Patrick, Mark Rennie, Karen Riches, 64 Choir Boys
Rita Snatch, Del Sharp, Craig Hanlon-
Smith, Sam Thomas, Vron, Kate
LGBT LIAISON POLICE OFFICER SARA STANBRIDGE’S LEAVING PARTY @ THE PV 64 Book Reviews
Wildblood, Neil Woodcock, Morham 65 Films
White, DJ Wanker, Rachael Woodgate 68 Dirty Fingers
70 Letters to the Editor
PHOTOGRAPHERS 73 Jaq’s Monthly
Michèle Allardyce, James Brookes,
Joanna Galagavrou, Huw Edwards, Tim
74 Craig’s Thoughts
Faulkner, Michael Hootman, James 75 Joëlle
Ledward, Anna Maria Lutescu, Stuart 76 Sharp Words
Martin, Sam Milford, 77 Positive Page
www.realbrighton.com
Phil Bailey www.catchthemoment.org
78 MindOut
79 Good For Us
© GSCENE 2008 79 Fit & Healthy
All work appearing in Gscene Ltd is copyright. It is
to be assumed that the copyright for material rests 80 Brand Watch
with the magazine unless otherwise stated on the
page concerned. 80 Rita’s Snatches
No part of this publication may be reproduced,
81 Twisted Gilded Ghetto
FEATURES
stored in an electronic or other retrieval system,
transmitted in any form or by any means, 81 Pillow Talk
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise without the prior knowledge and consent 82 Our Man In San Fran
of the publishers.
82 Airwaves with Marcus
The appearance of any person or any organisation
in Gscene is not to be construed as an implication 10 GOLDEN HANDBAGS 83 Netty’s World
of the sexual orientation or political persuasion of Voting form for the scene’s premiere award ceremony
such persons or organisations. 83 Queerying Queenie
26 THE WOMEN WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN 84 Vron’s Voice
James Ledward highlights some of the women who have helped 84 Jaq On The Box
create a safe and structured LGBT community in Brighton 85 Teen Scene
85 Brighton Bothways
58 I ENJOY BEING A GIRL 86 Legal Eagle
THE CHAVETTES, CELEBRATION @ LEGENDS

DJ Wanker remembers those fabulous girl groups of the 1960s 86 Community Safety
and why they resonate so much with gay men 93 House & Homos

66 SCULPTURES IN THE WOODS INFORMATION

Vince Laws pays a visit to one of West Sussex’s hidden gems 71 Service Directory
72 Advertisers’ Map
88 TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA 91 Classifieds
David Hodgson waxes lyrical about Cape Town and Stellenbosch

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
6 GSCENE MARCH 2008

The decision of the Recorder Ann Arnold to discharge former Tory Cllr Peter
Willows of his conviction on a Public Order offence raises serious issues. TILLSTONE TWO
Council leader, Cllr Brian Oxley, has personally
Her summing up suggests that anyone can use whatever offensive remarks they chsose so long as they don’t intervened in the case of the Tillstone Two.
mean to hurt anyone’s feelings. This is at conflict with the Association of Chief Police Officers definition
of a homophobic incident, which states a homophobic incident is: “Any incident that is perceived as being Council tenants Darren Bryans and Allan Farrah have
homophobic by the victim or any other person. In effect, any incident intended to have an impact on those been the victims of persistent homophobic harassment
perceived to be lesbians, gay men, bisexual or transgendered people.' by neighbours at their council house in Tillstone Street
since 2002. They live their
PETER WILLOWS

Further her contention that in her view Peter Willows ‘did not mean to be offensive’ does lives in fear. Because the
not stack up. Willows was a serial homophobe with a long history of making disparaging, council won’t move the
negative and offensive remarks about LGBT people. The incident at the Mayor’s Civic perpetrators, they want to
Reception was just one more incident. The Recorder’s contention that I was “chasing a be rehoused for their own
story” is also confusing. Of course over the years I have held Willows along with many safety.
other bigots to account in this magazine for their actions and words. Gscene is a Sixty-eight separate hate-
campaigning magazine and that’s what campaigning journalists do – hold bigots to crime incidents against
account. Each time there was a problem with Peter Willows I tried to explore a political solution but the Tory them have been reported
Group refused to take action. That’s why a prosecution was the only alternative. and logged with Sussex Police since 2002.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said: “We have been
No one made Peter Willows say his vile words to an ex-mayor at the civic ceremony, no one made Peter working closely with Darren and Allan and over a period
Willows write his letters to The Argus, no one made Peter Willows attack the gay police officer. He chose to of years have had some notable successes in dealing
do it. It is called homophobia. with the harassment they have faced and they have
Similarly, the concerns the Recorder raised about the manner in which the police handled this case are continued to be very supportive of us. Recently they
confusing. She criticised them for deciding to go ahead with the prosecution without first considering a made the decision to move home and we will support
caution. In my experience in the case of Domestic Violence and Hate Crimes it is the Crown Prosecution them fully in any decision that they make, however, it is
Service (CPS) that makes those decisions and further it is not possible to issue a caution if the offence is not not for the police to decide on housing policy.”
admitted. Willows did not admit the offence under caution. The council’s Housing Department has been conducting
a stage-one and two investigation about the plight of
Lessons to be learned from this are that in 2008 LGBT people in Brighton and Hove are treated even these victims of homophobic and racist harassment over
handed by the police, CPS and Magistrates, which interestingly all have diversity training programmes. It the past five months. Cllr Oxley has promised a full
will just take a little longer for our judges to appreciate the subtleties of institutional homophobia. investigation into the matter and there will be a full
report in next month’s Gscene on the outcome.
The Tory Group does not come out of this with any credit. They could have dealt with the ‘Willows
problem’ internally. They chose not to. They fed his rampant homophobia by their inaction. I asked the
new leader of the council, Brian Oxley, when I interviewed him after the election last May, if the
Conservative Group would be supporting Peter Willows in his appeal. He answered that “Peter Willows is now
a private citizen and free to do whatever he chooses.” Peter Willows chose to sign the election papers
nominating the chief witness in his appeal, Cllr Dawn Barnett, at the last local elections.
Here are some of the responses circulated by members of the present Conservative Group on the Council’s
internal email. These Councillors run the city and will be leading figures no doubt in the new cabinet system
to be introduced in May and responsibile for policy regarding Community Safety and Equality issues.

“I am sure, like me, you will all be pleased to learn that a former member of Brighton & Hove City Council,
Peter Willows, was today acquitted at his retrial,” Cllr Tony Janio, Hangleton and Knoll and member of the
Environment Committee, which has responsibility for community safety.

“FANTASTIC!” Cllr Dee Simpson, Woodingdean, chair of Licensing Committee and member of the
Council’s Community Safety Forum.

“Fantastic News - It’s a joke it went to court in the first place” Cllr Ayas Fallon-Khan , Goldsmid, member
AIDS MEMORIAL
The Aids Memorial trustees, Cllr Paul Elgood,
of the Equalites Forum former leader of the council Simon Burgess, Cllr Brian

“Yes, very good news. Please pass on my congratulations to Peter,” Cllr Geoffrey Theobald, Patcham, the Oxley, and Cllr Bill Randall presented the planning
Mayor of Brighton’s consort and chair of the Environment Committee, which has overall responsibility for application for the proposed memorial to the city
community safety. council last month. After a public ballot Mark Romany

“I did hear earlier this afternoon and I think it is just fantastic news. I have always thought it could, and Bruce was chosen as the preferred artist to create the
should, end like this,” Cllr Ken Norman, Withdean Ward and chair, Adult Social Care and Health Committee, memorial, which will be cast in bronze and feature two
responsible for provision of health services to the LGBT community, including for HIV/Aids. androgynous figures entwined. The proposed memorial

“Absolutely fantastic news. Peter’s good name now restored,” Cllr Ann Norman, Withdean Ward, lead will be sited at the north end of the New Steine
councillor for Finance and Resources, chair, Financial Management Sub-Committee and member of the Gardens and has been funded through public donations.
council’s Equalities Forum. The formal unveiling date for the

“That is great news. I am very pleased for Peter. Please pass on my congratulations,” Cllr Vanessa memorial is December 1, World
Brown, Stanford Ward, deputy leader of the council and chair, the Children, Families and Schools Committee. Aids Day 2008. To help celebrate

“I spoke to Peter after the court case and passed on my congratulations,” Cllr Mary Mears, Rottingdean the milestone the trustees have
Coastal Ward, deputy leader of the council, chair of housing. announced there will be an
exhibition of the works of the
It would appear that Cameron’s new Conservative Party is a wolf in sheep’s clothing and the names artist Mark Romany Bruce at the
of the councillors above should be added to the list of those The Argus called in their editorial on the day Jubilee Library from May 3–31
after the appeal “a narrow minded minority who want to slap crass labels on those who exercise their freedom during the Brighton Festival.
to live their lives the way they choose.” The Argus got it exactly right. The name for them is bigots!

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
8 GSCENE MARCH 2008
WILLOWS CLEARED
Peter Willows, the former Tory councillor for Hangleton and Knoll,
had his conviction on a public order offence quashed at Hove
Crown Court last month.
Peter Willows resigned as a Brighton & Hove councillor after saying “all gay
men are paedophiles” to a former mayor at a civic ceremony in May 2006. Cllr
Willows repeated his remarks to Cllr Paul Elgood and Gscene editor James
Ledward later the same evening. He was reported to the council’s standards
board by the leader of the council, Cllr Simon Burgess, and the police by
James Ledward. He was prosecuted under Section 5 of the Public Order Act
and was convicted in December 2006 of using abusive or insulting words likely to
cause alarm or distress. His defence at his original trial was that he had said
“guys” not “gays”. Police tapes were produced of his interview confirming he had
admitted under caution to saying “gays.”
Recorder for the appeal, Ann Arnold, said she was concerned about the
decision by police to prosecute Mr Willows and not offer him a caution for a first
offence. She said his previous good character made it less likely that he had
intended to commit an offence, adding: “We are sure that the response to Mr
Ledward was made without denial by Mr Willows of the earlier comment that all
gays are paedophiles. That response was insulting when made in the presence of a
gay man in front of another gay man, or anyone likely to be caused distress by
such comments. We are equally sure that Mr Willows, a straightforward man of 76
years, did not intend his remarks to be insulting.” She also remarked that she
thought James Ledward was chasing a story for his gay magazine.
The decision sparked anger from political figures across the city. The Argus
editorial the next day read:
“This is not a case of common sense triumphing
over political correctness. It is a vindication of
a narrow-minded minority’s urge to slap crass
labels on those who exercise their freedom to
live their lives the way they choose.”
Leader of the Labour Group, Cllr Gill Mitchell, said: “I’m
CLLR GILL MITCHELL
disgusted by the decision of the court. Nobody is disputing that
these awful comments were made by someone in public office.
To now see the number of senior Tory councillors, including both
deputy leaders of the council, lining up to offer their
congratulations to Peter Willows is totally sickening and so far no
word at all from Cllr Brian Oxley, the leader of the council. The Tories seem to forget
that they are charged with running this city on behalf of all its people and
communities, and should be mindful of that responsibility.”
CLLR BRIAN OXLEY
Asked to comment on Cllr Mitchell’s and other group leaders
challenge for him to condemn what Peter Willows had said,
leader of the council Cllr Brian Oxley said: “The matter is now
CLLR DAVID WATKINS
closed.”
Leader of the Lib Dem Group Cllr David
Watkins said, “I am amazed that a man who
publicly branded homosexual men as paedophiles and admitted this
in Court and was then found guilty, has had this decision overturned
on appeal. The message this sends to the community at large, if we
allow it, is that verbal abuse is OK. I am even more shocked that
many leading members of the Conservative group on the City Council, including the
Mayor's consort, have congratulated Peter Willows on his successful appeal without,
I am sure, without thinking through what this support means to the LGBT community
in the city. What these Tories forget, is that by taking control of the Council they must
now seek to work for the whole City, not just their own part of it. They have leading
roles which directly affect the LGBT community including on the Council's Equalities
and Community Safety Forums and one of them even has the Lead responsibility for
Community Safety, but feels happy to condone this man's actions. I, and members
of other groups on the Council, have called for the Conservative leader of the
Council to disassociate himself from the support his colleagues appear to be giving
to a self-confessed homophobe. If they want to know what life is like out there for
some in the LGBT community, I suggest they get a copy of 'Count Me In Too - LGBT
Lives in Brighton & Hove, the Community Safety Report published the day before
the appeal hearing.”
Convenor of the Greens Cllr Keith Taylor said, “I am very
CLLR KEITH TAYLOR
saddened by the Court's decision to dismiss Peter Willow's
conviction because he 'didn't intend to offend'. That doesn't alter
the undisputed fact that Mr Willows said that 'all gay people
were paedophiles'. Such groundless and offensive sentiments
have no place in today's world, let alone in the mouth of an
elected representative. Living in the twenty first century should be about aspiring to
a better, more inclusive world of greater equality. Bigotry, intolerance and ignorance
have no place here, and I am concerned by the round of triumphant emails from
Conservative councillors on the Council's private messaging system, one of which
even celebrates 'clearing Peter's name' There is no dispute that the remarks were
offensive and abusive, and to my mind the intent behind them is of far less
importance. The Court's decision seems to have been more about legal niceties,
and failed to address the fundamental wrongs that had been done. As such I think
the decision will sadly undermine faith in the judiciary and sends out a message that
some parts of the community are more equal than others”.
Former Brighton & Hove City Council leader and prospective Labour
candidate for Kemp Town Simon Burgess added: “I’m appalled
SIMON BURGESS
that the conviction should be quashed on a technicality. What Peter
Willows said was not an isolated incident – he had written to The
Argus stating similar views and I have personally witnessed him make
homophobic remarks. Calling someone a paedophile is about as
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

offensive as it gets, especially if you are gay and you have
sadly grown up with such bigoted labelling. A councillor is
there to serve all the community and to encourage good
community relations - Peter Willows’s remarks have done
the opposite and the police were right to press for a
conviction. I look forward to the changes in the law that will
make prosecutions such as his easier. Freedom of speech
should never mean freedom to hate.”
Asked if he felt justice had been served in
this case, Cllr Paul Elgood said: “This case
CLLR PAUL ELGOOD
has been a long haul for all concerned but I
believe that the stand we took was the right
one and one that has set down a marker to
those who seek to question the way we live
our lives. This case was never about freedom of speech – it
was about the right of all people to live their lives without
interference, hindrance or violence directed towards them.
Thank you to the many people who supported us through this
process. It was a fight worth fighting and one I wouldn’t
hesitate to do again if it was needed. When I first stood for
election nine years ago, I said that when needed to do so, I
would always try to question injustice. I am glad to have
done this.”
James Ledward, editor of Gscene said:
“This was a clear case of incitement to hatred
JAMES LEDWARD
and would have been dealt with differently
under the new proposed incitement
legislation. This decision sends out a negative
signal to the LGBT community. The issue here
is of trust and confidence in the criminal justice system. We
have not been let down here by the Police or Crown
Prosecution Service, but by a judge. I urge everyone to
continue reporting any homophobic incident no matter how
unimportant they believe it to be. In my experience the police
take these reports seriously and it is the only way we will
eventually effect change and maybe one day the police and
CPS will receiving the backing of judges in these cases.”
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY WERE IMPORTANT MONTHS FOR GEMS. THEY WERE ENTERTAINED IN THE MAYORS
PARLOUR BY CLLR CAROL THEOBALD, THE MAYOR OF BRIGHTON AND HOVE AND HOSTED A PRIDE CONCERT BY
THE HARP PLAYER ANDREW BALLANTYNE
GSCENE MARCH 2008 9
STONE THE QUEERBASHER
In January, at Brighton Magistrates
Court, Karl Stone was found guilty of a
homophobic assault last August. Two men
were chatting near the temple building at
Dukes Mound, when Stone approached and
tried to start a fight, while homophobically
abusing the two men. The two men started to
walk away to avoid a confrontation, but Stone
ran after them, and punched one man in the
shoulder causing him to fall, and then kicked
him in the stomach. The other man called
the police, and a passing motorist pulled up,
at which point Stone ran off.
Brighton police officer Inspector Mark
Andrews arrived shortly afterwards and
started taking details of the incident. Whilst
this was happening, Stone walked along the
opposite side of the road and the victim
pointed him out. Inspector Andrews made
after Stone and arrested him for assault.
When questioned, Stone denied the offence,
saying he was assaulted and acted out of
self-defence. However, on CPS advice, Stone
was charged with common assault. During
the court proceedings the victim of the
assault was screened off from his attacker.
Nick Antjoule, the Police LGBT Liaison
Officer for Brighton & Hove, said, “It’s
great to see the victim of a homophobic
attack being given appropriate support during
the court process and a positive outcome
being achieved.”
Stone was sentenced in February to a 12-
month community punishment order, 200
hours of unpaid community work, a curfew
for 16 weeks, £100 compensation payment
to the victim and £250 towards court costs.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO REGISTER YOUR VOTE FOR WHAT’S BEST ON THE BRIGHTON GAY SCENE. YOU CAN ALSO
VOTE ONLINE AT REALBRIGHTON.COM. THE AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE GOLDEN HANDBAG SHOW AT THE
BRIGHTON METROPOLE HOTEL, ON SUNDAY MARCH 23 STARTING 6.30PM. CLOSING DATE FOR VOTING IS MARCH 17.
FAVOURITE CLUB FAVOURITE CABARET VENUE FAVOURITE OUT OF TOWN VENUE
❏ Basement Club@Legends ❏ Aquarium Theatre Bar ❏ Fountain, Handcross
❏ Candy Bar ❏ Caledonian Bar ❏ Volunteer, Lewes
❏ Charles Street ❏ Legends ❏ Heart, Eastborne
❏ Revenge ❏ Queens Arms ❏ Jack Horner, Worthing
❏ V2 ❏ R-Bar ❏ Southampton
Other ❏ White Horse
❏ The Zone ❏ Portsmouth
FAVOURITE CLUB NIGHTS ❏ Bournemouth
❏ Bar 150 (Envy Mondays) FAVOURITE GIRLS NIGHT OUT
❏ Bliss (Charles Street Saturdays) ❏ Candy Bar
❏ Celebration (Legends) ❏ Girls On Top (Revenge) FAVOURITE LOCAL ENTERTAINER
❏ Dynamite Boogaloo (Audio) ❏ Marlborough
❏ Fuck The Pain Away (Candy Bar Saturdays) ❏ Pussy Party (Formerly Wet Pussy)
❏ GBH (Charles Street Fridays) ❏ The PV
❏ Kinky Dangerous (Revenge Saturdays) ❏ Sirens FAVOURITE DOOR HOSTESS
❏ Lollipop (Revenge Fridays) Other OR SECURITY DOOR PERSON (M/F)
❏ Pussy (Charles Street Fridays)
❏ Religion (Charles Street) LANDLORD/LADY OF THE YEAR
❏ Shibbley Shabblers (Candy Bar Mondays)
❏ Wild Fruit Nights FAVOURITE SCENE PERSONALITY
❏ We Love Pop (Hanbury) (NON ENTERTAINER)
Other FAVOURITE BAR BOY

FAVOURITE BAR (SMALL CAPACITY) Venue They Work

❏ Aquarium FAVOURITE BUSINESS NON LICENSED
❏ Bib & Tucker Name ❏ Cardome
❏ Black Horse ❏ Clone Zone
❏ Brighton Tavern ❏ Nua
❏ Bulldog FAVOURITE BAR GIRL ❏ Prowler
❏ Caledonian Bar Other
❏ Grosvenor Venue They Work
❏ Iron Duke SAUNA OF THE YEAR
❏ Marine Tavern Name ❏ Amsterdam
❏ Marlborough ❏ Bright N Beautiful
❏ Prince Arthur ❏ Refresh
❏ The PV FAVOURITE BRIGHTON HOTEL ❏ Denmark Sauna
❏ Queens Arms
❏ The Starr Inn Name:
❏ White Horse
❏ Vavoom FAVOURITE LOCAL DJ MALE email addresses
❏ The Zone
Other______________________

Please take completed forms to Clone Zone,

FAVOURITE BAR (LARGE CAPACITY) FAVOURITE LOCAL DJ FEMALE
Prowler, or send direct to Gscene Magazine,
❏ Amsterdam
111 Western Road, Hove, BN3 1DD
❏ Charles Street
❏ Dr Brightons
Remember you can also vote online at
❏ Legends
www.realbrighton.com
❏ R-Bar
❏ other

Tickets priced £16 are available from Clone Zone (01273 626442), and Prowler (01273 683680) both in St James’s Street.
Tickets must be collected in person and paid for in cash as both Prowler and Clone Zone are not charging us a booking fee.
A limited number of tables of 10 costing £160 per table can be booked by calling 01273 722457. Available on a first come
first served basis. There are also a very limited number of tables of 12 at £192 per table.
12 GSCENE MARCH 2008
GOLDEN HANDBAGS TO BE TELEVISED STREET PARTY
X Factor finalists The Unconventionals and the fabulous Ceri Dupree have At a meeting of the Kemp Town
confirmed they will be joining Dave Lynn, Maisie Trollette, Drag With No Pub Watch, an independent co-
Name, the Brighton & Hove (Actually) Gay Men’s Chorus and the City of operative of straight and gay
Brighton & Hove Gay Men’s Chorus at this year’s Golden licensees, last August, Dale Dury,
Handbags Awards at the Brighton Hilton Metropole Hotel promotions manager at the
on Sunday March 23. Bulldog and owner of Party On
CERI DUPREE
With the introduction this year Brighton in St James’s Street
of postal as well as online agreed to organise this year’s
voting, the number of votes Pride street party. However, at
LOLA LASAGNE
cast has already passed last last month’s Kemp Town Pub
year’s total. Voting is very Watch meeting, Dale explained
close for Favourite Club that due to personal and business
Night and Favourite Club, as well as Favourite commitments he could no longer
Scene Personality. The Golden Handbags Awards devote enough time to the event
are independently monitored. Voting is monitored this year and withdrew his offer.
independently of Gscene magazine by Michael Conrad and Darren
Realbrighton.com. Every vote you cast counts. Hulcoop of the Aquarium in
This year’s event is being supported by Arena Steine Street have offered to take
Entertainments, which provides the production; over, and will form a community
Realbrighton.com, which hosts the voting and involvement team to plan the
produces the interactive IT on the event. If you want to get involved
night; the call 07789 600489 or email
Brighton Hilton Metropole Hotel, which 2008streetparty@btconnect.com
provides the venue free of charge; and
TVPolari, which will be televising this year’s BOTTLE ATTACK
event for broadcast during Pride. At about 3am on Tuesday
February 4, a man was attacked
Tickets priced £16 are available from Clone
Zone 01273 626442 and Prowler 01273 with a bottle by three men at
683680. Tickets must be collected in
person and paid for in cash, as neither
Dukes Mound. Did you see
anything? If so, any information
you have could help identify the
company is charging a booking fee. If
your venue is up for an award and you attackers. The police are not
UNCONVENTIONALS
interested in what you were doing
want to sit with friends there are three
tables of ten and two tables of 12 left. on the night. To talk with no
obligation call Nick Antjoule, the
Everyone else is seated on a first-come-
first-served basis. police LGBT liaison officer on
To book tables telephone 01273 722457. 0845 6070999 ext 50149 or on
All artists are appearing free of charge 07799 347114.
and 75 per cent of your ticket money will
be going to support the work of The EQUALITY WALK
Sussex Beacon and the other 25 per cent will The fifth annual Stonewall
be going to support the work of Spectrum the LGBT Equality Walk in Brighton is on
Community Forum. Sunday May 4. Walkers will be
joined by Sue Perkins, Amy
Lamé and Dicky and Dolly (Big
Brother, now Gaydar Radio hosts).
Last year’s walk raised more than
£40,000, and all money raised
goes towards Stonewall’s anti-gay
hate crime campaign. The 10km
walk begins in the Pavilion
Gardens at 2pm and follows a
route set by BLAGSS, the lesbian
and gay sports group, ending in a
prize-giving party at Legends.
Registration is £10, for which
participants receive a Stonewall
Equality Walk T-shirt and goodies.
To register visit
www.equalitywalk.org.uk or
New trustees were elected at the Spectrum AGM last month to fill the few spaces
contact the equality team on 020
left on the board. The trustees are Paul Stewart, Leela Bakshi, Robert Anthony,
7593 1874. Once registered, keep
Michelle Bridgman, Petra Davis, Nick Antjoule, Tracey Chandler, Richard
logging onto the website for
Mangas, Kat Marples, Didier Montillaud, Daniel Parsonage, Steph Scott and
regular updates about the Brighton
Jen Warren.
Equality Walk.
EASTER PARADE
The annual Easter Bonnet Parade is being
hosted once again by the Grosvenor bar
and Bedford Tavern on the borders of
Brighton & Hove on Sunday 23. The Mayor
of Brighton and Hove, Cllr Carol
Theobald, will be on hand to judge the
Easter Bonnet Parade. Prizes for the best
men’s and women’s bonnet are bottles of
champagne. Easter eggs will be given to all
entrants and all children.
The Grosvenor opens its doors at 11am and
will be serving free bar snacks from noon.
It will be raising money for The Sussex
Beacon all day with a raffle, spot prizes and
will be helped by stilt-walkers and local
scene personalities who will be shaking the
buckets, so please give generously!
The Mayor arrives at 2.30pm then everyone
moves down to the Bedford Tavern at
2.45pm for the full Easter Bonnet Parade at
3pm sharp. As last year the Mayor will be
escorted by Michael Robbins from the
Friends of St Andrews, who organises the
street closure and schedules the day’s
proceedings.
BEACON MARATHON
BREAKS RECORD!
On a beautiful sunny day, more than 3,700
runners took part in last month’s Sussex
Beacon Half Marathon, breaking all
previous records. Needless to say, race
organisers were thrilled with the turnout.
“It’s incredible,” said Julie Hales, race
director. “This is the first time in the race’s
history that it has sold out! What’s even more
exciting is we expect to smash our £120,000
target. We’ve raised £112,000 already, with
funds still coming in. It’s a fantastic
achievement in the Beacon’s 15th
anniversary year.”
This year’s route was developed in close
conjunction with the Brighton & Hove City
Council, Sussex Police and the Brighton
& Hove Bus Company – to ensure the
minimum of disruption to the residents of
Brighton & Hove. Hove-based company Life
Pure Water was the official race water
supplier. For every litre of Life Pure you
drink, it promises to deliver at least a litre of
clean drinking water to a developing world
community via the drop4drop charity.
www.sussexbeacon.org.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
14 GSCENE MARCH 2008

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BRIGHTON & STONEWALL

Women across the city are preparing to celebrate the 100th anniversary of SUSSEX SEXUALITY BILLBOARDS
International Women's Day (IWD) with a week of events from March 6–12. NETWORK Last month, 600 billboards up and down
Brighton & Hove IWD Group, funded by Brighton & Hove City Council, has co- On March 28, Dr Andrew the country ran Stonewall’s latest
ordinated a series of events designed to appeal to all women. The week kicks off Gorman Murray, a research campaign, featuring the slogan, “Some
with Wonderful Women Stand-Up, a comedy evening on THURSDAY 6, upstairs fellow at the University of people are gay. Get over it!” in huge
at the Hare & Hounds, Preston Circus. Katy Schutte will be compering, with Wollongong will give a talk letters. The billboards were donated by Titan
Felicity Ventom, Marie Vagen, Roisin Mirza, Jaq Bayles, Bunty Dann, Alison entitled, Gay-Friendly Outdoor Advertising Ltd, and continue
Barclay, Sha Wylie, Bola Ajani and Julie Jepson headlining at 8pm, £5/£4. Neighbourhoods: Towards Stonewall’s poster campaign that began in
Understanding Social Cohesion schools last November. The
SATURDAY 8 Across Sexual Difference in Two uncompromising statement and powerful

Breakfast send-off meeting from 8–10am at The Red Roaster, St James’s Australian Neighbourhoods. This design were developed in collaboration with
Street, will support women heading off for the major march in London in support talk will present case studies of 150 secondary school pupils and teachers
of ending violence towards women. www.millionwomenrise.com. two gay-friendly neighbourhoods for Stonewall. They were originally launched

Women and children are welcome to attend a free drop-in from 2–4pm at the – the inner-city Sydney suburb of by Doctor Who and Torchwood star John
Brighton Women’s Centre (BWC), 72 High Street, Kemp Town. Run by IWD Newtown, New South Wales, and Barrowman as part of Stonewall’s
staff, this informal event invites women to drop-in, relax, the regional town of Daylesford, Education for All campaign, which tackles
NICKY MITCHELL

network and find out more about IWD, BWC and other local Victoria. The talk is designed to homophobic bullying in schools..
organisations. A children’s play area will be provided. appeal across academic and www.stonewall.org.uk

A fundraising cabaret in aid of BWC at Komedia Studio community audiences. It is part of
Bar, Gardner Street, compered by Nicky Mitchell, will the Brighton & Sussex
showcase women performers singing, playing and talking Sexualities Network
about their journeys to Brighton & Hove. Doors open programme, which seeks to
7pm, show starts 8pm, tickets £6/£5 on the door only. connect researchers and those
interested in sexualities research
SUNDAY 9 Brighton & Hove IWD group has organised an afternoon of debate on across Sussex. The talk will take
gender issues facing women today. This is a women-only event, although place at 6pm at Pokeno Pies,
accompanied children are welcome, at the Friends’ Meeting House, Ship Street, Gardner Street, Brighton. Details
1–3pm, free but suggested donation of £1 goes to the Women’s Refuge Project. of BSSN events can be found at
WEDNESDAY 12 The week of events culminates in a disco, hosted by a female www.cmis.bton.ac.uk/research
DJ, at the Sanctuary Cella, Brunswick Street East, from 8–11pm. All adults /bssn/ Cookie was on hand at Mark Vessey’s
welcome (men to be accompanied by women). photographic exhibition at the
Brighton & Hove IWD Group chair Carolyn Bristow, said: “International
Women’s Day celebrations are widely recognised as key events on Brighton &
NEW GAYDAR Contemporary Gallery last month when
the THT launched their new condom pack
Hove’s cultural calendar. This year we have organised a wide variety of events to RADIO LINE-UP that Mark had designed with them.
appeal to women all across the city. All women who support IWD or fancy trying GaydarRadio celebrates its sixth
something new are very welcome to participate. We are also looking forward to May birthday with a brand new line-up.
3, which will see our annual community event take place. This will be an event for Joining the award-winning team of
hosts are the former CBBC and
COUNT ME IN
women and children, featuring entertainment, stalls and food. Keep checking our April 3 sees the launch of important research
website for more details.” Diggit (GMTV) presenter Liam into LGBT housing needs, as the second in a
For more info email: bhwomensday@hotmail.com or call 07974 960485. Dolan, who presents Gaydar series of issue-based Count Me In Too
Anthems live three evenings a findings reports is released drawn from the
THE CHORUS AT THE WINTER PRIDE TEN PIN BOWLING week and Phil Marriott with a
COMPETITION LAST MONTH
CANARIA new weekday drivetime show.
experiences, views and needs of 847 local
LGBT people. The Report addresses where
CHORUS Liam beat 14,000 people to
become the new face of CBBC,
LGBT people live in the city, their difficulties
in finding housing, access to social housing,
The City of Brighton Gay
presenting the breakfast show and responses to specialist needs and
Men’s Chorus (CBGMC) and
and Sunday show on CBBC for homelessness. It contains detailed chapters
Drag With No Name have
18 months before moving to ITV1 on harassment and safety issues, health and
accepted an invitation to appear
to present Diggit/Diggin It. Since support needs, domestic violence, the
onstage at this year’s
leaving kids’ TV, Liam’s presented impact of civil partnerships. The report is the
Maspalomas Pride from May
Max TV, Quix TV, Bid2win and The culmination of two years consultation,
5–10. The Pride Festival lasts all
Great Big British Quiz on channel research and analysis led by the University
week and includes the hunt for
Five. Phil Marriott started on of Brighton and Spectrum with input from
Mr Gran Canaria, pool parties
Radio Victory and The Quay in the city’s housing services, and other
and a parade culminating in gala
Portsmouth and has since voluntary and community stakeholders. The
concerts at the world famous Yumbo Centre. Last year 75,000 attended from all
presented on Virgin Megastores findings and recommendations will be
over Europe. Silvio Grasso, chair of CBGMC, said: “We’re thrilled at this
Radio, London, Impulse Live in available for the first time at this event, and
opportunity to reach even more people with our music and to be sharing the stage
Newbury, and Win FM in can be downloaded from April 10 from
with a bevy of international talent. We aim to do Brighton proud.” Local Playa del
Winchester, where he later www.countmeintoo.co.uk.
Ingles drag doyenne Beverly Hills, a host of the Pride shows, said: “I’ve always
became programme manager, Housing Findings Report Launch:
been partial to Brighton talent! Seriously though, it’s great that we can extend the
relaunching the station as Dream 5.30pm, Thursday April 3, at the Friends
invitation to such talented performers. It’s shaping up to be our best ever Pride.
107.2 in October last year. Meeting House, Ship St, Brighton contact
Come and support your local talent and enjoy some of ours, onstage and off!”
www.gaydarradio.com Spectrum for further information or for
For info on CBHGMC visit www.singbrighton.com
For info on Maspalomas Pride see www.gaypridemaspalomas.com access needs. Tel 01273 723123 or email
info@spectrum-lgbt.org
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 15

Wickwoods is an approved venue for

Civil Partnerships and our sole aim is to make
your special day, truly memorable.

Whether you want a large and lavish or intimate

Civil Partnership, Wickwoods will exceed your
expectations. We offer a variety of
Civil Partnership Packages from 10 to 150 guests.

You can look forward to the following

at Wickwoods Health Club & Spa:

Full red carpet treatment. We mean this literally, even your
feet will arrive in style.

Stamp your personalities on every detail with
personalised menus.

Floral decorations - add style and colour to your top table.

Spa Days for Hen/Stag parties.

Accomodation including honeymoon suite.

Wedding planner to help smooth your big day if you so wish.

Wickwoods is situated in the beautiful Sussex

Countryside a few miles outside Brighton in the
beautiful village of Albourne. For further details

www.wickwoods.co.uk
telephone 01273 857 567

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
16 GSCENE MARCH 2008

BARE-BOTTOM BUTLERS CALLING ALL DAME MARGOT

Brighton-based performers agency, Jabberwocky is looking to hire only the fittest, KARAOKE QUEENS!
most handsome and charming young gentlemen to take on the role of bare-bottom The Queens Arms in George
butlers. The job requires serving champagne and sophisticated nibbles at high-end Street, Brighton, is hosting
girls’ and boys’ weekends at contemporary short-let heats in the Pub Stars 2008
apartments in Brighton & Hove. Director Phoebe Oliver National Karaoke
explains: “I want to recruit from the gay male market if Competition. The overall
possible as gay men tend to handle boys’/girls’ weekends winner will win £3,000 and get
banter incredibly well and generally look after themselves to record a commemorative
to a high standard. The job requires a bit of cheek – gold disc. There are also prizes
literally – and is certainly not for wallflowers, but it pays for the heat winners. Heats are
well at £30 an hour, and a laugh is almost guaranteed!” on Sundays throughout March
Apply in writing, with images, to and April at 8pm. The
phoebe@jabberwockyevents.org.uk competition is open to anyone
www.jabberwockyevents.org.uk over the age of 18. To take part
email andyqueensarms
PINK WEDDINGS IN SOUTH AFRICA @yahoo.co.uk or call into the
Queens Arms for an entry form.
Gay and lesbian holidays now represent six per cent of the total travel market Full details at
and with civil partnerships proving popular in the UK, Pink Weddings is www.queensarmsbrighton.com
developing its overseas programme by adding South Africa as a wedding and
honeymoon destination. Now in proud partnership with Africa Ample Assistance,
Gerla Pusey-de Boer explains what makes South Africa such a great wedding and SEA SPRAY
honeymoon destination. “Ceremonies can be held on a beach, in the winelands, in COCKTAIL PARTY
the bush or as part of a cookery experience. We’ll then put together a tailor-made Women are cordially invited to
honeymoon, which can involve as much or as little as the happy couple wants.” a good old-fashioned cocktail
Pink Weddings’ Gino said: “I’m proud to announce our additional partnership with a party at the Sea Spray
fantastic guesthouse, known as the Serenity on the Lake. Away from the Cape, boutique hotel on Wednesday
around 40 minutes to be precise. Peace, tranquillity and a very warm welcome await March 12 from 7pm. Tickets
you. A small, intimate privately owned luxury four-star guesthouse and Pink are £5 and include a cocktail
approved.” www.pinkweddings.biz on arrival and a selection of
canapés. To book a place call
UPSTAGED!
Local cabaret star Dame Margot Hamilton
beat four other contestants for the chance to
perform live for six hours on the BBC
interactive channel last month! Unbeknownst
to her, Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills chose Dame
Margot as his ‘wildcard’ contestant.
“I entered the competition without really
understanding quite what it was all about...
then last night I received three telephone calls
from the programme researchers about being
chosen as Mr Mills’s wildcard and it’s been a
whirlwind since!”
explained Dame
Margot, whose
similarity to the
popular Hinge &
Brackett has won her
a loyal fanbase. Her
portrayal of Lady
Bracknell in Oscar Wilde’s The Importance
Of Being Earnest received a favourable
critique from the Oscar Wilde Society in
the Brighton Fringe Festival 2003 and she
has sung with and impressed local opera
celebrity Dame Felicity Lott. Dame Margot
will be giving a gala concert on May 9 at
St Andrew’s in Waterloo Street with the
Brighton & Hove (Actually) Gay Men’s
Chorus as part of this year’s Brighton

WORTH WATCHING Cindy on 01273 680332.

www.seaspraybrighton.co.uk
Festival. www.bbc.co.uk/upstaged

TVPolari is the world’s first dedicated gay

and lesbian lifestyle IPTV channel. It
CHARITY DATE
DINING DYKES
broadcasts everything from shopping, travel, Charity DiningDykes is celebrating its
sport and news to movies, with adult content AUCTION second birthday with an evening of
on its ‘brother’ channel, TVPolariXXX. On Saturday March 15 entertainment at the Komedia compered by
Started last November and based in there’s a charity date auction Zoe Lyons, which includes singer/
Brighton, TVPolari has featured short at Revenge, raising money for songwriters Nicky Mitchell and Al Start,
documentaries from up-and-coming producers; gay community holiday an orphanage in Uganda. with comedy from Julie Jepson. A raffle
destinations such as Florida Keys West; bookshop Gay’s the Word’s struggle Doors open at 8pm and the with fantastic prizes will raise funds for the
over the distribution of gay-focused literature; a specialised shopping channel; the auction runs until 10.30pm, Survivors’ Network. It takes place on
drive to tackle homophobia in education; and more besides. There are even so you’ve got two and a half Thursday March 27, from 6.30pm. Tickets
whispers that TVPolari will broadcast the Gay World Cup Football League. hours to bid for your dream boy £10 members/£12 others from Komedia box
TVPolari is on the Global Digital Broadcast (GDBTV) IPTV network and can be or dream girl! Not only are hot office, 01273 647100 or online from
watched on TV sets via the PlayTV UK IPTV set-top box; on GDB’s Go portal; on boys and girls putting www.komedia.co.uk. DiningDykes is
TVPolari’s own website; and on other IP-compatible devices. themselves under the hammer, Brighton’s lesbian social group connecting
For more info and to view the channel, visit www.tvpolari.com but the lucky winners get to women and raising money for local charities.
take their date on a night out in For DiningDykes membership details, visit

BALLS TACKLES BULLIES Brighton – with free meals,

free club entry, and free
www.diningdykes.co.uk

Ed Balls MP, secretary of state for Children, Schools and Families has
welcomed the launch of the first-ever national guidance from the government to
goodie bags donated by local
businesses. All that plus it’s the
BREAK A LEG!
help schools tackle homophobic bullying. Mr Balls said: “Bullying of any form is Brighton-born actor, Michael D’Cruze,
St Patrick’s Day weekend, so
unacceptable – we must uphold every child’s right to learn in a safe and secure artistic director of Persona Acting, is to
extra Irish boys and girls are
environment. Just as any form of racist bullying is unacceptable, so too is tour with the National Theatre. Michael
being shipped in specially!
homophobic bullying. Even casual use of homophobic language in schools can joins the cast of Rafta Rafta, a warm-
Get there early and get yourself
create an atmosphere that isolates young people and can be the forerunner of more hearted comic tale of close-knit Indian family
a hot lot!
serious forms of bullying. I’m proud that as a government we have been robust in life in England by the author of East Is East,
tackling this and I’d like to thank Stonewall for the work it has done.” Ayub Khan-Din. Michael’s Persona acting
The innovative online guidance is aimed at school governors, heads, teachers and course in Brighton, provides 30 hours of
all other school staff. It provides them with short, easily digestible links containing tuition over a period of ten weeks (Saturdays
practical information – including lesson plans – about how to prevent and respond only) to set you on the road to becoming a
to homophobic bullying. www.stonewall.org.uk/guidance professional actor. www.persona-
acting.co.uk/course.html

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
18 GSCENE MARCH 2008
SURREY MURDER
Retired accountant Peter Jeffrey
Akers, 50, known as Jeff, was
found stabbed in Walton Lane,
Walton-on-Thames on Tuesday
February 19 at around 3pm. He
was taken by air ambulance to St
Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey,
where he died at 5.30pm. A post-
mortem showed that he died from
a single stab wound to the back.
Police said a large carving knife
Portmouth City Council flew the Rainbow Flag for the first time from the was recovered from the scene. The
Town Hall during LGBT history month public toilets off Walton Bridge
are a popular meeting place for
GAY CROYDON men in the area. A 29-year-old
man from Walton-on-Thames
Croydon’s gay community celebrated the history of same-sex partnerships
down the ages at a public event in February. The first part of the event celebrated handed himself in at Newbury
the ancient English tradition of ‘sworn brotherhood’, in which two men would Police Station just before midday
publicly swear vows of life-long friendship. This was illustrated with readings from on February 20. He will be
Chaucer and from traditional ballads. Next came a talk about saints Sergius and questioned by detectives from the
Bacchus, who were particularly known for their undying love for each other. The Surrey Major Crime Team. Mr
final part of the event was a staged re-enactment of a church service that was Akers lived with his male partner
used in some parts of Europe for hundreds of years to bless the union of two in Wallington, Surrey, and the
people of the same sex. The re-enactment featured a priest and two deacons in couple had been together for more
full costume, plus of course, the happy couple and a chorus. The event was than 22 years. Police are appealing
presented by CAGS (Croydon Area Gay Society) as part of LGBT History for anyone with information that
Month. The full text of the event is at www.samesexunions.org.uk. For anyone might help the investigation to
interested in CAGS there’s more information at www.cags.org.uk contact them on 0845 125 2222
or to ring Crimestoppers
anonymously on 0800 555 111
or report via a third party at
www.stophatenow.org.uk
All information will be treated in
confidence and the police do not
need to know why you were in the
area at the time.
SHY? US?
Brighton is the shyest city in the
UK, according to research from
The National Lottery to celebrate
the launch of the Perfect Match
Scratchcard. Forty-six per cent
of locals said they would not make
the first move when it comes to
giving people a hug and 48 per
cent said they would wait to be
COMLONGON CASTLE kissed before reciprocating; 27
Brighton residents Alan Donaldson and Oliie per cent would cuddle after two
Hawkes celebrated their Civil Partnership with to three meetings but only 16 per
77 friends at Comlongon Castle just over the cent think it’s acceptable to
border near Dumfries last month. Alan said, pucker up after such a short time.
“Comlongon Castle was the perfect romantic Once we get going, however,
setting for us to have our Civil Ceremony in front there’s no stopping us! A quarter
of all our friends. The attention to detail by the say they offer a hug several times
castle staff was amazing. All the bedrooms had four-poster beds and the staff could a day, while 75 per cent favour a
not have been more helpful. The Ceremony was held in the ‘Keep’, the registrar peck on the cheek. Five per cent
came from nearby Annan and the Scottish Celidh go for a double-cheek Continental
and resident piper created that extra touch. We kiss and six per cent go for the
had the Castle for two nights and we were made 80s-style air kiss. The Perfect
to feel like it was our home for the weekend. It is Match Scratchcard is available
good to see how things have moved on in throughout the UK for £1. With a
Scotland and we are being accepted more.” top prize of £5,000, players could
For more details about Comlongon Castle go to find that their perfect match
www.comlongoncastle.com delivers more than they think.
SURREY’S
UNSUNG HEROES
Surrey County Council is looking for the
county’s unsung heroes for its annual
Awards for Volunteering 2008. Now in
their fourth year, the awards take place on
June 16 at County Hall and recognise the
outstanding individuals who give their time
to support, encourage, develop and nurture
others throughout Surrey. The awards are
divided into the following categories: Travel,
Learning and Development, Living and
Working, Independence, Community
Safety, Everybody Matters, and Youth.
The awards are open to anyone volunteering
with a Surrey County Council service, or for
one of the many voluntary and community
groups signed up to the Surrey Compact.
All nominees will receive a signed certificate
from the council in recognition of their
contribution and the winners and their
nominators will be invited to attend the
ceremony at County Hall. Those living in
Surrey might like to nominate Gay Surrey
for the Everybody Matters Award.
All nominations must be received by
April 4. To enter visit www.surreycc.gov.
uk/awardsforvolunteering, call Surrey
County Council on 08456 009 009 or email
awardsforvolunteering@surreycc.gov.uk
HOLDING HANDS!
Fifty-eight per cent of gay men in the UK
say they will “only hold hands with a partner
in gay districts or at gay venues or events”,
according to a recent survey. Significantly,
only 17 per cent of gay men in the UK think
they “hold
hands with
partners in
public on a par
with straight
couples”, while
a tiny hardcore
(four per
cent) claim
they “make a point of holding hands,
wherever and whenever” regardless of
comfort or safety. By contrast, the same
proportion (four per cent) say they would
“never hold hands outside the privacy of
their own homes”, and 15 per cent claim
they would “only hold hands on a deserted
beach”! The online Hand in Hand? poll of
hundreds of gay men and lesbians
throughout the UK was conducted by gay-
parship.co.uk – Europe’s largest serious
dating site for gay men and women, which
boasts over 200,000 members, attracted by
its unique psychometric compatibility test
and a methodology, which ensures that you
are only matched with people who are
genuinely right for you.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 19

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
20 GSCENE MARCH 2008

SOHO LGBT CENTRE

Westminster City Council is supporting an initiative for a ‘one-stop-shop’ for
SEX FACTOR
46,501 men entered Sex Factor,
QUEER THE CENSUS
The TUC is calling for the next National
Gaydar.co.uk’s annual search to Census, due in 2011, to include a question
LGBT residents in Soho, offering health and social care services, business
find the hottest man on earth – on sexual orientation for the first time. The
support and an exhibition space under one roof.
and 12 million votes have been census provides important information about
The council is due to carry out a feasibility study into an LGBT centre after a
cast in the competition so far. A UK society, and LGBT people are the only
previous consultation exercise showed the idea was popular among residents – of
total of 162 different countries are social groups currently not counted. TUC
which up to 10% are LGB or T. The study is expected to be completed this year.
represented in the annual contest, General Secretary Brendan Barber and
Other proposals include creating a virtual museum to record and showcase Soho’s
with by far the biggest contingent Stonewall Chief Executive Ben
vibrant history and a £25million plan to revamp the 1930s Grade II listed
from the UK - 17,648 entries. Summerskill have written to the Office of
Marshall Street baths into a modern leisure centre.
From cubs and bears to uniforms National Statistics (ONS) to demand that
Councillor Danny Chalkley said, “Soho is a fantastic and energetic hub right in
and sports gear, there are 13 the next census includes questions on
the heart of London and we want to ensure it stays this way. These ambitious, long-
different Sex Factor categories to sexual orientation. Excluding sexual
term plans have been carefully thought through with local residents and businesses
vote in. From these, one overall orientation data places LGBT groups at a
to give them all better amenities, support and services and provide the area with a
champion will eventually be disadvantage, as local authorities don’t have
more sustainable future.” www.westminster.gov.uk/onesoho
crowned the sexiest man on Earth. an idea of numbers of LGBT people in their
The competition closed at the end
IWMN

MILITARY PRIDE of February and the results are

communities when they are allocating
resources for services. The TUC and
The Imperial War Museum North in Manchester due in March. Gaydar.co.uk Stonewall recognise that there will be some
would like people from the LGBT communities who opposition so have suggested that
have served in the Armed Forces to contact them PADDICK RUNS respondents be given the right to answer
about a new photographic display. Military Pride
(July 12-October 12) will be a small but powerful MARATHON ‘prefer not to say’. They also recognise that
there is no agreement among transgender
display of photos and testimony about the London Lib Dem Mayoral
candidate, Brian Paddick, has people about whether there should be a
experiences of LGBT people during conflict, war and question, and therefore the ONS is asked to
military service. challenged his rivals to join him
in running the London Marathon consider how to collect data on this
Catherine Roberts, Visitor Programmes community. www.tuc.org.uk
Manager at IWMN said, "The experience of LGBT on April 13. Brian Paddick said,
people, within the context of military service, is “Running London is an extremely
arguably still a largely hidden history. With your help we can make a step towards tough and demanding job and the
helping to reveal and celebrate it. We look forward to hearing from people as soon Mayor needs to be mentally and
as possible - we hope to finalise content by the end of March." Contact Catherine physically fit. I am running the this
on 0161 8364062 or email croberts@iwm.org.uk. www.iwm.org.uk year and I challenge all Mayoral
candidates to join me - it will be a
real test of their mettle. If people
BISHOP BIGOT vote for me on May 1, they know
The Bishop of Hereford, named Bigot of the Year 2007 by Stonewall, was ordered I’ll be fit for office.”
to pay more than £47,000 following the Employment Tribunal case won by gay
youth worker John Reaney, whose appointment was blocked by the Bishop in
2006. The Bishop’s estimated costs in the case are a further £50,000. The
FREE COUNSELLING
QSoft Consulting, owners of
Tribunal has said it expects the Bishop to undergo equal
JOHN REANEY

Gaydar, has teamed up with the

opportunities training. Mr Reaney was interviewed by a LGBT mental health charity PACE
panel of eight people for the post, but a unanimous decision to offer free advice and
to appoint him was personally blocked by the Bishop. The counselling to people affected by
tribunal heard that the Bishop had subjected John Reaney to drug abuse. Announcing the
a humiliating and offensive cross-examination about his project, QSoft Consulting
private life to which a heterosexual would not have been Managing Director Henry
submitted. John Reaney said, “I’m delighted that this case is finally over. Lesbian
and gay Christians working within the Church of England are entitled to be treated
Badenhorst said, “Organisations
that we talk to or work with
PIECES OF EIGHT
with humanity. I’m very grateful to Stonewall for supporting this case throughout.” As part of LGBT History Month in
consistently make a connection
www.stonewall.org.uk February, the LGBT Workers Forum at
between our community and the
Brighton & Hove City Council supported
use of recreational drugs. There is
Pieces of Eight, a series of photographic
TORIES TAX ON LIFE & DEATH also evidence of a rise in HIV
amongst the younger generation –
portraits of LGBT people shown in various
Tory Councillors are bringing back their proposals to full Council to increase the locations in Brighton & Hove. Created by
cost of ceremonies, including those of civil partnerships, marriages, and that the two are intrinsically
Eric Page, Pieces of Eight aims to show us
citizenship ceremonies and burials after losing the vote at P&R. The proposals linked.” A three-month pilot
who we are. Eric says, “I‘ve tried to capture
form part of their Budget proposals due to be debated at full Council on project launched on February 14
an everyday portrait of each person, in a
February 28. The move was originally thwarted by a cross party rebellion, which in both the gaydargirls.com and
natural setting. I wanted to allow my subjects
included Liberal Democrat, Green and Labour Councillors. At the time, the Lib gaydar.co.uk community
to step from behind the labels other people
Dems slammed the proposal as a tax on ‘life and death’ in the city. chatrooms, providing free online
put on them - Dyke, Asian, Vicar, Gay, Old,
Lib Dem Councillor Paul Elgood said, “Having lost this fight once, we think that counselling services for people
Woman, Young, Queer - and allow my
it is a shambles to democracy to try and bring it back within weeks. Didn’t they get who use recreational drugs. The
subjects to look at us, looking at them.” For
the message last time? This proposal raises a relatively small amount of money, but service will give subscribers
more information about the LGBT Workers
comes at a huge cost to our community. This is a tax on life and death in Brighton access to PACE online counselling
Forum at Brighton & Hove City Council,
& Hove. They really should have backed down quietly. We will do all we can to and the ability to set up sessions
email LGBT@brighton-hove.gov.uk
challenge this again.” with a PACE counsellor.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
22 GSCENE

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE MARCH 2008 23

TOUR DE BEER & CIDER TEMPLE TO BE

BRIGHTON
Despite awful weather Jeremy
Whittaker raised over £600 with
his 24 Hour Tour De Brighton
Static Cycle Marathon staged
outside his shop Nua in Ship
Street last month. This brings
Nua’s fundraising for Pride in the
last three years to over £3,000.
Jeremy extends his thanks to all
his friends, customers and traders
who came along to support him
and help Winter Pride.
FESTIVAL
The 18th Sussex Beer & Cider
Festival will be held at the Hove
Centre on March 6-8. Due to
the resurgence of real ales, well
over 200 will be available this
year, plus a large selection of
ciders, perries, country wines
and British and foreign bottled
beers. The downstairs bar has
been designated as the Sussex
Bar and will be selling only
those beers from breweries in
Sussex. Tickets range from £3-
£6 from various venues,
TRANSFORMED
The Temple building at Duke’s Mound is to
be transformed into the Black Rock
Reading Rooms, described as a unique
green café bar offering seasonal, locally
sourced food in relaxed surroundings. The
café will offer breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea,
supper and cocktails at sunset, as well as
providing a venue for Christmas Parties
and Wedding Receptions. Sample menus
suggest such delights as Earl Grey soaked

THT LAUNCHES PLAY ZONE

Terrence Higgins Trust (in partnership with other organisations) has been funded
including the Hove and Brighton
Centres. For more info visit
www.sussexbeerfestival.co.uk
by the Department of Health to launch a new code of conduct for gay venues. or call 07784 944277.
Play Zone: Code of Good Practice aims to create a safer environment for
customers and staff, by ensuring that minimum standards are being met in saunas
and other venues such as bars and clubs where men might meet men for sex. It’s
CITY READS prunes with thick yoghurt £3.50, Nettle Soup
This year’s City Reads book with Walnut Bread £3.50, and Mint and Lentil
also hoped that the code will raise awareness around sexual health and help to
choice is A Place of Execution Salad £2. Gscene’s resident food reviewer,
reduce the number of new STI and HIV infections. Venues
by Val McDermid, described as Morham White, said, “It’s a long time since
are invited to voluntarily participate in the code. By signing
‘Stunningly exciting, horrifyingly I last visited the area, but I can’t wait. Any
up to the scheme, owners, promoters and managers give a
good’ by Ruth Rendell. From chance of some chicken?” Directors Ms
clear message that they recognise the importance of
the City Reads launch on Alex Armstrong and Miss Alex Walmsley
providing a safe, clean environment for customers and
March 13 to the final event on are currently looking for investors. More info
staff. Venues that successfully meet the Code will receive
May 23, there’s a series of at www.blackrockreadingrooms.com
Play Zone branding and certificates to display inside and
special events, workshops,
out – making it easier for customers to identify a venue that
reading groups, and film
takes their health and safety seriously. All venues and staff receive a handbook to
guide them through the process and THT can follow up with training and advice. The
showings devoted to A Place of NEW DOME &
Code sets minimum standards in: condom and lubricant distribution and access;
ensuring that information on sexual health is available; staff training on sexual
Execution and the contemporary
crime genre, including a visit to
FESTIVAL CHIEF
Andrew Comben, previously the Head of
Brighton Festival by Val
health, HIV, Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and drug and alcohol awareness; Artistic Planning at Wigmore Hall, is to
McDermid. To join in, simply
vaccinations for staff; health and safety training; first aid training; lighting at be the new Chief Executive of the Brighton
pick up a copy and start reading.
venues; and cleaning of venues. So far, 20 venues in London including Chariots, Dome and Festival (BDFL), starting in May.
www.cityreads.co.uk
The Hoist, and Hard On have signed up to the Play Zone code. Andrew has a proven track record in all areas
Mark Crossie, Manager at Chariots in Liverpool Street, said, “All branches of of general
Chariots in London have signed up to the scheme. If we can offer a safe, clean BRIGHTON management and an
environment for our customers, we can make it a better experience for them. Of CARNIVAL excellent reputation
course we want them to have fun, but we also want them to be safe. If we can all Last year over 25,000 people as an innovator and
work to the same standard, we can not only keep the London scene running – but lined the streets to watch the educator.
also make it better and safer.” Brighton Carnival parade as it Polly Toynbee,
A number of venues in Brighton & Hove have expressed an interest in Play Zone moved from the centre of town to Chairman of BDFL
and THT hope more will follow. For more info contact Kelvin Julian on 020 78121785. Hove Lawns. This year the said, “Andrew is
Carnival Team is working already held in the
towards an even bigger and highest regard in the

Back Pain? better parade day. Brighton

Carnival would like groups and
individuals interested in being
FREE ChiroCheck involved in Carnival 2008 to
contact them now. There are
Discover if chiropractic can help you
plenty of opportunities to follow
• Discussion of your medical history • Chiropractic spinal check-up your interests, create activities for
• Assessment of your posture • Written report of findings your group, meet new people, go
to and run workshops, make and
Chiropractic has proven effective in the management of back pain
wear costumes. Get in touch via
email
Sundial Chiropractic Clinic info@brightoncarnival.co.uk
52 St James's St, Brighton, BN2 1QG or call 07876 141942.
01273 696414 www.brightoncarnival.co.uk
www.sundialclinics.co.uk
arts world and
having seen his
initial thoughts for the 2009 Festival we are
confident and excited that this marks new
horizons for Brighton Dome and Festival. His
appointment was a unanimous decision by
the panel, including both our main funders,
the Arts Council England and Brighton &
Hove City Council. He combines both artistic
vision and the entrepreneurial skill to manage
our three beautiful venues year round. It's a
coup for Brighton to catch such an exciting
young talent.”
www.brightondome.org
www.brightonfestival.org

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
24 GSCENE
BRIGHTON BANDITS IN GAY WORLD CUP
WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY IN AN INTERNATIONAL QUEER FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT?
The Amsterdam Hotel-sponsored Brighton Bandits football team is
currently looking for players to improve the squad in preparation for
this summer’s championships, which are being staged in London and
hosted by the Black Cap-sponsored Left Footers football team. Bandits
manager Matt Haywood says: “This is a unique opportunity for gay
sportsmen to play in an international tournament. We want to build and
develop our squad in the next three months in
preparation for the gay World Cup. We are looking for
players of all abilities in all positions.”
Last year’s competition was staged in Buenos Aires
and won by Los Dogos SN from Argentina, with
MATT HAYWOOD
English team Stonewall FC as runners-up. The Left
Footers bid and won the right to stage this year’s
championships in London and the games will be
played in Regents Park. The Division One final will
be played at the Leyton Orient FC Matchroom Stadium in East London.
This is the second time the championships have been staged in London.
The last time was in 2001, when Stonewall FC retained the title they
won the previous year in Cologne.
Brighton Bandits formed in 1997 when a group of members of the Gay
Football Supporters’ Network decided to put together a scratch team
they called the Brighton Belle-endes and entered the GFSN National
Five-A-Side Tournament in Blackpool. Despite never playing together
before, they finished in a respectable mid-table position. From these
humble beginnings, players started to meet for regular training on
Sunday mornings on Hove Lawns and the Brighton Bandits were born.
From the start the Amsterdam Hotel provided the Bandits with a very
generous sponsorship package, which includes a distinctive team strip.
In 2002 they received a grant from The Scarman Trust, which enabled
them to train on proper pitches, fund training courses and broaden
their publicity. Further funding towards running costs followed from
Pride in Brighton & Hove in 2004. Today the Bandits play in the GFSN
National League, where they are acknowledged as one of the strongest
teams. After finishing runners-up in the 2004–05 season, they finished
as league champions in the 2005–06 season. Other successes include
winning the GFSN Bristol Five-A-Side Tournament three times and the
GFSN Leicester Six-A-Side Tournament once. They won the National
Five-A-Side Championships in Blackpool in 2004 and the GFSN
Brighton Five-A-Side Tournament last year here in Brighton.
BRIGHTON BANDITS
The Bandits are now the subject of a documentary. Filmmaker Ian
McDonald followed the team during the 2006–07 season and the film,
Brighton Bandits, which charts the team’s highs and lows, was
premiered in Brighton last October and is being screened at the
Adelaide Film Festival in March.
The Amsterdam Hotel has been a very generous sponsor of the team
since it formed, and the management provides a complimentary buffet
for the Bandits to entertain the away teams after each home game.
The team features teachers, professionals, medics and artists among its
ranks and meets for training every Sunday at 4pm at the King Alfred
Leisure Centre in Hove. Home games are played on Sundays at Preston
Park, and kick-off is usually 1pm. In February they played a GFSN
National League fixture against Nottingham Ball Bois FC in
Nottingham. The next home match is Sunday April 6, when the Bandits
will be entertaining the hosts of this year’s gay World Cup, the Left
Footers. Kick-off will be at 1pm at Preston Park.
Supporters are welcome to travel with the team to away matches. Not
only will you see the Bandits play but you also get the chance to
sample the nightlife in the city hosting the match, as the team usually
travels the day before. For further information about travelling with the
team, email Jason Hall on publicity@banditsfc.org
If you want to talk about the team and your chances of playing in this
summer’s gay World Cup, call Matt Haywood on 07977 579382 or
email him at manager@banditsfc.org For more information about the
Brighton Bandits go to www.banditsfc.org
Gscene has been appointed the team’s media sponsor and will be
charting the team’s progress up to and beyond the summer games,
giving updates and match reports and following the progress of any new
players who set their hearts on winning a medal at this year’s world
championships.
The International Gay & Lesbian Football Association World
Championship takes place in London on August 24–30.
The organisers are looking for volunteers in the following areas:
stewards, stage set-up, security checkers for lockers, sports massage
therapists and sign language interpreters. For further information
contact volunteers@londonwc2008.co.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 26 GSCENE
WOMEN OF IMPORTANCE
To celebrate International Women’s Day James Ledward presents a snapshot of the
achievements of LGBT women in Brighton, identifying how they fit into the big gay jigsaw
that is Brighton and Hove. Some you might recognise others you won’t, yet their
contributions to LGBT Brighton are huge.
LGBT Brighton is a very different place to when I arrived in 1986. In
2008 the LGBT community have a good working relationship with the
police and our community safety concerns are taken much more
seriously by them. We have first class counselling services and a
thriving Switchboard. Our social groups, sports groups and choirs have
blossomed. Much of these improvements have been driven quietly
behind the scenes by groups of dedicated people who care and whose
contributions have made a difference to all our lives.
The list of women presented here is not a definitive list of achievers
but what we had space for. Some women who I would like to have
included were not contactable or on sick leave, only one declined to be
included. I would like in particular to mention Natalie Woods at
Switchboard and Helen Jones at Mind Out, the mental health project.
At Gscene we value diversity but more importantly we value the efforts
of people who roll their sleeves up and get on with it. I have personally
worked with some of the women here, in a professional and personal
capacity and am very proud to have had the chance to have done so.
They are consummate professionals and very, very nice people. JL
LEELA BAKSHI
LEELA BAKSHI
Leela Baksi has been helping to make
things happen with Calabash/people of
colour and with Spectrum (as a Trustee)
and with the Count Me In Too project (as
part of the project monitoring group) for
the past three or four years. “I go to
meetings, listen and talk, and write up
stuff afterwards and send a lot of emails.
Occasionally I get to meet people who
have a bit of power and have a go at
telling them like it is.”
“I get excited about what people are doing
and their ideas, and exercised about the
crap that comes our way. I guess my contribution would fall under
‘project management’- doing what’s needed to plan and deliver pieces of
work.”
Leela grew up engaging with the peace movement, left wing politics,
women’s groups, fighting racism, reading ‘New Internationalist’, and
composting and recycling and doing conservation work. “I was
responding to my feelings about the injustices of the world and my
enthusiasm for alternative ways of doing things.” Leela’s family have
been political and social activists for a few generations, so these
seemed like ordinary activities to her.
After Leela came out and settled into a home and career focused life,
feelings of anger and sadness became a bit overwhelming.
“Conversations in therapy got me thinking about dealing with my own
issues - dismantling and recycling every piece of cardboard that I came
into contact with, and crying about the pain of the families I work
with, wasn’t helping me to process my own stuff. Acknowledging the
implications of my gender identity and sexuality – complete joy at
finding out who I am, but also put me on the receiving end of some
not so wonderful stuff, which got me volunteering for LGBT causes.”
“For me, caring about and doing the work contributes to the LGBT
collective - the political grouping that engages in the city. I think the
bit that establishes and develops LGBT community is appreciating and
caring about other people, and looking out for each other. Love is the
answer - well the answer that makes sense to me. How do I link in the
jigsaw? I’m not sure how but it’s great to find a jigsaw where I do fit, I
don’t experience that in a lot of other places. Thank you lovely people.”
JO BARRINGTON
JO BARRINGTON
Jo Barrington has lived in Brighton for
five years and can’t see herself living
anywhere else. Like many LGBT people,
she came here because of its anything-
goes, accepting attitude and community
spirit. Jo initially became involved with
the LGBT community via the work she
does as part of Brighton & Hove City
Council’s staff LGBT Workers’ Forum –
she’s been a steering-group member for
four years. In that time she’s worked
with other community groups raising awareness around the needs of
LGBT staff in the workplace and helping to create a more inclusive
working environment. Along with the council’s diversity officer, Jo
developed the LGBT staff mentoring scheme, which was mentioned as
a programme of good practice in Stonewall’s Diversity Champions
Index, and is about to go in to its second year. This programme played
a large part in raising the council’s overall rating in the index. Jo has
also had a small input into other events, such as the History Ball,
which will hopefully become more of a community event in 2009.
“Other work I’m a part of is raising awareness around the housing needs
of the community. As a manager of two frontline housing services, I sit
on two working groups: looking at the housing and support needs of the
LGBT community; and the domestic-violence group. I’m there to make
sure the needs and views of the LGBT community are taken into
consideration and recognised.”
Jo has been closely involved in the collation and dissemination of the
additional finding reports from CMIT focusing on domestic violence and
housing. Her community work mainly revolves around highlighting the
needs of LGBT survivors of domestic violence and abuse. She has been
co-chair of trustees for Broken Rainbow – the only national LGBT
domestic-violence support helpline – since April 2007. The service has
gone through many changes over the past ten months and Jo has
played a key role in not only ensuring its survival but also raising
awareness of the needs of the LGBT community regarding domestic
violence – a subject the LGBT community sometimes struggles to
understand or accept. Jo worked closely with the consultant CEO on the
recent successful Valentine’s poster campaign.
JAQ BAYLES
JAQ BAYLES
Jaq Bayles was born in London – a real
live Cockney – then her family moved to
Margate when she was about six.
“No matter what Tracey Emin says, it’s
not a cool place to live. I started working
in journalism at the age of 17 on my
local newspaper and moved around the
country, becoming news editor and
deputy editor. I wound up in Brighton in
1984 working on The Evening Argus,
then took a brief sidestep into marketing
with a London agency before becoming
deputy director of the publishing division
of a large PR company in London.”
After nine years of commuting, Jaq fancied a change and applied to the
University of Sussex to do a degree in media studies, while working as a
freelance journalist to finance her studies. A year after completing the
BA (first class hons), during which time she was a lecturer in journalism
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

for the National Council for the Training of Journalists, she was
offered funding to do a fulltime MA in English literature at Sussex in
the school of Sexual Dissidence and Cultural Change. Her thesis, Drop
Dead Monstrous: The Function of Female Perversity in Buffy The Vampire
Slayer, for which she gained a distinction, got her on the Nine O’Clock
News, radio and into every national paper in the UK.
“I’m still a freelance journalist, writing features for The Guardian, Wine &
Spirit magazine and a variety of other publications. I’ve also written a
novel, for which I was agented but didn’t find a publisher, and I’m a
published author of short stories, making the top 50 in the Ian St James
Short Story Competition in 2000.”
In the 1990s Jaq was a buddy for the Terrence Higgins Trust.
In the 1980s she wrote and starred in a play called Power Cut, while
part of the theatre company Skirting the Issue. Power Cut was
performed at the Nightingale and the Zap Club for an Aids benefit.
Jaq used to DJ at the Concorde and the Beachcomber as part of a co-op
with a bunch of women putting on weekly club nights for the girls. A
few years ago Jaq was on the Pride board of directors and was the
organisation’s press officer for two years.
Jaq has two miniature Schnauzers, is in training for a triathlon, and last
year started doing stand-up comedy. Catch her if you can at the
monthly comedy night Walks Into A Bar, which she runs at the London
Unity pub on Islingword Road, Brighton.
DR KATH BROWNE
DR KATH BROWNE
Dr Kath Browne was born in Cork, Ireland
in 1977. She came to England in 1995, to
pursue a degree in PE with geography at
Loughborough. Three years later she was
out and presenting an undergraduate
dissertation that looked at sexuality and
female footballers in England and America.
Following a master’s in Sheffield, she did a
PhD that looked at ‘non-heterosexual
women’ and everyday spaces. She
published academic articles on women who
are mistaken for men, drag kings, and the
unnamed prejudices and discriminations that pervade all our lives.
Kath came to Brighton in 2003 for a job in geography at the University
of Brighton, teaching and researching in human geographies, including
the geographies of sexualities. “Students often wonder why I’m in this
discipline. I’m infatuated with geography. In a nutshell, it’s the centre of
all knowledge and crucial to understanding contemporary sexualities and
our communities!”
Kath first got involved in Brighton & Hove’s LGBT communities after
gathering lesbian opinions on Dublin and Brighton Prides in 2003.
“In 2004, I led a large-scale Pride survey and earned a place on the Pride
committee. My interest lay in how Pride engages with LGBT groups and
individuals and its part in the LGBT communities. I went straight onto the
grants committee and now lead on community and grants. I am always
so impressed by the people who make Pride – those who organise events,
build floats and turn up. We have amazing and diverse communities that
can and should be celebrated. I hope that I have facilitated Pride’s action
in this area, even though I know we still have work to do.”
Count Me In Too was born through a community/university
partnership programme meeting between LGBT academics and
Spectrum in 2005 and has developed into the most rewarding research
of Kath’s career. “The results aren’t just academically interesting, but are
having a positive impact in the ‘real’ world too. I feel privileged to have
been privy to remarkable conversations, histories and stories and worked
with amazing people. I know that there is so much more work to be
“We have amazing and diverse
communities that can and should be
celebrated. I hope that I have
facilitated Pride’s action in this area,
even though I know we still have work to
do.” Dr Kath Browne
GSCENE 27
done, and having been fortunate enough to meet and talk to seasoned
activists, I realise there always will be.”
Last year, Kath set up the Brighton and Sussex Sexualities Network to
link people with an interest in sexualities research. “I was shocked when
I arrived in Brighton to find there was no sexualities-research group,
especially as we have such an amazing line-up of academics across
Brighton and Sussex Universities. What surprised me more about this
absence was the palpable desire among LGBT people for knowledge about
sexualities. We’re planning the first-ever Pride conference in August –
Feelings of Pride – and a research-based conference in September.
Kath’s final passion is rugby. After a shoulder injury forced her to stop
playing, she became Liz James’s ‘left-hand woman’ in 2004. “We’ve
coached Hove Women’s Rugby Team for three seasons and we’re always
looking for new players!”
DANA COHEN
Dana Cohen was born in Sydney and
grew up in Mauritius and New Zealand,
where she remembers puzzling over the
cover of The Female Eunuch in the early
1970s. All became clear a decade later,
when she enrolled on a feminist
philosophy course at university with a
group of lesbian activists. For more than
DANA COHEN
two decades she has been inspired and
supported by tenacious, passionate
feminists – activists, counsellors,
academics, artists, and writers. She immersed herself in women’s studies
for the best part of the 1980s and early 1990s, oscillating between
Australia and the UK. After academia, she worked in women’s refuges and
as a psychotherapist. She moved to Brighton in 2000, the year of the
first Count Me In survey of local LGBT people. When Spectrum was
formed to take up some of the issues raised by Count Me In, Dana was
appointed co-ordinator. Highlights of her time at Spectrum were the first
two People of Colour tents at Brighton Pride; LGBT training for service
providers (notably Brighton & Hove Police); an LGBT spirituality day;
and working with local services to address the needs identified by Count
Me In. After leaving Spectrum, Dana managed a programme of
community/ university partnership projects at the University of
Brighton, including Count Me In Too and a project exploring LGBT
suicidal distress. She became a volunteer counsellor at Brighton & Hove
LGBT Switchboard in 2006, and now works as a psychotherapist and
counsellor in private practice. Dana was recently appointed manager of
Brighton Relate, which provides a new LGBT relationship counselling
service in partnership with Switchboard.
PETRA DAVIS
Petra Davis moved to Brighton in 2003,
but had visited throughout her teens and
20s. Hastings offered precious little to
young queer people and, looking back,
she’s surprised she stayed there so long.
“I wanted to make things better, rather
than just leave as so many young,
PETRA DAVIS
talented queer kids did. So many people
who left for London came back as
casualties. I wanted to make my
hometown somewhere kids didn’t have to
run away from.” But when Petra came out as bisexual, falling in love with
a man after years of relationships with women, things got difficult. She
found little understanding and gave up queer activism because of it,
moving to Brighton in search of a broader understanding of queer
identity and a safe place to return to LGBT politics as an out bi person.
“Brighton has a bi campaigning organisation in Brighton Bothways, and
hosts its own BiFest during Winter Pride. Though there’s still resentment
and a lack of understanding around bisexuality, there’s a growing
willingness to engage, bolstered by the inclusion of bi people in the new
Sexual Orientation Regulations. Biphobic hate crime is recognised and
recorded by the police in Brighton, and the ‘gay’ scene and ‘gay’
organisations are becoming LGBT in more than just name.”
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 28 GSCENE
“I work in housing policy for the council and I’ve been lucky enough to
arrive exactly as some amazing research on the housing needs of LGBT
people came to light. I’ve been working with community-sector
organisations to develop an LGBT housing strategy – the city’s first.
Sofa-surfing and forming relationships to get somewhere to live have
become a way of life for some, and others turn to sex work. It’s very
important for housing services to understand these issues so that we can
prevent homelessness as much as possible.”
Petra is a member of the steering group for the council’s LGBT Workers’
Forum – organising events and training and supporting people
experiencing harassment. She’s also a member of the regional Unison
LGBT group, and is in her second year as a trustee of Spectrum.
“As a member of the Count Me In Too action and analysis groups, I’ve
been lucky enough to work with Kath Browne on one of the world’s
foremost LGBT research projects. Having access to the rich data that came
out of the survey, and working to interpret that data and use it to
promote positive social change for LGBT people here, has been a real
privilege. I’ve made plenty of mistakes, blundering about in the delicate
relationships between sectors and partners, but I think most people
realise now that I care very much about activism and what it can achieve
– that I’m a lifer.”
Away from the social sector, Petra is a writer and journalist, and the
arts community in Brighton is a big draw. “I’m primarily a sex writer,
working in queer and gender-queer fiction and non-fiction, and this city is
the perfect context for research and practice. Brighton’s the most exciting
and vibrant place I’ve ever lived, and the community that’s come closest
to being home.”
REV DEBBIE GASTON
REV DEBBIE GASTON
Rev Debbie Gaston grew up attending
church from the age of four, where she was
sent so that her parents could get some
peace and quiet on a Sunday. “Little did I
know that spirituality, religion and theology
were to become a passion throughout my
life.” By the age of 13, Debbie knew she
was a lesbian but was terrified of where
that fitted into her faith so, eventually,
aged 18, she did what every Bible-
believing fundamental Christian who’s been brainwashed does… “I went
to see my minister, who said I needed to be exorcised of the demon of
lesbianism! And guess what – it didn’t work!”
After qualifying as a teacher then struggling to force herself into
heterosexual ways, Debbie still felt a pastoral calling to train for the
ministry. She went to the London School of Theology, which taught
her to question the Bible and not accept it as it first appeared. “The
refreshment that brought to me was unbelievable. So much so that I
began to embrace my sexuality as a gift from God.”
It was during this time that Debbie met and fell in love with her
lifetime partner, Elaine. “We both felt very passionately about God and
after a few years we began to look for a church that would accept us. We
found the MCC (the Metropolitan Community Church) in London and cried
and cried for the first few weeks of being there because we had found our
spiritual home.”
The calling to be a minister was still very strong and after several
people asked why Debbie wasn’t working for the Church, she completed
her theological studies, along with the extra courses required for MCC –
by now the biggest LGBT charity/organisation in the world.
Debbie was ordained in December 2002, by which time she and others
had started the MCC in Brighton. Today around 50 people, of whom
about 80 per cent are LGBT, regularly attend the Sunday services.
There’s a large Sunday school, plus a band with various musicians.
“Since then Elaine and I had the honour of representing the LGBT
community by becoming the first lesbians to have a civil partnership in
England, with two TV documentaries putting Brighton and the MCC on the
map together. It truly was the best day of our lives. We hope that we
represent the LGBT community with sensitivity and will continue to reach
out to those who are hurting through a liberation theology.”
Services are held every Sunday at 6pm at Cumberland Road URC
Church, Brighton. For details, call Debbie on 01903 602434.
ROSE HALL
Like so many before her, Rose Hall moved
to Brighton because it was the gay capital
and it was full of queers. “On my second
day here I nearly crashed the car into the
Peace Statue for being distracted by a pair
of dykes snogging in front of all and sundry.
I could never have done that in Smethwick.”
ROSE HALL
Rose had been in Brighton for a few years
when the post at MindOut was advertised.
“Much to my amazement, I was offered the
job. I was employed to work three days a week and the project had three
years’ funding ahead of it. I worked in an office with other specialist
advocacy workers, who gave me so much support and guidance in those
early years.”
Her job was the first paid, dedicated LGBT worker post in Brighton.
“The LGBT community looked very different then. Many dedicated people –
then as now – gave their time and energy to develop the community we
“The LGBT community looked very
different then. Many dedicated people –
then as now – gave their time and
energy to develop the community we
now have.” Rose Hall
now have. Back then some individuals felt very strongly that there should
not be paid LGBT posts and all work should be done voluntarily. So I
received a mixed reception at my first community meetings.”
The goals of the project were to provide advocacy to individuals, to set
up an advocacy group and to provide training to mental-health
organisations. Rose promoted the project and slowly people contacted
her. Isolation was a big issue and frighteningly common. Many people
hoped to find the Brighton LGBT scene inviting, friendly and supportive.
Sadly, this was often not the case.
In that first year Rose facilitated a weekly group for nine individuals. The
original intention was for it to be a working group, a voice for LGBT
people who used mental-health services. The group fed back to services
about their experience and what changes were needed. “However, what
we realised was also happening was that the group had become supportive
of each other – people’s self-worth improved and individuals were making
positive changes. We had more and more interest in the group, which led
us to expand the group-work service.”
Rose left MindOut last December and she feels tremendously privileged to
have been at the beginning of such a successful project. Currently
MindOut has a small, dedicated, hardworking team supporting hundreds
of individuals every year.
“I do feel honoured to have worked with the individuals I have over the
years. They have shown such strength, and compassion towards each other
despite the difficulties life has thrown at them.”
DR KATHERINE JOHNSON
Dr Katherine Johnson is based in the
School of Applied Social Science (SASS),
University of Brighton, and has been
involved in a number of projects over
recent years that seek to challenge
DR KATHERINE JOHNSON
stigma around mental health in the LGBT
community and promote better
understanding of LGBT lives more broadly.
Before arriving in Brighton, she worked
on the first national study of lesbian, gay
and bisexual mental health, spending
many days and evenings in local venues collecting participants’ responses
with a computerised questionnaire. Through this project she met Helen
Jones at MindOut and later Emma Walsh at Allsorts, and they
developed a community/university knowledge-exchange project in
Brighton & Hove that documented LGBT experiences of suicidal distress
and strategies to promote survival. These findings were launched in 2007
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

and the report is on the Spectrum website. She is currently developing
new projects with these organisations: one is co-ordinated with Jason
Saw (MindOut) and members of Out of the Blue, and involves
participants taking photos of their everyday practices and regimes for
managing their mental health. The images will be displayed through
exhibitions in order to visualise these experiences for a wider audience,
hopefully during the Brighton Pride festival this summer.
Katherine has also been committed to creating better links between
research, teaching and community activities that bridge gender and
sexuality divides. She has written on the potential for political
affiliations between transsexuals, lesbians and feminists and completed
her PhD on transgender experiences of transition. In 2003 she organised
the British Psychological Society (BPS) Psychology of Women
Conference in the centre of Brighton that showcased a one-day invited
symposium from the BPS Lesbian & Gay Society. Back in the
university, she has spoken (with Maria Antoniou) on how universities
can improve access and support for LGBT people at the Communities
and Care Conference in 2005, and she is now developing a curriculum
that incorporates sexualities and community activity more explicitly.
SASS will be launching a new master’s degree in community and social
research in 2009/10, within which she and Kath Browne are currently
developing a sexualities pathway that will be relevant to local LGBT
groups and organisations.
For more information about any of these projects or courses, contact
Katherine at K.E.Johnson@brighton.ac.uk
KIM LUCAS
Kim is a 45-year-old entrepreneur from New
Zealand, and the most prominent lesbian
club promoter in the UK. She is most
renowned as the owner of the Candy Bar
brand, the UK’s original fulltime girls’ bar,
which celebrated its 11th birthday in its
flagship venue in London, and its eighth
KIM LUCAS
birthday in the UK’s largest ‘gay Mecca’,
Brighton, last year. The Candy Bar has
transformed both the London and Brighton
lesbian scenes by focusing on and nurturing the gay women’s market,
thus increasing opportunities for other lesbian ventures to succeed. QX
magazine has described Kim as ‘the Queen of Soho’, and DIVA magazine
named her ‘Scene Queen of the Century’ in its millennium issue. Her
long and colourful reign has spanned three decades, during which time
gay lifestyles and scenes have gradually come up from the underground
and demanded mainstream acceptance with increasing confidence.
Kim served on the London Pride organising committee for ten years
from 1986, receiving the Annual Pride Award for Outstanding
Community Commitment in 1995. She created and organised Summer
Rites from 1996 to 1999, the first alternative gay festival, at Brockwell
Park in Brixton. Summer Rites was organised in response to growing
despair at the commercialisation of London Pride. It featured ten disco
tents, a main stage and 150,000 people. Some say it has never been
bettered. Kim opened Candy Bar London in 1996, the first fulltime
lesbian venue, and it’s still going strong. She opened Candy Bar
Brighton and ditto! Kim and Candy Bar hosted the first Women’s Disco
Tent at Brighton Pride in 2000, and every year thereafter except 2004.
In 2001 Kim started London club night Bootylicious, which now
attracts 1,300 mainly black lesbians and gay men. The same year she
started Wet Pussy, Brighton’s biggest lesbian club night and proud
winner of the Golden Handbag Award for Best Girls Night for six years
running – now re-branded as the Pussy Party. In 2003 Kim was the
founding organiser of the first official outdoor Pride event in London’s
gay village, Soho Pride. The same year, she was the founding organiser
of the successful OUT On The Streets post-Brighton Pride street party,
in and around Brighton’s gay village. And it doesn’t end there – Kim
ends her email with: “Candy Bar Sydney: coming soon!”
SHEILA MCWATTIE
When Sheila arrived in Brighton in 1996, it took a while to get used to
the fact that this LGBT nirvana seemed so much less diverse and
accepting than she’d anticipated. She’d lived and worked in London for
GSCENE 29
15 years after leaving her hometown of
Paisley, in the west of Scotland, and
spending time in the Isle of Skye,
Edinburgh and Amsterdam. Diversity felt
crucial: she’d been a community worker
for many years, developing supported
SHEILA MCWATTIE
projects for single homeless women from
a wide variety of backgrounds.
As a Brighton Women’s Centre (BWC)
volunteer, she met many lesbians who
felt isolated in this supposedly gay-friendly city. She wanted to put BWC
on the city map, and help herself feel more connected as a lesbian and a
Brighton resident. In 2000 she looked for more refreshing ways of
earning a living and took a journalism course at Brighton & Hove City
College, just as BWC faced closure due to council funding cuts. The loss
of £6,000 a year undermined a struggling organisation and she did her
best to publicise the effects. It suited her activist instincts to acquire
the tools to communicate effectively with the press. The late Shirley
West, treasurer and co-founder of BWC, had a huge influence on Sheila
by understanding how much it improves women’s confidence to be heard
and supported while trying to change their own lives.
“Shirley inspired many who were on the verge of giving up in the face of
petty politics and a lack of vital resources,” says Sheila. “Eight years on,
with her help, I earn my living as a writer, editor, publicist, events co-
ordinator, creative-writing tutor and fundraiser, and feel fortunate to have
had many life-changing experiences. I chaired B&H International Women’s
Day Group for four years; with a committee of local women, I help co-
ordinate Pride Women’s Performance Tent and other events, including
IWD activities, such as this year’s creative writing, songwriting and
performance project, Where Are You Coming From? with local women and
employing local writers, musicians and songwriters as tutors at BWC.
This city is fortunate to have such an abundance of creative people within
its LGBT communities, and special thanks are due to everyone who just
keeps working towards making life here more bearable and diverse. It’s
brilliant and humbling to be involved with such resourceful individuals.
Living here has taught me that if you feel isolated, doing something
creative can make a huge difference.”
HAZEL PLATZER
HAZEL PLATZER
Hazel moved to Brighton in the 1980s,
having come out following an overnight
conversion. She told all her straight
friends that she wasn’t going to be “one
of those banner-waving gays”, but soon
she took to the barricades, marching
against Section 28. Brighton & Hove
had a very active Stop the Clause group,
which Hazel says was an interesting mix
of separatist lesbian feminists, university
gay-soc lesbians and gay men, and good
old-fashioned (mostly straight) lefties.
Hazel fitted into the middle group, having missed the women’s
movement as she was too busy scrubbing bedpans in a London hospital.
She had a feminist girlfriend and had cut her teeth with the lefties
during the miners’ strike. In fact, Section 28 gave her the idea of having
a pretend family (two mums and a gay dad) and her activism decreased
as the sleepless nights with two babies increased. However, she has
continued to keep her work political, undertaking research into the
health and social care needs of LGBT people and also looking at our
experiences of services. Locally she has worked with Spectrum, the
Working Together Project, the MindOut Project and the University of
Brighton with Hove YMCA. Although the Brighton & Hove LGBT
community has changed beyond recognition since the early 1980s, and
there have been major legislative changes, she believes passionately
that mainstream services are not delivering competent care to our
communities. She also believes that mainstream services need to
improve the way they work with voluntary sector projects, which often
provide much more accessible care. To this end she continues to try and
work in ways which raise awareness within local services about how
discrimination continues to affect our lives and our children’s lives.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
MICHELLE POOLEY
MICHELLE POOLEY
International Women’s Day is important to
Michelle Pooley, but just as important to
her is the diversity of the city, and the
multi-faceted Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and
Transgender people that she’s come in
contact with. Michelle landed in Brighton
following her successful application to be
the first co-ordinator for the Brighton
Women’s Centre in 1996. She upped sticks
from her beloved Swansea where she had worked for the Equal
Opportunities Commission. In Brighton, she was openly supported and
embraced by people in the community – “Yes you know who you are!”
“As a feminist, what I find amazing about Brighton & Hove are the
hidden treasures - male, female and trans people who work tirelessly to
make Brighton & Hove the place where LGBT people want to be.”
Michelle describes her time here as a voyage of discovery, and she
knows that the women featured this month are the very women who
make this City work. As a woman who saw the need for liberation
campaigns, and the need to challenge violence in private relationships,
Michelle soon became a member of the Brighton & Hove Domestic
Violence Forum. This lead to her being one of the founder members of
the Anti-Victimisation Unit. At the time, this was an important
initiative which changed the way Domestic Violence and Abuse, Racist,
Homophobic and later Transphobic crime was and continues to be
addressed in the City. Today, as the Brighton & Hove Domestic
Violence Forum Chair, she continues to be active in the work of the
LGBT Domestic Violence and Abuse Working Group.
Michelle has delivered training for the last eight years to many
voluntary and community groups through her work for the acclaimed
Working Together Project. Her determination to ensure women’s
services were visible at Pride, culminated in the never to be forgotten
double-decker bus, decorated with purple and silver banners. The 5am
start proved well worth the effort with a fantastic turnout of women and
hundreds of pounds raised along the march route. Michelle even acted as
a ‘minder’ one year for singer Hazel O’Conner when she performed at
the women’s tent at Brighton Pride. “I continues to be motivated by the
commitment of so many women, men and trans people who make this city
safe, diverse, and a very incredible place to live, work and play. Long may
it continue!”
LISA TIMERICK
LISA TIMERICK
When Lisa Timerick attended the
University of Glamorgan in 1996, it was
her first real opportunity to think for
herself and make her own decisions. She
began by studying Law, something she felt
would make her dad proud - but luckily she
found her true self. “I became a veggie and
started sleeping with women, later defining
myself as a bi and proud woman. That’s
when I started getting involving in politics
and liberation campaigns.” Lisa ditched the
Law degree and started studying Criminology. She became a Women &
Equal Opportunities Officer at the Student Union and got involved in
the national NUS LGBT and Women’s Committee. She set up the first
local Students With Disabilities Group and got liberation campaigns at
the forefront of the union’s work. Then the time came to get a job. “I
was confused as I really enjoyed diversity work but I didn’t want my
degree to go to waste. I saw the ad for the LGBT Community Liaison
Officer for Sussex Police and thought it would give me a chance to use my
skills from both areas and to get involved with some community work. I
got the job and moved to Brighton straight way.”
“I was amazed how little communication there was between the police
and the community. If you’ve read my Gscene columns over the years,
you’ll know about the work I’ve done. I won the Police Review Diversity
Award, the East Sussex High Sheriff’s Award, and the Golden Handbag
Community Award, all of which I’m very proud of. I feel the main thing
I’ve done is communicated – with every aspect of the community. I’ve
been as open and honest as possible.” However, Lisa reached a point
where she’d achieved all she could in that role, and decided she needed
to be a police officer to achieve more. She’s now 22 weeks into her
training, and loving every second of it. “I saw an ad in Gscene from
Susie, who was interested in getting bi people together. We met and then
invited others to come along. We started off with 8 people, then 30, and
now Brighton Bothways keeps on growing - the first recognised voice for bi
people in Brighton & Hove. I’ve been Co-Chair since it started in October
2003.”
“I attended a few Clare Project meetings and realised that a lot of trans
people felt isolated. I applied for funds and ran a weekly trans swimming
group, which lasted for a couple of years. It built confidence within a lot
of people who then felt more able to go out and socialise.”
The main thing Lisa’s learnt is that people need to talk to each other
more and that there are a lot of barriers that need to be broken down to
achieve a real sense of community. “Being involved in community work
has enabled me to meet some amazing people. It also means I’ve no time
for myself! Between my training, kayaking, snowboarding, and running
Brighton Bothways, I’ve no time to relax - but I wouldn’t change it for the
world.”
JESS WOOD
JESS WOOD
Jess Wood’s first memories of Brighton
are of the Women’s Centre. It was in a
basement and she helped set up a rape
crisis line and a lesbian line. “I also
remember at that time becoming very
close friends with three young artists – all
gay men, two of whom subsequently
became HIV-positive. Suddenly my world
was not dominated by women’s issues any
more, and I began to feel a great sense of
community also with gay men.”
Jess started working with Lesbian & Gay Switchboard and soon became
its secretary. “In those days recruitment for Switchboard happened over a
splendid supper made by a wonderful man called Edward. A brief chat,
some great food, a little bit too much wine and you were in. Training for
the role? You’re joking. How things have changed.”
In the late 1980s, friends began to get sick and die of Aids-related
illnesses. “It was a terrible time, almost apocalyptic. For four years, my
partner and I devoted all our energies to supporting those friends.”
After a period of disability, Jess began to mentor a young care-leaver
who was lesbian and trans. When she looked for an LGBT youth group for
her, there was nothing. One day at the Young People’s Centre, Jess met
a young sexual-health worker, James Newton. “I said to him, ‘This is
wrong! There must be something for young people. OK, I’m going to set
something up.’ And James replied, ‘If you do, I’ll help you.’ Neither of us
had any idea what this would mean or where it would take us.”
Their first grant was £1,000. They were so excited. They went and
bought stamps, paper, some biscuits for the young people and set up a
bank account. The next grant they got was £5,000. “We bought a laptop
and thought, now we are really in business!” This was in 1999. Nine
months later, in 2000, they got their third grant. This time it was
£220,000! They reeled in shock and then got to work. “In four months, I
went from being an artist and a teacher of religious studies to becoming
the manager of a major new youth project. Nine years later, Allsorts is still
here, still growing and thriving. We now employ six part-time workers, and
after April it will be nine. Thanks to everyone who has been part of this
great adventure.”
“In those days recruitment for
Switchboard happened over a splendid
supper made by a wonderful man
called Edward. A brief chat, some great
food, a little bit too much wine and you
were in. Training for the role? You’re
joking! How things have changed.”
Jess Woods
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 31

SHOPPING
WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN
Magic frog with lily soap
dish, £14.95 (Hank and
Hugo, 115 St George’s Road,
01273 684023)

Andrew Christian Pants, £16.99

(Prowler, 112 St James’s Street,
01273 683680) Vegetable Elvis toughened glass
chopping board, £11.95 (England at
Home, 59 Ship Street, 01273 738270)

It’s Mothering Sunday on March 2. Fantastic hand-made cards

for the special day, Cardome. Open from 12.30pm Sundays.
www.cardome.co.uk

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
32 GSCENE

SHOPPING
WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN

If you like Australian hunks you must – by law – buy the Bondi Trilogy,
£19.95 (Clone Zone, St James’s Street, 01273 626442)

2008 Calendars and DVDs (£5)

featuring the guys of
Sheffield Hallam University
Rugby Club naked in the
showers and the
changing room, are
available on the club More retro-
website at future fun with
www.shurugby.com the Scandiphone,
£42.50 (Pussy,
Kensington Gardens,
01273 604861)

If your cat is a Space 1999 fan, it will love

this retro-future cat bed in grey felt and
stainless steel, £580 (Mio Minn, 28
Western Road, 01273 204477)

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE!

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FOR £26 (INC P&P)
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PAYMENT DETAILS COMPLETE THIS FORM, MAKE YOUR CHEQUE PAYABLE TO GSCENE MAGAZINE LTD
FOR £26 AND SEND IT TO: GSCENE MAGAZINE, SUBSCRIPTIONS, 111 WESTERN ROAD, HOVE, BN3 1DD

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

FOOD
BY MORHAM WHITE
GAME, BEEF & MERINGUES
Grey and blustery it may have been, but regardless we set off from the
seafront for Sunday lunch in the country – our venue, Blackboys Inn,
Blackboys, beyond Lewes on the Ringmer Road. I had booked a table for
two, just in case. As it turned out things were fairly quiet on arrival
with the parking just starting to fill up. This is to be found on the north
side of the main Lewes Road around the horseshoe green adjacent to
the inn’s stylish patio, where we had previously enjoyed two autumnal
meals in the sun.
Here you can have a bar snack for around £7 to £8: sausage, egg and
chips; sausage and mash; chilli con carne; a pint of prawns; or a
burger, or choose from the daily specials. Up the steps and inside it’s
all ‘olde worlde’ charm, with dark, low beams, bold pink walls, china,
brasses and chandeliers – all quite theatrical. To the left is the bar with
loos beyond. To the right is the bar from which to order drinks and food,
or you can move on through to the two-room restaurant.
At the bar you have the choice of snacks or specials. In the restaurant
you get an à la carte menu with starters and mains in addition to the
specials. The starters range from £4.95 for the soup of the day
(tomato), up to £8.95 for a scallop and smoked salmon dish. We set
off with linen napkins on laps, a basket of bread and a ramekin of
butter at room temperature – a good start. I tried the chunky and filling
game terrine with leaves, diced red pepper and onion, £4.95.
Meanwhile my companion, known to cause a ruckus on occasion,
announced that the scallops were “excellent value for money”. Well, that
was another plus!
I studied the wine list, choosing a large glass of Cape Bay Chardonnay
from South Africa, £4.40, then an excellent Chilean Merlot. Worth
noting is the variety and pricing structure of the wine list, with
Bib
Tucker &
GOOD ALES, LAGERS,
FINE WINES, GREAT FOOD*

new look, new owners, new menu

local Sussex sourced produce
* kitchen prepared food

kitchen open everyday till 9pm

daily specials board

fresh relaxed atmosphere

Sunday roast, children's portions

children welcome till 8pm
212 Elm Grove, Brighton
t: 01273 671616
e: thebibandtucker@btconnect.com
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 33
incremental pricing towards £30 a bottle, plus a couple of glamour
numbers. Was the Barolo more than £50? Sir took a sip and commented,
“Have I been stitched up here? It’s really very good,” acknowledging the
quality of what was actually one of the cheaper bottles, a real steal at a
mere £11.50.
The mains included sardines, £8.50, moules, £9.50, and the main list
runs from £13.95 to £15.50 with a venison dish out front at £19.50. I
was torn – was it to be the rack of lamb or the roast beef? We both
ended up choosing the beef with roast potatoes, Yorkshires and a
shared platter of assorted vegetables accompanying two wonderful
slices of the best beef this year.
By this time we were full, but determined to attempt dessert, at £5.50.
The white chocolate crème brûlée was very rich and creamy but with
no crunch, and I felt my lemon meringue was disappointing when
unfairly compared with a warm and crisp home-baked experience. Other
dishes included cheese and biscuits, apple and berry crumble, trifle,
lime and lemon cheesecake, chocolate almond torte, croissant and
apricot pudding. It was just about warm enough to take coffee
outside, to allow Sir a smoke. The
bill came in at just under £70 for
two. Another trip is clearly on the
cards, back to the bright patio out
front, weather permitting.
Blackboys Inn, Lewes Road,
Blackboys, East Sussex, TN22
5LGTel: 01825 890283,
www.theblackboysinn.co.uk
NO MOSHI MOSHI! IT JUST WON’T DO
Four times in the last three months I have gone midweek to eat at
Moshi Moshi in Bartholomew Square. Each time I have ordered a bottle
of white house wine to accompany my sushi. Each time I have been told
they have run out of house white wine and been offered other bottles of
white ranging in price from £18-£22. I indicated that I was happy to
have any wine they want to serve me at the same price as the house
wine, but “that is against company policy” I have been informed each
time.
Brighton is fast developing the tag ‘rip off Brighton’ from many visitors.
Surely it is not too much to expect a restaurant if they can’t manage to
control their wine stocks to offer the next priced bottle of wine at the
same price as their house wine? A spokesperson for Moshi Moshi said,
“During Christmas and New Year, we were busier than we expected and
ran down our wine stock to a very low level. (We have been renovating
the restaurant since Nov and could not use our wine storage at the back
of the restaurant, so the space for stock is limited). In Jan, our supplier
had some problems with the delivery to Brighton, plus we have closed a
few days for several times to speed up the renovation which did not
help the situation. However, I am glad to say that everything is now
back to normal, and we have all the wines available in the restaurant.”
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
34 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
FOOD
BY JAQ BAYLES
THE MEADOW
Inhabitants of that capital of cool on the South Coast, Brighton & Hove,
are renowned for being tolerant – except, perhaps, when it comes to
gluten and lactose. But now food miles have been added to that elite
list as the Guardian-reading population invests in locally produced
organic veg boxes to help counter their carbon footprints. So it was only
a matter of time before this environmental consciousness started to
invade the city’s restaurant scene. This is where The Meadow comes in.
Opened last summer, this former bank next to Hove’s Clock Gardens is
the first venture for Sussex-born chef/proprietor Will Murgatroyd, who
trained in the Gordon Ramsay stable under Marcus Wareing at Pétrus.
Murgatroyd is passionate about the seasonal ingredients for his menu,
which focuses on British cuisine with Italian and French influences. He
sources produce locally where possible – as local as his parents’ garden in
nearby Storrington and the beach at the bottom of the road. A group of
us were taking advantage of a fantastically good-value-for-money lunch
menu (two courses £11, three courses £14) and were treated royally by
the friendly, efficient staff in a restaurant space which, although light
and airy, suffers a little from being particularly vast and might not be for
the potentially agoraphobic.
The set menu provided enough variety for most of us, although one or
two did go off piste, unable to resist the lure of the venison – and
justifiably so, as it turned out. It’s not just the veg that’s proudly British
at The Meadow – there’s an emphasis, too, on the use of fine English
livestock breeds, and even the wine list offers up some indigenous
options, including a sparkler from Ridgeview in nearby Ditchling
(Fitzrovia, 2004, £42). My starter of slow-braised Old Spot pork belly
salad with roasted mango was a dream – a thick slice of soft, melting
meat under a crisp coat of salty-sweet crackling, cut through with the
tartness of the mango. With the other starters being cured Cumberland
ham with celeriac rémoulade, and warm beetroot with horseradish and
sour cream, the consensus was that an appropriate accompaniment
would be a lively white – the lovely, fresh Argentinian Las Moras
Viognier 2006 (£16), crisp with apricot and tropical fruit flavours. There
was more slow cooking with a main of shin of Longhorn beef and
buttered greens. The beef was so tender it barely needed chewing and
the deeply meaty flavour was brilliantly lifted by possibly the most
deliciously zesty greens I have ever tasted. All pulled together with an
oozing, creamy side of Dauphinoise potatoes and helped along by a
moreish, fruit-driven Rioja Vega Crianza 2003 (£17), as meaty as the
beef with vanilla, cherry and oak on the nose and a little chocolate and
liquorice on the palate. Murgatroyd was especially keen to hear what we
thought of the ‘concise but varied’ wine list – a work in progress he
intends to hone with the help of diners’ comments.
64 Western Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 2JQ
01273 721182 www.themeadowrestaurant.co.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 35

bar and grill

The Terraces Bar and Grill is now under new
management and to celebrate have introduced
a fabulous new menu.

The Menu has been developed to offer an entirely

flexible approach to eating and drinking and offers
an exciting and sophisticated mix of Modern
European and ‘Best of British’, with only the
freshest and finest quality ingredients used.

The restaurant is open

Monday-Saturday 11am-11pm
and Sunday 11am-10.30pm

For reservations telephone 01273 570526

The Blackboys Inn

civil partnerships
Celebrate your Civil Partnership with the best
views in Brighton and Hove.

The Terraces Function Rooms boasts a spacious

self-contained area with outside patio overlooking
the Brighton Pier with its breathtaking views.
excellent cuisine using locally sourced
meat, game & seafood We can offer tailor–made packages suitable for all
budgets and every taste.
extensive wine selection, Harvey’s ales
relaxing friendly ambiance

Lewes Road, Blackboys, madeira drive brighton

East Sussex
01273 570526
Tel: (01825) 890283 www.the-terraces.co.uk
wwww.theblackboysinn.co.uk
sales@the-terraces.co.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
36 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM AMSTERDAM (BURNS NIGHT, OLD PEOPLES LUNCH & SPEED DATING) + AQUARIUM (BURNS NIGHT)

MARCH
LISTINGS

AMSTERDAM
Every Saturday from 8pm it’s D.I.S.C.O. at the Amsterdam as they serve up the best 70s
disco and party music for pre-clubbers who are all ‘housed-out’! Put the FUNK back in to
Saturday nights! Every Sunday join Dame Connie Conway as she hosts Karaoke Cabaret
from 8pm till late. This night has become very popular and is well worth checking out.
Every Wednesday there’s the Big Quiz! Whether you're a quiz genius, a trivia king, a
mathematical marvel or just in need of a fun evening with friends, this light hearted Quiz is
the perfect place to be mid-week! Kicks off at 8pm, and it’s Free!
Don’t forget The Amsterdam offers a great a la carte menu every day of the week, making it
the perfect place to relax and unwind and the sauna is now open from 5pm-4am seven
nights a week.

SaTurDay 1
CANDY BAR Sugar: DJs Queen Josephine, between 9.30-10.30pm, 9pm
CANDY BAR SOUNDCHECK: live music,

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am Keep Hollie, Rocket & Miss Annik, free 9-10pm, £4
PV Duos, 4pm, PV DJs 9pm open 12-12pm Distasters In The Sun, Dissolved In, October in
the party alive with the best of 70s Disco 8pm, b4 12pm, £6 after, free coat check, 9pm-late
R-BAR Glitterati! with DJ Holiie 9-12pm, Minnesota, DJ Pookie, cheap drinks, £2 pints/
restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
CHARLES ST BAR Pre Club Party, noon-late 241 cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from vodka mix! £4/£3NUS/flyer, ID required, open
sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
CHARLES ST CLUB FILTHY CUTE 12-3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu 9pm-late

AQUARIUM St David’s Day cabaret: Tony spectacular launch party, resident DJs, free from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
CHARLES ST BAR Sunday Lunch: noon-
Page, raffle in aid of Altziemers Society, 9pm Filthy Cute CD, dazzling lasers, light & visuals, BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm 8pm 2 Sunday Lunches £7.95, Casino Rayale:

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) free welcome drink, select drinks £2, £5 b4
REVENGE KINKY DANGEROUS! level 1 choice of 3 champagne cocktails, noon-11pm
IGNITION: DJ Peter Castle, free B4 12 then £5, 11pm/£7 (NUS/Cons £5 all night), 10.30-3am Kinky Pop: DJ Stu, play party tunes, level 2
GROSVENOR Chill Out Sundays, Free bar
access all areas, smoking area, 11-4am
GROSVENOR Pre club party, 1pm-2.30am Dangerous House: DJ Dulcie, funky upfront, snacks, 1pm-3pm, open 1pm-1am

BRIGHTON TAVERN John & Roberts
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Live DJ house, £5 b4 12pm, £7, 10.30pm-late
LEGENDS Terrace open all day, lounge bar
leaving party, 8pm-late
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
STAR INN Food: 12-4pm, Bear Bait: Bears 11am-5am Cabaret The Pitt Sisters, 3.15pm

BULLDOG MAIN BAR: VJ John 10pm-3am, bar open 11am-5am, pre Ignition from 7pm social, 8pm-1am free entry to club, smoking area
TOP BAR: karaoke with Adam, 9pm-2am, men free access to club B4 12pm, smoking area
VAVOOM Wild West Party, Late bar till 6am
MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Dish of the Day
only after 10pm, photo ID/Bulldog mem after 12pm
MARINE TAVERN Let The party Begin with happy hour till 7pm
QUEENS ARMS Lady Imelda, 5.30pm, then

CALEDONIAN Piano Bar hosted by Auntie Steve, Nat & Dale!
V2 Up: Wild West Party, Jukebox, video bar, Heat 1 Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest, 6pm
Polly, 9.30pm all pints £2.50, house spirits
QUEENS ARMS Cabaret: Candy the Slag, Down: Karaoke, Miss Joyride, free, 10pm-late
REBEL AFTERHOURS @ HONEYBAR
£1.50 DJ Andy B & Open The Box on stage anytime
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio, HOLLYWOOD BABYLON, discount wrist bands at
10am-2am Wild Fruit, more on the door, 3am-early

ZONE Saturday Night Project with Lady Jane
R-BAR Mothering Sunday Special roast
and Sally Vate, 9pm dinners upstairs at BEACH HOUSE
BRASSERIE, noon-7pm, cabaret with Jacquii
SUNDAY 2 Cann, 7pm, 241 cocktails, all drinks £2 all day

AMSTERDAM Sunday lunch noon-5pm, (excl.champagne & doubles), with free Privilege
Bar open 11am-2am Connies Karaoke: 7- card, open 24 hrs till 2am, funk soul and disco
10.30pm smokers patio, Sauna open 5pm- with DJ Diablo till midnight, shots £1.49 when
4am residents £5 rest £8 red light flashes

AQUARIUM Cabaret Jaqui Cann, 4.30pm
STAR INN Sunday roasts, noon-4pm, Bear
Free Bar Buffett, Karaoke Showtime, 9pm Bash, charity raffle,shag tag & buffet, 5pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
VAVOOM Choose your own vids, late bar till
EMBRACE: DJ Nick Shepherdson (GAY), chart, 6am, happy hour till 7pm
free in, select premium drinks £2, 11pm-3.30am
WILD FRUIT@TRU GOLD OSCARS Trash

BIB&TUCKER Sunday Lunch, live Jazz, Party DJs Pete Haywood, Neil Duffie, Kate
reservations call 01273 671616 Wildblood & Queen Jo, guest DJ Gonzalo, drink

BULLDOG TOP BAR: Cash Karaoke with Guy, deals all night, £5 NUS, £7 b4 11pm, £9 after
AQUARIUM 9pm-2am: MAIN BAR: DJ Grant Knowles 5- 11.30pm, £10 Qjump, advanced & guests,
On St Patrick’s Day, Monday 17, Guinness and Irish Whisky is 50p off from 7pm-close. 10pm, DJ Wayne till 2am 10pm-3am Adv tickets: Dr Brighton’s, Clone
On Easter Monday 24, there’s an Easter Bonnet Olde Time Music Hall, hosted by
CALEDONIAN 1 For The Road, all pints Zone (Brighton), Prowler (Brighton), Charles St,
Commander Ray Halcroft-Whiten (R.N. RTD), with special guests, prize for best bonnet, £2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late Dome Box Office (01273 709709) & ticketweb
and charity fundraiser for the RNLI, all from 9pm. Every Friday night from 9pm there’s
cabaret with Miss Jason 7; Jacque Bennett 14; Josh Mills 21; and Jennie Castell 28.
On Saturdays from 9pm there’s cabaret with Tony Page on 1 (plus raffle for Brighton BIB & TUCKER
Alzheimer's Society); Jerome Lloyd 15; Miss Hap 22; and Jamie Watson 29. On Thursday 6 Loz Netto performs live at 8pm – he’s toured with Ben E King, and Kenny
Every Sunday there’s a free buffet bar, and cabaret acts at 4.30pm starring Miss Jacqii Rogers and Chaka Khan have covered his songs. He’s big in the US and well worth checking
Cann 2; Sally Vate 9; Glam & Glitz 16; Dame Margot and the Brighton & Hove out. Elm Grove’s finest serves food daily from Midday to 9pm, including great Sunday
Actually Gay Men's Chorus 23; and Maisie Trollette 30 followed by Karaoke Roasts with live jazz every week. Every Wednesday is Quiz Night from 9pm, £2 per
Showtime at 9pm. person, £1 to local charity, the rest goes to the winning team.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
PICS FROM BULLDOG + CALEDONIAN GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 37

MARCH
LISTINGS

WEDNESDAY 5
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, value

THE BULLDOG hour 5pm-9pm, open Noon-11pm
On St Patrick’s Day, Monday 17, Guinness is just £1.50 all day till midnight! Rest of the
AMSTERDAM Bar 11am-2am, Big Quiz
8pm Restaurant 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
GROSVENOR MIdweek Blues, 5pm-1am
month, all Drinks are just £1.23 from 1-3pm, Monday to Friday, then it’s Happy Hour
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
prices from 3-7pm, Monday-Friday. Mondays are Marcia’s Glitter Ball, dance the night bar 11am-5am, smoking area

AQUARIUM Songs from the Shows, 9pm
away to the best 70s & 80s disco classics. Tuesdays are men-only nights Kruz from 9pm.
MARINE TAVERN Dale’s Midweek Mayhem

BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS PLAY: DJ
Wednesdays are Midweek Relax. Thursdays are Therapy with DJ Grant Knowles,
PV Quiz Night with prizes 8pm
Alex Baker selected premium drinks £2, open
playing the latest dance sounds 10pm-2am. On Fridays DJ Marcia plays dance and pop,
QUEENS ARMS Official Pre Pop Sexy Party!
decks till midnight, 11-3.30am
while Myles hosts Karaoke upstairs – choose from 9,000 tracks! Later, Chris Reardon
BIB&TUCKER Quiz night, £2 per person, £1 9pm, guest DJ, discounted entry to Revenge
plays a dance mix from 2-6am. On Saturdays DJ V John spins a non-stop club mix goes to charity, 9pm
R-BAR DJ Hollie 9-12pm, 241 cocktails 5-
10pm-3am, while upstairs Adam hosts Karaoke. And on Sundays it’s Climax, with Free
BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl champagne &
bar snacks from 12 Noon, and DJ Grant Knowles playing dance and chart from 5-10pm. from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10- doubles), 2 main meals £7.95 from 12-3pm
Then, from 10pm, DJ Wayne plays the greatest club sounds from yesteryear and today. 11pm, Midweek relax open till 2am with free Privilege card, open till 2am full menu
Upstairs Guy hosts Karaoke and music videos from 8pm. ID required on Friday &
CALEDONIAN Lips & Lashes: night for at the BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm
Saturday nights after midnight. Brighton’s beautiful travestite/transgender
REVENGE POP SEXY! chart & r ‘n’ b from
community, changing facilities, all pints £2.50, DJ Stewart & Jakey, live on stage performances
house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late from POP! SEXY! team, £4/£3 mem & NUS,

WHITE HORSE Free bar snacks, pool,
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio, 10.30pm-3am

CANDY BAR BRING IT ON: open deck with
heated smoking patio, noon-midnight drinks promos, 10am-12pm
STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
Queen Jo, bring 3 tunes or choose 3 tunes from

ZONE Mothering Sunday Special with Tony
ZONE Everyone’s Happy! all day happy hour open till 11pm
the Bring It On Tune collection, free, 9pm-2am
Page, 4pm
TUESDAY 4
MONDAY 3
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am, Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
AQUARIUM Uncle Bens Quiz Night, 9pm

AQUARIUM Global Greats, 9pm
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) Club available for hire
BACK 2 THE 80S: DJ Steve Lush, free entry,
BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
access all areas, selected premium drinks £2, from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
£1 shots all night, smoking area, 11pm-4am 11pm, Kruz, strictly men only till 2am; TOP

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 BAR: private men only party 8pm-1am
1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-11pm,
CALEDONIAN HOVE Piano Bar: Miss Jason,
Marcia’s Glitter Ball 70/80s disco, open till 2am pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night 9.30pm

CANDY BAR SHIBBLEY SHABBLERS: DJs
CANDY BAR TWISTED KARAOKE +
Pookie & Crackwhore, poly sexual nite, indie anthems with DJ Rocket, free, 9pm-2am
rock/ trashie pop/electro, red light rush, £3/£2
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Mojito
NUS, £2 pints/house spirits & mixer, 9pm-2am Madness £2.50 all night, cocktail lounge till

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Studio 9pm with value hour 5-9pm, open noon-11pm
150 Warm Up, fabulous cocktail selection all
GROSVENOR Cocktail Night, taste Dan’s
night, value hour 5-9pm, noon-11pm cocktails all £4.95, open 5pm-1am

CHARLES ST CLUB STUDIO 150: Official
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
student night: DJs Luke Smith & Ali K, dancers, bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking area
regular theme nights, selected drinks £1.50,
MARINE TAVERN Quiz with Nat, money to
entry £2, 10.30pm-3am charity £1 per person, 9pm

GROSVENOR Lazy Mondayz,open 5pm-1am
PV Is it only Tuesday, selected drink deals

JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Quiz, 9pm with loyalty card 5-7pm

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
QUEENS ARMS Betty’s Karaoke Show, 9pm
bar 11am-5am, Cabaret: Dave Lynn & friends,
R-BAR pre Flashback 8.30pm, 241 cocktails
9.30pm free to Basement Club, smoking area 5-8pm, drinks £2 all day (exc champ & dbls), 2

MARINE TAVERN Laurence’s weekly gossip main meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with Privilege

QUEENS ARMS Karaoke, Cherry Poppin, 9pm card, open till 2am full menu at the BEACH

PV Don’t Like Mondays: selected drink deals HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm, Revenge passes CALEDONIAN BAR
with loyalty card, 5-7pm
REVENGE PAYDAY: official Brighton Uni, The Caledonian provides entertainment for all ages and genders. On Tuesdays and

R-BAR Miss Jason’s Mad House 10pm, LGBT NUS night, DJs Missy Lectric, & Glam Saturdays it’s Piano Bar, in March regular hosts Miss Jason and Roberta Slak will be
241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl Sam, £2 NUS/£3 others, drinks from just 80p, joined by Deborah Darcy and the lovely Auntie Polly. Wednesday is Lips ‘N’ Lashes, a
champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95 10.30pm-3am night dedicated to Brighton’s transgender/transvestite community and their admirers. Although
from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar, this night has only been going a few weeks, it’s already proving very popular. Thursday is the
2am full menu available upstairs at the BEACH open till 11pm turn of the bisexual community and their friends. Friday is Dave’s Karaoke Party to get the
HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm weekend off to a cracking start. Gay or straight, young or old, the Caledonian promises you a

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Silver
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio, warm friendly welcome, it’s a great place to meet to chat, sing, dance or party and don’t
Bears Night, open till 11pm drinks promos, 10am-12pm forget, all pints are £2.50 and all house spirits and splash £1.50, All Night, Every Night.

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour all night
ZONE Sally Vates Bingo, 8.30am

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 39

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
40 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM CANDY BAR (MUD WRESTLING)

MARCH
LISTINGS

CANDY BAR
 DYNAMITE BOOGALOO is moving to the Candy Bar starting Thursday 20th. Dynamite
Stu and Dolly Rocket invite friends old and new to check out their new home.
 CLUB TROPICANA first two Thursdays 6 & 13 plus a new pre-club Guitar Hero
Tournament from 8-11.30pm featuring the Playstation 2 game. DJs Cassie O &
Throwback play retro electro hairspray synth pop rock and party classics! The best 1980s
music & bar prices, pints only 98p b4 midnight + 1980s classic cocktails for only £5!
 SUGAR on Saturday nights with the best girl DJs on rotation, playing the hottest house,
with an International Women’s Day celebration on Saturday 8, and an Easter Bra
Parade on Saturday 22 – dress to win the title Ms Candy Bra – prizes galore! Entry free 9-
10pm, £4 b4 midnight, £6 after, free coatcheck! Open till the party stops.
 SOUNDCHECK on Sunday 2 is a live music showcase featuring Disasters in the Sun,
supported by Dissolved In and October in Minnesota. Resident DJ Pookie plays
indie/electro/trash +super cheap drinks including £2 promos! Open 9pm–late, £4/£3 NUS
or with flyer (18+ ID required). Sunday 9 and there’s brand new night, Eurotrash, featuring
guest bands, artists, photographers, performances & bizzarro. Resident DJs Size 0 Albino,
Lola Fer Fifi & Rujd Sportz, open 9pm-super late, £3/ £2 NUS.
 SIRENS on Sunday 16 is an Easter party, featuring hot chicks and bunny girls with lots HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm, free tickets for bar 11am-5am, pre Celebration party 7pm, the
of religious naughtiness! Seven Veils productions with the original glamorous night out for Revenge Chavettes, free access to basement club B4
people of all persuasions with DJ HRH Queen Josephine, 9pm-extra late, £5/3.50 concs.
REVENGE GIRLS ON TOP: trashy lesbian midnite, smoking area
www.myspace.com/anitaylor night, DJ Lady Bex, £4/£3 NUS, free passes
MARINE TAVERN Squeeze with Nat & Dale
 HE’S SO FINE – SHE’S SO FINE on Easter Sunday is a night of the greatest 1960s from R Bar & Marlborough, 10.30pm-4am
PV It’s Friday you’ve earned it!
Girl Group sounds, shimmy to the glorious sounds of the Supremes, the Ronettes and the
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Quiz with
QUEENS ARMS Camptastic, DJ Andy B,
Shangri-las with DJs Von Doogan and Wanker, open late, £3. buffet & prizes, 9pm-midnight impromptu cabaret, Open the Box, prize balloon
 SEXY GALEXY presents D*R*A*G on Sunday 30, a cabaret night of kinky kitsch
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours all night drop, 9pm
gender bending splendour! Join the Freak Show - calling all scary clowns, bearded ladies,
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
R-BAR Fabulous Fridays: DJs 9-12pm, 241
and elephant men with Vain Diesel & Guests + Drag DJ, Ms Annik 9pm-v late, entry £3. drinks promos, 10am-12pm cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from 12-
“Sexy is a multiple diva (drag industry variety awards) award winner not to be missed!"
ZONE Quiz Mania, 8.30pm 3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
www.myspace.com/sexygalexy
FRIDAY 7 BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm
www.thecandybar.co.uk

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
REVENGE Level 1: LOLLIPOP: 70s-00s, DJ
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, Lollipop Stu, Lollipop girls live PA, Level 2:

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm classics, 80s classic cocktails £5, pints 98p b4 Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8 LOVE: DJ Richard Jones & Jonny M, free b4

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karaoke midnight, free entry, 9pm-2am
AQUARIUM Cabaret with MIss Jason, 9pm 11pm, £7 after, 10.30pm-late
with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late
CHARLES ST BAR Mad Cow: hosted by Ms
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Bear Camp

WHITE HORSE Pool,heated smoking patio, Bond, entry £1 goes to good causes, bottles CELEBRATION: ultimate gay party, door whore Party: 8pm-1am
drink promos, free pool from 3pm,10am-12pm from £1, pints from £1.25, from 8pm-last entry Pooh La May, the Chavettes, Rush bar £1 shots,
VAVOOM Late Bar 6am, happy hours till 7pm

ZONE Miss Hap’s Krazy Karaoke, 8.30pm 10.45pm, bar open from noon, Food noon - DJs Steve Lush+ Alex Baker play girly pop &
V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karaoke
8pm value hour 5pm-8pm, open noon-11pm handbag, free b4 midnite, £4 after, access all with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late
THURSDAY 6
CHARLES ST CLUB 2 Floor RELIGION with areas, smoking area, 11pm-4am
WHITE HORSE Karaoke, 8pm heated

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am, Mother Superior Joan Bond, DJ Tony B, Lil Alex,
BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 smoking patio, drinks promos, 10am-2am
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, Mikalis & Billie, anthems/funky house, all drinks from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
ZONE Cabaret: Krissie Du Cann, 9pm
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8 from £1 (excl champagne, bottles of wine, & 11pm, Day Night & Early Morning, main bar:

AQUARIUM Open Mike Night, 9pm Smirnoff Ice/Black), entry £4, £3 with flyer/saint DJ Marcia 10pm-2am, DJ Chris Reardon 2am- SATURDAY 8

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) card, free with NUS/sinner card, heated smoking very late, top bar: Karaoke hosted by Myles,
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am Keep
SESSIONS: DJ Eddie K (Vauxhall Tavern), terrace, 10pm-late 9pm-2am: photo ID/Bulldog mems after 12pm, the party alive with the best of 70s Disco 8pm,
cheesy commercial pop, free entry, access all
GROSVENOR Can’t wait for the weekend!, strictly men only after 10pm restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
areas, select premium drinks £2, smoking area, 5pm-1am
CALEDONIAN Dave’s Karaoke Party, pints sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
11pm-3.30am
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Karaoke 8pm £2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late
AQUARIUM Cabaret Miss Treated, 9pm

BIB&TUCKER Exclusive appearance by Loz
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
CANDY BAR Booty Call: DJ Rocket, free 9-
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Netto singer songwriter who’s toured with Kenny bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking area 10pm, £4 b4 12pm, £6 after, 9pm-late IGNITION: DJ Peter Castle, free B4 12 then £5,
Rogers, Ben E King & Chaka Khan, 8pm Cabaret Spot Glam & Glitz, 9.30pm
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, value access all areas, smoking area, 11-4am

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
MARINE TAVERN Mantrap with Steve & Nat hour 5pm-9pm, Fairylee: pure cheese DJ Ruby
BULLDOG Day, Night & Early Morning,
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
PV Cocktails vs Clittails, cocktail mugs £10, Roo & assistant Connie Conway, 9pm- main bar: VJ John 10pm-3am, top bar:
11pm,Therapy DJ Grant Knowles, open till 4am 5 shots for price of 4 midnight, bar open from noon-late karaoke with Adam, 9pm- 2am, men only after

CALEDONIAN Bi-Sexual Night, all pints
QUEENS ARMS Kamp Kevin’s Karaoke 9pm
CHARLES ST CLUB ASYLUM: Dirty funky 10pm, photo ID/Bulldog member after 12pm
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late
R-BAR DJ Hollie, Funk Soul Disco, 9- electro madness with DJs Tom Logan & Lil Alex,
CALEDONIAN Piano Bar hosted by Auntie

CANDY BAR CLUB TROPICANA: New Pre 12pm, 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all 10.30pm-3am Polly, 9.30pm pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50
Club Guitar Hero, play the guitar hero playstation day (excl champagne & doubles), 2 main meals
GROSVENOR Thank Funk It’s Friday! 5pm-
CANDY BAR SUGAR: celebrate International
game on the big screen, DJs Cassie O & £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, 2.30am Women’s Day: DJs Queen Josephine, Hollie,
Throwback, retro/electro/synth/pop/rock/ open till 2am full menu available at the BEACH
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge Rocket & Miss Annik, free 9-10pm, £4 b4

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
31 OLD STEINE, BRIGHTON
01273 603010/ 07730 401810

THE LATE LATE

FRIENDLY BAR
HAPPY HOURS
MON+THUR ALL NIGHT
ALL OTHER NIGHTS TILL 7PM
LATE BAR EVERY NIGHT
OPEN TILL 5/6AM MOST DAYS

MARCH HAPPY
HOURS SPECIAL
£2 PINTS BECKS
VODKA SPLASH HAPPY EASTER!
EASTER BUNNY BOYS
SAT 22 MARCH
THEME PARTIES
1ST
8TH
15TH
17TH
22ND
29TH
WILD WEST
SUPER HEROES

ST PATRICK’S DAY
EASTER BUNNY BOYS
EGYPTIAN

IRISH SPECIALS!
VV
IRELAND WITH IRISH DRINK SPECIALS

GO TO
WWW.REALBRIGHTON.COM
SAT 15TH–MON 17TH

V OTE
V V
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£3 DOUBLE IRISH
WHISKY/SPLASH

£2 BOTTLES
vav

GUINNESS IN BEST SMALL BARS

PLEASE xxx DON’T FORGET US!!
£1.50 BAILEY SHOTS

ROOMS AVAILABLE NIGHTLY/WEEKEND/MIDWEEK FROM £30

SEE WWWVAVOOM.CO.UK FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION
42 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM BLISS + RELIGION + GROWL + PRIDE FASHION SHOW @ CHARLES ST

MARCH
LISTINGS

THE GROWL SET

FILTHY CUTE @ CHARLES ST CLUB

 FILTHY CUTE! launches on Saturday March 1 with a spectacular party! The club will
be transformed with dazzling décor, lights, lasers, and chillout zone! Expect uplifting vocal
house, Filthy Cute CD and Free drink on arrival. Boys and girls come out to play! 10.30pm-
3am, £5 b4 11pm, £7 after (NUS/Concs £5 all night). Drink deals from £2! NB: After the
launch party, Filthy Cute will be held on the LAST Saturday of every month – so the next
one is on Saturday March 29! www.filthycute.co.uk

GBH RELOADED @ CHARLES ST CLUB

CHARLES ST BAR
 NEW MENU complemented by new wines and cocktails, served daily from Midday-8pm,
so a great place for lunch or dinner. Value Hours are Mon–Sat 5–9pm (Thursdays 5–8pm).
 MAD COW on Thursdays, £1 entry (oes to charity), all drinks from £1–£1.75
(exceptions apply). Join host Joan Bond for this crazy night to kick start your weekend!
 FAIRYLEA on Fridays are pure cheese and high camp as Resident DJ Ruby Roo and
assistant Connie Conway, play tracks from yesteryear till today with the slightest hint of
cheese! Free cheese for all birthday boys and girls!
 GBH on Friday 28 and the GBH boys have 250 Free GBH Membership Cards to
giveaway! Top decor and production, amazing lights and lasers and tough funky house from
Tor King and Josh the Barber, and a free vodka/fruit shot on arrival. Expect it Hard and
Happening all night long, selected bottles just £2, selected double+mixer just £2.99, open
10.30pm-3am, £6 before 11pm, members £7 after, others £8 after, NUS/Concs £5 all night.
www.gbhclub.co.uk
GROWL @ CHARLES ST CLUB
 GROWL on Friday 14! For one night a month, Charles St Club is transformed into 1970s
NYC - a freeway flyover, surrounded by derelict shop trashed during the riots! Aimed at burly
men, bears, cubs and their admirers. DJs Tom Logan and Billy Davie, and hunky Growl Go-
Go boiz! £6 b4 12/£7 after, 10.30pm-3am. Last months opening was very promising and
the set was stunning. If you go down to the woods today pass the word around about Growl!

CHARLES ST CLUB 12pm, £6 after, free coat check, 9pm-late
 ASYLUM on Fri 7, check yourself into the craziest club night around with Lil Alex and
CHARLES ST BAR Pre Club Party, noon-late

CHARLES ST CLUB PASSION: 2 floors 1
Tom Logan on the decks, bringing you dirty, funky, electro madness.
price, Queen Jo & Lil Alex, £3, 11-3am
 STUDIO 150 on Mondays are Official Student Night! DJs Luke Smith and Ali K get the

GROSVENOR Pre club party, 1pm-2.30am
party started with the coolest mix of dance and the hottest chart hits – and get this, it’s just

JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Live DJ
£1.50 to get in, and drinks start at £1.50 – no wonder it works!
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
 PASSION Saturdays 8 & 15 with Queen Josephine + Lil Alex playing the best funky bar open 11am-5am, pre Ignition from 7pm
soulful house over two floors. Unleash the Passion in your Soul, 3 Pounds, 2 Floors, 1 Price! free access to club B4 12pm, smoking area
 MARDI GRAS on Saturday 22 is the launch night of Charles Street new big Saturday
MARINE TAVERN Let The party Begin with
night featuring upfront funky house and dance anthems complete with amazing visuals, great Steve, Nat & Dale!
giveaways and sexy go-go dancers.
PV Live on big screen Wales v Ire 1.15pm,
Eng v Scot 3.15pm, DJs 9pm open 12-12pm
BLISS @ CHARLES ST CLUB
QUEENS ARMS Cabaret: Sandra, DJ Andy B
 BLISS has moved to Friday nights, starting on Friday 21 with the Boy George & Open The Box on stage anytime between
Experience. Billie Lewis invites you to Camp Attack! Bliss a night to remember, with first 9.30-10.30pm, 9pm
class talent, drink promos from £1.50, party prezzies and DJs Tony Armstrong (Limelights,
R-BAR Glitterati! with DJ Holiie 9-12pm,
GAY, Benjy’s) + Lil Alex (Passion, Religion), playing funky & commercial house + Date 241 cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from
12-3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
Tag game throughout the night. 9pm-3am, £5 b4 Midnight, £6 after, £4 NUS all night.
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
www.club-bliss.co.uk
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE Kinky Dangerous! level 1 Kinky
Pop: DJ Stu, play party tunes, level 2
Dangerous House: DJ Dulcie, funky upfront,
house, £5 b4 12pm, £7, 10.30pm-late

STAR INN Food: 12-4pm, Bear Bait: bears
social, 8pm-1am

VAVOOM Super Heroes Party, Late bar open
till 6am happy hour till 7pm

V2 Super Heroes Party, UP: Jukebox, video
bar; DOWN: Karaoke with Miss Joyride, free,
10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
10am-2am

ZONE Saturday Night Project with Lady Jane
and Sally Vate, 9pm
SUNDAY 9

AMSTERDAM Sunday lunch noon-5pm,
Bar open 11am-2am Connies Karaoke Cabaret:
7-10.30pm smokers patio, Sauna open 5pm-
4am residents £5 rest £8

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
PICS FROM RELIGION + GBH @ CHARLES ST + THE GROSVENOR GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 43

MARCH
LISTINGS

PUSSY PARTY @ CHARLES ST CLUB GROSVENOR

 There’s no PUSSY PARTY in March, but it returns on Saturday April 5 and then the first
Saturday of every month at Charles Street Club.
RELIGION @ CHARLES ST CLUB
 RELIGION every Thursday, 2 floors of the best funky house anthems for the fallen angel
in all of us! Join Joan Bond. DJs Tony B, Lil Alex, Mikalis, and Billie for a divine experience
in clubbing from this award winning night. There’s an Easter Special on Thursday 20, and
drink promos every week from £2. Entry £4/£3 with a Flyer or Saint Card, NUS Free all night.
Heated Smoking Terrace for the unrepentant! Open 10pm till late!

AQUARIUM Sally Vate 4.30pm Free Bar
Buffett Karaoke Showtime, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Embrace: DJ Nick Shepherdson (GAY), chart,
free in, select premium drinks £2, 11pm-3.30am

BIB&TUCKER Sunday Lunch, live Jazz,
reservations call 01273 671616

BULLDOG Climax, top bar: Cash Karaoke
with Guy, 9pm-2am: main bar: DJ Grant
Knowles 5-10pm, DJ Wayne till 2am

CALEDONIAN 1 For The Road, all pints
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR EUROTRASH: new night feat
bands, artists, performances artists & bizzarro,
DJs include Size O Albino, Lola Fer Fifi & Rujd
Sportz, £3/£2NUS 9pm-late

CHARLES ST BAR Sunday Lunch, noon-
8pm 2 Sunday Lunches £7.95, Casino Rayale,
choice of 3 champagne cocktails, noon-11pm

GROSVENOR Chill Out Sundays, Free bar
snacks, 1pm-3pm, open 1pm-1am

LEGENDS Terrace open all day, lounge bar
11am-5am cabaret Lola Lasagne & John
Bruzon 3.15pm free entry to club, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Dish of the Day

PV Roast & Coast Sunday lunch noon-end
On Sundays enjoy free bar snacks from 1-3pm, and on Easter Sunday there’s an Easter
Bonnet Parade from 11am, with a buffet at 12 Noon, then party all day! On Tuesday
nights try some of Dan’s new and interesting cocktails – all at £4.95. Thank Funk it’s
Friday, and pre-club party tunes every Saturday, make this a good place to start your big
night out! Open Monday to Thursday 5pm-1am, Friday until 2.30am, Saturday 1pm-
2.30am, Sunday 1pm-1am.
access all areas, selected premium drinks £2, champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95
£1 shots all night, smoking area, 11pm-4am from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 2am full menu available upstairs at the BEACH
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10- HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

QUEENS ARMS Cassidy Connors, 5.30pm,
11pm, Marcias Glitter Ball, 70s/80s disco
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Silver
Heat 2 Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest, 6pm
classics, open till 2am Bears Night, open till 11pm

R-BAR Lazy Sundays, roast dinners upstairs

CANDY BAR SHIBBLEY SHABBLERS: DJs
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours all night
at BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE, noon-7pm,
Pookie & Crackwhore, poly sexual nite, indie
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
cabaret: Davina Sparkle, 7pm, 241 cocktails, all
rock/ trashie pop/electro, red light rush, £3/£2 drinks promos, 10am-12pm
drinks £2 all day (excl champagne & doubles),
NUS, £2 pints/house spirits & mixer, 9pm-2am
ZONE Everyone’s Happy! all day happy hour
with free Privilege card, open 24 hrs till 2am,

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Studio
funk/soul/disco with DJ Diablo till midnight,
150 Warm Up, fabulous cocktail selection all TUESDAY 11
shots £1.49 when red light flashes
night, value hour 5-9pm, noon-11pm
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,

STAR INN Sunday roasts, noon-4pm, Bear

CHARLES ST CLUB STUDIO 150: official Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Bash, charity raffle,shag tag & buffet, 5pm
NUS night: DJs Luke Smith & Ali K, dancers, Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm
regular theme nights, selected drinks £1.50,
AQUARIUM Uncle Ben’s Quiz Night, 9pm

VOLUNTEER (LEWES) Sunday Cabaret
entry £2, 10.30pm-3am
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Lunch with Maisie Trollette, 4pm, 4 course

GROSVENOR Lazy Mondays, open 5-1am Club available for hire
Sunday Lunch £15, reservations 01273 476357

JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Quiz, 9pm
BULLDOG main bar 123 Promotion, all

WHITE HORSE Free bar snacks, pool,

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge drinks £1.23 from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-
heated smoking patio, noon-midnight
bar 11am-5am, Cabaret with Dave Lynn and 7pm & 10-11pm, KRUZ: strictly Men only: till

ZONE Cabaret with Miss Treated, 8pm
friends, 9.30pm free entry to Basement Club, 2am: top bar men only party 8pm-1
smoking area
CALEDONIAN HOVE Piano Bar: Deborah
MONDAY 10

MARINE TAVERN Laurence’s weekly gossip D’Arcy pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50, 9.30pm

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,

QUEENS ARMS Karaoke, Cherry Poppin, 9pm
CANDY BAR TWISTED KARAOKE +
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,

PV Don’t Like Mondays: selected drink deals anthems with DJ Rocket, free, 9pm-2am
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
with loyalty card, 5-7pm
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Mojito

AQUARIUM Global Greats, Piaf, Aznavur

R-BAR Miss Jason’s Mad House 10pm, Madness £2.50 all night, cocktail lounge till

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl. 9pm with value hour 5-9pm, open noon-11pm
BACK 2 THE 80S: DJ Steve Lush, free entry,

DENMARK SAUNA JACK HORNER WORTHING

There will be new Brighton party nights at the Denmark Sauna so keep an eye on their On Monday nights are now Quiz Nights. Every Thursday is The Best Karaoke On The
website for details! The Sauna is open daily from 12am–10pm with early and late-entry South Coast from 8pm! Enjoy a live DJ on Saturdays 1 & 8. On Sunday 16 Lola
specials on offer. The Denmark is discreetly located close to Hove Station. 01273 Lasagne’s on stage at 3pm. And on Sunday 23, not only is it Nick the Landlord’s
723733 and visit the regularly updated website www.denmarksauna.com Birthday, but Drag With No Name will be performing at 3pm. Happy Birthday old boy!

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
44 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR + BASEMENT CLUB

MARCH
LISTINGS

LEGENDS BAR
DAVE LYNN

 CABARET on Sunday afternoon at 3.15pm stars The

Pitt Sisters 2; Lola Lasagne with John Bruzon 9;
Mandy Gap 16; and Maisie Trollette with John
Bruzon on 30. Every Monday see Dave Lynn &
Friends in cabaret, live on stage from 9.30pm.
The Cabaret Spot every Thursday night from 9.30pm
stars Glam & Glitz 6; Lady James 13; Minsky Rose
Lee 20; and Wilma Fingadoo 27.
 FOOD Legends offers bar snacks and light meals
during the day.
 PUB STARS 2008 Have you ever dreamed of pop stardom?This could be the first step
on the road to your dreams. The Brighton heats of Pub Stars 2008 National Karaoke
Competition comes to Legends on Tuesday March 11 and then every Tuesday in March
and early April - with the final in April. Each heat winner wins a prize and goes into the
Brighton Final at Legends. The winner will represent Legends in the National Competition
later in the year and could walk away with £3,000, a day in a recording studio, and a gold
disc! Don’t delay enter the UK’s No1 Karaoke Competition now by logging on to
www.legendsbrighton.com or pop into Legends for an entry form.

GROSVENOR Cocktail Night, sample Dans
cocktails all £4.95, open 5pm-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking
area, Heat 1 Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest

MARINE TAVERN QUIZ with Nat, money to
charity £1 per person, 9pm

PV Is it only Tuesday, selected drink deals
with loyalty card 5-7pm

QUEENS ARMS Betty’s Karaoke Show, 9pm

R-BAR Flashback Warm-Up 8.30pm, 241
cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl
champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95
from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
2am full menu upstairs at the BEACH HOUSE
BRASSERIE from 5pm free Revenge passes

REVENGE FLASHBACK: DJs Two Foot &
Lady P, plays 80s disco, drinks from 80p, £2/NUS
free, 10.30-3am

STAR INN Food: 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours till 7pm

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Sally Vates Bingo, 8.30am
WEDNESDAY 12

AMSTERDAM Barn 11am-2am, Big Quiz
8pm Restaurant 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Songs from the shows, 9pm

BIB&TUCKER Quiz night, £2 per person, £1
goes to charity, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS PLAY: DJ
Alex Baker selected premium drinks £2, open
decks till midnight, 11-3.30am

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
11pm, Midweek relax open till 2am

CALEDONIAN Lips & Lashes: night for
Brighton’s beautiful travestite/transgender
community, changing facilities, all pints £2.50,
house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR BRING IT ON: open deck with
Queen Jo, bring 3 tunes or choose 3 tunes from
the Bring It On Tune collection, free, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm,
Midweek Social, cocktail lounge till 9pm, value
hour 5pm-9pm, open 12-11pm

GROSVENOR Midweek Blues, open 5-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Dale’s Midweek Mayhem

PV Quiz Night with prizes 8pm

QUEENS ARMS Landlord Andy 30th (Oh
Yeah), Kitty Litter, special guests, nibbles, 8pm

R-BAR 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2
all day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main
meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege
card, open till 2am full menu upstairs at the
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE POP SEXY! chart & r ‘n’ b from
DJ Stewart & Jakey, live on stage performances
from Pop Sexy! team, £4/£3 mem & NUS,
10.30pm-3am

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karaoke
with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, free pool after 3pm,10am-12pm

ZONE Miss Hap’s Krazy Karaoke, 8.30pm
THURSDAY 13

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Open Mic NIght, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
SESSIONS: DJ Eddie K (Vauxhall Tavern),
cheesy commercial pop, free entry, access all
areas, select premium drinks £2, smoking area,
11pm-3.30am
BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS
 PLAY with DJ Alex Baker on Wednesday nights, Open Decks before midnight, then
uplifting house and dance anthems, free entry.
 CELEBRATION Every Friday with door whore Pooh la May and the Queens of camp
cabaret, The Chavettes! Rush Bar with £1 shots. DJs Steve Lush and Alex Baker play girly
pop and handbag all night long. Free before Midnight, £4 after!
 IGNITION on Saturday nights with the latest dance sounds in Brighton’s sexiest
underground space! Free before Midnight, £5 after!
 EMBRACE on Sundays with DJ Nick Shepherdson (G-A-Y), free entry, open 11pm-
3.30am.
 DRINKS PROMOS Sunday to Thursday there are £2 deals on selected premium drinks.
With many drinks promo’s there’s usually a catch. Legends only served branded spirits from
Sunday to Thursday before 1am. Bottles of Grolsch, Bud, WKD, Becks & Pints of Carling for
only £2! Think premium branded spirit+mixer for only £2 as well! All that and FREE ENTRY
from Sunday to Thursday at The Basement Club below Legends.

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
GROSVENOR Can’t Wait Till The Weekend!
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10- open 5pm-2.30am
11pm, Therapy, DJ Grant Knowles, open till 4am
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Karaoke 8pm

CALEDONIAN Bi-Sexual Night, all pints
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking area

CANDY BAR CLUB TROPICANA: new pre , cabaret spot Lady James, 9.30pm
club Guitar Hero, play the guitar hero playstation
MARINE TAVERN Mantrap with Steve & Nat
game on the big screen, DJs Cassie O &
PV Cocktails vs Clittails, cocktail mugs £10,
Throwback, retro/electro/synth/pop/rock/ 5 shots for price of 4
classics, 80s classic cocktails £5, pints 98p b4
QUEENS ARMS Kamp Kevin’s Karaoke 9pm
midnight, free entry, 9pm-2am
R-BAR DJ Hollie, Funk Soul Disco, 9-

CHARLES ST BAR Mad Cow: hosted by Ms 12pm, 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all
Bond, entry £1 goes to good causes, bottles day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main
from £1, pints from £1.25, from 8pm-last entry meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege
10.45pm, bar open from noon Food noon- card, open till 2am full menu available at the
8pm value hour 5pm-8pm, open noon-11pm BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm, free

CHARLES ST CLUB 2 Floor RELIGION with tickets for Revenge
Mother Superior Joan Bond, DJ Tony B, Lil Alex,
REVENGE Up BOYS ON THE SIDE: new
Mikalis & Billie, anthems/funky house, all drinks night with GayDar Radio DJ Gary H (Federation,
from £1 (excl champagne, bottles of wine, & Crash & Heaven) & Jonny M; Down: GIRLS ON
Smirnoff Ice/Black),entry £4, £3 with flyer/saint TOP, trashy lesbian night, DJ Lady Bex, £4/£3
card, free with NUS/sinner card, heated smoking NUS, free passes from R Bar & Marlborough,
terrace, 10pm-late 10.30pm-4am

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 45

THE SMALLEST STAGE WITH THE BIGGEST TALENT

FRIDAY CABARET @ 9PM

7th MISS JASON
14th JACQUE BENNETT
21st JOSH MILLS presents
JUST JOSH
28th JENNIE CASTELL
SATURDAY CABARET @ 9PM
1st TONY PAGE
8th MISS TREATED
15th JEROME LLOYD
22nd MISS HAP
29th JAMIE WATSON
SUNDAY CABARET @ 4.30PM
2nd JACQUII CANN
9th SALLY VATE
16th GLAM & GLITZ
23rd DAME MARGOT & Brighton
& Hove
Actually Gay Men’s Chorus
30th MAISIE TROLLETTE
MONDAY SUNDAY
24THKARAOKE
MARCHSHOWTIME
@ 9PM @
EASTER BONNET OLDE TIME MUSIC HALL
Hosted by Commander Ray Halcroft-Whiten (R.N. RTD) +
Special Guests
Prize for best bonnet Charity Fundraiser for the RNLI
HAPPY HOURS Mon–Sat: Midday–7pm; Sun: Midday–4pm

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
46 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM MARINE TAVERN + QUEENS ARMS

MARCH
LISTINGS

QUEENS ARMS
It’s pub landlord Andy’s Annual 30th Birthday Party on Wednesday 12, (he’s 47 this
year), cabaret with Kitty Litter & Special Guests, +nibbles, from 8pm! Fridays are
Camptastic! with DJ Andy B - expect a bit of everything, impromptu cabaret, Open the Box,
and a Prize Balloon Drop from 9pm. Every Saturday night Expect to be Entertained with
DJs, and cabaret from Candy the Slag 1; Sandra 8; Pat Cruise 15; Dave Lynn 22; and
dragging up the rear, Glam & Glitz on 29. Every Sunday there’s top cabaret at 5.30pm,
starring Lady Imelda 2; Cassidy Conners 9; Drag With No Name 16; Kitty Litter 23;
and Wilma Fingerdoo 30 – followed each week by the heats of the Pubstars National
Karaoke Contest, just turn up and enter heats from 8pm, £3,000 prize at stake!

hour 5pm-9pm, Fairylee: pure cheese DJ Ruby
MARINE TAVERN Roo & assistant Connie Conway, 9pm-
Every Tuesday night there’s the Quiz with Nat, entry £1 per person, money to charity, kicks midnight, bar open from noon-late
off at 9pm. On Thursdays there’s Mantrap with Steve & Nat. Every Friday is Squeeze
CHARLES ST CLUB GROWL: 1970s NYC
with Nat & Dale. Expect fun and frolics on St Patrick’s Day and the odd bunny over the located under a flyerover surrounded by derelict
Easter weekend! shops, and door entraces trashed during the
riots. Spectaular production, a night for burly
men, bears, cubs and their admirers, £6 b4

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Quiz with DJs Steve Lush+ Alex Baker play girly pop & 12pm, £7 after 10.30pm-3am
buffet & prizes, 9pm-midnight handbag, free b4 midnite, £4 after, access all
GROSVENOR Thank Funk It’s Friday! 5-2.30

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours all night areas, smoking area, 11pm-4am
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 bar 11am-5am, pre Celebration party 7pm, the
drinks promos, 10am-12pm from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10- Chavettes, free access to basement club B4

ZONE Quiz Mania, 8.30pm 11pm, Day, Night & Early Morning, main bar: midnite, smoking area
DJ Marcia 10pm-2am, DJ Chris Reardon 2am-
MARINE TAVERN Squeeze with Nat & Dale
FRIDAY 14 very late, top bar: Karaoke hosted by Myles,
PV It’s Friday you’ve earned it!

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am, 9pm-2am: photo ID/Bulldog mem after 12pm,
QUEENS ARMS Camptastic, DJ Andy B,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, strictly men only after 10pm impromptu cabaret, Open the Box, prize balloon
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
CALEDONIAN Dave’s Karaoke Party, pints drop, 9pm

AQUARIUM Cabaret, Jacque Bennett, 9pm £2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late
COWLEY CLUB (LONDON RD) IN EVERY

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
CANDY BAR BOOTY CALL: DJ Rocket, free HOME A HEATACHE, Anarchist queer go go
CELEBRATION: ultimate gay party, door whore 9-10pm, £4 b4 12pm, £6 after, 9pm-late disco, DJs Lady Dye, Von Doogan & Wanker, £4
Pooh La May, the Chavettes, Rush bar £1 shots,
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, value (suggested donation), 9pm-late

R-BAR Fabulous Fridays: DJs 9-12pm, 241
cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from 12-
3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE Level 1: LOLLIPOP: 70s-00s, DJ
Lollipop Stu, Lollipop girls live PA, Level 2:
LOVE: DJ Richard Jones & Jonny M, free b4
11pm, £7 after, 10.30pm-late

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Bear Camp Party:
8pm-1am

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, Happy hours till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karakoe
Nights with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Karaoke, heated smoking
patio, drinks promos, 10am-2am

ZONE Cabaret: Miss Hap’s Birthday, 9pm
SATURDAY 15

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am Keep
PV the party alive with the best of 70s Disco 8pm,
Over the Easter weekend try Chocolate Shots, Cocktails and Drinks, and an extreme restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Chocolate Raffle! On Saturdays hear some of the best duets live from 4pm, then hear the PV sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
DJs from 9pm. Enjoy a great Sunday Roast from 12 Noon-6pm. The PV Quiz is every
AQUARIUM Jerome Lloyd, 9pm
Wednesday from 8pm, stupidity and fun guaranteed! More details on the website.
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
www.thepv.co.uk IGNITION: DJ Peter Castle, free B4 12 then £5,
access all areas, smoking area, 11-4am

BULLDOG Day, Night & Early Morning,
main bar: VJ John 10pm-3am, top bar:
karaoke with Adam, 9pm- 2am, men only after
10pm, photo ID/Bulldog member after 12pm

CALEDONIAN Piano Bar with Auntie Polly,
9.30pm all pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50

CANDY BAR SUGAR: DJs Queen Josephine,
Hollie, Rocket & Miss Annik, free 9-10pm, £4
b4 12pm, £6 after, free coat check, 9pm-late

CHARLES ST BAR Pre Club Party, noon-late

CHARLES ST CLUB PASSION: 2 floor
special: DJs Queen Josephine, Lil Alex, £3,
10.30pm-3am

GROSVENOR Pre club party, 1pm-2.30am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar open 11am-5am, pre Ignition from 7pm
free access to club B4 12pm, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Let The party Begin with
Steve, Nat & Dale!

PV Scotland v Italy 1pm, England v Ireland
3pm, Wales v France 5pm, PV DJs 9pm open
12-12pm

QUEENS ARMS Cabaret: Pat Cruise, DJ
Andy B & Open The Box on stage anytime
between 9.30-10.30pm, 9pm

R-BAR Glitterati! with DJ Holiie 9-12pm,
241 cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from
12-3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE KINKY DANGEROUS! level 1
Kinky Pop: DJ Stu, play party tunes, level 2
Dangerous House: DJ Dulcie, funky upfront,
house, £5 b4 12pm, £7, 10.30pm-late

STAR INN Food: 12-4pm, Mick & Charlie’s
(new managers) Welcome Party: bears social,
live DJ, 8pm-1am

VAVOOM Ireland Theme Party, Late bar open
till 6am, Happy hour & drinks deals till 7pm

V2 UP: Ireland Theme Party, UP: Jukebox,
video bar; DOWN: Karaoke with Miss Joyride,
free, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
10am-2am

ZONE Saturday Night Project with Lady Jane
and Sally Vate, St Paddy’s Special, 9pm
SUNDAY 16

AMSTERDAM Sunday lunch noon-5pm,
Bar open 11am-2am Connies Karaoke Cabaret,

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
PICS FROM R BAR + REVENGE (SAME DIFFERENCE, GIRLS ON TOP+POP! SEXY! GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 47

MARCH
LISTINGS

R BAR
 BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE upstairs at R-bar has received rave reviews since opening
in November - offering delicious food and great views of Brighton Pier, open daily from 5pm.
Downstairs, the R-bar serves food daily from Midday-3pm with two main meals for just
£7.95, and Cocktails 2 for 1 from 5-8pm. This is the place to party pre-Revenge, with Free
and Discounted Passes available some nights – ask at the bar!
 GLITTERATI on Saturday nights as the sophisticated crowd get ready for Kinky
Dangerous!
 LAZY SUNDAY Every Sunday, with Roast Dinner Sessions from Noon-late, and live
cabaret from 7pm, starring Jacqii Cann on 2; Davina Sparkle 9; Miss Thunderpussy 16;
and Drag With No Name 30; all followed by DJ Diablo playing funk, soul and disco till
Midnight.
 MISS JASON’S MADHOUSE Every Monday from 10pm, fun and frolics guaranteed –
plus All drinks are £2 All day! On Easter Monday there’s afternoon Cabaret with Laquisha
Jones from 4.30pm.
 FLASHBACK Every Tuesday is warm up, 80s trash (music not customers!) from 8.30pm.
 FUNKYSEXYDISCOHOUSE On Thursdays DJ Hollie sets the mood from 9pm-Midnight.

7-10.30pm smokers patio, Sauna open 5pm-
4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Glam & Glitz, 4.30pm Free Bar
Buffett, Karaoke Showtime, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
EMBRACE: DJ Nick Shepherdson (GAY), chart,
free in, select premium drinks £2, 11pm-3.30am

BIB&TUCKER Sunday Lunch, live jazz,
reservations call 01273 671616

BULLDOG Climax, top bar: Cash Karaoke
with Guy, 9pm-2am: main bar: DJ Grant
Knowles 5-10pm, DJ Wayne till 2am

CALEDONIAN 1 For The Road, all pints
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR Easter SIRENS: classic,
burlesque & pole dancing spectacular, DJs
Queen Jo, £5/£3.50 cons, 9pm-late

CHARLES ST BAR Sunday Lunch, noon-
8pm 2 Sunday Lunches £7.95, Casino Rayale,
choice of 3 champagne cocktails, noon-11pm

GROSVENOR Chill Out Sundays, Free bar
snacks, 1pm-3pm, open 1pm-1am

JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Lola Lasagne
3pm

LEGENDS Terrace open all day, lounge bar
11am-5am Cabaret Mandy Gap, 3.15pm free
entry to club, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Dish of the Day

PV Roast & Coast, Sunday lunch noon-
finished Live music 4-8pm

QUEENS ARMS Drag With No Name, 5.30,
Heat 3 Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest, 6pm

R-BAR Lazy Sundays, roast dinners upstairs
at BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE, noon-7pm,
cabaret with Miss Thunderpussy, 7pm, 241
cocktails, all drinks £2 all day (excl.champagne
& doubles), with free Privilege card, open 24
hrs till 2am, funk soul and disco with DJ Diablo
till midnight, shots £1.49 when red light flashes

STAR INN Sunday roasts, noon-4pm, Bear
Bash, charity raffle,shag tag & buffet, 5pm

VAVOOM Late Bar t6am, Happy hour till 7pm

WHITE HORSE Free bar snacks, pool,
heated smoking patio, noon-midnight

ZONE 1st Birthday Party, fundraiser for
Sussex Beacon, 5pm feat Jamie Watson, Jennie
Castelle, Miss Penny, Candi Rell, Lillie La
France, hosted by Miss Hap and Sally Vate
REVENGE
 BOYS ON THE SIDE a brand new night on Easter Thurs, March 20 brings top DJs to
Brighton with Gary H, GaydarRadio DJ + the best Brighton male DJs incl Lee Harris
(Gorgeous, Discotech), DJ Diablo (Queer Nation, Coco Latte), Gary Watts (Trade), Jozzie O
+ Alexandros play chunky funky house, + resident Jonny M. Something fresh for the boys,
(upstairs from Girls On Top). For free entry text 'Revenge Boys' to 61211 www.revenge.co.uk
 GIRLS ON TOP Special on Easter Sunday, 10.30pm-4am, £3 all night, or Free with a
Golden Handbag ticket stub! Every Thursday is regular Girls On Top, with DJ Lady Bex playing
chart/pop/trash/r’n’b and party tunes – plus great drink deals all night long! Free Passes from
R-bar and The Marlboro, £3 NUS/£4 others, open 10.30pm-4am.
 LOLLIPOP on Friday, the campest night on the Old Steine, with DJ Lollipop Stu, the
delicious Lollipop Girls live on stage! Upstairs feel the LOVE, as DJs Richard Jones and
Jonny M douse you in feel good house! It’s Free on Fridays before 11pm (open at 10.30pm),
so get there early, or pay £7!
 KINKY DANGEROUS on Saturday, Kinky Pop on Level 1 with DJs Stu and Nik C playing
party tunes, and Dangerous House upstairs, with Dulcie Danger mixing upfront funky vocal
house. Open from 10.30pm, £5 before Midnight/£7 after.
 PAYDAY on Tues 4, the official LGBT Brighton Uni NUS Night, with Missy Lectric &
Glam Sam, open 10.30pm-3am, entry £3/£2 NUS. Other Tuesdays are FLASHBACK – DJ
Two-Foot & Lady P play school disco smash hits from the 80s, drinks from 80p, open
10.30pm-3am, entry £2/NUS Free.
POP! SEXY on Wednesdays,the best in chart/pop/r&b from DJs Stewart T & Jakey, plus
live performances from the Pop! Sexy team, open 10.30pm-3am, entry £4/£3 mem/NUS.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
50 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS STAR INN
MARCH
LISTINGS
MONDAY 17

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM St Patrick’s Day Party, Guiness
galore, Guiness and all irish whisky 50p off from
7pm-close

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
BACK 2 THE 80S: DJ Steve Lush, free entry,
access all areas, selected premium drinks £2,
£1 shots all night, smoking area, 11pm-4am

BULLDOG St Patricks Day Party, Guiness
£1.50 a pint all day till midnight, 123 Promo, all
drinks £1.23 from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-
7pm & 10-11pm, Marcias Glitter Ball, 70s/80s
disco classics, open till 2am

CANDY BAR SHIBBLEY SHABBLERS: DJs
Pookie & Crackwhore, poly sexual nite, indie
rock/ trashie pop/electro, red light rush, £3/£2
NUS, £2 pints/house spirits & mixer, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Studio
150 Warm Up, fabulous cocktail selection all
night, value hour 5-9pm, noon-11pm

CHARLES ST CLUB STUDIO 150: official
NUS night: DJs Luke Smith & Ali K, dancers,
regular theme nights, selected drinks £1.50,
entry £2, 10.30pm-3am

GROSVENOR Lazy Monday, open 5pm-1am

JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Quiz Night, 9pm

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am, Cabaret: Dave Lynn + friends,
9.30pm free to Basement Club, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Laurence’s weekly gossip

QUEENS ARMS Karaoke, Cherry Poppin, 9pm

PV Don’t Like Mondays: selected drink deals
with loyalty card, 5-7pm

R-BAR Miss Jason’s Mad House 10pm,
241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl.
champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95
from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
2am full menu available upstairs at the BEACH
HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Silver
Bears Night, St Patrick’s Night Party, Guiness £2
a pint, open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours all night

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Everyone’s Happy! all day happy hour
TUESDAY 18

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Uncle Bens Quiz, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Club available for hire

BLACK HORSE: Open mic with Robin, 9pm

BULLDOG main bar 123 Promotion, all
drinks £1.23 from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-
7pm & 10-11pm, Kruz: strictly men only: till
2am: top bar men only party 8pm-1

CANDY BAR TWISTED KARAOKE +
anthems with DJ Rocket, free, 9pm-2am

CALEDONIAN HOVE Piano Bar: Deborah
D’Arcy pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50, 9.30pm

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Mojito
Madness £2.50 all night, cocktail lounge till
9pm with value hour 5-9pm, open noon-11pm

GROSVENOR Cocktail Night, try Dan’s
cocktails all £4.95, open 5pm-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking
area, Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest Heat 2

MARINE TAVERN Quiz with Nat, money to
charity £1 per person, 9pm

PV Is it only Tuesday, selected drink deals
with loyalty card 5-7pm

QUEENS ARMS Betty’s Karaoke Show, 9pm

R-BAR Flashback Warm-Up 8.30pm, 241
cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl
champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95
from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
2am full menu upstairs at the BEACH HOUSE
BRASSERIE from 5pm free Revenge passes

REVENGE FLASHBACK: DJs Two Foot &
Lady P, plays 80s disco, drinks from 80p, £2/NUS
free, 10.30-3am

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, Happy hours till 7pm

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Sally Vates Bingo, 8.30am
WEDNESDAY 19

AMSTERDAM Bar 11am-2am, Big Quiz
8pm Restaurant 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Songs From The Shows, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS PLAY: DJ
Alex Baker selected premium drinks £2, open
decks till midnight, 11-3.30am

BIB&TUCKER Quiz night, £2 per person, £1
goes to charity, 9pm

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
11pm, Midweek relax open till 2am

CALEDONIAN Lips & Lashes: night for
Brighton’s beautiful travestite/transgender
community, changing facilities, all pints £2.50,
house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR Bring It On: open deck with
Queen Jo, bring 3 tunes or choose 3 tunes from
the Bring It On Tune collection, free, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm,
Midweek Social, cocktail lounge till 9pm, value
hour 5pm-9pm, open 12-11pm

GROSVENOR MIdweek Blues, open 5-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Dale’s Midweek Mayhem

PV Quiz Night with prizes 8pm

QUEENS ARMS Official Pre Pop Sexy! Party!
STAR INN
The Star Inn has a new management team. You get the chance to welcome them in style on
Saturday March 15 at their welcome to Brighton party. Mick Phillis and Charlie Taylor
have been together for five years and have run gay pubs in Sutton, St Albans and Milton
Keynes. They are looking forward to getting back to basics at The Star and attract Brighton’s
large Bear Crowd into the bar. Charlie is well known on the Bear Scene as a DJ and he will
be bringing his particular bear brand of music to the Star on Saturday nights at Bear
Essentials.
The Bear Bash on Sunday at 5pm remains the mainstay of the weeks programming with
raffles, spot prizes and the big bears buffet. Thursday Quiz nights remain very popular and
get there early to be guaranteed a seat. Monday is Silver Bears for all those white haired
daddies out there, Friday is Bear Camp with live DJs and Saturdays, Bear Essentials
feature Charlie at the decks. Coming up in April is the second Mr Star Bear Competition.
To enter check for details at the bar. Food is available at the Star, Monday to Friday noon-
3pm and on Saturday and Sunday from noon-4pm.
9pm, guest DJ, discounted entry to Revenge
CHARLES ST CLUB 2 Floor Easter

R-BAR 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 RELIGION with Mother Superior Joan Bond, DJ
all day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main Tony B, Lil Alex, Mikalis & Billie, anthems/funky
meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege house, all drinks from £1 (excl champagne,
card, open till 2am full menu upstairs at the bottles of wine, & Smirnoff Ice/Black),entry £4,
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm £3 with flyer/saint card, free with NUS/sinner

REVENGE POP SEXY! chart & r&b from DJ card, heated smoking terrace, 10pm-late
Stewart & Jakey, Pop Sexy! team live on stage,
GROSVENOR Can’t wait for the weekend!,
£4/£3 mem & NUS, 10.30pm-3am open 5pm-2.30am

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Karaoke 8pm
open till 11pm
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hours till 7pm bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking area

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karaoke Cabaret Spot Minsky Rose Lee, 9.30pm
with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late
MARINE TAVERN Mantrap with Steve & Nat

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
PV Cocktails vs Clittails, cocktail mugs £10,
drinks promos, free pool after 3pm,10am-12pm 5 shots for price of 4

ZONE Miss Hap’s Krazy Karaoke, 8.30pm
QUEENS ARMS Kamp Kevin’s Karaoke 9pm

R-BAR DJ Hollie, Funk Soul Disco, 9-
THURSDAY 20 12pm, 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all

AMSTERDAM Bar 11am-2am, Restaurant day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main
11am-8pm, smokers patio, Sauna 5pm-4am meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege
residents £5 rest £8, Pre Religion party, 9pm card, open till 2am full menu available at the

AQUARIUM Open mike night, 9pm BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm, free

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) tickets for Revenge
SESSIONS: DJ Eddie K (Vauxhall Tavern),
REVENGE BOYS ON THE SIDE, new night
cheesy commercial pop, free entry, access all with GayDar Radio DJ Gary H (Federation, Crash
areas, select premium drinks £2, smoking area, & Heaven) & Jonny M, Downstairs, GIRLS ON
11pm-3.30am TOP, trashy lesbian night, DJ Lady Bex, £4/£3

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 NUS, free passes from R Bar & Marlborough,
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10- 10.30pm-4am
11pm, Therapy, sponsored by Coors, DJ Grant
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Quiz with
Knowles, open till 4am buffet & prizes, 9pm-midnight

CALEDONIAN Bi-Sexual Night, all pints
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour all night
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,

CANDY BAR DYNAMITE BOOGALOO Launch drinks promos, 10am-12pm
and Easter Party, feat super late extension, DJ
ZONE Quiz Mania, 8.30pm
Dynamite Stu & Dolly Rocket & showbiz cabaret
hi jinks, £5/£3 NUS, 9pm-2am FRIDAY 21

CHARLES ST BAR Mad Cow: hosted by Ms
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Bond, entry £1 goes to good causes, bottles Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
from £1, pints from £1.25, from 8pm-last entry Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
10.45pm, bar open from noon Food noon-
AQUARIUM Cabaret: Josh Mills, 9pm
8pm value hour 5pm-8pm, open noon-11pm
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 51

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
52 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROM VOLUNTEER + VAVOOM

MARCH
LISTINGS

VAVOOM
Saturday night themes this month are Wild West 1; Superheroes 8; Ireland 15-17;
Easter Bunny Boys 22; and Egyptian 29. Saturday 15-Monday 17 enjoy Irish Specials
with bottles of Guinness £2, Double Irish Whiskies+Splash £3, and Baileys Shots £1.50.
Happy Hours Mondays & Thursdays All Night, All other nights till 7pm – Sourz Shots
£1, Vodka+Splash £2, Pints of Becks £2.
www.vavoom.co.uk

Chavettes, free access to basement club B4 access all areas, smoking area, 11-4am
midnite, smoking area
BULLDOG Day, Night & Early Morning,

MARINE TAVERN Squeeze with Nat & Dale main bar: VJ John 10pm-3am, top bar:

PV It’s Friday you’ve earned it! Chocolate karaoke with Adam, 9pm- 2am, men only after
shots, chocolate charity raffle 10pm, photo ID/Bulldog member after 12pm

QUEENS ARMS Camptastic, DJ Andy B,
CALEDONIAN Piano Bar hosted by Roberta
impromptu cabaret, Open the Box, prize balloon Slak, 9.30pm all pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50
VOLUNTEER LEWES drop, 9pm
CANDY BAR SUGAR feat the Easter Bra
The Volunteer was mobbed for their first Sunday Cabaret Lunch special with Maisie
R-BAR Fabulous Fridays: DJs 9-12pm, 241 Parade + crowning of Ms Candy Bra: DJs
Trollette in residence last month. It seemed that half of Brighton turned out to try the best cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from 12- Queen Josephine, Hollie, Rocket & Miss Annik,
kept secret in Sussex. The large number of diners caused a few problems in the kitchen but 3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu free 9-10pm, £4 b4 12pm, £6 after, free coat
the wine flowed freely and a great time was had by all. Fabulous starters, mounds of meat from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at check, 9pm-late
with the main course and delicious puddings set everyone up for the entertainment to follow. BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm
CHARLES ST BAR Pre Club Party NIght
The next Sunday Cabaret Lunch is on March 9 with Miss Hap providing the
REVENGE Level 1: LOLLIPOP: 70s-00s, DJ
CHARLES ST CLUB MARDI GRAS: new
entertainment. The Volunteer is situated next to Waitrose in Lewes and is increasing popular Lollipop Stu, Lollipop girls live PA, Level 2: night, funky house/dance anthems, fantasic
with lesbians. To make a reservation for Sunday Cabaret or for dinner any night of the week LOVE: DJ Richard Jones & Jonny M, free b4 visuals, great giveaways, sexy go go dancers,
tel. 01273 476357 11pm, £7 after, 10.30pm-late free b4 11.30pm, after £5/£3 NUS/ photo ID

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Bear Camp required, 10.30pm-3am
Party: 8pm-1am
GROSVENOR Pre club party, 1pm-2.30am

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
CANDY BAR BOOTY CALL Easter Party: DJ
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, Happy hour till 7pm
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
CELEBRATION: ultimate gay party, door whore Rocket, free 9-10pm, £4 b4 12pm, £6 after,
V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: Karaoke bar open 11am-5am, pre Ignition from 7pm
Pooh La May, the Chavettes, Rush bar £1 shots, 9pm-late Nights with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late free access to club B4 12pm, smoking area
DJs Steve Lush+ Alex Baker play girly pop &
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, value
WHITE HORSE Karaoke, heated smoking
MARINE TAVERN Let The Party Begin with
handbag, free b4 midnite, £4 after, access all hour 5pm-9pm, Fairylee: pure cheese DJ Ruby patio, drinks promos, 10am-2am Steve, Nat & Dale!
areas, smoking area, 11pm-4am Roo & assistant Connie Conway, 9pm-
ZONE Cabaret Jamie Watson, 9pm
PV Duos, 4pm, PV DJs 9pm chocolate

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23 midnight, bar open from noon-late themed cocktails & shots, chocolate charity
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
CHARLES ST CLUB BLISS: Camp Attack SATURDAY 22 raffle, open 12-12pm
11pm, DAY, NIGHT & EARLY MORNING, main with Boy George Experience, DJs Tony
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am Keep
QUEENS ARMS Cabaret: Dave Lynn, DJ
bar: DJ Marcia 10pm-2am, DJ Chris Reardon Armstrong & Lil Alex, funky, tribal/electro house, the party alive with the best of 70s Disc, 8pm, Andy B & Open The Box on stage anytime
2am-very late, top bar: KARAOKE hosted by drinks deals, £4 with flyer, £5 4b midnight, 36 restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, between 9.30-10.30pm, 9pm
Myles, 9pm-2am: photo ID/Bulldog mem after after, NUS £3 all night, 10.30pm-3am sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
R-BAR Glitterati! with DJ Holiie 9-12pm,
12pm, strictly men only after 10pm
GROSVENOR Thank Funk It’s Friday, 5-2.30
AQUARIUM Cabaret Miss Hap, 9pm 241 cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from

CALEDONIAN Dave’s Karaoke Party, pints
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) 12-3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late bar 11am-5am, pre Celebration party 7pm, the IGNITION: DJ Peter Castle, free B4 12 then £5, from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 53

Camelford Street Brighton 01273 603726

ENTERTAINMENT
Free Pool every Wednesday from 3pm
Karaoke from 8pm every Friday

HAPPY HOURS
And drinks promos during the week

OPENING HOURS
Mon–Thurs: 10am–midnight,
Fri–Sat: 10am–2am, Sun: noon–midnight

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
54 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT PICS FROMSUNDAY SUNDAE@AUDIO

MARCH
LISTINGS

WILD FRUIT @ TRU

 WILD FRUIT GOLD OSCARS TRASH PARTY on Sunday 2 Truly glamorous and don’t
forget your acceptance speech as they’ll be awarding their own Oscars for the very best and
most outrageous outfits! Special guest DJ Gonzalo joins the Fruit residents, dig out those
posh frocks, tuxedos or dress in head to toe gold for the first ultra glamorous big party of
the year. Kate Wildblood & Queen Jo take over the Boudoir with a selection of r&b,
classic disco & old skool house. Drink deals all night include selected bottled beer £1.50
and house doubles+splash only £3.50. £5 NUS, £7 be4 11.30pm, £9 after 11.30pm, £10
Q-jump/Advance, £10 Guests. Advance tickets from Dr Brighton’s, Prowler (Brighton),
Clone Zone (Brighton), Charles St, the Dome box office 01273 709709 and
Ticketweb. myspace.com/wildfruituk
 WILD FRUIT SIN CITY VIVA LAS VEGAS PARTY on Bank Holiday Sunday 23
there’s a - lust in the Nevada desert dust at the giant 3-room edition of Wild Fruit goes all
Las Vegas glitz and glamour with special guest DJ Seamus Haji (Big Love) joining the
Fruit Allstars. Feathered showgirls and Elvis impersonators descend upon the city for a
holiday treat. 3 rooms of vulgar and trashy Vegas glitter featuring top performance artists
and gorgeous, scantily clad go-go bodies! Drink deals all night - selected bottled beer
£1.50 and house doubles+splash £3.50. Open 10pm-3am, £7 Members/NUS, £7 with
flyer b4 10.30pm, £10 Q-Jump/Advance, £12 Guests. Advance tickets from Dr Brighton’s,
Prowler (Brighton), Clone Zone (Brighton), Charles St, the Dome box office 01273
709709 and Ticketweb.
LEGENDS Terrace open all day, lounge bar with special guests, prize for best bonnet, 9pm,
11am-5am Cabaret tbc, 3.15pm free entry to
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
REBEL @ HONEYBAR club, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Dish of the Day
BACK 2 THE 80S: DJ Steve Lush, free entry,
access all areas, selected premium drinks £2,
 REBEL HOLLYWOOD BABYLON, the party continues at the Honeybar, Kings Road

PV Roast & Coast, Sunday lunch and £1 shots all night, smoking area, 11pm-4am
Arches, red carpet trash and scandal as the post-Wild Fruit Gold Oscars partygoers let their
chocolate desert, noon-finished
BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
hair down in style at the city’s best loved after hours get together. Get a discount entry

QUEENS ARMS Kitty Litter, 5pm, followed from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
wristband from Wild Fruit (or free with Wild Fruit advance ticket) - admission is more on the by Betty’s Karaoke Show 11pm Marcis Glitter Ball, 70s/80s disco
door, open 3am-early!
R-BAR Lazy Sundays, roast dinners upstairs classics, open till 2am
at BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE, noon-7pm,
CANDY BAR SHIBBLEY SHABBLERS: Easter
REBEL @ DIGITAL cabaret tbc, 7pm, 241 cocktails, all drinks £2Party: DJs Pookie & Crackwhore, poly sexual
 REBEL on Easter bank holiday will be at Digital, Kings Road Arches, in the early hours all day (excl.champagne & doubles), with free nite, indie rock/ trashie pop/electro, red light
of Easter Monday 24, for this bank holiday edition of the city’s best loved after-hours rush, £3/£2 NUS, £2 pints/house spirits &
Privilege card, open 24 hrs till 2am, funk soul
party. Join the residents and the late night Wild Fruiters for more, more, more! Get a and disco with DJ Diablo till midnight, shots mixer, 9pm-2am
discount entry wristband from Wild Fruit - admission is more on the door, open 3am-early! £1.49 when red light flashes
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Studio

REBEL AFTERHOURS @ DIGITAL 150 Warm Up, fabulous cocktail selection all
HOLLYWOOD BABYLON, discount wrist bands at night, value hour 5-9pm, noon-11pm
Wild Fruit, more on the door, 3am-early
CHARLES ST CLUB STUDIO 150: official
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm Bar Buffett, karoake showtime from 9pm
STAR INN Sunday roasts, noon-4pm, Bear NUS night: DJs Luke Smith & Ali K, dancers,

REVENGE KINKY DANGEROUS! level 1
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) Bash, charity raffle,shag tag & buffet, 5pm regular theme nights, selected drinks £1.50,
Kinky Pop: DJ Stu, play party tunes, level 2 EMBRACE: DJ Nick Shepherdson (GAY), chart,
VAVOOM Late bar 6am, Happy hour till 7pm entry £2, 10.30pm-3am
Dangerous House: DJ Dulcie, funky upfront, free in, select premium drinks £2, 11pm-3.30am
WHITE HORSE Free bar snacks, pool,
GROSVENOR Lazy Mondays, open 5-1am
house, £5 b4 12pm, £7, 10.30pm-late
BIB&TUCKER Sunday Lunch, live jazz heated smoking patio, noon-midnight
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Quiz Night, 9pm

STAR INN Food: 12-4pm, Bear Bait: bears reservations call 01273 671616
WILD FRUIT @ TRU SIN CITY, VIVA LAS
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
social, 8pm-1am
BULLDOG Climax, top bar: Cash Karaoke VEGAS Party, DJs Pete Haywood, Neil Duffie, bar 11am-5am, Cabaret with Dave Lynn and

VAVOOM Easter Bunny Boy Theme Party, with Guy, 9pm-2am: main bar: DJ Grant Kate Wildblood & Queen Jo, guest DJ Seamus friends, 9.30pm free entry to Basement Club,
Late bar open till 6am, happy hour till 7pm Knowles 5-10pm, DJ Wayne till 2am smoking area
Haji, drink deals all night, £7 members/NUS, £7

V2 UP: Easter Bunny Boy Theme Party,
CALEDONIAN 1 For The Road, all pints with flyer b4 10.30pm, £10 Qjump, advanced &
MARINE TAVERN Laurence’s weekly gossip
Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: karaoke with Miss £2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late guests, £12, 10pm-3am Advanced tickets
QUEENS ARMS Lola Lasagne, 5pm then
Joyride, free, 10pm-late
CANDY BAR HE’S SO FINE/SHE’S SO FINE Betty’s Karaoke Show
available, Dr Brighton’s, Clone Zone (Brighton),

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio, the greatest girl groups sounds of the 1960s
PV Don’t Like Mondays: selected drink deals
Prowler (Brighton), Charles St, Dome Box Office
10am-2am with DJs Wanker & Von Doogan, £3, 9pm-late (01273 709709) & ticketweb with loyalty card, 5-7pm

ZONE Saturday Night Project with Lady Jane
CHARLES ST BAR Sunday Lunch, noon-
ZONE Easter Bonnets Special with Lady
R-BAR Special Cabaret with Laquisha Jones,
and Sally Vate, 9pm 8pm 2 Sunday Lunches £7.95, Casino Rayale, James and Sally Vate, 5pm 4.30pm, Miss Jason’s Mad House 10pm,
choice of 3 champagne cocktails, noon-11pm 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl.
SUNDAY 23
GROSVENOR Easter Bonnet Parade starting MONDAY 24 champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95

AMSTERDAM Sunday lunch noon-5pm, 2pm in the presence of the Mayor of Brighton,
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am, from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
Bar open 11am-2am smokers patio, Sauna Proceedings starts at 11am, Free bar snacks, 12pm, Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio, 2am full menu available upstairs at the BEACH
open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8 then party all day, Champagne for winners Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8 HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

AQUARIUM Dame Margot and Brigton and
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Drag With No
AQUARIUM Easter Bonnet Old Time Music
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Silver
Hove Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, 4.30pm Free Name and Landlord Nicks Birthday, 3pm Hall, hosted by Commander Ray Halcroft-Whiten Bears Night, open till 11pm

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
PICS FROM WHITE HORSE
WHITE HORSE
Free Pool every Wednesday from 3pm, and Karaoke every Friday night from 8pm.
Happy Hours and Drink Promos during the week.

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour all night

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Cabaret, Maisie Trollette, 5pm
TUESDAY 25

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Uncle Ben’s Quiz Night, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Club available for hire

BULLDOG main bar 123 Promotion, all
drinks £1.23 from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-
7pm & 10-11pm, Kruz: strictly men only: till
2am: top bar men only party 8pm-1

CALEDONIAN Piano Bar: Roberta Slak, pints
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 9.30pm

CANDY BAR TWISTED KARAOKE +
anthems with DJ Rocket, free, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Mojito
Madness £2.50 all night, cocktail lounge till
9pm with value hour 5-9pm, open noon-11pm

GROSVENOR Cocktail Night, try Dan’s
cocktails at £4.95, open 5pm-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking
area, Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest Heat 3

MARINE TAVERN Quiz with Nat, money to
charity £1 per person, 9pm

PV Is it only Tuesday, selected drink deals
with loyalty card 5-7pm

QUEENS ARMS Karaoke, Cherry Poppin, 9pm

R-BAR Flashback Warm-Up 8.30pm, 241
cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all day (excl
champagne & doubles), 2 main meals £7.95
from 12-3pm with free Privilege card, open till
2am full menu upstairs at the BEACH HOUSE
BRASSERIE from 5pm free Revenge passes

REVENGE FLASHBACK: DJs Two Foot &
Lady P, plays 80s disco, drinks from 80p, £2/NUS
free, 10.30-3am

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am happy hour till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, 9pm

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Sally Vates Bingo, 8.30am
WEDNESDAY 26

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am, The
Big Quiz 8pm Restaurant open 11am-8pm,
smokers patio, Sauna open 5pm-4am residents
£5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Songs From The Shows, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS PLAY: DJ
Alex Baker selected premium drinks £2, open
decks till midnight, 11-3.30am

BIB&TUCKER Quiz night, £2 per person, £1
goes to charity, 9pm

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
11pm, Midweek Relax open till 2am

CALEDONIAN Lips & Lashes: night for
Brighton’s beautiful travestite/transgender
community, changing facilities, all pints £2.50,
house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR BRING IT ON: open deck with
Queen Jo, bring 3 tunes or choose 3 tunes from
LISTINGS
the Bring It On Tune collection, free, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm,
Midweek Social, cocktail lounge till 9pm, value
hour 5pm-9pm, open 12-11pm

GROSVENOR Midweek Blues, open 5-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Dale’s Midweek Mayhem

PV Quiz Night with prizes 8pm

QUEENS ARMS Official Pre Pop Sexy Party!
9pm, guest DJ, discounted entry to Revenge

R-BAR 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2
all day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main
meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege
card, open till 2am full menu upstairs at the
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE POP SEXY! chart & r&b from DJ
Stewart & Jakey, live performances from Pop
Sexy! team, £4/£3 mem & NUS, 10.30pm-3am

STAR INN Food 12-3pm, Local Bear Bar,
open till 11pm

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: karaoke
with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos,free pool after 3pm, 10am-12pm

ZONE Miss Hap’s Krazy Karaoke, 8.30pm
THURSDAY 27

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Open mike night, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
SESSIONS: DJ Eddie K (Vauxhall Tavern),
cheesy commercial pop, free entry, access all
areas, select premium drinks £2, smoking area,
11pm-3.30am

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
11pm, Therapy, sponsored by Coors, DJ Grant
Knowles, open till 4am

CALEDONIAN Bi-Sexual Night, all pints
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR DYNAMITE BOOGALOO: super
late extension, DJ Dynamite Stu & Dolly Rocket
+ showbiz hi jinks, £5/£3 NUS, 9pm-2am

CHARLES ST BAR Mad Cow: hosted by Ms
Bond, entry £1 goes to good causes, bottles
from £1, pints from £1.25, from 8pm-last entry
10.45pm, bar open from noon Food noon-
8pm value hour 5pm-8pm, open noon-11pm

CHARLES ST CLUB 2 Floor Religion with
Mother Superior Joan Bond, DJ Tony B, Lil Alex,
Mikalis & Billie, anthems/funky house, all drinks
from £1(excl champagne, bottles of wine, &
Smirnoff Ice/Black),entry £4, £3 with flyer/saint
card, free with NUS/sinner card, heated smoking
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 55
FEBRUARY
terrace, 10pm-late

GROSVENOR Can’t wait for the weekend!
open 5pm-1am

JACK HORNER (WORTHING)Karaoke 8pm

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am free entry to club, smoking
area, Cabaret Wilma Fingadoo, 9.30pm

MARINE TAVERN Mantrap with Steve & Nat

PV Cocktails vs Clittails, cocktail mugs £10,
5 shots for price of 4

QUEENS ARMS Kamp Kevin’s Karaoke 9pm

R-BAR DJ Hollie, Funk Soul Disco, 9-
12pm, 241 cocktails 5-8pm, all drinks £2 all
day (excl. champagne & doubles), 2 main
meals £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege
card, open till 2am full menu available at the
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm, free
tickets for Revenge

REVENGE Upstairs, BOYS ON THE SIDE,
new night with DJ Lee Harris (Gorgeous) &
Jonny M, Downstairs, GIRLS ON TOP, trashy
lesbian night, DJ Lady Bex, £4/£3 NUS, free
passes from R Bar & Marlborough, 10.30pm-
4am

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Quiz with
buffet & prizes, 9pm-midnight

VAVOOM late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Quiz Mania, 8.30pm
FRIDAY 28

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am,
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio,
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Cabaret, Jennie Castelle, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
CELEBRATION: ultimate gay party, door whore
Pooh La May, the Chavettes, Rush bar £1 shots,
DJs Steve Lush+ Alex Baker play girly pop &
handbag, free b4 midnite, £4 after, access all
areas, smoking area, 11pm-4am

BULLDOG 123 Promotion, all drinks £1.23
from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
11pm, Day Night & Early Morning, main bar:
DJ Marcia 10pm-2am, DJ Chris Reardon 2am-
very late, top bar: Karaoke hosted by Myles,
9pm-2am: photo ID/Bulldog mems after 12pm,
strictly men only after 10pm

CALEDONIAN Dave’s Karaoke Party, pints
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night, 5pm-late

CANDY BAR BOOTY CALL: DJ Rocket, free
9-10pm, £4 b4 12pm, £6 after, 9pm-late

CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, value
hour 5pm-9pm, Fairylee: pure cheese DJ Ruby
Roo & assistant Connie Conway, 9pm-
midnight, bar open from noon-late
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
56 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
MARCH
LISTINGS

CHARLES ST CLUB GBH: DJ Tor King +
Josh The Barber, free vodka fruit shot, 1st 250
get free GBH membership cards - £1 off every
visit, drinks deals select bottles £2, select
doubles & mixer, £2.99, £6 b4 11pm/after £8
non members £7, 10.30-3am

GROSVENOR Thank Funk It’s Friday, 5-1am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar 11am-5am, pre Celebration party 7pm, the
Chavettes, free access to basement club B4
midnite, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Squeeze with Nat & Dale

PV It’s Friday you’ve earned it!

QUEENS ARMS Camptastic, DJ Andy B,
impromptu cabaret, Open the Box, prize balloon
drop, 9pm

R-BAR Fabulous Fridays: DJs 9-12pm, 241
cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from 12-
3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE Level 1: LOLLIPOP: 70s-00s, DJ
Lollipop Stu, Lollipop girls live PA, Level 2:
Love: DJ Richard Jones & Jonny M, free b4
11pm, £7 after, 10.30pm-late

STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Bear Camp
Party: 8pm-1am

VAVOOM Late bar 6am happy hour till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: karaoke
with Miss Joyride, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Karaoke, heated smoking
patio, drinks promos, 10am-2am

ZONE Cabaret Jerome Lloyd, 9pm
SATURDAY 29

AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am Keep
the party alive with the best of 70s Disco
Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio
Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8

AQUARIUM Cabaret Jamie Watson, 9pm

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
IGNITION: DJ Peter Castle, free B4 12 then £5,
access all areas, smoking area, 11-4am

BULLDOG Day, Night & Early Morning,
main bar: VJ John 10pm-3am, top bar:
karaoke with Adam, 9pm- 2am, men only after
10pm, photo ID/Bulldog member after 12pm

CALEDONIAN Piano Bar: Roberta Slak,
9.30pm all pints £2.50, house spirits £1.50

CANDY BAR Sugar: DJs Queen Josephine,
Hollie, Rocket & Miss Annik, free 9-10pm, £4
b4 12pm, £6 after, free coat check, 9pm-late

CHARLES ST BAR Pre Club Party

CHARLES ST CLUB FILTHY CUTE: resident
DJs, dazzling lasers, light & visuals, selected
drinks £2, £5 b4 11pm/£7 after (NUS/Cons £5
all night), 10.30-3am

GROSVENOR Pre club party, 1pm-2.30am

LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge
bar open 11am-5am, pre Ignition from 7pm
free access to club B4 12pm, smoking area

MARINE TAVERN Let The party Begin with
Steve, Nat & Dale!

PV Duos, 4pm, PV DJs 9pm open 12-12pm

QUEENS ARMS Cabaret: Glam & Glitz, DJ
Andy B & Open The Box on stage anytime
between 9.30-10.30pm, 9pm

R-BAR Glitterati! with DJ Holiie 9-12pm,
241 cocktails 5-8pm, 2 main meals £7.95 from
12-3pm with free Privilege card, new late menu
from 12am-5am, Full Menu available upstairs at
BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE from 5pm

REVENGE KINKY DANGEROUS! level 1
Kinky Pop: DJ Stu, play party tunes, level 2
Dangerous House: DJ Dulcie, funky upfront,
house, £5 b4 12pm, £7, 10.30pm-late

STAR INN Food: 12-4pm, Bear Bait: bears
social, 8pm-1am

VAVOOM Egyptian Theme Party, Late bar
open till 6am, happy hour till 7pm

V2 UP: Jukebox, video bar, DOWN: karaoke
with Miss Joyride, free, 10pm-late

WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,
10am-2am

ZONE Saturday Night Project with Lady Jane
and Sally Vate, 9pm
PICS FROM ZONE
ZONE
Celebrating its 1st Birthday under Sharon’s management this month, the Zone has a weekend
of entertainment planned, starting with Miss Hap on Friday 14 from 9pm, also celebrating her
own birthday! On Saturday 15 there’s a Special St Paddy’s Saturday Night Project with
Lady James and Sally Vate, from 9pm. On Sunday 16 there’s a Sussex Beacon fundraiser,
hosted by Miss Happ & Sally Vate, with acts including Jamie Watson, Jennie Castell,
Miss Penny, Minsky Rose Lee, and more, from 5pm. On Easter Sunday from 5pm there’s
an Easter Bonnet Special with Lady James & Sally Vate. And on Easter Monday see
Maisie Trollette from 5pm. Other Sunday cabaret acts at 4pm are Tony Page 2; Miss
Treated 9; and Davina Sparkle 30. Other Friday cabaret acts at 9pm are Chrissie Du Kann
7; Jamie Watson 21; and Jerome Lloyd 28. Happy Birthday Zone!
SUNDAY 30 MONDAY 31

AMSTERDAM Sunday lunch noon-5pm,
AMSTERDAM Bar open 11am-2am &
Bar open 11am-2am Connies Karaoke Cabaret Restaurant open 11am-8pm, smokers patio
7pm -10.30pm smokers patio, Sauna open Sauna open 5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
5pm-4am residents £5 rest £8
AQUARIUM Global Greats, Piaf, Aznavur

AQUARIUM Maisie Trollette, 4.30pm Free
BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS)
Bar Buffett karoake showtime, 9pm Back 2 The 80s: DJ Steve Lush, free entry,

BASEMENT CLUB (BELOW LEGENDS) access all areas, selected premium drinks £2,
EMBRACE: DJ Nick Shepherdson (GAY), chart, £1 shots all night, smoking area, 11pm-4am
free in, select premium drinks £2, 11pm-3.30am
BULLDOG 1 2 3 Promotion, all drinks £1.23

BIB&TUCKER Sunday Lunch, live jazz from 1pm-3pm, Happy Hours 3-7pm & 10-
reservations call 01273 671616 11pm Marcis Glitter Ball, 70s/80s disco

BULLDOG Climax, top bar: Cash Karaoke classics, open till 2am
with Sun, 9pm-2am: main bar: DJ Grant
CALEDONIAN Easy Listening, all pints
Knowles 5-10pm, DJ Wayne till 2am £2.50, house spirits & splash £1.50 all night

CALEDONIAN 1 For The Road, all pints
CANDY BAR SHIBBLEY SHABBLERS: DJs
£2.50, house spirits £1.50 all night Pookie & Crackwhore, poly sexual nite, indie

CANDY BAR Drag: Kinky Kitch Gender rock/ trashie pop/electro, red light rush, £3/£2
Bending Splendour Cabaret, with Vain Diesal + NUS, £2 pints/house spirits & mixer, 9pm-2am
Kingdom Come, £3, 9pm-late
CHARLES ST BAR Food noon-8pm, Studio

CHARLES ST BAR Sunday Lunch, noon- 150 Warm Up, fabulous cocktail selection all
8pm 2 Sunday Lunches £7.95, Casino Rayale, night, value hour 5-9pm, noon-11pm
choice of 3 champagne cocktails, noon-11pm
CHARLES ST CLUB STUDIO 150: official

GROSVENOR Chill Out Sundays, Free bar NUS night: DJs Luke Smith & Ali K, dancers,
snacks, 1pm-3pm, open 1pm-1am regular theme nights, selected drinks £1.50,

LEGENDS Terrace open all day, lounge bar entry £2, 10.30pm-3am
11am-5am Cabaret Maisie Trollette & John
GROSVENOR Lazy Mondays, open 5-1am
Bruzon 3.15pm free entry to club, smoking area
JACK HORNER (WORTHING) Quiz Night 9pm

MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Dish of the Day!
LEGENDS BAR Terrace open all day, lounge

PV ROAST & COAST, Sunday lunch noon- bar 11am-5am, Cabaret with Dave Lynn and
finished friends, 9.30pm free entry to Basement Club,

QUEENS ARMS Wilma Fingerdoo 5.30pm, smoking area
Heat 4 Pub Stars National Karaoke Contest, 6pm
MARINE TAVERN Laurence’s weekly gossip

R-BAR Lazy Sundays, roast dinners upstairs
QUEENS ARMS Karaoke, Cherry Poppin, 9pm
at BEACH HOUSE BRASSERIE, noon-7pm,
PV Don’t Like Mondays: selected drink deals
cabaret with Drag WIth No Name, 7pm, 241 with loyalty card, 5-7pm
cocktails, all drinks £2 all day (excl.champagne
R-BAR Miss Jason’s Madhouse, 241
& doubles), with free Privilege card, open 24 cocktails, all drinks £2 all day, 2 main meals
hrs till 2am, funk soul and disco with DJ Diablo £7.95 from 12-3pm with free Privilege card,
till midnight, shots £1.49 when red light flashes open till 2am full menu available at the BEACH

STAR INN Sunday roasts, noon-4pm, Bear HOUSE BRASSERIE upstairs from 5pm
Bash, charity raffle,shag tag & buffet, 5pm
STAR INN Food served 12-3pm, Silver

VAVOOM Late bar 6am, happy hour till 7pm Bears Night, open till 11pm

WHITE HORSE Free bar snacks, pool,
VAVOOM Late bar 6am,happy hour all night
heated smoking patio, noon-midnight
WHITE HORSE Pool, heated smoking patio,

ZONE Cabaret Davina Sparkle, 8pm drinks promos, 10am-12pm

ZONE Everyone’s Happy! all day happy hour
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 57

DANCE DJ PROFILE
MUSIC LPS DAZ BAILEY
BY KATE WILDBLOOD BY KATE WILDBLOOD

You know how it is. Sometimes you month is some fuck-off decent
need a little distraction. Life can house from RALF GUM. His debut
just get too nerve-wracking/ longplayer Uniting Music on GoGo
boring/hard work/real complicated Music is delicious, delicious,
(delete as appropriate). For this delicious. A right stunner, this will
nervous pre-nuptial Wildblood, make your spring. As will QUENTIN
music is always my sweetest HARRIS’s latest compilation Mix
distraction. This March I’ve been The Vibe: Timeless Re-Collection
spoilt rotten, as an album of real on King Street Sounds. Those
quality dropped into my inbox. You house heads in the know nod with
may have heard the fuss already satisfaction when it comes to King
Street and with Harris in the mix,
that nodding will effortlessly
become a dance. Also highly
recommended is his debut album
No Politics for Strictly Rhythm –
another label to get the juices
going! Seems New York is the
soundtrack for March. And if that
isn’t enough for you, may I
suggest checking out the following
delights: MIGUEL MIGS Those
Things Remixed
on Salted Music BOYS ON THE SIDE
about HERCULES AND LOVE is almost too If you’ve been on a decent dancefloor lately, chances are you’ve been
AFFAIR as they promoted their house good, dancing to Daz Bailey. As a DJ he’s rocked the finest floors and as one
taster single Blind. The remix by Toolroom Knights half of the production team Bailey & Rossko he’s brought us some right
Frankie Knuckles seemed to grab Mixed By Tom gems, including their own Don’t Go and remixes for The Freemasons,
everyone’s heartstrings. Well Novy & Wally Nick Fiorucci and Robbie Rivera. And now he’s about to make his
Hercules And Love Affair the album Lopez on Brighton debut for Boys On The Side at Revenge. So what else could
on DFA is here and the effect is Toolroom rocks – Kate Wildblood do but catch up with the Bailey smooth DJ?
tenfold. Andrew Butler (DJ, enough said –
producer) plus collaborators while DJ YELLOW Name: Daz Bailey
Antony (of The Johnsons), Nomi & ASTRID Residencies/guest slots: Since 1995 I’ve been playing in the clubs but
and Kim Ann have delivered what SURYANTO’s The last year was my biggest to date due to the success of Bailey & Rossko.
has to be the album of the year. Intermission on Project I run my own night, Liberation @ Nakatcha in Nantwich, as well as
It’s revitalised-disco-meets- Recordings will charm the pants having a monthly residency at Club Milan in Letterkenny, Ireland. I
stringy-electronica-cool with a off you with its bittersweet mix recently did a guest mix for Gaydar Radio on Gary H’s show.
lush New York gay twist. of light, shade, techno and melody. Style: House across the board, electro-progressive, as long as it’s funky.
Distraction of the heavenly kind. Blimey! Enjoy. What do you sing in the bath? Probably Oasis’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Star.
Also keeping my ears happy this www.katewildblood.com What makes a good DJ? Someone who
knows how to give a crowd a good time
without playing all the biggest tunes
WILDBLOOD’S CORKING MARCH 12”S around.
Tell us something about you we don’t
ADAM K & SOHA Twilight (original mix) Data Records know: It was my 40th in February.
You’ll come up – all minimal like. Apparently! Aarrgh!!!!
GUY WILLIAMS + JAMES FITCH Get Together Pop Pop What plans do you have for 2008? To
Another spark of filthy genius from the lovely Guy Williams. make a mark on the scene. We’ve got plenty
PURE DYNAMITE & LIVE ELEMENT Downtime (Twilo mix) Gossip Records of remixes/tracks on the way, so 2008 looks
My favourite label goes tough and it’s a moment of US glory! like it could be a good year.
HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR Blind (Frankie Knuckles remix) EMI/DFA Tune of the moment: Adam K & Soha’s Twilight on Data.
Still a must-have tune, Knuckles proving his god-like status – again! Tune of your life: That’s one of the
NICK HOLDER Strange Delight (main mix) NRK hardest questions yet, but I reckon it has
Beauty is in the eye of this quirky beholder. to be Madness’s My Girl.
MIDIDROPMUSIC The Movement EP: Hypnotize Guess Are you excited about debuting at Boys
Makes you ache for a 6am dancefloor: deep, minimal and so bloody sexy. On The Side? I can’t wait to come to
IIO Rapture Reconstructed (Starkillers Dirty Girl remix) Made Records Brighton. I’ve always wanted to come
The lesbian anthem gets the 21st-century treatment – naughty! down, ever since I watched Quadrophenia
FUNKERMAN Speed Up (Granite & Phunk Big Room mix) Defected way back in the early 1980s! As for my
Big Room tune for the Big Room DJs that’s rocking everyone. plans for the night, well, I hope I just
TOMMI WHITE feat SETH SHARP Every Sunday Sole remember it for a start. I want to see as
Repeat after me – those Sunday terraces are on their way. much as possible, take in the whole
GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS The Look Of Love Motown scene. Let’s hope this is the first of many visits to Brighton.
Guess who’s been choosing wedding tunes… www.baileyandrossko.co.uk

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
I ENJOY BEING A GIRL
“When I say I’m in love, you best
believe I’m in love – L-U-V!”
Give Him A Great Big Kiss, The Shangri-las
Some people think I’m joking when I tell them my favourite period in
the entire history of popular music is the girl-group era of the early
1960s. Dumb-dumb queens will ask if I love those records because
they’re ‘kitsch’ or ‘camp’. And yes, I guess you could say that some of
them are. But the opposite also applies – I find girl-group songs
incredibly moving, precisely because I find them utterly convincing.
They also seem to be singing about me. And, if you stop, look and
listen, I bet you’ll hear something about yourself, too.
You see, the real reason those records resonate so well with men like us
is simply because those girls are singing about boys. They’re all about
the joy and the pain – and above all the difficulty – of going out with
men. Girl groups may dream of walking up the aisle (“We’re going to the
chapel of love…” sang The Dixie Cups), but they soon find they’re
walking through a minefield. Why? ”’Cause finding a good man, girls, is
like finding a needle in a haystack,” said The Velvelettes.
Maybe it’s also because gay men often live life at the same level of
emotional intensity as the teenage girls who sang those songs –
endlessly veering between desire and disaster. Like The Supremes, one
minute you’re singing Someday We’ll Be Together, next thing you’re
wondering Where Did Our Love Go? The songs are often painful in their
naive desperation: “And maybe if I cry every day, you’ll come back to
stay,” sang The Chantels. Or my favourite little heart-smasher of the lot
– Evie Sands’s I Can’t Let Go.
The only thing that jars with modern queer ears is how chaste so many
of the records seem: “And then he kissed me…” said The Crystals. Gay
men may find the virginal sentiments behind, say, Will You Love Me
Tomorrow by The Shirelles, baffling. But though few of us think twice
about shagging some sweet boy we’ve just met, we’re still haunted by
the same fear that we’ll never see him again after he’s picked his pants
up off the bedroom floor on Sunday morning.
The boys in question were almost always bad boys – from “the wrong
side of the tracks” – more Whitehawk than Sussex Square. (“He doesn’t
BY DJ WANKER
look like a movie star, he doesn’t drive a Cadillac car…” He’s Sure The
Boy I Love by The Crystals). They’re often described in tantalising
detail: “Cause he’s kinda big and he’s awful strong.” (My Boyfriend’s
Back by The Angels). It’s a love that meets with societal disapproval:
“My folks were always putting him down...” (Leader Of The Pack, by The
Shangri-las). But these girls don’t care: “‘Cause he’s not a rebel to
me…” sang The Crystals. Or best of all: “He’s good-bad – but he’s not
evil,” pleaded The Shangri-las.
The girls were rarely made of sugar and spice and all things ‘nice’
themselves. The Bobbettes – rather brilliantly – followed up their hit
STUART LEE
single Mr Lee with one called I Shot Mr Lee. Whenever I see a photo of
The Ronettes, I can hear Marge Simpson grinding her teeth: “I don’t
want you going out like that – it looks cheap.” My kinda girls.
I’d also argue that girl groups prove how pop music is at its very best
when it’s at its most simple; from bubblegum through punk to Italo
disco. If you disagree, then I hope you and your Radiohead boxset are
very happy being boring together. Has anyone come up with a line in a
song that could beat the perfectly pitched emotional punch of The
Ronettes singing, “Baby, I love you”?
All these fine words would mean little without the fine, fine music. And
girl-group records sound like they’re on fire. Ronnie Spector, Darlene
Love and Martha Reeves are such impassioned singers they make Amy
Winehouse sound like Posh Spice. Most of the songs last three minutes,
have a basic 4/4 beat, and a simple verse/chorus/verse structure –
perfect for dancing to. That’s why girl groups provided much of the
soundtrack at Le Duce, London’s legendary gay Mod club. The harder
records, like The Marvelettes’ Too Many Fish In The Sea and The
Velvelettes’ Needle In A Haystack, were the acetate templates for
northern soul. When I hear the totally percussive backing track on The
Dixie Cups’ Iko Iko, I can hear the birth of techno.
If you feel the same – or even if you feel unsure (which is a very girl-
group feeling, by the way), come shake a tailfeather with us down at
Candy Bar on Easter Sunday. We’ll be dancing in the streets! Well,
actually, we’ll be dancing in a club – but you get the general idea.
HE’S SO FINE/SHE’S SO FINE – a celebration of ’60s girl groups and
female singers – Candy Bar, Easter Sunday, March 23, with DJ
Wanker and Von Doogan, £3, 9pm till late.
www.myspace.com/straightfromthefridge
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 59
band members are Morgan Doctor (drums), Nina Martinez (guitar) and
Jen Benton (bass) – all lesbians, but don’t let that influence you. The
Cliks aren’t a gay rock band, they are a rock band full stop, and they’ll
rock your pain away!

Vince Laws talks to lead singer Lucas Silveira.

How and when did the band get together? I started the band in 2004.
We had a completely different line-up with the exception of me. The
original members left for different reasons, and I then picked up Morgan
Doctor and the bassist who plays on the CD, Jordan Wright. Jordan left
on release of the CD as she didn’t want to tour and along the way we
had picked up Nina Martinez to fill out the live show. She rocked so
hard, we kept her! We then asked Jen Benton to join and now we are
the perfect band. Sometimes it’s hard to get the right combination but
it’s worth the wait when it happens.

THE CLIKS
From the first four words on their album Snakehouse, The Cliks ‘fuck
What’s the best gig you’ve played so far? I’d say the True Colors show
we did in Toronto. It was amazing to play at home and be sharing the
stage with the likes of Cyndi Lauper and Debbie Harry. I was high the
your pain away’ beautifully. This is rock with a knife at its throat – rest of the night – and not on drugs.
screaming, threatening, pleading – it’s raw and damaged and bleeding What was the last CD you bought? Amy Winehouse, Back To Black – I’m
but it’s got me hooked. This Toronto four-piece have been supporting obsessed with this CD and can’t stop listening.
Cyndi Lauper on her tour, and in return, she’s been supporting them: How did you come to support Cyndi Lauper on her recent tour?
“Part of my mission with the True Colors tour was to provide a platform Seriously, she asked us. It was unreal.
for some new and exciting acts. A band like The Cliks are all that and Who writes your songs? I do and I am Lucas.
more. They are a force to be Why the Justin Timberlake cover? [Cry Me A River] I had my Britney
reckoned with and I am really “It was amazing to play and I felt the need to tell her how I felt. I had a lot more anger behind
excited to be sharing the stage at home and be sharing the words than he did!
with them.” the stage with the likes Has sexuality and gender identity helped or hindered your progress?
It certainly has brought us a lot of attention, but I truly feel that when
We’re bombarded with invented
of Cyndi Lauper and
that novelty wears off our music will stand on its own.
hype that foreshadows so many Debbie Harry. I was high What’s Toronto got that the rest of us can’t live without? The Cliks!
bands these days, but believe me the rest of the night Kidding! Toronto is an extremely diverse city with people of every
when I tell you I would beg on – and not on drugs” cultural background imaginable. I think because of that, we have an
bended knees for tickets to their amazing arts scene and music scene and just a really centred city. I love
next UK gig, they really are that good. You’ll hear echoes of k d lang, it here and I truly feel this is my home.
Sting, Patti Smith and The Pretenders. Lead singer and guitarist Lucas How’s Snakehouse doing? Very well. We are getting a lot of amazing
Silveira ain’t pretending though – born female, he lives as a man who reviews and I’m very happy with the attention we’re getting.
dates women. He’s got a voice like a Stradivarius and the balls to play it
not with a bow, but with a rusty bread knife. Cited influences include The Cliks played the Barfly in Brighton last September and they were loud!
David Bowie, Bloc Party, Jane’s Addiction and Jeff Buckley. The other www.myspace.com/thecliks
STUART LEE

JACOB’S STORIES
With an over-saturation of music released these days by major record
labels, it is a relief to see that more artists are deciding to self-release
their records, thereby maintaining a sentimental and personal integrity
over their music. One such artist who believes this DIY approach is far
more beneficial is Stuart Lee of Jacob’s Stories.
Twenty-eight-year-old Stuart has been making music for the past seven
years, producing his first four-track, which then become the eight songs
for Demo One, which he distributed to friends and family. Since then he’s
released an EP, four split singles and a debut full-length album Fledgling
in 2006. During this time Stuart has played countless live shows, touring
the UK and America and continually wowing audiences with his live
performances. This year is a turning point for Stuart with the release of
his second album Undisciplined Art. Moving away from the shadows of
past label experiences, Stuart decided to go it alone. Written and
recorded over a six-month period between mind-numbing jobs, Recorded at Bankhead Farm, Scotland, with guest strings by Abi Fry
Undisciplined Art has been a labour of love that moves into more (Bat For Lashes, British Sea Power), Undisciplined Art will be released in
experimental territory than his debut album. a limited edition of 500 copies, all of which include handmade sleeves
He is a musician who never likes to retread old ground, and this release is with original artwork, individually numbered.
far more eclectic in its entirety while attaining an unrefined aesthetic,
something the album title suggests. Embracing themes of love, loss, by Jeff Schofield www.myspace.com/typemusicpr
religion, isolation, obsession and lust, Undisciplined Art captures
something far more majestic and atmospheric with gorgeous melodies and Jacob’s Stories will play at the Redroaster Café, St James’s St, on
exquisite moments of musical harmony. Monday March 24, with Dear Britch and Twenty-One Crows. Tickets £5
Maintaining artistic freedom is something artists find hard when putting from Resident Records, Brighton, 01273 606312.
out records through a label – and it’s something Stuart is very passionate www.myspace.com/jacobsstoriesband
about. Releasing the album himself allowed him complete control over all www.myspace.com/dearbritch
aspects of recording, production, artwork and distribution. www.myspace.com/twentyonecrows
 60 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
BBC’s Any Dream Will Do and

ARTS
BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN
Wayne Smith from ITV’s Grease Is
The Word. This magical musical is
full of unforgettable songs,
including Any Dream Will Do, Close
Ev’ry Door To Me, One More Angel
CONNAUGHT THEATRE and many more.
Union Place, Worthing
The world-renowned MOSCOW
Box office 01903 206206

MOSCOW BALLET
BALLET: LA CLASSIQUE (Thu 25)
Michael Frayn’s SPIES (Thu 6–Sat
demonstrate their continued
8) is a bittersweet evocation of
quality of dance and performances
childhood with a gripping mystery
in a dramatic production of Swan
at its heart. Set during World War II
Lake set to Tchaikovsky’s superb
in a quiet suburban cul-de-sac
score. trying out new material and ideas,
where gardens and dark secrets lie
at Upstairs at Three and Ten.
behind neatly trimmed hedges,
THE OLD MARKET Recently described as “thoughtful,
Stephen and his friend Keith play at
Upper Bedford Place, Brighton provocative and very funny” by the
detectives. But the game changes
Box office 01273 736222 Sunday Times, while The Guardian
gear when Keith announces that his
Sought after for their insight and wrote that “when someone writes a
own mother is a German spy. The
imagination, the CHILINGIRIAN history of modern comedy, they
hunt is on in deadly earnest and nothing will ever be the same again.
QUARTET (Sun 16), is one of the should make room for Robin Ince”.
Henry James’s THE TURN OF THE
world’s most celebrated and widely As heard on Radio 4’s Banter,
SCREW (Tue 11–Sat 15) centres on
travelled ensembles. Maestros in The Personality Test, Crimes
a young woman who obtains the
their own right, as a quartet they Against Music and Loose Ends,
post of a governess to two children
are renowned both for their amongst others.
abandoned by their previous carers,
thrilling interpretations of earlier RABBIT IN THE HEADLIGHTS (Fri
Peter Quint and Miss Jessel, in
composers and commanding 28) is a stand-up comedy night
circumstances of some mystery. But
performances of the contemporary featuring new acts and new-ish
what exactly was the nature of the
repertoire. Tonight’s programme acts on the rise.
relationship between the adults and
comprises Haydn’s Quartet Op 50
these two children? And is it
possible that the carers’ malevolent
No 4; Shostakovich No 11 Op 122 THE HAWTH
and Beethoven’s quartet Op 127. Hawth Avenue, Crawley
ghosts have come back to destroy
LOUIS DE BERNIERES (Thu 20), Box office 01293 553636
the new governess?
author of Captain Corelli’s GAME (Sat 8) by Tangled Feet
Mandolin, reads from his latest features Tony and Connie, who
BRIGHTON LITTLE THEATRE millions of records the world over book, The Partisan’s Daughter. decide to welcome their new
Clarence Gardens and is celebrated for having one of Set in North London in the 1970s, neighbours with a spot of wine,
Box office 01273 777748 the greatest voices in popular it centres on Roza, a young music and marshmallows. But
Set during the ‘dotcom’ boom of music. With the virtuoso guitar of Serbian woman, who tells her life things soon go horribly wrong. The
the late 1990s, David Hare’s MY Carmelo Luggeri she is now story to a bored middle-aged man. recently arrived James has a new
ZINC BED (Tue 25–Sat 29) looks at making a distinctive blend of An unlikely love story develops. girlfriend, Franky, and she’s
the relationships of three people music that takes you on a joyous determined to steal the show.
locked together in a tight triangle, and sensuous journey. Featuring all UPSTAIRS AT THREE & TEN Fresh from five-star reviews and a
twisting under enormous pressures. the hits such as Don’t Go Breaking 10 Steine Street, Brighton Total Theatre Best New Work
Paul, a young poet working as a My Heart, I’ve Got The Music In Me. Box office 07786 984900 Award nomination at the
journalist to make ends meet, goes As Brighton’s newest music show, Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Like
to interview a young internet THE ACOUSTIC ROOM (Sat 1) aims Abigail’s Party on acid, this is a
entrepreneur and his wife. All three to provide the South Coast with dinner party with a difference,
are addicts – addicted to alcohol, acoustic performances from the exploring male rivalry and female
self-pity and self-hate. This can best home-grown and international flirtatiousness. “An explosive,
only get worse when Paul finds artists in a welcoming, intimate sometimes delicately witty
himself falling in love with the environment. combination of choreography,
CIRCUS OF HORRORS

boss’s wife. Neil LaBute’s modern masterpiece special effects and clever writing.”
THE MERCY SEAT (Wed 5–Sat 8) The Stage.
PAVILION THEATRE depicts two New Yorkers – Ben and
Marine Parade, Worthing Abby – who skirt the borders of
Box office 01903 206206 moral and ethical acceptability
KIKI DEE (Mon 3) has sold until their relationship is thrown
THE CIRCUS OF HORRORS: THE into turmoil following the events
ASYLUM (Thu 6) features a line-up
CARMELO LUGGERI & KIKI DEE

of witch doctors, voodoo acrobats,
demon dwarves, flying vampires
and much more, presided over by
the undead ringmaster Doktor
Haze and accompanied by devil-
driven rock ‘n’ roll via The
Interceptors From Hell.
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING
TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (Mon
of 9/11.
I KISSED A FROG AND IT GAVE ME
HERPES (Wed 12) is a play about
love, kebabs and Viking re-
enactment warriors. Is it worth
catching an STD in pursuit of the
perfect man? “Sleek, streamlined
and utterly compelling.” **** Kate
Copstick, The Scotsman.
TV and radio star ROBIN INCE (Fri
GAME

17–Thu 20) stars Craig Chalmers, 14) begins a monthly residency,

Keith Jack and Chris Barton from

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

STOPGAP
BJORN AGAIN (Thu 13) is probably
the world’s No 1 Abba tribute act –
join them on their 19th
anniversary tour.
STOPGAP DANCE (Thu 27)
performs an evening of dance by
five international choreographers.
Portfolio Collection is a dance
banquet of serene chaos, sinister
loveliness and shocking beauty.
Prepare for a raw, rugged male
duet charged with testosterone
from Hofesh Shechter; a stark,
rock-infested descent into
unraveled reality by Nathalie
Pernette; a provocative powerful
duet by Gary Clarke; and Rob
Tannion on the quest for love
revealing with humour the dirty
WRESTLING
side of unrequited lust. StopGAP
also presents Corpus, an uplifting,
tender dance set after a party.
BRIGHTON CENTRE
Kings Road, Brighton
Box office 0870 900 9100
The highlight of WRESTLING (Sun
2) will be the rumble in which all
the wrestlers take part and can
only be eliminated by being
thrown out of the ring over the top
rope. It’s a format in which almost
anything can happen, and the last
one left in the ring is the winner.
Among the wrestlers fighting it out
will be a trio of reigning PWF title-
holders, ‘Wonder Kid’ Jonny Storm
‘Flying’ Phil Powers and ‘The
Destroyer’ Lee Darren. Teenage
star Erin Angel takes on the
awesome might of former British
ladies’ champion Klondyke Kate,
who weighs in at 20st.
THE X FACTOR (Thu 6–Sat 8) is
already the most exciting TV story
of the year and with viewing
figures of over 11 million, tickets
for the live tour are ever more
sought after than in the previous
three sell-out years. The finalists
from this year’s hit TV show will
take to the stage in 2008.
SINATRA (Tue 11–Sun 16) features
the performer’s greatest hits in
ultra-rare and some never-before-
seen footage. Ground-breaking
creative use of cutting-edge
technology puts him centre stage,
on multiple moving screens, with a
brilliant company of dancers and
singers, supported by a live
orchestra of the best musicians in
London – performing some of the
greatest music ever recorded.
FRENCH AND SAUNDERS (Tue 25,
Wed 26) features the best of their
characters and sketches from the
three decades that they have been
making people laugh, together
with brand-new material written by
the first ladies of comedy.
BOYZ II MEN (Fri 28), one of the
most successful R&B male vocal
groups of all time, return with
their new CD, Motown: Hitsville
USA. The four-time Grammy Award-
winning threesome are poised to
release their album, helmed by
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 61
mega-producer/music veteran
Randy Jackson. The disc features
songs from the Motown catalogue
that sparkle with the signature
Boyz II Men sound that catapulted
them to international fame.
KELLY CLARKSON’s (Mon 31) most
recent album My December is her
most personal album yet and
follows the tremendous success of
2004’s Breakaway, which sold 11
million worldwide on the strength
of such No 1 hits as Since U Been
Gone, Behind These Hazel Eyes,
Because Of You and Walk Away.
ASSEMBLY HALL
Worthing
Box office 01903 206206
Worthing Symphony Orchestra
Spring Awakenings (Sun 9)
features the work of Nigel Hess,
who scored Ladies in Lavender, plus
pieces by Vaughan Williams.
WSO
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
62 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
ARTS
NEWS
COMEDY BENEFIT NIGHT
Jaq Bayles will be appearing in a comedy
benefit WONDERFUL WOMEN DO STAND-UP
COMEDY for International Women’s Day
(Thu 6) upstairs at the Hare & Hounds at
Preston Circus. Katy Schutte will be
compering, with Felicity Ventom, Marie
Vagen, Roisin Mirza, Bunty Dann, Alison
Barclay, Sha Wylie, Bola Ajani and Julie Jepson headlining. Show
starts at 8pm, tickets are on the door £5/£4. Jaq’s monthly WALKS INTO
A BAR open-mic night takes place on the same night at the Unity pub
but guest compere Jim Holland will be looking after everyone while Jaq
appears at Wonderful Women!
JACOB’S STORIES GIG
STUART LEE
Brighton-based solo artist Stuart
Lee, who performs as Jacob’s
Stories, launches his second album
Undisciplined Art at the Redroaster
Café, St James’s Street (Mon 24).
Stuart’s performances feature
hauntingly lush vocals, layered
KATHARINE LE HARDY
electronic beats, piano and synths.
Supported by queer trip-hop cabaret
diva Dear Britch, and off-kilter folk
duo Twenty-One Crows. Doors open
8pm, tickets £5 from Resident
Records, 01273 606312.
www.myspace.com/jacobsstoriesband
GEORGIA HAYES
ART
M AT T E R S
BY ENZO MARRA
March is set to be a busy month, with artistic offerings being hung
throughout Brighton and its nearby Sussex neighbours.
CHALK GALLERY
There’s The Spring Collection until March 15, and A Moment in Time
from March 23–May 4. Chalk Gallery, 4 North Street, Lewes,
01273 474477, www.chalkgallery.org.uk
PHOENIX GALLERY
Everyday Anomalies (until March 22) involves
four of Hong Kong’s most exciting and active
artists, PAK Sheung-Chuen, Luke CHING,
KWAN Sheung-Chi and KAM Lai Wan. Their
observations highlight the minutiae of everyday
life, works that may often be nothing more than
subtle interventions and shifts in perspective, quietly questioning the
habitual codes of behaviour in urban society. Presented as videos,
photographs and objects, their practice is driven by a desire to
understand their surroundings – how people connect and interact with
each other, how they behave in public spaces.
Phoenix Gallery, 10–14 Waterloo Pl, Brighton, www.phoenixarts.org
ZIMMER STEWART
GALLERY
Showing paintings by
Katharine Le Hardy and
ceramics by Matthew Blakely
(from March 1–22). In 2005
Katharine was Highly
Commended, Young Artist of
the Year, at the Royal
Institute of Oil Painters, and
she was awarded the NADFAS
Young Artist Prize, Guggleton
Gallery, Dorset. In 2006 she was runner-up in the Royal Bath & West Art
Scholarship Prize. Matthew was born in the UK, and then emigrated to
Australia in 1988, where he studied at the National Art School in Sydney,
winning the State Medal in 1993. Zimmer Stewart Gallery, 29 Tarrant
Street, Arundel, 01903 885867, www.zimmerstewart.co.uk
HQ GALLERY
My final choice from this month runs until
March 16 at the HQ GALLERY involving Rue
Asher, Katherine Sollohub, Jonathan Smith,
fast followed by a solo showing of Georgia
Hayes’s work entitled Seeing The Wood For The
Trees. Her work has been shortlisted for the
£25,000 Royal Academy of Arts Charles
Wollaston Award three times, and has been
shown at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
HQ Gallery, St John Street, Lewes, www.hqgallery.co.uk
GIG POSTER EXHIBITION
Screen-printed gig posters by the British
Rock Artists Group (BRAG) runs until April
13 at Pelham House, St Andrews Lane,
Lewes. This exhibition celebrates work from
some of the new stars of the burgeoning
underground UK poster scene, featuring
bands like Queens of the Stone Age, Iron &
Wine, Bonde do Role, Black Rebel Motorcycle
Club, Devo, Ian Brown, Gloria Cycles, Orange
Goblin, High on Fire, British Sea Power,
Gallows, Eighties Matchbox B-line Disaster.
All posters are for sale. www.bragart.co.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 63

CLASSICAL have here, I can’t possibly fully do justice to answering these questions.
However, there are many women composers out there writing wonderful
NOTES
BY NICK BOSTON
music, and there’s a wealth of music composed by women in the past
worth promoting. Unfortunately, we must look that bit harder to find it.

Last month, Judith Weir (1954–) was awarded the

I chose my review CDs before I knew about this
Queen’s Medal for Music – the third person to receive it.
month’s theme. Interestingly, none contains
Her music always has a strong narrative quality, and
music by women composers, nor have female
she’s been described as bringing “new hope to those
conductors, although half do include female lead
who thought modern music could never be tuneful and
performers. Worried my own subconscious
original”. A good starting point would be this 2006
selection might be responsible, I checked my
release, including The Consolations of Scholarship, King Harald’s Saga
lists. Of 100-plus releases, only one contains
and the Piano Concerto. Albany TROY803
works by female composers – and interestingly
again, this is a compilation called Faces Of A Woman (MDG 344 1468).
A year or two ago I discovered a wonderful English
So even here, the ‘feature’ is that the composers are women, rather than
composer, Rebecca Clarke (1886–1979). She was the
the works standing on their own merit.
first woman admitted into Stanford’s composition
The Vienna Philharmonic only began to employ women ten years ago,
class at the Royal College of Music in 1907. She
and even now only employs four, two of them harpists (acceptable, the
composed many wonderfully poignant and tender
harp being a ‘feminine’ instrument). Women have reported hostility from
songs, chamber and orchestral works, before pretty
male orchestra members, and cited discrimination in promotion and the
much giving up composition and performing
audition process.

NICOLA LEFANU
(as a viola player) in the 1930s, a classic case
Nicholas Kenyon, the outgoing Proms director, received widespread
of a woman’s opportunities being limited by
criticism for programming one of the world’s largest classical music
society. I’d recommend a great release of her
festivals in 2006 without including a single work composed by a woman.
chamber music as a taster. Dutton CDLX7105
Redressing the imbalance in 2007, he managed five women composers
(4.2 per cent) and two female conductors (2.9 per cent).
Nicola LeFanu is another composer who has
The American musicologist Susan McClary has even argued that the very
done much to champion women in music. She
structure of Western classical music involves violent, ‘male’ themes,
is president of Gemini, committed to giving
battling with softer, ‘female’ themes, and ultimately the former
equal performance and commissioning
overpower and destroy the latter. So what’s going on? Do women just
opportunities to women and men
not compose classical music? Are they not interested in or committed to
(www.dulwich1.demon.co.uk/gemini/). She
the harsh world of professional performance? Are women composers
was also a founding member of Women in
destined to be sidelined, or only included when they are ‘themed’ as
Music, celebrating women’s music-making
something unusual, or worse, only linked to a male composer, eg Clara
across all genres (www.womeninmusic.org.uk/index.htm).
Schumann – wife of, or Fanny Mendelssohn – sister of? In the space I

REVIEWS ADELAIDE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA documentary of their Four Seasons unaccompanied

My top release
comes from
JEFFREY
SKIDMORE and
EX CATHEDRA.
It’s their third volume of Latin
American baroque music, called
Fire Burning In Snow, focusing
mainly on music by Juan de
Araujo (1648–1712). This is
alternated with verses from a
wonderful processional hymn,
Hanacpachap Cussicuinin. Amazing
singing from the 14-voice choir is
combined with lively
accompaniment from a mixed
ensemble, including recorders,
bajoncillos and shawms (bassoon
and oboe-like instruments),
cornets (wooden trumpet-like
instruments) and sackbuts (early
trombones). The result is a
glorious mixture of baroque choral
music, Latin American dance
rhythms and energetic ensemble
accompaniment. A definite buy!
Hyperion CDA67600
Now a contemporary Australian
composer, Ross Edwards (1943–),
and his 1st (Da pacem Domine)
and 4th (‘Star Chant’)
Symphonies, performed by the
(with Adelaide Chamber Singers
& Philharmonia Chorus in the
4th). I knew nothing about this
composer before, and I have to say
I largely enjoyed this. The 1st
Symphony brought to mind Tavener
and Pärt,
although it lacks
Pärt’s tautness.
Similarly the 4th
contains some
wonderful
invention, using
Aboriginal, European and Arabic
names for stars and constellations,
but lapses into ‘atmospheric’, film-
like music at times. If you like the
aforementioned composers, give
this a try. ABC 476 6161
The great Canadian baroque
ensemble TAFELMUSIK brings us
eight of Vivaldi’s 12 concertos,
L’Estro Armonico. As a completist,
I feel slightly short-changed not
getting all 12, but the
performances here are excellent
and full of life,
with Elizabeth
Wallfisch shining
in the solo
concertos. We also
get a bonus DVD, a
Mosaic project (the connection
being Vivaldi), a collaboration
between Tafelmusik and Chinese,
Indian and Inuit musicians from
their hometown Toronto. A
fascinating project, that I think
comes off pretty successfully – and
also has some interesting
reflections from the all-female
soloists on women and music in
their respective cultures. Analekta
AN 2 9835
The PURCELL
QUARTET brings
us Heinrich
Biber’s
(1644–1704)
Mensa Sonora
suites. As well, we get a wonderful
violin sonata, performed brilliantly
by Catherine Mackintosh. The suites
are less immediately striking than
Biber’s more virtuosic Mystery or
Rosary Sonatas, but are incredibly
inventive nonetheless. The Purcell
performances are characterful and
highly accomplished.
Chaconne CHAN 0748
ANTONY PITTS (1969–) has
recorded his own choir, Tonus
Peregrinus, singing his
choral pieces.
The most
substantial is the
cycle The ‘I AM’
Sayings of Jesus,
an eight-part work, each section of
which is based on a different
interval of the scale. It is an
incredibly striking work, and the
growing interval motifs create an
increasing tension, building to
dramatic conclusion in I AM Alpha
and Omega. The eight-part choir
obviously live and breathe this
music, and their dexterity with
extremely tricky harmonies is
exemplary. Hyperion CDA 67668
The Brighton Festival Chorus is
performing Bach’s St John Passion
at the Brighton Dome (Sat 22,
7.30pm) with conductor James
Morgan, Evangelist Timothy
Robinson, soprano Sarah Tynan,
mezzo Juliette Pochin, baritone
Christopher Maltman, Christus
Paul Reeves and Pilate Andrew
Rupp. Tickets are £14/£18/£24 and
£7.50 for proms standing.
brightondome.org
Email feedback/reviews/events:
nbclassical@hotmail.co.uk

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
64 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

CHOIR ARTS
B OY S
B Y G E O R G E L E AC H
BOOKS
B Y V I N C E L AW S

HOW TO SING BLOOD MOON’S GUIDE TO GAY AND LESBIAN FILM by Darwin Porter and
Mention the Yumbo Centre to most gay men and you will get a Danforth Prince is clearly a labour of love – and lust. It offers a
reaction. Maybe a wince of distaste from those who would do nothing rundown of the year’s most intriguing
so vulgar as to visit Gran Canaria’s premier gay tourist trap. Or maybe a gay, lesbian and transgender films, and
nostalgic sigh as they dimly remember extending their sexual repertoire a back catalogue of so much more –
after one complimentary peach schnapps too many. not only do you get a list of all the
celebs Marlon Brando fucked, you get a
Never been? Imagine a sub- shot of him sucking cock, too! Film
tropical version of Wood Green buffs and gossip lovers will read every
shopping city. A vast 3D outdoor salacious scrap, but there’s plenty here
maze of bars and clubs that open for film virgins too, with descriptions
like evening primroses as the and reviews of over 100 feature-length
surrounding souvenir shops gay films, plus shorts, quotes and
close, and as the last pushchairs photos. Although the quality of the
of the day trundle off to leave black and white photos sometimes lets
the steamy concrete jungle to its this guide down, the 400-plus pages of
nocturnal inhabitants. info and intrigue make it worth every
pink penny! £14.99.
The Yumbo has 43 gay bars, but they all get busy at different watches
of the night so you have to be in the right place at the right time. You THE PINK COOKBOOK contains more than
either have to discover the arcane details of the secret timetable or 200 feelgood recipes from top chefs,
rely on your innate GPS (Gay Positioning System) to avoid the lonely including Rick Stein and Antony Worrall
barstool. Whichever method you use, at some point you may find Thompson, as well as people who have
yourself in Centre Stage, the Yumbo’s longest-running gay bar, famed been touched by breast cancer – £1 from
for its video-induced sing-alongs. There, even the strong, dark, silent every copy sold goes to Breast Cancer
types discover they Care. There are the simplest of ideas, from
instinctively know the words stuffed figs to lime lassi, to the more
to major show tunes. Perhaps involved – Jamie Oliver’s Japanese-style
it’s genetic. tuna carpaccio for example, but even that
takes only 15 minutes to prepare and
‘Sing-along’ may conjure up needs no cooking. I’m drooling over kipper kedgeree as I type.
images of old people’s homes Published by Hamlyn at £6.99
in Worthing, but bear with me.
Ten years ago in Centre Stage I THE SAPPHOS GUIDE 2008 is now out.
had a revelation. I discovered that, under the right circumstances, I LGBT travel books go out of date
could sort of sing. All that it took was to be surrounded by others who notoriously quickly, so let’s look at the
were singing too, and singing music I could relate to. I just couldn’t current Sapphos entry for Brighton:
stop myself. Now, whenever I rehearse with the ever-growing City of The Amsterdam, Café 22, Caledonian
Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, I get the same feeling. Even while sober. Bar, Charles Street, Joogleberry, Kruze,
Legends, Marine Tavern, R-Bar, Candy
To those who would like to join but ‘don’t have a voice’, I would Bar, The Marlborough, The Queens
suggest that their voice might be fine but it’s their confidence that’s Arms, Vavoom Bar, White Horse,
the problem. Growing up different or facing ridicule, shame or isolation Switchboard, Revenge, V2, Wet Pussy,
can all stoke up our self-doubt. Singing with other gay men in the Wild Fruit, Clone Zone, Prowler, Tickled,
chorus is a kind of antidote because it reveals an essential truth: that and the Brighton Women’s Centre all
the best way to start singing is to tune out all the internalised get mentioned. Lesbian visitors to
messages that say you can’t. Brighton would no doubt have enough
info to get started, despite one or two
This year the circle will be completed. In Gran Canaria, as part of their mistakes, even if these venues aren’t
huge Pride celebrations, the City of Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus will all considered favourites on the lesbian
give two performances. One of them will be televised throughout the scene. Hopefully, when you walk into the
Spanish-speaking world. Not bad for a group consisting of people who Pomada bar in Kiev in the Ukraine, the
used to think they couldn’t sing. OK, it takes some hard work too, and same will apply. £16.99
the input of genius from our music team headed by our musical
director, Ignacio Jarquin, who knows exactly how to nurture the group THE Q GUIDE TO DESIGNING WOMEN is
and help us find our voices. “stuff you didn’t even know you wanted to
know about Julia, Mary Jo, Charlene,
Now where did you leave yours? Suzanne, and the beloved sitcom”, by Allen
Crowe. Dishes the dirt on the backstage
drama behind the scenes of famed US ’80s
The City of Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus welcomes new members.
sitcom Designing Women, with interviews
For membership enquires email Thomas at membership@cbgmc.org
from the four female leads. This book is the
or call 07968 853625.
perfect companion to The Q Guide To The
For other enquires email Rod at info@cbgmc.org or call 01273
Golden Girls, it says here. £7.99
721314 or visit www.singbrighton.com for more details.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

FILM
BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN
WAZ
Dir: Tom Shankland
Stars: Stellan Skarsgård, Melissa
George, Selma Blair
Plot: A calculating killer coerces a
detective to pay for his previous
mistakes.
Word on net: “Mightily impressive debut that should put Shankland on
Tinseltown’s Rolodexes.”
“Takes classics like Seven and Saw and filters
them through a European arthouse sensibility.”
“At a sheer technical
level Waz distastefully delivers.”
“Skarsgård was at his most intense,
visceral and captivating best.”
“Uneven, ostentatiously nasty serial-
killer thriller that grips like a vice.”
BE KIND REWIND goes along but its ambition and
Dir: Michel Gondry accomplishment remain modest.”
Stars: Jack Black, Mos Def,
“Visually stunning but is that
Mia Farrow enough?”
“American road movie
Plot: A man whose brain becomes that relegates director to the role
magnetised unintentionally erases of a passive, swooning tourist amid maintain
every tape in his friend’s video a blur of neon signs, smoky bars
store. In order to satisfy the store’s and open freeways.”
most loyal renter, an ageing woman
with signs of dementia, the two MARGOT AT
men set out to remake the lost THE WEDDING
Dir: Noah Baumback
Stars: Nicole Kidman, Jack Black,
Jennifer Jason Leigh
Plot: Margot and her son Claude
decide to visit her sister Pauline
after she announces that she is
getting married to less-than-
impressive Malcolm. The storm the devotes much of his adult life to
films, which include Back To The sisters create leaves behind a
Future, The Lion King and Robocop. mess of thrashed relationships and attempt
Word on net: “A strange beast... exposed family secrets.
the ‘remakes’ have some big
laughs, but on the whole the film
is more amusing than laugh-out-
loud funny.”
“An enjoyable piece
of whimsy that choked me up in
the final reel.”
“No big jokes but
sweet and quietly moving.”
MY BLUEBERRY NIGHTS Word on net: “A circus of family
Dir: Wong Kar Wai neuroses and bad behaviour that
Stars: Norah Jones, Jude Law, perhaps a therapist could make
Natalie Portman sense of better than film’s
Plot: A young woman takes a soul- writer/director.”
“Pretentious
searching journey across America and talky... dialogue is fairly
to resolve her questions about love enjoyable but it’s sound and fury
while encountering a series of signifying nothing.”
“Lacerating
offbeat characters along the way. film that pushes family drama right
Word on net: “As much a trifle as to the edge.”
title suggests... Jones is a blank-
page heroine... gets better as it UNTRACEABLE
Dir: Gregory Hoblit
Stars: Diane Lane, Billy Burke,
Colin Hanks
Plot: FBI agent Jennifer Marsh is
tasked with hunting down a
seemingly untraceable serial killer
who posts live videos of his victims
on the internet. As time runs out,
the cat-and-mouse chase becomes
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 65
more personal. melodrama that is so amped up
Word on net: “Horrifying thriller,
smart and tightly told.”

“Satisfying slice of solid meat-
that it goes beyond an ‘11’.”
LARS AND THE REAL GIRL
and-potatoes filmmaking.” Dir: Craig Gillespie

“Compelling first half but film Stars: Ryan Gosling, Emily
descends into silliness and Mortimer, Paul Schneider
clichés.”
“Tawdry thriller thinks Plot: A delusional young man
it’s a meaningful commentary on strikes up an unconventional
the excesses of the internet.”
AWAKE
Dir: Joby Harold
Stars: Hayden Christensen, Jessica
Alba, Terrence Howard
Plot: A man who suffers
‘anaesthetic awareness’ finds
himself awake and aware, but
paralysed, during heart surgery. relationship with an anatomically
Word on net: “Completely correct doll he finds on the
absorbing thriller... full of internet.
surprising plot twists and quite Word on net: “Defies its lurid
disturbing.”
“Has an attention- premise with a gentle comic drama
getting plot hook, but piles on too grounded in reality.”
“It takes an
many narrative gimmicks to idea that could easily be reduced
suspense or credibility.” to a series of sex jokes and

“Not a good movie but it’s silly pratfalls and develops it into
and lively enough to keep most something intelligent and
viewers from dozing off.” thoughtful.”
“Recommended for
those with a high tolerance of
LOVE IN THE whimsy.”
“Wobbles between
TIME OF CHOLERA mawkish and schmaltzy.”
Dir: Mike Newell
Stars: Benjamin Bratt, Javier ALSO OUT...
Bardem, Liev Schreiber THE BANK JOB stars Jason
Plot: Florentino (Bardem), rejected Statham and Saffron Burrows in a
by the beautiful Fermina (Giovanna true-life story based on a heist
Mezzogiorno) at a young age, that netted Ocean’s Eleven money
but with no arrests and not one
carnal affairs as a desperate penny recovered.
to heal his broken heart.
Adapted from the novel by Gabriel
García Márquez.
Word on net: “The story, without
its author’s language, is just dust
and bones.”
“Handsomely shot
but film is mannered and slow
going.”
“Overly literal
adaptation... despite magnificent THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL is a
performance by Bardem film fails historical drama in which the
to generate any magic.”
“A Boleyn sisters (Natalie Portman as
misstep of near epic proportions... Anne and Scarlett Johansson)
great for those who love hammy compete for the hand of Henry VIII
acting, overripe dialogue and (Eric Bana).
FILM C O M P E T I T I O N
Roland Independence Day
Emmerich’s 10,000 BC is a
prehistoric epic that follows a
young mammoth-hunter’s journey
through uncharted territory to
secure the future of his tribe.
To win two tickets to the Odeon
Brighton just answer the following
question and send to Film Competition, Gscene, 111 Western Road,
Hove, BN3 1DD:
Which ‘60s sex symbol starred in Hammer’s ONE MILLION BC?
FEBRUARY COMPETITION: Godzilla.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
PIC BY PER-OLAV HAGEN 66 GSCENE

IF YOU GO DOWN
TO THE WOODS TODAY…
Last year four of us visited the Cass Sculpture Foundation, an award-winning sculpture park
set in 26 acres of woodland in West Sussex, and thoroughly enjoyed a day of sunshine,
leaves and art. The park opens again on April 1, boldly asking on its website: “Where else
in the world can you see a changing display of 70 specially commissioned, monumental
sculptures sited in an idyllic landscape and all for sale?” Where indeed? By Vince Laws
The foundation was set up in 1992 by Wilfred and Jeannette Cass to penny because he came up with a finished piece of art worthy of his
promote current British sculpture. “To achieve this it commissions, concept – loved it.
displays, promotes internationally and sells monumental sculptures to a Outside is Steve Dilworth’s Claw – black granite, two and a half metres
diverse range of buyers – from private collectors, to individual high, at once threatening and yet embracing, as vulnerable as a blind
enterprises, to public spaces, to the business community – and more baby bird begging for food, and then silent, the calm before the storm,
than 160 monumental sculptures have been commissioned and sold a talon poised – £98,00.
around the world in the last 15 years.” They seem to be fulfilling their The foundation is about an hour from Brighton by car, in Goodwood
brief admirably. near Chichester, West Sussex. It boasts 70 changing monumental works
The park closes to the public over by 50 innovative sculptors at all stages of their careers, from those just
the winter months, so will no out of college to the biggest names – there’s a piece by Sir Anthony
doubt be looking particularly perky Caro, heaps by Tony Cragg, and four rather dull bollards by Antony
as it welcomes the first visitors of Gormley! Every year the foundation commissions a dozen or so large
spring. Start off at the visitor sculptures and a number of smaller works, or maquettes. The artists’
centre-cum- (suitably restrained) drawings, working models and maquettes make for a fascinating archive,
gift shop, and wonder at the which we were lucky enough to be shown briefly. It was odd to think
towering woman cast in Scrabble back to these delicate vase-like pieces when, an hour or so later, we
tiles – what glue did he use? – were standing before the monoliths they became.
Myslexia by David Mach, £50,000 Pieces I liked? Sally Matthews’s Wolf is a cool dude at £19,000 – but
– cheeky and magical and not as cool as the dude I know who bought a set of five for a sculpture
illusionary and fun and worth every park in Norway! Sean Henry’s Lying Man – when did painted bronze

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 67

PIC BY PER-OLAV HAGEN

PIC BY PER-OLAV HAGEN

PIC BY PER-OLAV HAGEN

ever look so peaceful? – yours for £75,000. Douglas White’s Icarus

Palm deserves to be a forest; it does for old car tyres what Abigail
Fallis does for shopping trolleys in DNA DL90 – both take overlooked
everyday materials and make us see them anew, and the execution is
unexpectedly beautiful.
PIC BY PER-OLAV HAGEN

Once it reopens on April 1, the sculpture park opens Tuesday to

Sundays and bank holiday Mondays, from 10.30am to 5pm, with the
last entry at 4.30pm. To see the grounds properly, allow at least two
hours for your visit.
The entrance fee is £10 per person. Children under ten go free when
accompanied by an adult, normal rates apply if they are part of a school
group, although accompanying supervisors go free.
Staff at the sculpture park recommended the nearby Star and Garter
pub in East Dean (01243 811318) for a superior pub lunch, and they
were spot on. We enjoyed delicious seafood in the sunny garden,
washed down with crisp white wine.

The Cass Sculpture Foundation, Goodwood, near Chichester,

West Sussex, PO18 0QP, 01243 538449.
info@sculpture.org.uk www.sculpture.org.uk

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
68 GSCENE GSCENE 68

DIRTY
FINGERS
BY RHS SILVER MEDALLIST RACHAEL WOODGATE

SPRING INTO ACTION!

Do you fancy a new healthy challenge that will save you money and
reward your body with good stuff? If you do, then why not build a raised
vegetable bed and start growing your own fresh food? The advantages of
raised beds are plenty – overall they are easier to maintain and promote
better plant growth. With a raised
bed, you can plant, weed and
harvest without straining your back
or ever walking on the soil, which
can cause compaction and thus
problems with drainage and oxygen
availability to roots.

The beds can be filled with high-

quality soil and it’s easy to replenish
Vegetable planting schemes can it with organic matter. Long-rooted
create decorative appeal as well as veg, such as carrots or parsnips, will
delicious produce!
especially benefit, as there are no
stones to hinder their growth. You can also protect produce from pests
by making a dome-shaped roof using a simple wire
frame covered with garden fleece or you can use HAPPY EASTER BUNNIES!
individual cloches. Plants in raised beds get more
sun and air circulation and they can make better
use of water. Growing seasons are longer because
raised beds warm up earlier in the spring and stay
warm later in the autumn. They also make ideal
places to grow plants that can be invasive in a
regular garden, such as mint and horseradish.

HOW TO BUILD A RAISED VEG BED

1. Choose a level sunny location and mark its boundaries (roughly
1.2m by 3m) – you should always be able to reach the middle from the
outer edge. Fork over the existing ground to increase drainage.
2. Construct the frame with a non-toxic building material, such as
stone, bricks or untreated wood. For simplicity, most garden outlets sell
raised bed frames that simply snap together.
3. Make sure the frame is between 12ins and 16ins high and is sturdy
enough to hold together when filled with soil. If you use wooden
boards, they must be secured at the corners with galvanised metal
braces or screws, or nailed to a reinforcing block of wood inside the
corners – do not nail into
the ends of boards, they will
split!
4. Fill the frame with
a good-quality lightweight
soil/ compost mix. Don’t
use soil straight from the
garden – it’s likely to be too
heavy to allow proper
drainage.

A well-constructed raised
bed will last for years and
soil fertility can be
maintained by adding
organic matter. Raised vegetable beds are excellent for older or disabled
gardeners and besides, who wants to spend hours on their knees?!
Raised beds have been used for centuries for good reason – they’re
better for many plants and they’re kinder on gardeners.

IS YOUR GARDEN OR TERRACE IN NEED OF A MAKEOVER?

For creative, price-conscious solutions contact Rachael through
the Gscene office or via www.myspace.com/rachredgardening

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 69

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
70 GSCENE
is not a scene I am proud of. We The amounts listed in the winter
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are missing what’s important.
I thought the objective was to
Pride programme are cash amounts
that have been raised either from
HAVE YOUR SAY! SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: GSCENE 111,
welcome people to Brighton and collection boxes or fundraisers in
WESTERN RD, HOVE, BN3 1DD OR INFO@GSCENE.COM
do our best to keep them here – the venues.
permanently. With the economy the Businesses such as Prowler, Cardome
The Letters To The Editor pages and done, he was extremely
way it is, people are either going and Clone Zone in St James’s Street
have received a variety of popular.
to London to live, moving out of are always giving prizes to
submissions over the last two I was surprised to read about the
the country, or staying at home. organisers of benefits amounting to
months marked ‘Concerned, of difficulties with last year’s Pride
Competition on the scene is one many hundreds of pounds each
Brighton’ or requests to run lettersstreet party, as I thought it was
thing, but when it starts getting year. This helps bars and club raise
without a name and address well put together. I am from
personal and the reputations of money through raffles and adds to
attached. Our policy is clear. London originally, now in my 12th
people are in shreds because of fundraising totals.
We print letters that come by post year of living in Sussex, and I ask
harmful gossip and personality These contributions in kind are not
or email as long as they have a myself if anyone in Brighton
clashes, it’s not right. reflected in the totals published,
name, address and a telephone actually cares about Pride anymore.
I know people on the scene who and maybe they should be.
number on them. Does your average 21-year-old
have been vilified because of what JL
Most of the letters recently have crop-top know the true meaning of
they do, what they are trying to
expressed concerns about the scene, Pride? Or is it just an excuse to
including wide-ranging views on the have a piss-up and get trashed?
do, or how they live their lives. GETTING AWAY WITH IT
Homophobia is one thing, but If, like me, you were appalled at
Everybody knows about London
return of Kitty Litter to Brighton or
when it comes from within the the decision by the Courts to clear
issues surrounding the choice of Pride’s history and the wrangling
LGBT community, it’s hurtful. We Peter Willows on a legal
Golden Handbag categories, over how it was run, how money
are destroying everything we have technicality, then perhaps you
particularly regarding the hostess was raised, and where it went. Now
worked for, everything we stand should consider making
and door security category. it seems to be split into many
for, and everything we live for. We representations to the Standards
If you want to express your views separate Pride celebrations. I can
need to look at ourselves in the Board for England. The Court never
please enclose your full details andonly deduce that wherever we live,
mirror and ask what we are coming found Willows innocent of the
I will happily run your letter. it comes down to ego, power and
to. HIV infection rates are still offensive remarks that he made,
The following letter by Justin King control issues and stupid
rising, gay men are still getting and those comments were a clear
is typical of the themes expressed personality conflicts, which have
bashed, with many cases going breach of the Code of Conduct
in many letters received lately. hindered everything to do with
unreported – these are the issues which Councillors must adhere to.
Justin should be congratulated for Pride, as well as the scene.
we should be fighting. I haven’t The Standards Board can still
being prepared to express his views Luckily, I’m on the outside looking
written this for any motive other recommend various actions,
and stand by them by putting his in, so I don’t know everything, but
than to show that I care. It’s time including barring him from
name to his letter. I see venues (gay and straight)
to bring back some love, or at standing for office. You can
In some circumstances I am closing down. The Hub was the
least, to show it on the surface. complain about his actions to the
prepared to run letters marked first casualty. Pubs everywhere
It’s a sad fact that World Aids Day Standards Board via email at
‘Name and address supplied’, to (particularly in Worthing) are
and Pride are the only days when enquiries@standardsboard.gov.uk
protect someone’s identity if they forced out of business, and all I
we are (possibly) truly united. As The original complaint made
so request, as long as I have their hear about now is aggression. It’s
the saying goes, kind of... A gay reference to the breach of the Code
full details, including telephone horrid to see, and I’m ashamed to
person is for life, not just for WAD of Conduct by Willows in terms of
number, so I can chat through with admit that in the past year I know
and Pride. the requirement of Councillors to
them on the phone the reasons not a single friend who has gone
DJ Justin King treat all people with respect.
they don’t want to be identified. out in Brighton – it’s like pulling
Willows fell far short of this, and
James Ledward, Editor teeth to get people to come out.
MORE FLOATS PLEASE having been found guilty once, he
Personality conflicts and harmful
Much appreciation has to go to the should not be allowed to get away
SCENE ISSUES gossip have taken over. People are
Pride team for all their continuing absolutely scott free just because
I have been meaning to write, being picked on regardless of
efforts on our behalf throughout of a legal technicality.
partly on behalf of those who their status or standing. This is
the year. One issue that concerns Cllr David Watkins
were closer to Darrell Cummings alienating people. It cannot be
me however about the summer Brunswick & Adelaide ward
than perhaps I was, to say thank allowed to continue, because it’s
Pride procession is that there are Brighton & Hove City Council
you for the tribute you paid to damaging.
only a few of our community’s bars
him in previous issues. I know We used to have so many places to
and other businesses contributing SHOCKED, OF HOVE
there were some misunderstandings go, but now the few venues we
floats. Even though I am aware I have lived in Brighton for 30
concerning what had been written have left are empty or only half
that many of the bars and clubs years in a relationship. Recently I
about him, but the touching turn- full. Thankfully, I’ve read a few
contribute in others ways to Pride, split from my partner and have
out at his funeral indicated how articles in Gscene lately where
it would be really good to see found it very difficult to meet new
popular he was. Darrell was the people seem to be addressing this,
more of them having a profile in friends. The scene has become very
only person I know who not only but it’s been going on for ages.
the actual procession. unfriendly. I went to Dukes Mound
asked me how I was whenever I The new 24-hour licensing laws
Colin Barton recently and what a shock I got.
saw him, but also asked me if I have resulted in more alcoholic
The amount of barebacking and
was happy. You don’t get that from aggression. Vile drugs, like GHB,
FUNDRAISING unsafe sex going on was shocking.
many people nowadays. cause stress for landlords and
I picked up a copy of the winter Have people not got the message
It was nice to see people from promoters. Then there are ID
Pride programme last month and or do they just not care any more?
local businesses at the funeral, problems, and the recent smoking
must say I was surprised at how The ages of those involved was
particularly pub landlords. Clearly ban – I refuse to go anywhere
little some gay businesses had very worrying, with many younger
he meant more than just someone unless I can hold a drink and a
raised for Pride last year. Surely people being only too happy to
who was putting money into their cigarette in the same hand. I hate
some of the amounts raised, like drop their trousers in public and
pockets, but I was angered by the the fact that gay people seem to
£25, are not really a satisfactory put on a show. It wasn’t like that
lack of attendance from others in be either on self-destruct or are
contribution from big businesses? in my day.
this area. Still, when all is said totally disposable. As a result, this
Dave Wallis, Hove Peter, Hove

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

SERVICE
DIRECTORY
LESBIAN & GAY
SERVICES
ACCESS 4 ALL
LGBT disabled people’s forum. Safe + welcoming,
support, activities, awareness.
Tel: 07981 170071
access4all@fsmail.net
ANYTHINGBUT…
Youth social support group for lesbian, gay, bi-
sexual and anyone unsure of their sexuality
under 26, meets every other Wednesday.
Tel: 01323 649927
Email: anythingbut@tht.org.uk
ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT
Drop-in for young people, under 26 years old,
who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or unsure.
5.30-8.30pm every Tues.
Tel: 01273 721211
Email: info@allsortsyouth.org.uk
www.allsortyouth.org.uk
BRIGHTON & HOVE POLICE
Report all homophobic + transphobic incidents
to the police; to LGBT Community Liason Officer
Nick Antjoule; to LGBT Community Police Liason
Officer PCSO Sarah Stanbride; or use True Vision
self reporting pack (available in most venues).
Police: 0845 6070999
Emergency: 999
Nick Antjoule: 01273 665657
nick.antjoule@sussex.pnn.police.uk
Sarah Stanbridge: 01273 665541
sarah.stanbridge@sussex.pnn.police.uk
BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SWITCHBOARD
Help-line from 5pm daily: Tel: 01273 204050
Counselling service, Proud2connect service
(relationship counselling in partnership with
Brighton Relate),
Roomfinder service, email enquiries:
enquiries.brighton@switchboard.org.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
For more info about services 01273 207050,
email brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk
or brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk
BRIGHTON OURSTORY PROJECT
Oral history projects including shows,
exhibitions, books and support to researchers.
Tel: 01273 207757 or 01273 328592
BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE
Information, counselling, drop-in space, support
groups.
Tel: 01273 698036
GEMS
(formerly OL&GMF). Twice monthly meeting for
the over 50s
24 hour answerphone: 01273 737433
MIND OUT
Independent, impartial information and guidance
for lesbians and gay men with mental health
problems. 24hrs confidential answerphone.
Tel: 01273 739847
www.lgbtmind.com
LESBIAN LINK
Social group offering friendship and social events
Tel: 07952 832023
LESBIAN & GAY AA
12 step self-help programme for those with
alcohol addictions. Meets every Sunday at 7.30pm
Chapel Royal, North St, Brighton (side entrance).
Tel: 01273 203343 (general AA line)
LGBT NA GROUP
Brighton based LGBT (welcomes others - non
restrictive) Narcotics Anonymous group. Meets
every Fri from 6pm-7.30pm at 61 Ship St, BTN.
Tel: NA Helpline 604604
RAINBOW FAMILIES
Support group for lesbian and/or gay parents.
Tel: 07951 082013
VICTIM SUPPORT
Practical + emotional support for victims of crime.
Tel: Brighton 01273 234009
Hove 01273 439942
HIV PREVENTION
TREATMENT & CARE SERVICES
ADDACTION
Needle exchange, drop-in, helpline, advice + info on
drug + alcohol issues. Tel: 01273 607575
AVERT
An HIV & AIDS information sevice, available over the
telephone + by email for the Sussex Area.
Tel: 01403 210202 confidential@avert.org
BRIGHTON & HOVE CAB HIV PROJECT
Money, benefits, employment, housing, information +
advocacy. Appointments: Tue-Thurs 9am-4pm, Wed
9am-12.30pm.
CLAUDE NICOL CENTRE/ WILDE CLINIC
Testing & treatment for sexually transmitted
infections incl HIV. Hepatitis A & B vaccinations. Free
& confidential. Tel: 01273 664721
LAWSON UNIT
Medical advice + treatment for HIV positive people.
Specialist clinics, including diet + welfare advice.
Drug trials. Tel: 01273 664722
OPEN DOOR
Support, referrals, advice, meals complementary
therapies, back to work training etc. For HIV +ve
people. Mon-Fri 10am-4pm

Evening Service: every 2nd Thurs 5.15-8pm
evening access to all services, by appointment

Drug Users Drop-in: safe, supportive and
confidential space to address issues related to drug
misuse for people with HIV

Writers Group: a creative space for people to
express themselves in a supportive environment

Isis: monthly support group for women with +
affected by HIV

Sex & Relationships: workshops + groups for gay
men with HIV - call to book on next course.
Tel: 01273 605706
THE SUSSEX BEACON
24 hour nursing & medical care, day care.
Tel: 01273 694222
GSCENE 71
TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST - SOUTH

Gay Men’s Health Matters: free condoms +
lube, advice + info about HIV & sexual health,
face to face appointments to discuss sex +
relationships

Community Support Services: volunteer
support, treatment support + info, short-term
counselling + practical help

Training and Education Services:
info sessions, training courses

Street Outreach Service (SOS): Street based
mobile HIV prevention project offering info, free
condoms+lube. Drop-In: Mon 2-6pm, Thurs 6-10pm

Face-to-Face: informal discussion about sex,
HIV and sexual health with experienced gay men's
health worker.

Living well with HIV mentoring project:
practical + emotional assistance to people with
HIV, who may be thinking about starting
treatments or need support sticking to or
changing current treatments. 01273 764200
Condom Male: Free condoms + lube by post for
gay + bisexual men in East + West Sussex. Up to
20 condoms per delivery. Confidential & discreet.
01323 649927 (E Sussex), 01273 764200 (W
Sussex) for more infor or to place an order.
UNISEX
Sexual health promotion + drug/alcohol awareness
service for students & staff at the Universities of
Brighton & Sussex. Drop-in offering low-cost
condoms, pregnancy tests, confidential advice.
Volunteer opportunities + training programmes.
Tel: 01273 678641 www.unisex.org.uk
WARREN BROWN UNIT
Testing + treatment for sexually transmitted
infections including HIV. Hepatitis A & B
vaccinations. Free + confidential. Based in
Shoreham. Tel: 01273 461453
WILDE CLINIC
Gay men’s sexual health clinic. Wed 5-6.30pm
Tel: 01273 664721
NATIONAL HELPLINES
BROKEN RAINBOW
LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline
Tel: 08452 604460 Mon - Fri, 9am-1pm & 2-5pm
LONDON FRIEND
LGBT Bereavement Helpline every Tues 7.30-10pm,
Tel: 020 7403 5969
LONDON LESBIAN & GAY SWITCHBOARD
Tel: 02078 377324
POSITIVELINE (EDDIE SURMAN TRUST)
Tel: 0800 1696806 (Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat &
Sun 4-10pm)
MAINLINERS
Tel: 02075 825226
NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE
Tel: 08005 67123
NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE
Tel: 08007 76600
THT AIDS TREATMENT PHONELINE
Tel: 08459 470047
THT DIRECT
Tel: 0845 1221200
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
GSCENE ADVERTISERS MAP
HOVEE STAT
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SACKVILLE RD

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WEST
1 AMSTERDAM 22 V2 KINGS R 35
D 23 ST JAM
11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 5 Steine St, 603010 ES STR
EET
2 AQUARIUM 23 WILD FRUIT @ TRU
6 Steine St 78 West St, 327083 19
WEST
ST PIER MARIN
3 BIB & TUCKER E PAR
ADE
212 Elm Grove, 671616 ● HOTELS
4 BULLDOG TAVERN 1 AMSTERDAM BRIGHTTO
ON PIER
31 St James’ St, 684097 11–12 Marine Pde, 688825
5 CALEDONIAN 9 LEGENDS HOTEL EDWAR
26 Oriental Pl, 323087 31 Marine Pde, 624462 ROYAL 11 D ST
6 CHARLES ST BAR 5 MARINA WEST HOTEL PAVILLION
8 Marine Parade, 624091 26 Oriental Pl, 323087

GE ST
7 GROSVENOR
T
16 Western St, 770712 ● SHOPS SS

GEOR
NCE
8 R-BAR 24 BROMPTONS
32 Gardner St, 697711
PRI

7 Marine Pde, 608133

9 LEGENDS BAR 25 CARDOME NO 12
31 Marine Pde, 624462 47a St James’ St, 692916 RTH
26 CLONE ZONE ST
10 MARINE TAVERN
13 Broad St, 681284 32 St James’ St, 626442
11 THE PV 27 LACIES
164 Portland Rd, Hove, 710656 ST JAM
Edward St, 325491 31 17 ES STRE
ET 4 26
12 QUEENS ARMS 28 INFINITY FOODS 33 16
7 George St, 696873 25 North Road, 603563 29
MANCHESTER ST

13 STAR INN 29 PROWLER 13 25

CHARLES ST

112 St James’ St, 683680 OLD STEINE MADEIRA PL

7–9 Manchester St, 601450
BROAD ST

22 37
STEINE ST

30 SPECS 10

RD ST
14 WHITE HORSE 2
Camelford St, 603726 22 Kensington Gardens, 676796
15 14 36

CAMELFO
15 VAVOOM 31 SUSSEX BEACON CHARITY SHOP 6

E
20 8 21 1

NEW STEIN
31 Old Steine, 603010 130 St James’ St, 682992
83 George St, Hove, 206302 MARINE PARADE
16 ZONE
33 St James’ St, 626412 ● ESTATE/LETS 9
18
● CLUBS 32 ALPHA CONTRACTS
51–53 Church Rd, Hove 38
17 CANDY BAR 777308 or 777130
129 St James’ St, 622424
33 4SALE ESTATE AGENTS
18 CASH QUEEN @ KOOKLUB 118 St James’ St, 692424
10 Pool Valley
34 4SALE /2LET LETTING AGENTS
6 CHARLES ST CLUB 111 Western Rd, Hove,
8 Marine Pde, 624091 4Sale 737666; 2Let 220144 36 NEW STEINE BISTRO ● SAUNAS ● LEGAL & FINANCE
9 LEGENDS CLUB 12a New Steine, 681546 1 AMSTERDAM SAUNA 41 ENGLEHARTS
31 Marine Pde, 624462 ● EATING OUT 8 R-BAR BEACH HOUSE 11–12 Marine Pde, 688825 Vallance Hall, Hove St, Hove, 204411
19 REBEL @ DIGITAL 7 Marine Pde, 608133 39 DENMARK SAUNA 42 TENNANT & KNIGHT
1 AMSTERDAM
187-193 Kings Rd Arches, 202407 11–12 Marine Pde, 688825 37 SAWADEE 86 Denmark Villas, Hove, 723733 11 Prince Albert St, 722544
20 REVENGE 87 St James’ St, 624233 40 REFRESH SAUNA
6 CHARLES ST BAR
32 Old Steine, 606064 8 Marine Pde, 624091 38 TERRACES 75 Grand Parade, 689966 ● COMMUNITY
21 SUNDAY SUNDAE @ AUDIO Madeira Drive, 570526 SWITCHBOARD 204050 (5pm–11pm)
35 FISHERMANS REST
10 Marine Pde 123-125 Kings Rd, 323888 SPECTRUM 723123

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

JAQ’S MONTHLY
AIN’T NO JOB
FOR A LADY
IS WOMEN’S EQUALITY A PIPE DREAM?
MICHAEL BUERK AND A 13-YEAR-OLD
AMERICAN GIRL GIVE US THE ANSWERS While it may be true that women are becoming more visible in
traditionally masculine roles (high-ranking police officers, for example),
TO THAT ONE, SAYS JAQ BAYLES the perception that there is parity for women in the workplace is
This from The Guardian Women’s page last month: “A 13-year-old
American girl called Brittany Bayles has written to her local newspaper
saying: ‘I think that having a woman president would be a bad idea for
our country. Women are not meant to rule countries and be in charge. I
agree that women can do many things, but leave the ruling of the
countries to the men.’”
First, I would like to totally disassociate myself from the author. While
the spelling of my surname is very unusual in this country, it does crop
up in the States. As far as I know (and hope) we are not related.
Second, after reading that, does anyone really need to ask the question:
Don’t women have equality now?
Well, obviously that quote can’t be taken as indicative of the
overarching view of Brits because, a) it’s clearly from some redneck
Bible-basher in one of the more harshly inbred southern states and, b)
we ain’t ever going to get even close to having another woman leader
thanks to the doggedly misogynistic dealings of the reviled Margaret
Thatcher, so no one really even ponders the question any more.
So let’s have a look at some national statistics to see just how equal we
are in 2008. In the UK, women are paid an average of 17 per cent less
than men, only a fifth of MPs and a tenth of leading company directors
are women and, shockingly, fewer than six per cent of reported rape
cases end in a conviction – maybe because there are only ten female
High Court judges (less than ten per cent of the total). And that’s 80
years after women first started practising law. Hardly representative is
it? Or even, for that matter, democratic.
So, hmm. We’re not so much
down with the equal on that
evidence.
The fact is, as soon as a woman
or two gains a foot on the
senior rung of the ladder,
whether it be in business,
media, law or politics, some
man will start bleating on
about how he is being
emasculated; how women are
stealing his job and making
him redundant.
Take, if you will, former Nine O’Clock News presenter Michael Buerk
who, back in 2005, whinged that “almost all the big jobs in
broadcasting are held by women”, who “decide what we see and hear”.
He told the Radio Times: “Life is lived in accordance with women’s
rules” and men are now merely “sperm donors”, adding that the “shift
in the balance of power between the sexes” had gone too far.
“The result is men are becoming more like women,” he said.
Are they Michael? Are they really? What, you mean they’re being denied
opportunities in the workplace, are they? Patronised by their opposite-
sex peers? Sidelined for promotion? Sexually abused? Beaten by their
spouses? Pimped?
GSCENE 73
It’s fucking heartrending, isn’t it? Poor men. One or two women reach
senior management roles and suddenly men are falling apart, divested
of any sense of meaning in the greater schemes of things. Personally I
find it impossible to garner any feelings of sympathy for such blatant
misogynists. They should look a bit harder at the subtext. Maybe Buerk
is right. Maybe men are slowly being relegated to the position of ‘sperm
donors’ – maybe that’s because women ARE better placed to perform
certain tasks. Parthenogenesis, for example. Let’s see you try that one.
Oh dear. Now we don’t even need your sperm…
skewed by the fact that women are often wheeled out as spokespeople
to create that very perception.
Let’s return to our budding female Michael Buerk in the US, who states
with such conviction that “women are not meant to rule countries and
be in charge”. She is 13. Where might this unswerving belief in the
omnipotence of men have been learned? My guess is the Church, that
famous bastion of woman-hating which, in the States, attracts even
madder crazies than it does here in Britain.
“In the UK, women are paid an
average of 17 per cent less than
men, only a fifth of MPs and only a
tenth of leading company directors
are women and, shockingly,
fewer than six per cent of reported
rape cases end in a conviction –
maybe because there are only ten
female High Court judges”
Worldwide, religion is probably the greatest villain when it comes to the
mistreatment of women, providing the masquerade it does that allows
men to inflict such hideous tortures on women as female circumcision.
It is religion that dictates that women who are ‘unfaithful’ can be
stoned to death in some countries – even if their ‘unfaithfulness’ is the
fact that they have been raped.
It’s a sick world we live in – even if we think women have moved on in
this country, there’s still a bloody long way to go before we come even
close to being on an equal standing with men.
And even if you think it’s OK to be complacent here, just take a look at
how women are still treated in other nations.
Is International Women’s Day still relevant? You bet your arse it is.
And it’s up to us to make it count.
COMEDY BENEFIT NIGHT
Jaq Bayles will be appearing in a comedy benefit for International
Women’s Day on March 6 upstairs at the Hare & Hounds in Preston
Circus. The event is titled Wonderful Women Do Stand-Up Comedy.
Julie Jepson headlines. Katy Schutte comperes. Also featuring are:
Felicity Ventom, Marie Vagen, Roisin Mirza, Bunty Dann, Alison
Barclay, Sha Wylie and Bola Ajani. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are on
the door £5/£4.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
74 GSCENE
CRAIG’S THOUGHTS
WOMEN RULE
WHY I’M READY FOR A WOMAN
SAYS CRAIG HANLON-SMITH
“The aim of this government is to make everyone as miserable as
possible,” rang the mock Margaret Thatcher opening to Boy George‘s
politically inspired No Clause 28. The British Conservative government of
the 1980s was the creator of the legal bill amendment (Clause 28) to
prevent the promotion of homosexual relationships as a pretended
‘normal’ way of life. There can be no denying that Thatcher was not one
for moving the gay cause forward, in this instance actively taking steps
to legislate to legally discriminate, and yet... I miss her.
Margaret Thatcher began her reign as PM in 1979 following a Tory
landslide that obliterated Labour rule for more than 17 years. Leading
the party through three successive general elections, she became, upon
her eventual resignation 11 years later in 1990, the longest-serving
prime minister of the 20th and (thus far) 21st centuries. Rumour has it
that the reason Tony Blair hung on for so long was to equal if not beat
her record. He managed neither.
Let it not be in question that I abhorred her
policies. As education minister in the early 1970s
with Edward Heath as prime minister, she withdrew
free milk for schoolchildren and earned herself the
title Margaret Thatcher the Milk Snatcher. As the
country’s premier, her attacks on the northern
working-class industries in the 1980s were so severe,
those of us then resident in the north shortened our
endearment for her to Margaret Thatcher the c**t.
Following the trampling of the Argentine military on the Falkland Islands
in 1982, Thatcher turned her military-style commander-in-chief talk to
the striking miners back in the UK. Having successfully beaten the
enemy abroad, she referred to the tax-paying thousands fighting for
their survival as ‘the enemy within’. Her policies hurt the working class
and Labour voters (decreased social spending) and blessed the middle-
and upper-class Tory voters (tax-cuts, de-nationalisation, privatisation).
Yet despite widening class divisions, she famously claimed that both
society and class no longer existed.
Despite her selling off manual national industries (British Steel/Rail) and
closing down the mining communities (British Coal) predominantly in
remote and northern parts of the country, my working-class grandfather
from the Salford docks adored her. She gave him nothing – not many
governments did – but he loved her. A northern blue-collar working-class
gentleman like my grandfather should have rattled and railed against her
every policy, yet he worshipped every word that was choreographed from
her iron grin. Only now do I begin to understand why.
Love or hate her policies, Thatcher was right for the job. She was in
charge of the country and we all knew it. Following Argentina’s ‘invasion’
of the Falkland Islands, some meeker members of the government
suggested that perhaps we should let Argentina have the Falkland
Islands back; they were, after all, many centuries ago theirs, and only a
short boat ride from the tip of South America, and most Britons didn’t
care about the inhabitants of the Isle of Wight, let alone a scrap of
sheep dip in the South Atlantic.
Thatcher was resolute. She sent the might of the British Navy supported
by the air force on its carriers thousands of miles, and within three
months they were back home, having raised the Union Jack once more
over the island’s capital, Port Stanley. Like ‘Margaret Thatcher’, a truly
British name. It didn’t matter that she was raping the north of England
and its industries and secretly using the money to build Canary Wharf
under the cover of darkness – she made my grandfather feel he belonged
to a superpower again. Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves! Britons
never, never, never shall be slaves!
When our own fair town fell victim to one of the country’s most notorious
terrorist attacks, Thatcher herself was only inches and a Royal Doulton U-
bend away from death or disability. While members of her cabinet and
their loved ones were fighting for their lives in intensive care, Thatcher
dusted the remnants of the Grand Hotel’s roof from her pleated royal blue
finery, and stood before her party conference hours later, defiant. It
didn’t matter that our national industries no longer existed, or that our
children were being sent home from school because the teachers were on
a strike, she was a survivor and victor in the face of terrorism – a leader
of our Land of Hope and Glory.
So far (let us not be too hasty, it has only been a few months), the
defining moment of Gordon Brown’s premiership has been to have his
photograph taken on the steps of Number 10 with Margaret Thatcher.
Although from opposing parties and political ideals, Brown has applauded
and lavished praise on Thatcher and her time in office.
Is it purely her womanhood
that holds the key to her
“Love or hate success? Yes and no. There have
since been a handful of female
her policies, politicians in our midst who
Thatcher was have stepped into the higher
reaches of the Cabinet, yet with
right for the job. less memorable results.
Margaret Beckett’s time as
She was in foreign secretary did nothing to
suggest she was a prime-
charge of the minister-in-waiting, and Jacqui
country and we Smith was doing so well until
she wavered in the face of the
all knew it” police and their pay demands.
The police may be right, but
Thatcher never wobbled when the public services shouted at her. When
rumbles in her party suggested she was not as popular as she might have
been, she called a leadership election. When she didn’t win outright at
the first ballot she resigned her position, demanding all or nothing from
her supporters. As unpopular as they were, she never backed down on her
policies – not even Clause 28 in the face of a political disco disaster from
Boy George.
Thatcher was the country’s matron. She reminded its populace (including
my grandfather) of a time when, if a child wet the bed, you gave it a
stern talking-to, not a cuddle. If the nurses on the ward dissolved into
giggles you gave them extra shifts and a bedpan, all with a steely glare.
When you made a decision you stood resolutely by it and stared your
doubters hard in the face. But at the same time you knew she was a
woman, a mother, a wife – you believed the
softer caring side was in there, even if you
never saw it.
What next for women? Well, although not
eligible to vote for her, I’m rooting for
Hillary Clinton. I want a woman in the
White House. I want a woman who has the
nerve to sit and do business in the very same
room her husband tanked onto the intern. I
want a woman who takes the most public sex scandal of modern times
and barges through it to not only get her man but, best of all, the job
too. I see ambition and fire in Hillary but most of all, I see matron.
Speaking to American friends of mine, I detect the belief that Hillary will
bring in pro-gay bills – relationship recognition, adoption, and allowing
people with HIV into the US. I told you, the softer caring side is in there.
But woe betide you should you get caught with your fingers in the trifle.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

JOËLLE
NOVEL APPROACH
HOW SOME OF THE VERY BEST FEMALE
MINDS INTERPRET WOMEN’S ROLES IN
HISTORY AND PSYCHOLOGY
“But history, real solemn history, I cannot be
interested in... I read it a little as a duty, but it tells
me nothing that does not either vex or weary me.
The quarrels of popes and kings, with wars or
pestilences, in every page; the men all so good for
nothing, and hardly any women at all – it is very
tiresome.” Catherine Morland in Jane Austen’s
Northanger Abbey (1817).
International Women’s Day has its roots in “campaigning for women’s
rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end
discrimination”. For the past 100 years, IWD has existed to “honour
women’s advancement while diligently reminding of the continued
vigilance and action required to ensure that women’s equality is gained
and maintained in all aspects of life” (Internationalwomensday.com).
Beyond the celebration of individual women’s achievements is the
achievement of the feminist movement. In psychology, this has had a
slow but significant affect on how women are seen and treated by
psychologists.
Back in the 1970s psychology was denounced as the “fantasy life of the
male psychologist” (Naomi Weisstein), because of the gender bias of
social science. Science has always been seen as masculine and nature is
seen as feminine (Mother Nature?) so according to Francis Bacon, the
goal of science was to “bind her (nature) to your service and make her
your slave”. That didn’t sound sexist, now did it?
“For many years, subjects of relevance to women, such as rape or
housework, have been considered either ‘taboo topics’ or too trivial to
study, marginal to more central and prestigious issues, such as leadership,
achievement, and power – their actions often are interpreted as deficient
compared to those of men. Even theories reflect a male standard. The
classic example dates back to Freud’s formulation of the theory of penis
envy.” (Stephanie Riger, Transforming Psychology: Gender in Theory and
Practice, 2000).
Given this background in psychology it is amazing
that we have got as far as we have in making
psychology relevant to women – or rather, making
women relevant to psychology. One relevant issue
is that of eating disorders. Although men are also
affected by eating disorders, 90 per cent of cases
are female. It is one of those conditions that
immediately makes you think of feminism (eg, Fat
Is A Feminist Issue by Susie Orbach), as it is so
entrenched in the body-image culture of Western
society – or is it? For some reason it has proved
difficult to prevent these disorders. Those writing
from a feminist perspective argued that initial programmes were
unsuccessful because they: a) focused on individuals’ eating-disordered
attitudes and behaviours and neglected the context in which these
attitudes and behaviours develop; b) were highly structured and,
therefore, not responsive to the unique needs of the target audiences;
and, c) adopted an illness rather than wellness approach by focusing on
pathology rather than empowerment and resilience.
GSCENE 75
A masculine scientific approach didn’t work, so feminist theorists have
tried to get a better understanding of why eating disorders are so
prevalent amongst women. For example, some researchers have found
that women who identify with feminist values were not as likely to have
a distorted body image. This finding confirms the feminist belief that
sexist roles in patriarchal society cause women to have a lower self-
esteem and a loss of control resulting in eating disorders. Martz et al
(1995) found that women with feminine gender-role stress are at a
higher risk of having eating disorders and body-image problems.
Feminine gender-role stress is regarded as “higher than usual levels of
stress as a result of rigid adherence to the traditional feminine gender
role” (Martz et al, 493). This study also confirms the feminist belief that
women who try to achieve the cultural ideals of feminine behaviour and
beauty are more susceptible to acquiring an eating disorder (Tara
Eastland @ Vanderbilt.edu).
“The ideology of semi-starvation undoes
feminism; what happens to women’s
bodies happens to our minds. If women’s
bodies are and have always been wrong
whereas men’s are right, then woman are
wrong and men are right. Where feminism
NAOMI WOLF
taught woman to put higher value on
ourselves, hunger teaches us how to erode
our self-esteem. If a woman can be made
to say, ‘I hate my fat thighs,’ it is a way
she has been made to hate femaleness” (Naomi Wolf, 1991). This is just
one example of how women have made a difference to psychology.
As for my own pick of the influential women in the field of psychology
and psychiatry, I have to mention Anna Freud. I know it may seem like
a bit of cliché and isn’t very modern, but Anna Freud (1895–1982) is
such an iconic personality in the field of psychology that I just have to
mention her. Anna trained as a teacher initially and then followed up
some of her father’s ideas (Daddy being
Sigmund Freud, of course). I have to
admit that my interest in her increased
purely on the basis of the question that
hung over her sexuality – is that
shallow? She never married but did have
ANNA FREUD
a very close relationship with a woman
called Dorothy Burlingham with whom
she lived. She cared for Dorothy’s
children, even taking them on as
patients of hers. However, she denied
having a lesbian relationship with Dorothy (but was clearly a friend of
Dorothy’s!), and by all accounts her father was fiercely protective of her
when it came to men and disapproving of any that showed any romantic
interest in Anna. Wonder what Freud would have made of that?
Anna wrote many books but she is best known for her development of
the idea of defence mechanisms. Defence mechanisms exist to basically
protect the ego from the disruptive influences of unconscious wishes by
way of one of four processes: displacement, projection, rationalisation,
and reaction formation. But, more importantly, was she a lesbian or not?
Another person I would like to mention briefly
is Karen Horney. Karen was an American
psychiatrist born in Germany (1885–1952) and
I quite like this quote from her from more
than 60 years ago: “Is not the tremendous
ANNA FREUD
strength in men of the impulse to creative work
in every field precisely due to their feeling of
playing a relatively small part in the creation of
living beings, which constantly impels them to
an overcompensation in achievement?”
Or maybe it was precisely because they weren’t tied to those ‘living
beings’ that gave them the freedom to achieve? Happy International
Women’s Day and long may we achieve greater and better things!
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
76 GSCENE

SHARP WORDS as the one last October where the male judge decided a ten-year-old
rape victim looked older than her age, so imposed a lenient sentence).
As for the rest of the world, only one per cent of women own property,
and women provide two-thirds of the labour for less than five per cent of

COUNT THE DAY its income. I could go on with the figures but they’re too depressing.

March 8 is an official bank holiday in several countries, such as Russia

ARE WE ALL WORRYING WAY TOO
MUCH ABOUT THE WRONG KIND
OF FIGURES, ASKS DEL SHARP
Of course women have achieved an enormous amount. Just look at the
endless array of glossy magazines just for us, telling us how to be more
glamorous, have better skin, lose a stone in two weeks or look younger.
There’s no end of advice for us that starts from the assumption that
we’re fat, ugly and frumpy and in need of serious help.
How lucky for us that our predicaments are recognised. And, of course,
if the quick-fixes don’t work then the cosmetic surgery advertised at the
back of the magazine can swiftly transform the reader to looking like
the cover girl. An even quicker fix in fact. And yes, maybe I would have
it all done I’m sure if I won the rollover this week, although I do like to
think my new-found leisure time would be spent in a smart gym with a
sympathetic personal trainer. Helping me to achieve... the body I had
before I decided to fill it with rubbish and develop insecurities and self-
loathing while reading expensive magazines that fuel my desire to
change, but which in fact make me feel even worse, because I should be
actually doing something active instead… hmm.
and Vietnam, and is seen as something like Mother’s Day, where female
relatives are recognised with presents. But in Bangladesh women are
routinely assaulted with acid thrown in their faces if they spurn a man,
and in Britain there are around 4,000 trafficked women forced as
prostitutes to see up to 30 men a day.
What world is this we live in that an obsession with obesity and
celebrity make up much of our media coverage, and obese celebrities
even more so? Wouldn’t it be great if for one day all we could read about
how the other half (of humanity) lives? Any special issues planned, you
cheap, grubby glossy weeklies? Oh come on, just think of all the ‘red
circles of shame’ you could find.
“I wonder if a difference would
have been made in such a case
as the one last October where the
male judge decided that a ten-
year-old rape victim looked much
older than her age and so
imposed a lenient sentence”
Some high-profile organisations do endorse the day at least, but no
teachers I know have any publicity in their (girls’) schools, can you
believe, nor does the country’s largest police force, the Metropolitan in
London. If we can be made aware of issues through events and publicity
then we can campaign for change (hopefully). If you don’t then at least
you were made aware. But there are some fun things to be looking out
for on IWD too, so girls and boys, skip the gym on March 8 and eat one
less pie. Then do something useful – go to a comedy benefit, be proud of
yourself or your sister or someone’s mother somewhere.

It’s great when we can get a woman astronaut, though it shouldn’t have
Actually, I have just started going back to a gym that is full of women to be unusual, but would be even better if we can keep a few more
in their 20s who manage to shriek and chat loudly while on the women alive.
machines, completely unaware of the panting, glaring, twice-their-age
figure wheezing away next to them who is unable to speak at least until
the changing rooms, from which she will scuttle away like Quasimodo to
shower at home. How easy it is to be self-indulgent and focus on the so
very trivial – 80 years after gaining full voting rights (not me
personally, please note), the suffragettes would gladly have me force-
fed as a punishment – if I wasn’t doing such a good job of it myself.

International Women’s Day is a day of celebration of the

advancements of women and recognition of the continuing struggles for
equal pay, health care and legislation, and the appalling poverty and
violence that so many endure daily worldwide. In the UK, the day has
been recognised since 1926, but hardly comes to mind to many women
– or men for that matter. But does it matter?

When you consider only one per cent of chief executives and 18 per
cent of politicians are female, then it does – who’s running this
country? Certainly the decision-making at the highest level is skewed.
We see there are fewer than one in ten High Court judges who are
women (I wonder if a difference would have been made in such a case

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

+VE PAGE
This is a page for people living with or directly
affected by HIV to contribute articles, stories,
comment, poetry or whatever you want to write
about. Articles should be no more than 800 words
and can be sent via email below or to Open Door,
35 Camelford Street, Brighton, BN2 1TQ. This is your
community page so get writing and get your voice
heard! www.tcellchronicles.org
Open Door is a centre for people living with HIV in Brighton & Hove. We
provide a wide range of services within a supportive and confidential
environment, which include individual emotional and practical support;
drop-in three days a week; welfare rights and benefits advice; specialist
women’s, children and families services; charitable grant applications;
complementary therapies; condoms and lube; workshops, groups, health-
promotion services and computer access.
The Open Door project has provided services to people living with HIV
for many years and has contributed to the provision of relevant services
locally in partnership with other agencies. In the first six months of
2007, the project provided 343 one-to-one appointments and 1,841
lunches, and 150 persons received support in a group or workshop-based
intervention. There are currently 257 active registered service-users.
In late 2008 the project shall move to new premises at St Mary’s Church
Hall in Kemp Town. In order for Open Door to continue to provide
services that reflect the needs of the HIV-positive community locally, an
active engagement with local people is proposed. This communication
with persons living with HIV is vital if services are to reflect the real and
perceived views of local positive people.
There will be many ways that persons living with HIV
can become involved in this process. In the first
instance, a steering group of people who can meet
regularly will be set up and this group of people will
explore which ways will engage the larger population in
order to identify what are the needs of people living
with HIV in Brighton, Hove and East Sussex.
As an organisation, Open Door is active in offering services that do, in
fact, reflect many identified needs. However, in order to remain forward-
thinking in terms of planning future service delivery, the views of HIV-
positive people must be sought at all levels. There are many known or
assumed needs affecting people living with HIV. There is much research
evidence that supports this thinking, yet there is also awareness that it
is possible that the needs of local people living with HIV are unique.
What the organisation is aware of are the many challenges facing
positive people in 2008. Many people living with HIV suffer financial
hardship and uncertainty compounded by an ever-changing welfare
benefits system. Many people are on medical treatments and they are
working well, while others find side-effects debilitating and many fear
treatment failure. The long-term effects of living with HIV and the
accompanying uncertainty this brings can have its own complications.
People with HIV have lives as complex as any other group of people, as
well as similar hopes, dreams and expectations from life. Some of these
can be adversely affected due to stigma, discrimination, ill health, lack
of support and social isolation. As an organisation, Open Door is proud
of the work it does with individuals and communities affected by HIV to
challenge such things. In order to continue this work and to discover
what needs are currently unmet by the service, communication with HIV-
positive individuals is essential. This article is a plea for people living
with HIV to become involved in this process. Over the coming months it
GSCENE 77
is hoped that a steering group will be in place and from that group many
forms of engagement may be offered. These may be in the form of
interviews, public meetings, questionnaires and evaluation projects and
may eventually lead to a mini-conference in Brighton.
The future of HIV services should be informed by the users of those
services, and the planning and delivery should reflect the views offered
through consultation. It is possible that in these days where many
services have been lost, both locally and nationally, that there is a
political apathy affecting people with the virus. In these days political
activism may seem like a distant memory, yet if every person living with
HIV locally gave just a little time to affect how services are offered
through consultation – that in itself would be a forceful political action.
People living with HIV/Aids are heavily researched; we are bombarded
with questionnaires and so on that seem to have no relevance to our
daily lives. This reaching out to the community through active
engagement and dialogue hopes to make its research findings relevant to
the individual and community. Any person living locally and living with
HIV is welcome to join the steering group and begin this process of
meaningful consultation. Persons with experience of service-user
representation as well as people with no experience are all welcome.
What is required is to begin the process of asking the kind of questions
of the community that will, if heard, facilitate change and development.
Here are some initial thoughts

What HIV services do you use and are they meeting your needs?

What do you think HIV services should be providing?

If you don’t use any services, why not?

If you have used services in the past and don’t any more, why?

What health-promotion services would you use (if any), eg, workshops,
groups etc?
Finally, this page is itself political activism, to remain visible in spite of
the burdens of confidentiality and social stigma. To be able to express
oneself freely with the knowledge that in some small way change may
occur from it. So I am inviting you – the professional, the person with
HIV, the one who knows how it feels and who knows what they need – to
get involved. Join the steering group, answer the questionnaires, attend
public meetings, inform how future services are planned and delivered.
If you want to discuss this or become involved feel free to contact me at
Open Door, 01273 605706 or email me
andrew.hanuman@opendoorbrighton.org
WORKSHOPS & GROUPS

Sex and relationships This one-day facilitated workshop is an
opportunity to explore any matters relevant to forming and
maintaining relationships, exploring and focusing on sexuality issues
in a safe and confidential space. Please call Open Door to express an
interest and we will set a date.

Dealing with a new HIV diagnosis One-day workshop being planned
for spring. Aimed at those who’ve been diagnosed in the last two
years and would like a safe place to explore with others in a similar
situation any questions, issues, insights etc.

Serodiscordant relationships For couples where one partner is HIV-
positive and one is HIV-negative. Both partners are invited to attend.
Date to be confirmed.

Quit-smoking support Access to smoking-cessation counsellor and
hypnotherapist.

Cinema and movie club Meets monthly for peer support and social.

Men-only and women’s pamper and complementary therapy days
These are held regularly at Open Door.
Workshops can be booked by calling Open Door 01273 605706. If you
would like to be added to the email list for news and events contact
andrew.hanuman@opendoorbrighton.org
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
78 GSCENE
MINDOUT...
WOMAN ON
THE RUN!
She hadn’t always been this fit and healthy. These days she felt so
much better in her skin – she felt strong, she felt energetic and she
looked forward to exercising. Just a few months of keeping at it and
doing at least 30 minutes’ brisk exercise a day had startled her with
the effect it had. It wasn’t only physical. She felt much happier too,
brighter somehow, less depressed and definitely less anxious than
she had been.
Maria had grown up with a ‘weight problem’. The problem was that
everyone told her she was fat. They told her ever so nicely, kindly, in
well-meaning tones that made her cringe. The effect of this stating of
the obvious was to make her feel more ugly, more awful about her
appearance and herself, less worthy, less confident. At times she felt
defiant, a surge of pride in herself for not conforming to how women
are meant to look. However, her bravery would often wither under the
disappointed glances of her mother, and the sliding away of the gaze
of the good-looking women she longed to hang around with.
Now that she felt physically better, her self-image was changing too.
She had always felt fine about being lesbian, but she had not always
felt sexually confident in her relationships. Maria had suffered with
recurring bouts of depression all her adult life, and not long ago she
had been through a hard, prolonged separation that had left her
feeling rejected, sad and withdrawn. There was no doubt now that
feeling physically better and fitter made her feel more in touch with
her sexual self. That in itself felt great, regardless of the response of
those around her!
What had helped Maria turn a corner on fitness was starting running
with a friend. She had never been interested in running. Years ago at
school she had hated PE with a passion and had skipped as many PE
lessons as she could. Running with Lizzy was fun – they had a laugh,
and they gradually went a bit further, a bit faster. She felt a buzz just
from the achievement of having done it.
Running was a good contrast to the rest of her day spent sitting inside
the office. Getting outside in all weathers delighted her, the fresh air
felt good.
Feeling stronger in her body was probably the best bit for Maria. She
felt immensely more powerful as a person, more in control, more able.
She found it showed: friends noticed she was more confident, more
cheerful. She did more, didn’t hesitate if she felt like going out. Lately
she had been thinking about dancing – salsa maybe, ballroom even…
INFO & ADVICE
If you would like to discuss these or any other mental-health issues in
confidence to an out LGBT worker, please contact MindOut on 01273
739847 (24-hour answer phone) or email info@lgbtmind.com.
We offer free advice, information, advocacy and a group work service.
For more information please see our website. www.lgbtmind.com
HEALTH BENEFITS
If you would like to know more about the mental-health benefits of
physical activities:
• ‘Mind Guide to Physical Activity’ at www.mind.org
• ‘Exercise and Depression’ at www.mentalhealth.org
SPONSORS WANTED
Two women, Joe Elsey and Lorna Russell, are taking part in a 10km
run in Dublin in April and are seeking sponsors to boost them on their
way and to raise money for MindOut services at the same time. Please
contact them via jelseyster@googlemail.com for details.
MOVING PEOPLE PROJECT
MindOut has just secured three years’ funding for a new project as part
of Moving People (see www.movingpeople.org.uk), a national
consortium funded by Comic Relief and The Big Lottery. The aims of
all the projects involved are to reduce stigma and discrimination
towards people with mental-health issues and to help make links
between mental health and physical health.
NATIONAL NETWORK
MindOut will be developing a national network of LGBT mental-health
service-user groups and will be running a number of local and national
events. Contact us if you would like to get involved or would like to
know more.
SPORT RELIEF
Comic Relief is running a Sport Relief Mile on March 16 on Madeira
Drive, starting at 10am, as part of Sport Relief Weekend. If you
would like to run and want to raise money for Comic Relief you can
enter at www.sportrelief.com/brighton-hove-mile
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

GOOD
FOR US
BY DEX BAILEY
USE YOUR WALLET TO CHANGE THE WORLD
This year’s Fairtrade Fortnight runs until March 9. We can think about
what is good for us and what we choose to feed ourselves. But do we
ever spare a thought for those who produced and made our food?
It’s no secret that many people in our world are living in conditions we
would find abominable: being forced to work long hours; never being
allowed days off or holiday; or often starting work at a very young age.
Whether it’s large companies or a group of rich land or factory owners,
many employers feature in stories from around the globe about terrible
atrocities, which range from communities barely able to eat with no
access to education, to far worse reports of people disappearing
without trace because they asked for a payrise.
Some large companies have become infamous for making conditions
worse for people in developing countries, and many people aware of
this choose to boycott anything made by these companies. One is
targeted for its exploitation of Vietnamese workers and another
because it aggressively promotes its baby milks around the world,
breaking a World Health Organization code of marketing.
Raising awareness of the awful things you are paying for if you buy
things from companies such as these is useful for all of us who
unwittingly purchase things from
these companies and further
fund their unethical behaviour.
Trying to become aware of what
company is behind the items you
wish to buy can seem quite a
daunting prospect, but you don’t
need to get bogged down in
global corporate politics to try
and make a difference.
Many of us just turn a blind eye to where the products we purchase
come from. The idea of ‘changing the world’ seems too mammoth a
task to tackle, but just by changing the way we purchase we can
actually make positive changes to many people’s lives.
Like it or not, money is power, and the real democracy of this world is
in voting with your wallet. Every single item you purchase is making
someone else a little bit richer. Do large companies and corporations
really need to be richer? Who would you rather give your money to?
Fairtrade organisations are
working with farmers, growers
and producers in developing
countries, working towards
ensuring that the communities in
these countries are given a fairer
price for the products they
produce, making sure the working
conditions are raised to a decent
standard, and the communities
themselves benefit from their
efforts, through decent housing
and education.
From fruit and vegetables to coffee, tea, chocolate and wine – even
clothes can be purchased with the Fairtrade label. The list of products
that are produced in developing countries is enormous. If we were to
switch even half of our purchasing to products that have been fairly
traded, it would make a big difference to the lives of so many people.
GSCENE 79
FIT AND
HEALTHY
BY KAREN RICHES
THE PLIGHT OF THE FLABBY CABBIE
I caught a taxi home the other night. Once the driver had finished
dissing the council and moaning about the roadworks, he asked me
what I did for a living. I’ve come to realise this is one of those
moments that doctors at parties must know well. Except instead of
asking about aches and pains, when people know you’re a personal
trainer, they ask about lumps. Specifically lumps of fat. For men it’s
usually their bellies, and for women their bums and thighs. In the
case of the taxi driver it was his gut. Frustratingly for him, he was a
fit guy who worked out and looked after himself, but he didn’t have a
six-pack. What did he need to do to get the abs he wanted?
FAT GENETICS
It’s a common question.
Most people have a part of
their body they’d like to
tighten up, a bit that seems
to be flabbier than the rest.
In fact, we’re born that way
– we all have fat cells laid
down according to our
genetics. If the fat cells are
full, we look flabby, and if we lose weight they empty, so we look
leaner. They empty but they don’t disappear – start eating too much
and they’ll fill up again. You’ll put on weight in exactly the same
places. For the taxi driver, like many men, his body stored most of its
fat in the cells around his middle.
LOSING WEIGHT
Now, the human body is a wondrous thing, but what you can’t do is
cherry pick where you want to burn fat. So the taxi driver can do
hundreds of sit-ups each day but, sadly, it won’t make the difference
he wants – unless he loses body fat too.
BURN MORE CALORIES
Losing weight is a simple equation. You need to burn more calories
than you eat. It becomes more complex when you look at how the
body responds to certain food types over
others. Protein and fat make you feel
fuller for longer. Fast-burning
carbohydrates (white things, like sugar,
bread and pasta) cause energy spikes and
can make you feel hungry sooner than
slow-release carbohydrates (brown things,
like wholemeal food products). Add in
hormonal responses and emotional
attitudes to food and suddenly it can
seem more difficult than the simple
equation suggests.
SUSTAINABLE WEIGHT LOSS
What works is slow, sustainable weight loss of about a kilo each week.
Aim to lose about 500 calories a day – ideally half from eating less
and/or differently, and half from exercise (that’s about a 30-minute
brisk walk each day). Eat smaller meals more often – five or six times
a day. Interestingly, people who eat breakfast weigh less than those
who don’t. And without going down the road of the Atkins diet, eating
more protein and less carbs will also help. Of course, next time you’re
tempted to take a taxi think about whether a walk would be better for
banishing the lumpy bits – whether they’re on your belly or your bum.
Karen Riches is a personal trainer and sports massage therapist.
Call her on 07811 324193.
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
80 GSCENE

BRAND RITA’S
WATCH
BY NEIL WOODCOCK SNATCHES
WHAT’S THE POINT? SOMETIMES IT’S HARD TO BE A WOMAN
International Women’s Day is, I think a fairly pointless brand Women! The theme of this month’s magazine; and I can’t think of what
proposition. I don’t know who’s behind it, why we need it, nor its to write. What do I know about women? Being a Homoxual man tends
purpose. No one has ever explained it to me and that’s where brands to steer me away from the female gender, with most of my female
can go wrong. contacts usually being Lhesbhihans!

So often brands assume too much, hence we get “Vorsprung Durch I do get to hear some things about the female race from my Lhesbhihan
Technik”. Doesn’t tell me anything about the car. I think every day contacts, so I know the important things I guess; things like, ‘that they
should be International Women’s Day. My Mum’s one. For me, every time love cock’, but not when it’s attached to a male! Because anyone can
I chat with Mum on the phone or we do lunch, that’s Mother’s Day. get a fat, sweaty body on top of them, thrusting their man-meat inside
and getting all the pleasure and then boasting about how good they
With the craziness and challenges of this planet, I can’t help thinking were! “I never get any complaints”, is an expression frequently used by
that women (51 per cent of the population) are holding it together. In men while discussing their sexual performance, but they never realise
my experience of having lived around the world, I can recall that it that the woman is too busy to
wasn’t the women running the triad gangs in China nor the despotic discuss it, as they are either
regimes such as in Zimbabwe. No. Women have made and will make a laughing or considering suicide. “I would like to be
big difference. Benazir Bhutto would have been a powerful combative
force to President Musharraf in Pakistan had she not been murdered. I do know that straight men are a woman if rebirth
Indira Gandhi probably helped India to grow up post-colonisation such the biggest cause of
that one of its companies will soon own Jaguar and Land Rover. Lhesbhihanism instead of just
was really an option,
Buy-Sexuality. Women seek but I would insist upon
Many parts of developing Africa have enormous challenges in health women if they want good,
(HIV/Aids), economically and environmentally. The wider world is not satisfying sex. Men seem to being a Lhesbhihan.
doing its bit. China (brand Olympics) exploits parts of Africa – not least think that the approach to sex
Darfur – to such an extent that Steven Spielberg has pulled out of the with a girlie is similar to a hair
I just couldn’t bear
Beijing Olympics set-up and Mia Farrow has stood up at the parapet to shampoo – ‘squirt-and-go’ – to be with the
help explain the issues. Good on her. A whereas the female wants those
brave woman being brave. hair follicles massaged, the typical male”
good stuff applied evenly and
Brand USA is currently soul-searching over gently spread, producing loads of bubbles that leave them feeling clean,
whether it wants a Republican or its manageable and all nice and squeaky. Other women can supply that
Democrat choices: an African-American or a specialist service, whereas the male just leaves them with split ends and
woman. The jury’s out. I think though that a sore fanny.
the blokes haven’t helped sort the Middle
East or crises in Africa. Blokes haven’t dealt Now don’t get me wrong; I know that there are a hell of a lot of women
well with issues at home (in the US) and so, while Senator Obama is out there who are satisfied with their male partners, usually because
making headway as I write, it’s Hillary that the world needs. Provided, they are married to them and they make themselves dependent upon
of course, that Bill leaves her alone. them. But I reckon that things would be an awful lot different if they
were to cast aside their fear of that word ‘Lhesbhihan’ and got down to
Brand UK has had its International Women Moments without a Day to some real fanny-to-fanny grinding.
herald them. Just think: Elizabeth I. Mary, Queen of Scots. Victoria.
Diana. Most recently, though I think we have a brand ambassador who Most females dream of the wonders of multiple orgasms; straight women
is second to none for Brand UK; she’s called Queen Elizabeth II. She usually only achieve this on their own, while their fella is away at work.
transcends Churchill, Blair and the rest for her dignity, her love of her However, Lhesbhihans are frequently experiencing this natural
country and, I reckon, immense power (always behind the scenes). occurrence and expectancy while having a decent bonking session with
their caring and understanding Lhesbhihan partner.
Then we have our brand builders. Here, on our patch, Anita Roddick
and her Body Shop – a North Laine store that became a global icon and, I would like to be a woman if
importantly, was one of the first brands to champion eco-fairness long rebirth was really an option, but I
before it became fashionable. Laura Ashley wasn’t just a curtain-fabric would insist upon being a
vendor, she was a powerhouse in brand-building. Vivienne Westwood Lhesbhihan. I just couldn’t bear to
IS the King’s Road in my book. When I was a be with the typical male – the one
pre-punk ‘Young American’ in mohair and that forgets about the niceties of
Smith’s painter pants, she set the scene for life, like washing their knob so it
London. I could go on but my point is that doesn’t smell of cheese (which
it’s not the men in suits who are the makes me puke); one that washes
chairmen of banks that define brands or his arse after having a dump, so
indeed the UK – no, it’s the women who that going down on him doesn’t
make it colourful, exciting and successful. remind me of the annual Sewers of Brighton tour. Oh, and one that
washes his feet at least twice daily and for whom changing underwear
Finally, if International Women’s Day doesn’t coincide with the weekly BA flight to the Easter Islands.
achieves anything, it should be the simple
recognition of women in making families, Overall, I reckon that I wouldn’t mind a bit of womanly reincarnation;
holding them together and helping their as long as my partner didn’t think that meant a quick screw on the back
kids achieve. seat of a V-reg Ford Cortina!

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 81

TWISTED PILLOW
GILDED GHETTO
BY ERIC PAGE
TALK
BY NICK HOLLOWAY

A MOTHER OF A CELEBRATION INTERNATIONAL WHO DAY?

International Women’s Day is also, by happy chance, my mother’s
birthday, so I thought I’d write about her in all her wonderful
splendour as she literally made me and because of her I’m the luckiest
man in the world – not only am I Welsh and gay, but also her son!
I am a big bag of chips off the old block and gleefully prove dear
Oscar wrong by becoming more like her daily. Even though I am now
40 she still keeps an eye on me for signs of improvement and never
misses an opportunity to cherish me by telling me how proud she is of
me, and I tell her everything – and I mean everything. She delights in
being candid and blunt, but can
also use words in ways that leave
me gasping. She has a natural
understanding of the rhymes of
meaning and can twist them any
which way she chooses. She’s a
poet and author and knows you
can fool all of the people some of
the time and some of the people
all of the time, but you can’t fool
your mother. Ever.
Do we have an International Men’s Day? Or an International Frogs Day?
No, but who am I to criticise? I assume it has something to do with
women’s lib. I approve of equal rights for everyone and women have
worked hard from the start to be able to have the rights of men,
although I can’t understand why women let themselves get repressed in
the first place.
What I’m going to do here is give
you a few women who have worked
“I can’t understand
their arses off to get where they why women let
are… it’s going to be shallow so
don’t expect any quotes from themselves get
Nietzsche, Freud or Wittgenstein.
repressed in the
Kylie Minogue. Showgirl to the first place”
extreme: feathers, half-naked go-go
boys, feathers, iconic pop hits, feathers, gold hotpants and feathers.
For some reason this diminutive midget has had me forking out
hundreds of pounds on her concerts, CDs, DVDs, bloody memorabilia and
endless other useless stuff that I have no room for… I don’t think I
like her any more.

Multitasking seems natural to
mothers and mine is no different.
She could easily run air-traffic
control at Heathrow while
finishing her tea, calculating her
chocolate allowance and
exceeding it, and still grab a bargain on Price-Drop TV, keep a beady
eye on the neighbours and watch the storks nesting on the river banks
through her trusty twitching binoculars.
She is a modern marvel, all the more so as she suffers from a variety
of illnesses that put her in agonising pain and impair her mobility.
Have I ever heard her complain? No. All my life I have seen my
mother and her relentless, indefatigable enthusiasm and optimism for
life challenge the hand that God dealt her with laughter, humour and
doggedness. There is nothing on the planet that can defeat her.
Sigourney Weaver. “Get away from her, you BITCH!” Ellen Ripley,
xenomorph arse-kicking heroine from Alien through to Alien
Resurrection. Maybe the first woman to smack the hell out of something
extraterrestrial. She features heavily in my psyche to this
day as a hero with tits, and still to this day she is producing iconic
characters, even though she doesn’t play the commercial card,
something to be said for integrity – maybe.
Margaret Thatcher – milk snatcher. When I was a kid we used to have
freezing-cold milk every morning. It was horrific. We had to try to suck
it up a straw, which was like trying to drag a blue whale through a…
um… straw. But being born in 1973,
I only remember her as a prime
minister while I was going to school
in golden corduroy flares – Jesus, I
really need therapy.

My mother had a great deal of trouble with me, but I think she Dame Judi Dench. The epitome of
enjoyed it. The menu of her life has two simple choices: take it or the overused ‘legend in their own
leave it – and I have inherited that trait. She delights in challenging lifetime’. She joined the Royal
and confounding. She looks like a sweet old lady, with white hair, Shakespeare Company in 1961 and
glasses and beautiful soft one of her most notable achievements
skin, but don’t be deceived with the RSC was her performance as
by that. She radiates love Lady Macbeth in 1976. Judi received
“You can fool all of and taught me that exceptionally favourable notices. “If
forgiveness is the greatest this is not great acting I don’t know
the people some of revenge, yet her life has what is.” (Michael Billington, The
the time and some been difficult and full of Guardian.)
hard-won experience.
of the people all of Emelinne Pankhurst. Born in 1858, daughter of parents of radical
the time, but you Biology is the least of beliefs. Her mother would influence the path that Emily took. After
what makes my mother finishing school Emily returned to Manchester in 1878 where she met
can’t fool your great. From teasing and socialist Richard Pankhurst and two years later, they were married. In
mother. Ever” torturing my lovers at 1905, Emily’s eldest daughter was arrested and she attended a London
breakfast about my sexual meeting and shouted out, “Will the Liberal government give votes to
techniques (on their first visit to her!) to performing the haka to women?” She was removed from the hall and detained. The face and
intimidate her bowls competitors – she’s a hoot. She can perform mood of suffrage was changing. For the first time in British history,
wheelies on her scooter, laugh till she cries and has shown me that women had used violence in their endeavours to change the political
women are wonderful oddly mysterious creatures with 77,000 angels at stance on the right of women to vote.
their command. I wish her a most happy birthday and can relax in the
knowledge that she will definitely be exquisite and never explain… From “Votes for Women” to “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head”, it all means
something, and if these women weren’t here, neither would you or I be.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
82 GSCENE

OUR MAN IN
SAN FRAN
BY TREVOR MARTIN
AIRWAVES
BY MARCUS PATRICK

HEATH ANDREW LEDGER A MILESTONE AMONG MANY

Born April 4, 1979, Perth, Australia
Died January 22, 2008, New York. Cause: Accidental overdose
On January 22, 2008, Heath Ledger’s housekeeper quietly entered his
bedroom to change a light bulb and noticed that he was sleeping
peacefully. Not long afterwards, Ledger’s massage therapist entered the
room to set up a massage table, but became concerned when his body
appeared lifeless. What followed was a flurry of frantic calls to friends
and the emergency services but, sadly, all attempts to revive him failed
and Ledger was pronounced dead at 3.45pm. He was 28 years old. The
chief medical examiner for the City of New York concluded in his report
– based on the toxicology findings – that Ledger had suffered an
accidental overdose of a cocktail of prescription
medications for anxiety and insomnia.
Heath Ledger had just completed three movies back
to back and was dealing with the split up of his
relationship with Michelle Williams, actress and co-
star in Brokeback Mountain and the mother of his
child. He is reported to have been depressed and
anxious with being unable to see his beloved
daughter, Matilda, due to conflicting work schedules and disagreements
with Williams. Most recently he was said to have been exhausted, sleep-
deprived and suffering from a respiratory infection following overnight
film shoots in damp, freezing temperatures in Battersea, London.
Ledger’s interest in performance was apparent at school and activities
included an appearance with the Perth Shakespeare Company at age
ten. He choreographed a winning piece for a dance competition using
80 of the pupils at his school as dancers. Ledger left school at 16 to
head for Sydney with an older friend to seek out work as an actor and
the rest is history. He immediately won roles in various soaps, soon
graduating to noteworthy performances in critically acclaimed
independent films. Most recently, Ledger achieved bona fide Hollywood
stardom in a string of popular movies, culminating in an Oscar
nomination for his ingenious portrayal of Ennis
Del Mar in Brokeback Mountain.
Ledger’s charming good looks and sensitive
masculinity undoubtedly added to his
bankability as a star but he famously rejected
offers of roles that threatened to typecast him
as highly paid eye candy. At one point he was
so broke the ATM swallowed his card. His
patience paid off and Ledger said that after
reading Annie Proulx’s novella, Brokeback
Mountain, he had been moved to tears. What ensued was one of the
most incredible performances in one the best films of all time. The
tragic tale of the doomed love between two star-crossed
cowboy/shepherds stunned moviegoers all over the world. Ledger’s
astonishing portrayal of Ennis Del Mar was recognised by film fans and
industry professionals alike and he received a slew of accolades. In the
final scenes, we are torn apart when Ennis receives the postcard
announcing that Jack Twist, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, has died in a
tragic accident. Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal became best friends
following the film shoot and Gyllenhaal is said to be grief-stricken at
the loss of his good friend. What a curious twist of fate that their real-
life, off-screen friendship should be prematurely snuffed out by a tragic
accident. The truth really is, sometimes, stranger than fiction.
Heath Ledger was one of those paradoxes: boyish and fidgety in
interviews as though he maybe wasn’t too comfortable in his own skin,
then a powerhouse of charismatic acting talent on-screen, where he
truly crawled under the skin of the fictional characters he portrayed.
Sometimes I think we forget how quickly times change. In this great
sceptred isle of ours, we live a fairly equal and democratic existence.
But it hasn’t always been that way. I still find it staggering that only
one year after I was born, homosexuality in this country was finally
decriminalised. Prior to 1967, there was a very real threat that you’d be
arrested and jailed just for being a poof. Or worse – get sent for
‘electrode’ treatment, to help you see ‘the other side of the coin’, if you
get my drift.
Only last year, the passing of another bastion of oppression was
celebrated. The abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire in
1807 was finally passed in
Parliament. As recently as 200
years ago, we were still randomly “For me, the idea
condemning human beings to a
life of unpaid work and servitude, of women not
based purely on the colour of being able to vote,
their skin. For me, the whole
concept now seems difficult to is like telling some
take in, but it was a reality.
women that they
So it was interesting to discover can’t buy shoes”
that 2008 is the 80th anniversary
of the bill that finally gave women in this country the full right to vote.
For me, the idea of women not being able to vote is like telling some
women they can’t buy shoes – it’s that important. It would be like
telling some blokes that they couldn’t watch football – it’s fundamental.
Quite why the notion that a woman could actually cope with putting a
cross in a box was such a difficult one to grasp is beyond me. Especially
as a lot of women were already cooking, cleaning, bringing up children
and (during the war) holding down fulltime jobs. Perhaps the nice men
thought that they’d be too tired to make it down to the polling station
after having all that to contend with.
So you’ve got an unfair, outdated, sexist voting system – who you
gonna call? The Suffragettes, that’s who! Not for them writing a nice
letter to their MP or throwing a bit of purple flour over the prime
minister. These were women who really meant business. Perhaps the
most famous example was them chaining themselves to the railings
outside 10 Downing Street. But they did other stuff too. They set fire to
mailboxes, smashed windows and even set off bombs. A lot of women
ended up in prison, so they
went on hunger strikes in
protest. Perhaps the most
shocking example of direct
action was that of Emily
Davison, who threw herself
in front of the King’s horse
at the Epsom Derby in
1913, dying in the process.
You don’t get much more
direct than that.
It’s difficult to imagine feeling so strongly about something that you
would go to such lengths to achieve your aim – but protest they did.
Finally, towards the end of World War I, a move was made to change
things, but only partially. So for all the courage and bravery shown by
the Suffragettes – we salute you! Now if that doesn’t make the Spice
Girls with their ‘girl power’ look like a bunch of self-obsessed,
superficial lame-arses, I don’t know what does!
Listen to Drivetime with Marcus Patrick
Monday–Friday, 3pm–7pm on Juice107.2

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 GSCENE 83

NETTY’S QUERYING

WORLD QUEENIE
BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE

WOMAN, I CAN HARDLY EXPRESS… INTERNATIONAL RESCUE

Women. I’ve been one for the best part of 40 years. Before that I was a Well, thank goodness for March. Longer days, mad hares and an ‘early’
girl, which to some men is the same thing only smaller. In China, where Easter. Incidentally, if anyone knows why Easter is sometimes ‘early’ and
baby girls are routinely killed for not being boys, old women merit a sometimes ‘late’, can they please explain? It’s not as if Christmas pings
minor degree of respect thus becoming honourary men, possibly due to around on the calendar and occasionally pops up in November, is it?
amassed wisdom and increased facial hair. Reasons for there being so
few females in power worldwide are manifold (see what I did there – Festival dates aside, of course, it’s a delight that this month’s topic is
man-if-old! Oh never mind, they’d have got it in China). Certainly in the women. After a brief moment of passport panic as I pondered
West, after years of battling for equality, the prevailing perception of International Women’s Day (well, I wouldn’t be a very international
the fairer sex remains. That we are a bunch of irrational and emotionally woman if it’s expired will I?), I
vulnerable boobies. started thinking about all those
fabulous females who’ve helped
Much as I despise the Chinese attitude to womankind, their brutality is shape the way I am. This,
“Nothing, however,
an honest representation of the economic disaster a family faces by not unsurprisingly, led to many filthy came close to the
having a boy to take care of them in their dotage. thoughts far too disgraceful for
this column. Well, maybe we’ll go worship that I had for
To be blunt, in the West girls grow into sex there later. But seriously, I
objects, then put-upon mums, then batty old reckon it all started very early….
HRH Siouxsie Sioux. I
crones with none of that Oriental veneration for practically became
old age. For instance, doddering Sir Trevor The first woman I remember
McDonald is seen as the elder statesman of being truly obsessed with was a her, penning (bloody
newsreading while dear old Moira ‘I’ve got a plum TV presenter on a kids’ awful) goth-punk
in my mouth’ Stuart has been unceremoniously programme called Watch, back in
kicked out to pasture. Bruce Forsyth is still the dim days of my pre-school songs with titles like
annoying the hell out of me but where is his youth (yes, television had been
female equivalent? Somewhere in a galaxy far, far away, an ancient invented then) called Julie Suddenly Lorraine’s
biddy with a monolithic chin trips the light fantastic on primetime TV. something or other. She had long Face Exploded”
dark hair – even in black and
I believe the reason women do not thrive in this male-dominated world white – and spoke softly just to me. I wanted her to be my mum, which
is because the criteria don’t suit our bodies or brains. The actual fabric is ridiculous because my mum is too lovely for words. I’d hang on to
of success is tailored by men for men. Women who win the rat race and everything she said, and at night I’d make up stories about going on
smash their way through the walks with her. I’ve no idea when that all stopped, but it was probably
glass ceiling are liable to when I switched my TV viewing to Captain Scarlet, got the outfit, and
“Women who win the earn ridicule and a very sore spent far too long fighting the Mysterons with the kids next door.
fist. ‘Shrewd businesswoman’
rat race and smash is shortened to ‘shrew’, You have to grow to know I suppose, and my heroes and heroines
their way through the ‘strength and determination’ chopped and changed with the wind throughout my childhood. But I
to ‘bitch’ and ‘diva’. did always want to be a pop star and once I’d got over The Jackson 5
glass ceiling are liable it was them ladies that started to rock my world. Diana Ross came
to earn ridicule and a Anyone who thinks women first, as my Uncle John was a huge Supremes fan and played them
aren’t naturally aggressive constantly. Then came Kate Bush. Oh. My. God! The poor neighbours,
very sore fist. ‘Shrewd hasn’t seen my mum at a hands over ears, as I screeched along to
jumble sale. Most women can Wuthering Heights on my Binatone
businesswoman’ is be supremely assertive when ‘walkman’. Nothing, however, came close to
shortened to ‘shrew’, such action benefits a the worship that I had for HRH Siouxsie
perceived good cause or Sioux. I practically became her, penning
‘strength and loved one, so why don‘t we (bloody awful) goth-punk songs with titles
determination’ to value our own needs? like Suddenly Lorraine’s Face Exploded while
The Equal Opportunities spiking my hair up to the loftiest heights.
‘bitch’ and ‘diva’” Commission states women My mum helped me do this – she was a
earn on average £2,000 less back-combing expert, having had a perilous
than men in similar positions. That’s because if you’re like me you’d cut beehive in the 1960s. How very punk. Now
off your own head before actually asking for a payrise. Why? Because I still get a kick from wonderful musical
I’m trained to be nice. I make myself small, I don’t cause a fuss. women. Jocelyn Brown, Mary J, Alicia
Keys. The first time I heard Smokin’ Jo
In my lifetime things have improved beyond recognition, but that just DJing I thought I’d died and gone to
goes to show how bad things were. In the long run, women in the West heaven…
have only themselves to blame for persistent inequality. Pankhurst and
Co did their bit – it’s up to young women today to yearn to become Politically speaking, nothing too dramatic
footballers instead of footballers’ wives. seems to have happened in my lifetime,
though I remember being delighted when
It’s International Women’s Day on March 8, yet here in Britain an Diane Abbott won her seat. And if Thatcher did nowt else, she taught
average of two women per week are still dying as a result of domestic me how to get absolutely furious, up off my arse and out marching.
violence. China is by no means the only country where it’s downright
dangerous to be born a girl. Oh dear, no space for the rude bits! xxx HRH

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 84 GSCENE

VRON’S JAQ ON
VOICE THE BOX
BY JAQ BAYLES

POLITICAL WOMEN SKINS

Politicians rank low in the popularity stakes, second only to estate Decided to try something different
agents and paparazzi. Would it be different if politics were less male- this month and, as the whole world
dominated? Back in 1987, women made up a mere six per cent of MPs. seems to have been banging on about
Margaret Thatcher began her third term: the archetypal Queen Bee, how great it is, opted for Skins
secure in her supremacy and giving no leeway to aspiring females (Thursdays, 10.30pm, Channel 4).
attempting to scramble up the political ladder behind her. What an JOTB is not normally one for your
irony, that Britain’s first woman PM should be associated with some of Brit-produced TV (unless it’s a soap,
the most reactionary and anti-female policies this country has ever obviously), but has found herself
known! enthralled by this tale of everyday
teenage folk. On an estate. In Bristol.
We have moved on since then and, in terms Not only is there some top eye candy
of numbers, women MPs are catching up. in the shape of fabulously balanced
The advent of Blair’s Babes in 1997 seemed gay Maxxie (Mitch Hewer) – and remember, JOTB doesn’t do boys –
to signal a new era of hope, among them there’s also a fantastic soundtrack
Clare Short, Harriet Harman and Mo and appearances by Bill Bailey as
Mowlam. Short achieved public recognition Maxxie’s line-dancing-with-dogs
MO MOWLAM

with her bill to ban page 3 nudes in dad, Harry Enfield, Morwenna
newspapers. Mowlam rose rapidly to become Banks, Josie Lawrence, Arabella
secretary of state for Northern Ireland. Weir and Sarah Lancashire.
Blimey, they must have been
Harman has campaigned for family-friendly hours in the Commons. In queueing up for this one. The
the early 1980s she was almost the only female MP with very young characters are brave, if a little
children. In one interview she told me how she thought it was quite overly dysfunctional in some cases,
wrong to have a parliament almost entirely made up of men making and the script is fresh and pacey.
decisions that affect women’s lives. “You very rarely get discussions I’m not sure why watching
about childcare, or about what happens to children in the school teenagers should be such fun –
holidays.” let’s face it, Grange Hill and
Hollyoaks have never attracted the
SHIRLEY WILLIAMS

For young women hoping to pursue
parliamentary careers, there have always
been excellent role models. One of the
finest is Baroness Shirley Williams, leader
of the Lib Dems in the Lords, one-time
education secretary of the Labour Party and
daughter of the eminent pacifist and writer
Vera Brittain. One great unanswered
question, is what might have happened to
Labour had this astute politician chosen to remain within the Labour
Party, and not abandoned it in its hour of need, to co-found the Social
Democratic Party. Would Thatcher have come to power? And would New
Labour have remained a mere gleam in the eye of the spin doctors?
Former MP turned novelist Edwina Currie was one of the only female
politicians to be given a ministerial post in Thatcher’s Cabinet. A
controversial figure, Currie will be remembered for her revelation about
eggs and salmonella – she resigned her post as health minister as a
result. She was hugely supportive of gay issues.
Women in politics have always been expected to conform. When the
former Labour MP Helene Hayman chose to breastfeed her baby in the
House, you’d have thought she was selling state secrets, judging by the
disapproval of some colleagues – with the media’s backing. And back in
1979, Labour MP Maureen Colquhoun paid a heavy price for being open
about her lesbianism – instant rejection by her constituency of
Northampton North.
The late Barbara Castle was a true conviction
politician, well able to assert herself in a
chamber full of men. She’s been called the PM
we never had. We need more politicians like
BARBARA CASTLE
adult audience – but I think the
fact that the show comes from the
makers of Shameless probably has
something to do with it.
It’s been a bad month for JOTB,
who has been failing to see many
of the programmes she has been salivating over, even with the added
bonus of On Demand. Apparently the programmes she wants to watch
are not in demand enough to be On Demand.
And thus it was with Cutting Edge’s Baby Bible Bashers (February 14,
Channel 4), the story of three of the Lord’s ‘chosen children’ who are all
preachers. Give me strength. One of them spends his Saturdays in front
of his local abortion clinic shouting: “Don’t kill your child! Repent! God
loves the little children”. If God loves the little children, why does he
allow their parents to behave as the
Christian equivalent of the beauty pageant
mum? (It goes without saying that much of
the action takes place in the States.)
I gather there was some homophobia
(quelle surprise) in the pint-sized
preachers’ rants, along with the usual
hellfire condemnation of adulterers and
anyone falling under the catch-all of
‘sinners’. But surely the idea of any adult doing what a seven-year-old
tells them to is ludicrous… oh, hang on, I have been to Asda on a
Saturday morning. Those kids don’t even need to wear sandwich boards
to get their message across to their parents. They just stand there and
yell incomprehensible rubbish. So I suppose that puts the Baby Bible
Bashers’ sermons into perspective – they’re just talking the normal
bollocks that any toddler does. It’s the adults who have the problem.

Baronesses Castle and Williams: people driven On second thought, maybe it’s for the best that JOTB didn’t get to see
by passion, determination and with the the programme after all.
stamina to survive in such a cut-throat
environment. Midwich Cuckoos anyone?

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 85

TEEN BRIGHTON
SCENE
BY SAM THOMAS
BOTHWAYS
BY CAMEL

EDDIE BERLITZ
Last month, Allsorts Youth Project held its LGBT Youth Talents and
Achievements Show, funded by Pride in Brighton & Hove, to
commemorate Winter Pride week. One of the talented young people at
Allsorts is Harriet Travis, a musician, singer and songwriter, who
performs with her band, Eddie Berlitz.
This month’s theme, in honour of International Women’s Day 2008, is
women. An interesting one for me to consider, as I’ve recently realised
that I identify as less of a woman than I thought for much of my life.
This is not to say I don’t identify as a woman at all, just a lot less than
most women do, I think. I identify as much as male, ungendered or
multi-gendered.

How did you get together? Researching this article, I discovered via the official International
Travis It all came about at a drunken night out. We all went back to Women’s Day website that IWD has been observed since the early
Clo’s house and played Xbox till the early hours. Clo said she played 1900s, which amazes me. In the 100 years or so since then, the lives of
bass and we began talking about putting together a band. women in much of the world have changed beyond recognition. I say
Killa K Yeah, I kinda knew Travis already and bumped into her on a much of the world, as it’s very important for those of us born into
night out and that’s how I joined. Western cultures to recognise our privilege in that fact, while certainly
What inspired the name ‘Eddie Berlitz’? still questioning the idea that Western ideas of womanhood and what
Travis Everyone knows an Eddie don’t they? [band laughs] they mean are in no way
Clo Yeah, I think that’s become our catchphrase now! We just got really simply ‘better’ than others.
bored of trying to agree on a name. We said, “Fook it, let’s use the
name Eddie and that word on the sign over there.” But most of us have a level of “If International
Killa K We think it’s a language school but we’re not sure. It’s probably autonomy in terms of having
a brothel. the vote, working culture and Women’s Day is about
possibilities of financial
Describe your music.
independence that the most
anything, it’s surely
Killa K It’s got elements of ska, a bit of pop. Basically, it’s cool shit.
Travis It’s a bit like sublime – not that we’d ever want to box ourselves. privileged woman of the early about the right for
Killa K Yeah, that would hurt. [laughs] 1900s would find astonishing.
Musical influences?
women – all women –
Clo Freddie Mercury. And while these gains are not to be treated fairly, be
Travis Yeah, I love that guy… and men. [jokes] yet shared by those of genders
Clo Killa likes Christina Aguilera. other than 100 per cent allowed the freedoms
Killa K: No, I like punk bands mainly. female, this day reminds us
Clo …and Christina. [Killa looks unimpressed] that what once seemed to be that a patriarchal
Travis Queen definitely, and the Chili Peppers. fixed gender values and roles norm denies them
Who writes the songs? have become far messier, and
Killa K Travis started writing the tracks, but now we all do. are better for it. and have the right to
What are the songs about?
Bisexual women gain from
define themselves”
Travis They are mainly about one girl in particular but the themes in
the songs could apply to a lot of situations I’ve experienced. these trends, but like most
Clo One of the songs is about the other identities that diverge from the norm, there are many areas where
gay scene. A lot of it does my head life is not exactly a picnic. Bi women are still overwhelmingly
in. People should get out of their stereotyped by both het and homo culture, whether as ‘greedy’, ‘just
bubble and realise that you don’t experimenting’, ‘in a phase’, ‘sexually available/sexually voracious’ (in a
fight prejudice through separation society that still overwhelmingly values women for sexual passivity),
and a couple of drag queens. ‘traitors’ and as ‘stealers of lesbian energy’ (and yes, that last example
Travis Sometimes you just want a is verbatim from a bi woman’s experience).
break from it.
What do you think about the In combining a female identity with one that refuses a lesbian/gay
Brighton music scene? identity and a heterosexual one, the identity of ‘bi woman’ often
PIC BY DARREN SKENE

Travis It’s very competitive – there’s
always gigs going on.
Killa K Yeah, everyone is playing
and wants to break into it and
there’s a lack of originality.
Clo There’s a lot of great musicians
but sometimes they need to worry less about their image.
Would you ever consider auditioning for The X Factor?
Clo I can’t sing!
Killa K No, not personally, but we’d like to make Travis do it!
Travis I’d do it and wear my trousers low to piss off Simon Cowell!
What are your aspirations for the band?
Killa K Play loads of shows, write songs and keep on having fun.
Clo That’s important. Our gigs have been packed so that’s a bonus.
Travis We just want people to come (ahem) and have a good time.
EDDIE BERLITZ plays the Candy Bar on April 6, the Fat Fox in
Portsmouth on April 19, and the Komedia in Brighton on June 6.
Go see them! www.myspace.com/eddieberlitz
attracts derision, from other women as well as men. If International
Women’s Day is about anything, it’s surely about the right for women –
all women – to be treated fairly, be allowed the freedoms that a
patriarchal norm denies them and have the right to define themselves.
I’m a ‘capital F’ feminist, believing that feminism has done and will do
the vital work of questioning gender inequalities and gender norms that
nothing else can, whether that’s an academic paper on lesbian
sexuality, journalism that draws attention to the ongoing inequalities in
pay, women supporting each other in day-to-day life or campaigning for
parity in maternity and paternity leave. I am proud to identify as
partially a woman, and a daughter of these ideals and traditions.
Brighton Bothways meets weekly, on Thursday evenings in The
Aquarium, 6 Steine Street, Brighton. Bisexual and bicurious people
and their friends, partners and allies are all welcome. For details of
other events and more information, check the website.
www.brightonbothways.org.uk/

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86 GSCENE
LEGAL
EAGLE
BY MARK RENNIE
WHEN COHABITEES SEPARATE
If there’s one group I’ve neglected in this column, it’s those gay
couples who cohabit and don’t feel the need to enshrine their
commitment to one another in a formal ceremony. There’s just as much
confusion for them as there is for couples going down the aisle.
Civil partnership represents a vital evolution for cohabiting couples.
Yet an even more important step has been a campaign to afford rights
to cohabiting couples that their married counterparts already enjoy.
This isn’t just a victory for gay rights, but a necessary step for the law
at large. For too long the legal framework governing matrimonial law
has been inflexible, labouring under its inability to take account of the
changing socio-economic climate and the demands of modern life.
A great number of disputes concern couples who have lived under the
same roof for years and have then separated. These couples were
committed to each other long before the law recognised same-sex
partnerships. The problem: what to do with the sale of their home. A
recent case, Stack v Dowden, has seen the judiciary recognise how
antiquated much of the law is in this situation. Although the case
concerned a heterosexual couple, the general thinking seems to be that
the principles emerging in the judgement will soon be applicable to
same-sex couples as a rule of thumb.
For unmarried couples, the new framework has two distinct elements.
Where only one of the parties owns legal title to the property, that
person will have sole beneficial ownership, and will be entitled to all of
the sale proceeds. It’s up to the other person to show that they have
an interest and what percentage of the proceeds they should receive.
The second element is where both
parties have joint ownership of
the property. In this situation, a
“For too long the 50/50 split is the default
legal framework position. The party that says
they’re owed more has to prove it.
governing
matrimonial law This way everyone knows where
they stand from the outset, with
has been inflexible, the flexibility to make a
labouring under its supplemental agreement that
governs the share each party
inability to take would expect from a sale. More
account of the interesting are the questions the
court will begin to ask in disputes
changing socio- such as these. Where both parties
economic climate” own the house, a court will ask
about intention and the ways in
which this was expressed. It’s not just about financial contribution
either: a court may examine how the house was purchased; where the
finance came from; the purpose for which the home was bought; what
advice either party received prior to the purchase; how the expenditure
on the property was organised; and linked to that, how each party
organised their respective financial positions.
Stack v Dowden is still very fresh in the minds of legal professionals.
Although there have been no test cases yet involving same-sex
cohabitees, it is only a matter of time. What is clear is that we in the
legal profession are altering our advice accordingly, asking potential
cohabitees to make clear delineations as to entitlement early on, and
be clear on the issue of contribution and intention from the outset.
MARK RENNIE is with ASB Law, which has offices in Brighton,
Crawley, Croydon, Horsham and Maidstone. If you have any
pressing legal issues or need advice, contact Mark by email on
mark.rennie@asb-law.com or telephone on 01273 828074
COMMUNITY
SAFETY
NICK ANTJOULE
In January 2008 there were 17 incidents reported to Brighton & Hove
Police that were identified as being motivated by homophobia, biphobia
or transphobia. Ten of these have been recorded as the following crimes:

Assault – 3
Criminal damage – 2

Malicious communications – 1
Harassment – 4
THE RETURN OF IDAHOBIT
February saw some great events put on locally for LGBT History
Month. It always makes me feel privileged to be a Brightonian when
we pull together around an issue. I have to admit though, History
Month is a relatively new event and it’s not quite as coordinated as it
could be in terms of drawing on each other’s strengths. On a similar
note, are you thinking about organising an event for International
Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)?
Pub night? Concert? Workshop? Egg-and-spoon race? If so, I would
love to hear from you.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
So, International Women’s Day is here again. It all started 100 years
ago when 15,000 women marched
through New York to demand voting
rights and equal pay. That event is now
commemorated worldwide with a day of
action for gender equality. I think as
time goes by we get closer and closer
to a place where the rights of lesbian,
bi and trans women are moving
towards the mainstream of gender
equality work – which can only be a
good thing. There is more information on local events at
www.bhwomensday.co.uk
You can find Sussex Police’s Gender Equality Scheme at
www.sussex.police.uk/about_us/downloads/ges_2007.pdf
CROWN PROSECUTION SERVICE
At the time of writing I’m about to speak at a Crown Prosecution
Service conference on LGBT equality issues. They have come a long
way in recent times, but issues around LGBT people pulling out of
court cases are still a problem. Speaking of which, there are plans to
employ someone to support GBT men who have experienced domestic
violence and are thinking about getting protection against an ex-
partner or family member in court.
SEXUAL EXPLOITATION
Tipping The Iceberg is a new study that found problems in Sussex
around the sexual exploitation of young men. In order to make sure
services are sitting up and paying attention to this, a new LGBT
Sexual Exploitation Working Group has been formed.
LGBT COMMUNITY SAFETY STRATEGY
As you might already know the LGBT Community Safety Strategy is
being consulted on until March 4. If you want to see what it says or
make comments you can download it from www.spectrum-
lgbt.org/safety/ There will also be a community feedback event on
Wednesday March 12 at 7pm at the Friends Meeting House, which
anyone is welcome to attend.

NICK ANTJOULE, LGBT Community Liaison Officer
Call 01273 665657 or email nick.antjoule@sussex.pnn.police.uk

PCSO SARAH STANBRIDGE, LGBT Police Liaison Officer
01273 665541 sarah.stanbridge@sussex.pnn.police.uk
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
88 GSCENE

HEADING SOUTH
With more uranium than North Korea and more diamonds than Liberace, South Africa
is our new best friend ever since Bono got rid of Apartheid, and Cape Town is still our
favourite long-haul winter getaway. What can all the fuss be about? Gscene’s intrepid
David Hodgson suffers trial by ostrich to find out.

WHAT TO DO IN CAPE TOWN BEYOND

It’s virtually impossible to visit Cape Town and avoid (not that you
should) the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, South Africa’s most-visited
tourist destination. Originally established by Prince Alfred, son of
Queen Victoria, it is still a working port but also now home to an
ambitious renewal project comprising waterfront bars, hotels and
restaurants, along with a shopping complex of Bluewater proportions
(but with Gucci sensibilities). While most things here are a little pricier
than elsewhere, it is difficult to go wrong with food anywhere in the
whole country, as I have never been anywhere where the quality is so
consistently high. Pick of the Waterfront crop for me was Belthazar
Steakhouse, with springbok and ostrich on offer as well as beef, and
with 600 wines available by the glass.
The Waterfront is also the departure point for trips to Robben Island,
famous for its now-closed maximum security prison where Nelson
Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of incarceration. Tours, often
conducted by former inmates, are a sobering experience, although the
island’s penguins offer a little light relief. Booking in advance is
essential in high season.
If you prefer madmen juggling chainsaws to poking around in prison
cells, then make a reservation at Madame Zingara’s, a fabulous
burlesque show. Set in a Spiegeltent (it’s like um… er… a tent, with
walls), you enjoy a five-course meal served up by the most bohemian of
staff while acts ranging from contortionists to the wonderful Three Tons
of Fun (Weather Girls meets Supremes) grace the intimate stage.
A hire car will come into its own for trips out of Cape Town. No matter
which direction you head in, you are assured of stunning scenery and
some decent grub. Heading down the coast you will come to Hout Bay,
home to very self-confident seals and wonderful fresh fish, followed by
Boulders Beach with its resident jackass penguins (they sound like
donkeys – honest).
From here you can pursue the coast to the end of the continent at the
Cape of Good Hope before heading inland to the wine country. Make an
unashamed beeline for Franschhoek, the heart of the Western Cape
winelands reached by a spectacular drive as you wind through the valley,
passing vineyards at every turn. While it seems difficult to make a really
bad choice for lunch, stay resolute and head for La Petite Ferme, a
vineyard and restaurant with unrivalled views across the valley. It is
worth staying a night or two either in Franschhoek or in nearby
Stellenbosch just to lap up the scenery and cross as many restaurants
off the list as possible. Meals were noticeably cheaper than Cape Town
restaurants, and the local wine was a snip.
WHERE TO STAY
The downtown City Bowl, nestled between Table Mountain and the sea,
is pleasant enough without ever really knocking you out. Numerous chic
hotels can be found in the Gardens area, and while there are deals to

For something really gay rather than just really camp head to De
Waterkant, where a decent-sized scene comes to life late in the
evening. Bronx and The Loft are among the more popular bars, but it’s
best to pick up the local pink press and follow your nose rather than
spend time weighing up the conflicting views of various websites.

No holiday is complete without a trip up Table Mountain, which looms

more than 1,000m over Cape Town, much of it nearly vertical. Coward
that I am, I am unable to comment on the revolving cable-car trip, as I
MADAME ZINGARA’S

spent it looking at the floor in the middle of the car. However, the
views from the top are predictably wonderful, with the peaks of the
Twelve Apostles seemingly in touching distance on one side, and the
coast and city spread out below you on the other.

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

be had, prices have escalated in recent years as operators got wise to
European spending power. Similarly, the recently renovated Victoria &
Alfred Waterfront hosts various grades of accommodation, with the
top-end Cape Grace Hotel around £170 per night
A recommended option is to hire a villa on the Atlantic seaboard. Ten
minutes from the city, the bay settlements of Clifton, Bantry and
Camps Bay all boast fantastic settings with white beaches on one side
and towering mountains behind, and play host to scores of luxury villas
varying in size from one to six bedrooms. Most have their own pool,
many have a maid and damn near all will work out favourably compared
to a decent hotel. I stayed with a group of ten in a palatial Camps Bay
villa – no, mansion – complete with pool, cinema, bar and gym for
around £50/pppn in peak season. Not amazingly cheap maybe, but a
taste of otherwise unobtainable luxury, not to mention an opportunity
to stock up on great local booze instead of being stung by a hotel bar.
Restaurants abound along the coast, with honourable mentions going to
the Codfather in Camps Bay and Salt in Bantry Bay.
While both Clifton and Camps Bay have picturesque white beaches, the
icy Antarctic water all but prohibits swimming in the sea. A consolation
for some may be Beach 3 (of 4, all numbered) in Clifton, Cape Town’s
most popular gay beach, if you can be bothered with the steep cliffside
stairs leading down. Just a few miles down the coast, the secluded
Sandy Bay is a favoured spot for male naturists who are seeking to
meet like-minded friends for ephemeral encounters (I’m sure there’s an
expression for this).
GETTING AROUND
Hire a car, no arguments. Public transport within the city and beyond is
limited, and should not really be used after dark. Also, avoid minibus
taxis as a rule. Often poorly maintained and overcrowded, these will
stop to pick up and drop off seemingly at random and with little regard
to road safety. You would be better advised to spend a little extra on a
licensed taxi. There are taxi ranks at most tourist spots and restaurants
or bars will generally telephone one for you.
LOCAL CULTURE
In short – bewildering. A preoccupation with racial labels still exists, a
hangover from the Apartheid era, with anyone of mixed race considered
‘coloured’ (with no offensive connotation). Coloured people in turn have
sub-groups, for example, Cape Malay people are largely Afrikaans-
speakers and followers of Islam, but you also have a Christian group, an
English-speaking group and on it goes. The black populace speaks
mainly Xhosa, with other languages such as Zulu in a distinct minority.
Look hard enough and you’ll also find some French Huguenots up in
Franschhoek. Thankfully, everyone speaks English of a sort.
The impact on you as a tourist is minimal; the only tangible impression
is that reforms are dragging their heels. Whether you are in a
supermarket, bar or restaurant, the chances are the clientele will be
largely white and the staff will not be. The oft-mentioned crime rate is
overplayed, but certainly has some basis in fact. I was thoroughly
depressed to find that climbing Table Mountain by yourself is
PENGUINS AT SIMONSTOWN
GSCENE 89
inadvisable not because of any mountaineering safety code, but because
of reported muggings on the hillside. However, like anywhere else
(including Brighton), exercising common sense should see you right – ie,
don’t wander around alone and pissed at night wearing antique pearls
and clutching your Fabergé eggs. Oh, and you can’t buy petrol with a
credit card, and you can’t buy booze in a supermarket on Sunday. Go
figure.
GETTING THERE
This can be the major expense of the whole holiday and so shopping
around is advisable. Virgin, BA and South African Airways all fly
straight to Cape Town from Heathrow but, as I write, a Virgin economy
fare at the beginning of March (the end of high season) would set you
back £900, with others broadly similar. Booking well in advance can
slice a few hundred quid off this, but it is worth considering flying via
Dubai with Emirates, which is starting a service to Cape Town in April
2008. Flying out of Gatwick is always a bonus, and current April fares
are around £450 for economy and a tempting £1,500 for business, which
includes a limousine at each end, the run of their impressive lounges
and the opportunity to run amok in Dubai duty free.
Despite not being all sunshine and roses, Cape Town pulls you in; the
city and the country as a whole can frustrate you with their weird
customs and silly prejudices – you feel like giving them a good talking-
to. There are still regular power cuts, inequality is evident even though
Apartheid is dead and safety is more of an issue than it really should be
in a holiday destination. However, it also has a great climate, marvellous
produce, cheap living costs and an awe-inspiring, rugged landscape that
make it a marvellous destination – doubly so if you have the time to
really explore the surrounding area.
CAPE TOWN WINELANDS
www.waterfront.co.za www.lapetiteferme.co.za
www.madamezingara.com www.grandeprovence.co.za
www.thecodfather.co.za www.lacabriere.co.za
www.capetownvillas.co.uk
www.tablemountain.net
FRIENDS OLD & NEW AT THE LA CABRIERE
COUNTRY HOUSE IN FRANSCHHOEK
GILLY WILDE AT HOME IN CAPE TOWN
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
90 GSCENE
WIN A HOLIDAY FOR 2
IN FORT LAUDERDALE
The greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau caused
quite a stir in Brighton last month when they parked their sexy
travelling road show outside the Queens Arms in George Street. Inside
the glass sided lorry were a couple of gorgeous hunks working out and
strutting their stuff for the cameras.
The Fort Lauderdale Visitors Bureau are offering exclusively to the
readers of Gscene and GT the chance to win a fabulous five day
holiday for two in Fort Lauderdale staying at the award winning
luxurious Royal Palms and flying courtesy of Zoom Airlines who are
commencing direct flights from Gatwick to Fort Lauderdale from May
22nd.
Florida was voted second most popular foreign holiday destination in
the recent national Pink Paper awards and Fort Lauderdale is as gay as
it gets with a wide choice of guest houses and hotels, bars to visit and
some of the best beaches anywhere in the world. There is even a gay
shopping mall.
Zoom will be operating twice weekly services from Gatwick on
Thursdays and Sundays. Fares start at £399 including taxes and all
charges.
To enter the holiday competition
go to Visitsunny.org/zoom
SILVERJET TO NEW YORK
The downside to most air travel is the increasing mayhem surrounding
check-in and especially security. Thankfully Silverjet has succeeded in
providing a welcome alternative in luxury travel which manages to
compete with other airlines' premium economy fares on price while
offering all the perks of business travel. Based in Luton, SilverJet
started their all-business class service earlier last year and has charted
an upward trajectory ever since, garnering plaudits for style, service and
a refreshing commitment to the needs of the passenger. Originally
starting with a daily service to New York, a Dubai route is now up and
running, offering the same 6'3" lie-flat beds and premium service for a
fraction of other business fares, as well as dedicated terminals at Luton
and Newark.
Now I know what you are thinking; Luton? Admittedly the prospect of
travelling to Luton is not immediately appealling, but on closer
examination it starts to add up. Silverjet have their own dedicated
terminal which allows you to check-in up to 30 minutes before
departure (45 minutes if you wish to check bags) which means Brighton
travellers can actually leave home later than if flying from Gatwick.
I was lucky enough to try this recently and it is impossibly good. No
sooner do you cross the terminal threshold than someone takes your
bag and ushers you to the lounge, replete with complimentary breakfast
and champagne. A member of staff will check you in and bring your
boarding card to you while you read the paper and have a bacon
sandwich. When it is time to board you amble through a dedicated fast
track security channel and onto the plane - and that's it - no noise, no
queues, no stress, and the closest most of us will come to feeling like
an international popstar cum diplomat. Once onboard the pampering
continues unabated, with champagne before take off while you peruse
the menu devised by Le Caprice. The food may well be the best I've
had on an aeroplane, and better than a lot I've had on the ground, and
is complemented by a wide selection of wines in generous measures.
Afterwards, all that is left to do is recline and take in a film on your
Silver Screen entertainment centre, or sleep off lunch.
So is there a downside? Not that I could find. With only 100 passengers
onboard a 767 designed for three times that number, the cabin is
spacious and service impeccable. Tree huggers may be forgiven a little
eco-guilt for this indulgence, however your Silverjet ticket includes
carbon offset contributions that make it the first airline to declare itself
100% carbon-neutral. You can, quite literally, sleep easy in your bed.
Silverjet website: www.flysilverjet.com Customer feedback:
www.airlinequality.com/Forum/silverjet.htm
VISIT GAY BRIGHTON
Last month Herve and Stefan
from The New Steine Hotel
hosted a party of French
journalists here to publicise
Gay Brighton to our friends
across the water. They
included Sabine Decerle from
VisitBritain, Slyvain Jaboeuf
from Voyages G, Celine
Develay from RFI radio and Christelle Lagattu from La Dixieme Muse,
the main lesbian magazine for France. Many thanks to Legends, Charles
Street, Candy Bar and of course the New Steine Hotel and bistro for the
hospitality provided.
NEW GAY TRAVEL SITE
A new online travel information and social networking portal has
launched with the aim of becoming the largest database of destinations,
venues and events specifically designed for the gay and lesbian
community. www.gaypedia.com is a user-generated and editorially
produced travel information website that allows you to search for venues
and events in a given location on specified dates. Visitors who sign up for
membership can add content, upload photos and videos, and diarise
events and vacations which can be shared with gaypedia friends. “The gay
world changes so quickly that information in travel guides is constantly out-
of-date or inaccurate,” says Ryan Haynes, gaypedia's Marketing Manager.
“Gaypedia.com will give travellers the insider information.”
www.gaypedia.com
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
 GSCENE 91

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92 GSCENE

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 GSCENE 93

FLAT FOR SALE

Donald Hall Road, Brighton, East Sussex
£179,950

• Chain free purpose built flat

• Stunning panoramic coastal

views with balcony

• Two double bedrooms

• Newly redecorated

For more details and to arrange a viewing

get in touch with our Kemptown branch on

01273 681811

www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton
Kings Gardens, Hove £1400pcm
Fully furnished to a very high standard two double bedroom 2nd floor mansion apartment.
Very spacious and beautifully presented with floor to ceiling windows and plenty of original
period features. Large South facing balcony with direct sea views. Fully applianced kitchen to a
high specification and gas central heating. Passenger lift. Rent includes heating and hot water
bills. Located on Hove seafront. Available early April
So
ld
St. James’s St, Kemp Town £650pcm Ditchling Road, Brighton £650pcm
Unfurnished one bedroom second floor flat Part furn. 1 bed flat
Conservatory & patio
CCH

Well presented
Located in heart of Kemp Town
Contemporary kitchen & bathroom
Centrally

Rent includes water rates
Available now located, close North Laines & Stn.
Available now
St. James’s Street, Kemp Town £750pcm Milner Road, Kemp Town £750pcm
Large U/F 1st floor 1 bed flat
Neutrally decorated Unfurn. 2 bed 1st floor flat
Refurbished with new
Bright and spacious with plenty of storage
Easy separate kitchen & bathroom
GCH
Secondary
access to City centre and sea
Available now glazing
Easy access to City centre
Available now
Eaton Place, Kemp Town £895pcm Marine Parade, Kemp Town £995pcm
Fully furnished 1 bed patio flat
Contemporary kitchen U/F 2 double bed. 3rd fl. flat
Bright, spacious living
& bathroom
West facing patio garden
Large room with sea views
Additional study/dining space

master bedroom
Close to sea
Available now GCH
Lift
Seafront location
Available now
Devonshire Place, Kemp Town £1300pcm
Large, furnished 3 bedroom (2 double and 1 single) 1st and 2nd floor maisonette. Modern and
bright with separate kitchen and bathroom. Gas central heating. Large West facing private roof
terrace. Located on a quiet street in Kemp Town with easy access to the town centre and close
to the sea. Available late March.
Marine Parade, Kemp Town £725pcm Marine Square, Kemp Town £750pcm
Furnished 1 double bedroom second floor flat Unfurn. 1 bed LGF flat
Spacious lounge & bedroom

Spacious and light with oblique sea views addtional office space
Patio gdn.
GCH
Close

Located on Kemp Town seafront
Available now to sea
Use of private gdns.
Available late March
New Steine, Kemp Town £775pcm Devonshire Place, Kemp Town £825pcm
Unfurn. 1 double bed LGF flat
Very spacious U/F 1st fl. 1 bed flat
Roof terrace and balcony

Modern kitchen & bathroom
Patio gdn
GCH
Very well presented
High ceilings
New kitchen

Central Kemp Town location
Available now and bathroom
Popular location
Available now
Cromwell Road, Hove £995pcm Marine Parade, Kemp Town £1200pcm
Unfurnished 2 double bedroom flat
Spacious with Unfurn. 2 bed GFF
Prestigious sea front block
high ceilings, neutral decor and contemporary feel
Contemporary kit. & bathrm.
Large open plan

GCH
Sought after area of Hove
Available now living room w period feats
Available early March