Gscene News Archive: April 2009

Jonathan Shaw MP, Minister for the South East and Minister for the disabled in the Department for Work and Pensions joined Simon Burgess, Labour's candidate for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven and local business people from the St James' Street area in R-Bar to discuss how best to tackle the current downturn in business caused by the credit crunch.

Biggest complaint from businesses was the lack of support from the local council and joined up thinking between council departments. Concerns were raised about the amount of influence conservation pressure groups had in the city and how it was holding back business investment in the St James' Area.

The Minister highlighted the work being done by the government to get the economy working especially the £250 million pounds the Royal Bank of Scotland have made available to give loans to small businesses.

# posted by gscene @ 1:24 PM

It’s your last chance to register for the 2009 Stonewall 10k Equality Walk. This year's walk starts from the Royal Pavilion Gardens on Sunday, May 3.

Celebrity walkers include Amy Lamé, former Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner of the Met. and star of 'I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here', Brian Paddick, Mr Gay UK, local drag legend , Lola Lasagne and DJ Dulcie Danger. They will be joined by leader of the Labour group on Brighton Council Gill Mitchell and the Labour candidate for Brighton Kemptown & Peacehaven, Simon Burgess among many others.

The walker who raises the most sponsorship will receive a luxury weekend for two in Paris, including business-class travel on Eurostar, two nights stay in a luxury hotel and £250 spending money!

Walkers and their friends are invited to meet from midday for a pre-walk picnic. Then it’s on your toes for a warm-up with a difference before the 10km walk kicks off at 2pm.

Registration for the walk is just £10 (free for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult). Stonewall is encouraging all participants to bring along their families this year to enjoy the day.

Walkers receive a goodie bag, special commemorative T-shirt and a glass of bubbly or a soft drink for kids once they’ve crossed the finishing line at the end-of-walk party.

Last year’s Brighton Equality Walk raised more than £35,000.

The profits from this years walk will go towards funding a DVD of 'Fit', a play aimed at 11-14 year olds, that tackles the issue of homophobic bullying in schools. Stonewall want to send a copy of the DVD to every school in the country.

To register now go to:
www.equalitywalk.org.uk

or contact: The Equality Walk team on 020 7593 2294 or equalitywalk@stonewall.org.uk

For more information about Stonewall go to:
www.stonewall.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 1:06 PM

Allsorts Youth Project are staging an exhibition of the paintings of young LGBT people during the Youth Arts Fringe Festival 2009.

Allsorts is a support project for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or unsure young people under 26.

Their paintings express different aspects of themselves and their lives. Emerging themes include identity, sexual orientation, gender transitioning, self-harm, suicide and hope.

The exhibition takes place at the BMS Quad, Blatchington Mill School, Neville Avenue, Hove BN3 7BW on May 2 between 2-5pm. There will be an exhibition and workshop.

2009 is the Youth Arts Fringe's second year!

YAF ’09 showcases the creative work of young people through youth services across Brighton and Hove. Hosted in May to tie in with The Brighton Festival, the Youth Arts Fringe is a multi-media art extravaganza, showing a diverse collection of creative work across the city. This year YAF includes theatre, visual art, graffiti, photography, sculpture, dance, music and painting. YAF ’09 is organised by the Youth Arts Project, part of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Integrated Youth Support Service,

YAF highlights artwork by young people (age 11-25) many who do not normally get the chance to participate in mainstream arts events. Some of young people involved are socially excluded or disadvantaged; some are out of education, work or training, and so don’t have access to the traditional routes to 'art'.

There are 30 statutory and voluntary services involved this year, including those working in youth centres, hostels, LGBT, mental health services, youth offending, BME, schools and substance misuse support organisations.

For more information about Allsorts view:
www.allsortsyouth.org.uk

Pictured: painting by one of Allsorts young people

# posted by gscene @ 1:04 PM

Krissie Du Cann raised over £500 from the three performances of her show, ‘Shadows of Gold’ at the Marborough Theatre last month.

The show was organised to celebrate Krissie’s fifty years in show business, was scripted by Lady James and featured Miss Jason, Miss Hap and Deborah D’Arcy.

The money raised is being shared out between the Sussex Beacon and the Prostate Cancer Charity.

Pictured Collin Day, Deborah D’Arcy, Krissie du Cann and Sussex Beacon fundraiser Michael Royalton-Kisch.

For more information about the Sussex Beacon view:
www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

For more information about the Prostate Cancer Charity view:
www.prostate-cancer.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 12:08 PM

Southern Water's plans to build a sewage treatment works at Peacehaven to treat wastewater from Brighton and Hove came one step nearer this week when protesters lost their appeal against the project in the high court.

East Sussex County Council gave the scheme planning permission last year, and a High Court judge rejected an initial attempt by Peacehaven residents to hold a judicial review of that consent.

But campaigners Peacehaven Residents Opposed to Urban Development (Proud), supported by local Labour MP Des Turner, raised a ‘fighting fund’ to pursue the case through the Appeal Courts and have pledged to take it through the European Courts.?

The new treatment works is needed to comply with European Union wastewater directives and the UK government faces infraction proceedings if the scheme does not go ahead.

Brighton Kemptown & Peacehaven Labour Parliamentary Candidate Simon Burgess, who has opposed Southern Waters proposals since the beginning has expressed his dismay at today’s court decision. Simon undertook a sponsored cycle ride from the High Court to Peacehaven in support of the review and was in court today to hear the case. He said:
"Southern Water and East Sussex County Council have ganged up against local people. I am particularly disappointed that the judge ignored the fact that Southern Water have failed to meet the County Council odour controls at Pebsham for six years. This is very worrying for Peacehaven residents who live closer to the planned Peacehaven works and have every reason to doubt whether the promised odour controls will be met. These works should always have been built on a brownfield site instead".

Pictured - From left: Simon Burgess, Cllr. John Livings and members of PROUD at the High Court

# posted by gscene @ 11:00 AM

Gscene Magazine is calling for Sussex Police and Brighton & Hove City Council to attend a public meeting to discuss the LGBT part of the city’s Community Safety Strategy 2008–2011 and the quality of the consultation that informed the strategy.

The move comes in the wake of a perceived breakdown in communications between our LGBT community representatives and the Council’s Partnership Community Safety Team (PCST), resulting in Spectrum, the LGBT Community Forum (the organisation the community decided in January 2004 would be our consultative link with the statutory authorities), taking a step backwards last year from working with the PCST due to their concerns about the working methods of the PCST.

The PCST is charged with producing effective initiatives to deal with hate crime in the city and, along with Sussex Police, is signed up to the Community Engagement Framework.

Last June, Spectrum said the authorities had failed to deliver effective consultation and were failing to deliver what they signed up to in the Community Engagement Framework, adding:
“Spectrum published 68 comments on the new strategy to reflect the strategic outcomes agreed to by stakeholders and to ensure community engagement is at the heart of all forward plans. We do not seek a role as community watchdog. We do want to ensure that there are effective and inclusive mechanisms in place for LGBT people both to contribute to plans to tackle hate crime and to hold services to account for delivering them. While the PCST reviews its role (which Spectrum has been informed by the PCST is happening), Spectrum is continuing to build on joint work with Sussex Police.”

Gscene editor James Ledward believes there is currently an impasse and is concerned that trust and confidence levels, especially with regard to Sussex Police, have been damaged by the present situation being allowed to continue.

He says:
“I view the present impasse so seriously I have decided to go on the record, bringing up some uncomfortable historical home truths about the behaviour of both police and council in the recent past on issues surrounding community safety in the city. I suggest a public meeting is called to resolve this situation.

“We need to establish how the LGBT community wants to resolve the present impasse, and move matters on to re-establish an effective consultative mechanism to hold the police and council to account on community safety and hate-crime issues. This clearly is not happening at the moment and is the root of all the problems. It is not for the police or council to decide who they want to work with – which has been happening, as they have attempted to sideline Spectrum – it is for the community to meet, speak and decide.

“I suggest the meeting is hosted by Spectrum, the organisation at present charged by the LGBT community to do this work, and be independently facilitated. I also suggest this process is fully funded from the BCU budget Sussex Police receive from the government each year, earmarked for community engagement work. A budget the police have handed over to the PCST, effectively denying Sussex Police the ability to work independently from the Council, with the LGBT community on issues regarding hate crime and community safety issues were funding is needed.”

A full in-depth report following an investigation by Gscene into the impasse can be read on the Gscene website at www.gscene.com from May 1.

Pictured the meeting at Dorset Garden Methodist Church in 2004 when Spectrum was selected by LGBT community people present to act as the consultative link between Sussex Police and Brighton and Hove Council on issues relating to Community Safety.

# posted by gscene @ 3:37 PM

Councillor Bill Randall is the new convenor of the Green Group of 12 councillors on Brighton and Hove City Council.

Bill, who has represented the Hanover and Elm Grove area since 2003, was elected unopposed by Green councillors and party members. He succeeds Councillor Keith Taylor, who has been convenor since 2001 and is standing for the Green Party in the European elections in June.

“Following Keith is a huge challenge,” says Bill.
“He has led our group with courage and integrity. Under his stewardship the number of Green councillors in Brighton and Hove rose from three to 12 and the city was given a long-overdue political facelift.

“My task is to build on his successes with the help of a highly talented and committed group of Green councillors. We are going into a crucial period that will see the European elections and a parliamentary election where we are confident Caroline Lucas will be returned in Pavilion as the first Green MP. At the local elections in 2011 we fully expect to increase the number of Green councillors.

“Every stage of Green Party progress has been challenging since Pete West was elected in 1996 as Brighton’s first Green councillor. The next stage promises to be equally demanding and exciting. Our key tasks will be protecting front-line public services and convincing the other parties of the need to take radical action to combat climate change and create local jobs at the same time.”

Simon Williams, Chair of Brighton and Hove Green Party, said,
“A new Green council convenor is an exciting prospect for the city - especially at a time when the city faces such huge economic, social and environmental challenges.

“Bill will lead the Green Group of councillors with great skill, appealing to our underlying principles of fairness and social justice. Taking over from Councillor Keith Taylor will be a hard task. However I’m confident the party will thrive under Bill’s convenorship, helping to pave the way for the Greens to win control of Brighton and Hove City Council.

“Finally, I must convey everyone’s thanks to Keith for his eight years of continuous service as convenor - a period when the Green Party has grown beyond all expectation to become a powerful force for progressive politics locally and poised to win its first MP.”

Bill Randall leads on LGBT issues for the Green Party.

Councillors Amy Kennedy and Ian Davey were elected unopposed as the Green Group’s Deputy Convenors

For more infomation about the Green Party view:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 2:36 PM

Last weekend, April (25), two religious organisations (Anglican Mainstream and CARE) organised a two-day conference entitled Sex and the City, Redeeming Sex Today. The conference is viewed as highly homophobic by many LGBT activists.

This was the second conference in the UK to bring together counsellors, youth workers, religious activists and mental health professionals who are interested in the therapeutic practice of repairing the so called 'brokenness' of the LGBT community. Their therapy aims to cure people and lead them to live a heterosexual lifestyle; it is highly controversial and is condemned as dangerous and unethical by most mental health and counselling organisations.

Over a hundred protestors held a peaceful and dignified protest outside The Emanuel Centre in London. The protest itself was carried out with humour and light-hearted banter. Songs of protest were sung and placards waved with slogans such as 'love needs no cure' and 'gay is not sick'.

Although there was certainly a lack of presence from LGBT mainstream organisations the individuals present certainly made a powerful and considered impact. Gay rights activists such as Jimmy Somerville and members of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were there to show support.

The protestors at this conference and the other dissident voices who speak out publicly against reparative and other pseudo psychological therapies aimed at changing sexual orientation, should be acknowledged for their commitment to maintaining the human rights of the LGBT communities. By raising awareness, they make a valuable contribution to the argument against such interventions and in doing so may protect some individuals from therapists who offer such therapies.

Filed by Andrew Hanuman

# posted by gscene @ 8:32 PM

Allsorts Youth Project are staging an exhibition of the paintings of young LGBT people during the Youth Arts Fringe Festival 2009.

Allsorts is a support project for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or unsure young people under 26.

Their paintings express different aspects of themselves and their lives. Emerging themes include identity, sexual orientation, gender transitioning, self-harm, suicide and hope.

The exhibition takes place at the BMS Quad, Blatchington Mill School, Neville Avenue, Hove BN3 7BW on May 2 between 2-5pm. There will be an exhibition and workshop.

2009 is the Youth Arts Fringe's second year!

YAF ’09 showcases the creative work of young people through youth services across Brighton and Hove. Hosted in May to tie in with The Brighton Festival, the Youth Arts Fringe is a multi-media art extravaganza, showing a diverse collection of creative work across the city. This year YAF includes theatre, visual art, graffiti, photography, sculpture, dance, music and painting. YAF ’09 is organised by the Youth Arts Project, part of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Integrated Youth Support Service,

YAF highlights artwork by young people (age 11-25) many who do not normally get the chance to participate in mainstream arts events. Some of young people involved are socially excluded or disadvantaged; some are out of education, work or training, and so don’t have access to the traditional routes to 'art'.

There are 30 statutory and voluntary services involved this year, including those working in youth centres, hostels, LGBT, mental health services, youth offending, BME, schools and substance misuse support organisations.

For more information about Allsorts view:
www.allsortsyouth.org.uk

Pictured: painting by one of Allsorts young people

# posted by gscene @ 7:54 PM

Seven brides for seven brothers at the Theatre Royal is based on the book by Lawrence Kasha and David Landay with music by Gene de Paul & lyrics by Johnny Mercer?.

It’s about a man, Adam, who needs, then finds a wife, Milly, to marry and then tricks her into looking after his (previously unmentioned) six redneck brothers.

Grounds for annulment you might think, but this is musicals and Oregon in 1850. It sounds like a recipe for disaster in our postmodern times. However Susan McFadden as Milly soon pussy whips the six boys into shape, teaching ‘em manners an’ dancing and transforms them into prime hunks of bachelors & neatly dovetails them into her social group of sweet but frustrated town maidens.

It is quite exactly what a musical should be, it leaves you humming a tune and smiling from an evenings entertainments well spent.

Opening with some sepia toned projections that made me feel queasy my attention was soon caught by a complicated and funny dance number with about 30 actors on stage.

It’s a whirlwind of springing dresses, dancing breaches, back-flipping actors and tap along songs, and this reviewer happily suspended his cynicism about the sexist plot each time Susan McFadden (winner of ITV1’s Grease is the Word) who plays the lead role – Milly- opened her mouth.

Untainted as I am by reality TV, I gave her a fair chance and she exceed my expectations, each time I started wondering about the plot; kidnapped brides? avalanches? weeks passing in a wink? babies from nowhere? She dragged me away from my idle speculation with her charming voice and reminded me of what a pleasure it is to have some feel good factor in this climate of misery and dullness. 7 for 7 is a tonic.

The dancing and chorography, although at times feeling a little squashed on the Theatre Royal stage was a joy to watch and the complicated & rustic choreographies by Chris Hockings made me, and the rest of the audience smile.

McFadden is lovely as she lifts the six Pontipee brothers from their knuckle scraping, grunting & semi naked apedom to the half heights of Russian Bolshoi ballet in one easy song, it’s a bit quick, but it does what it says on the tin.

The brothers played by Oliver Barrow, Richard Dale, David Barrett, Danny Coates, Craig Tyler and Gavin Lee Rees are sexy and are accomplished in all round comedy, semi-naked dancing and cocksure corny singing.

Steven Houghton (Bugs, London’s Burning) playing the lead male (Adam) and Susan McFadden’s connection seemed a little broken in the second half, but the chirpy ensemble song and dance numbers soon brought the audience back.

Time passes quickly in this musical – suddenly it’s spring- but the whirling petticoats and energetic star jumps of the accomplished cast makes you forget about the convoluted chronological plot. Like the avalanche that closes the first act the plot starts to tumble a bit in the second half with guilt, reflection and shotgun weddings appearing one after another like a Mormon on poppers, but with neat scene changes and boundless energy this production, played for light comedic laughs with the odd knowing in-joke, is a feel-good production that should have you smiling all the way home.

All the classic songs 'Bless your Beautiful Hide', 'Goin' Courtin', 'Sobbin' Women’ and 'Love Never Goes Away' were included and fans of the film and this musical will undoubtedly love the high kicking, energetic atmosphere.

I judge a musical (is there any other way?) by the number of folk who are humming a tune on the way out. Everyone was at it and I was one of them, ‘bless your beautiful hide…’

Seven Brides For Seven Brother is at Theatre Royal Brighton ?
till Sat May 2, ?Evenings 7.45pm Thursday & Saturday matinees 2.30pm
Box Office 08700 606 650
Groups Hotline 08700 602 516?
Tickets £19 - £29.50 ?
www.ambassadortickets.com/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 12:04 PM

STAR Group Brighton (Student Action for Refugees) are having a candle lit vigil on May 1 at 9pm, at the North Street entrance to Brighton Pavilion in support of Iraq LGBT, to bring attention to the homosexual honour killings that are happening in Iraq.

Iraqi LGBT Lifeline was established by Iraqi exiles living in London. It is working to keep the lines of communication with LGBTs in Iraq open so that their plight can be publicised and political action be taken to protect their lives.

To assist Iraqi LGBT's in immediate danger to escape from Iraq.

To support those who have escaped from Iraq and to help them negotiate the process of seeking asylum.

For more information about Iraq LGBT view:
www/iraqilgbt.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:20 PM

The Leader of the Labour Group in Brighton and Hove, Cllr Gill Mitchell, Labour member George Moody and the former Leader of the Council and Labour candidate for Brighton Kemp Town, Simon Burgess will join an ever growing list of celebrities on this year's, 10k Stonewall Equality Walk.

Cllr Gill Mitchell said,
“I’m really looking forward to the Equality Walk. It will be a good chance to work up a sweat, have some fun and support Stonewall’s Education Campaign to tackle homophobic bullying in schools. It will also be a great opportunity to celebrate what Stonewall has achieved for the LGBT community over its 20 years.”

The walker who raises the most sponsorship will receive a luxury weekend for two in Paris, including business-class travel on Eurostar, two nights stay in a luxury hotel and £250 spending money!

This year's walk starts from the Royal Pavilion Gardens on Sunday, May 3. Celebrity walkers include Amy Lamé, former Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner of the Met. and star of 'I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here', Brian Paddick, Mr Gay UK, Lola Lasagne and Dulcie Danger.

Simon Burgess, Labour’s candidate for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven said,
“This is my fourth walk and it is always a great event. I’m particularly pleased that the money raised will fund DVDs for local schools to help tackle bullying and discrimination.”

Walkers and their friends are invited to meet from midday for a pre-walk picnic. Then it’s on your toes for a warm-up with a difference before the 10km walk kicks off at 2pm.

Registration for the walk is just £10 (free for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult). Stonewall is encouraging all participants to bring along their families this year to enjoy the day.

Walkers receive a goodie bag, special commemorative T-shirt and a glass of bubbly or a soft drink for kids once they’ve crossed the finishing line at the end-of-walk party.

Last year’s Brighton Equality Walk raised more than £35,000.

The profits from this years walk will go towards funding a DVD of 'Fit', a play aimed at 11-14 year olds, that tackles the issue of homophobic bullying in schools. Stonewall want to send a copy of the DVD to every school in the country.

To register now go to:
www.equalitywalk.org.uk

or contact: The Equality Walk team on 020 7593 2294 or equalitywalk@stonewall.org.uk

For more information about Stonewall go to:
www.stonewall.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 4:51 PM

Equality – including LGBT equality – will become a duty for all public bodies under landmark legislation published today (April 27) by Minister for Equality and Labour Party Deputy Leader, Harriet Harman.

The Equality Bill, will tackle inequality in all its forms – including age discrimination, gender pay-gaps, and economic inequality – will strengthen protection for the LGBT community by creating a new equality duty on all public bodies to tackle discrimination.

The Bill goes further than originally promised in Labour’s 2005 election manifesto and gives public bodies a proactive duty to promote equality, with protection for all minorities being “levelled-up”.

Katie Hanson, LGBT Labour co-chair, said:
“This Bill is a real mark of how far we have come. Twenty-one years after the introduction of Section 28 – vicious Tory legislation that Labour repealed in 2003 – the Equality Bill is set to give teachers a duty to promote equality in the classroom, and to stop homophobic bullying.

“The Bill will also mean many of the protections won in the last decade will be strengthened and expanded – for instance the laws that currently protect LGBT people from discrimination will be extended to cover the trans community. We really welcome this ambitious legislation and will be campaigning to make sure it gets through Parliament.”

Citizens Advice Chief Executive, David Harker, said:
"Citizens Advice warmly welcomes the Equality Bill. The Bill is a landmark piece of legislation that will improve workplaces and services for many thousands of people.

“Citizens Advice Bureaux have seen a 17% increase in employment discrimination enquiries in the past year. The Equality Bill will make it easier to challenge the discriminatory practices that cause hardship and distress to so many individuals.

"Unfair practices also make it difficult for legitimate businesses to compete. In times of recession, equality is more important than ever. It is essential that there is a level playing field and that we draw on everyone's talents."

However, a coalition of charities is calling for an amendment to the Bill to reduce major discrimination faced by job seekers with ‘invisible’ conditions such as mental illness or HIV.

Leading mental health charity Rethink, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust and NAT (National AIDS Trust) want to see health-related questions banned until after a job offer has been made. The only exception would be for questions directly related to the position applied for. Employers would still be able to ask in advance about conditions, which would affect a candidate’s ability to undertake that particular role.

Sir Nick Partridge, Chief Executive at Terrence Higgins Trust, says: Under the current system, employers can ask an applicant whether they have a disability, are taking medication or have a medical condition – even if it has no relevance to the job. This has led to 'unacceptable under-the-counter discrimination' say the charities, and offered a 'licence to discriminate' for bad bosses.

"If someone has a condition which won't affect their ability to do a job there's no reason it should be declared before an offer is made. Currently someone with HIV might be the best candidate but could be turned down because an employer makes assumptions about their health. We want to see a level playing field, where someone with a stigmatised condition has an equal chance of getting a job. Employment decisions should be based on ability, not prejudice."

For more information view:
www.lgbtlabour.org.uk/equalitybill
www.citizensadvice.org.uk
www.tht.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 11:08 AM

During the summer months, Sussex Police have announced they are increasing patrols in Kemp Town to help prevent hate crime and will put increased resources into LGBT hate crime investigations.

The LGBT community is thought to be in excess of 35,000. That number swells during the summer months as visitors arrive.

Although there has been a decrease in reported LGBT hate crimes over recent years, Sussex Police say they are working hard to support victims who have experienced Hate Crime, securing the prosecution of offenders.

Police say they will endeavor to thoroughly investigate all incidents reported in order to seek a successful prosecution. Not every person who experiences a hate incident wants or feels able to support a prosecution. Every report received is important and can make a difference. By knowing about things that have happened, the police are better able to target resources to where they are needed.

Count Me In Too, research published in 2008 revealed almost three quarters of respondents had experienced hate crime in the last 5 years because of their sexual or gender identity. Only a quarter reported any of the hate crime incidents they had experienced. Of those who reported, 85% had reported the incident as being related to their gender or sexualitities.

When victims did report, they mainly reported it to the Police (55%) or elsewhere (37%) rather than to the Community Safety Team (PCST) (7%) or through the True Vision self-reporting form (1%).

You can call the police for advice about something that’s happened to you. Even if you don’t want the police to take any action, your information helps them to work with LGBT people and make the city safer. To report hate crime you can call 08456070999 or in an emergency 999.

For advice and support you can contact Nick Antjoule on 01273 665657 or PC Bobby Newton
on 01273 665541
or email LGBT@sussex.pnn.police.uk

# posted by gscene @ 12:20 PM

Gscene Magazine is calling for Sussex Police and Brighton & Hove City Council to attend a public meeting to discuss the LGBT part of the city’s Community Safety Strategy 2008–2011 and the quality of the consultation that informed the strategy.

The move comes in the wake of a perceived breakdown in communications between our LGBT community representatives and the Council’s Partnership Community Safety Team (PCST), resulting in Spectrum, the LGBT Community Forum (the organisation the community decided in January 2004 would be our consultative link with the statutory authorities), taking a step backwards last year from working with the PCST due to their concerns about the working methods of the PCST.

The PCST is charged with producing effective initiatives to deal with hate crime in the city and, along with Sussex Police, is signed up to the Community Engagement Framework.

Last June, Spectrum said the authorities had failed to deliver effective consultation and were failing to deliver what they signed up to in the Community Engagement Framework, adding:
“Spectrum published 68 comments on the new strategy to reflect the strategic outcomes agreed to by stakeholders and to ensure community engagement is at the heart of all forward plans. We do not seek a role as community watchdog. We do want to ensure that there are effective and inclusive mechanisms in place for LGBT people both to contribute to plans to tackle hate crime and to hold services to account for delivering them. While the PCST reviews its role (which Spectrum has been informed by the PCST is happening), Spectrum is continuing to build on joint work with Sussex Police.”

Gscene editor James Ledward believes there is currently an impasse and is concerned that trust and confidence levels, especially with regard to Sussex Police, have been damaged by the present situation being allowed to continue.

He says:
“I view the present impasse so seriously I have decided to go on the record, bringing up some uncomfortable historical home truths about the behaviour of both police and council in the recent past on issues surrounding community safety in the city. I suggest a public meeting is called to resolve this situation.

“We need to establish how the LGBT community wants to resolve the present impasse, and move matters on to re-establish an effective consultative mechanism to hold the police and council to account on community safety and hate-crime issues. This clearly is not happening at the moment and is the root of all the problems. It is not for the police or council to decide who they want to work with – which has been happening, as they have attempted to sideline Spectrum – it is for the community to meet, speak and decide.

“I suggest the meeting is hosted by Spectrum, the organisation at present charged by the LGBT community to do this work, and be independently facilitated. I also suggest this process is fully funded from the BCU budget Sussex Police receive from the government each year, earmarked for community engagement work. A budget the police have handed over to the PCST, effectively denying Sussex Police the ability to work independently from the Council, with the LGBT community on issues regarding hate crime and community safety issues were funding is needed.”

A full in-depth report following an investigation by Gscene into the impasse can be read on the Gscene website at www.gscene.com from May 1.

Pictured the meeting at Dorset Garden Methodist Church in 2004 when Spectrum was selected by LGBT community people present to act as the consultative link between Sussex Police and Brighton and Hove Council on issues relating to Community Safety.

# posted by gscene @ 11:54 AM

Andrew Gosden, disappeared from his home in Doncaster on September 14, 2007 and travelled to London. Since then his parents have no evidence he is alive and well.

Extensive national publicity throughout the UK has brought no success so his parents are now trying to raise awareness in the LGBT community in Brighton and Hove of their sons disappearance.

Andrew is now 15 years of age and was 5’3” when he left home; he might be taller now and the colour of his hair might have changed.

Andrew’s reasons for leaving home are completely unknown. His parents feel that Andrew might have been struggling with his sexual identity and felt unable to talk to them about it. They do not wish to impose any particular views or lifestyle upon him and only want to know he is safe and well and to offer any support they can to him.

There have been sightings of Andrew, mainly in London and the South East. Do you know of anyone new to Brighton over this period of time that may fit Andrew’s description? Images and press articles relating to Andrew’s missing status can readily be located by entering his name in any search engine under 'web' or 'images' and on Youtube.

Any information relating to Andrew’s whereabouts please contact Missing People (freephone) 0500 700 700 or view
www.missingpeople.org.uk/

or email Andrew's father kevin.gosden@hotmail.co.uk

# posted by gscene @ 11:38 AM

The Iambic Arts theatre opened yesterday at 38 Gardner St, right next to the swollen behemoth that is the Komedia.

If you like your venues, intimate, bijou and with a touch of the avant-garde about them, then this is the place for you.

Directly above the Bell, Book and Candle shop it is looking to complement rather than compete with the Komedia. The venue is a small theatre space with a side bar, seating area and even a balcony for those that like to indulge outdoors. Emma D'Arcy, is the Artistic Director of the theatre.

A full house of the city’s liggers were treated to two snippets from up & coming shows. The delightful Janet December sang a classic for us. Her meltingly beautiful voice was slightly let down by first night crackly PA problems but her obvious talent shone through. Jacky Scarvellis then introduced us to her humorous Diva, all fur coat, and clipped accent and scathing, sotto voiced, wit.

The atmosphere in the packed theatre was comfortable and intimate and you certainly get to feel you’re part of the action.

Iambic Arts Theatre has been purpose built as a small theatre, in the North Laine in Brighton. The aim of the theatre is to bring exceptionally high quality music and poetry events, and professional productions of new plays and classic revivals. I wish them all the best with it.

IS THERE A DIVA IN THE HOUSE?
One-woman show with Jackie Skarvellis, from the original production by Martin Starkie. Written by Sir Richard Parsons.
Saturday May 2nd - Wednesday 5th

For more information on upcoming shows and tickets view:
www.iambicarts.co.uk

Filed by Eric Page

# posted by gscene @ 8:21 AM

The Conservative Group on Brighton and Hove Council have voted against inviting the Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT) to work in Brighton and Hove for the third time in two months despite a majority of councillors voting for it at the last full council meeting.

The Albert Kennedy Trust specialises in working with young homeless people from the LGBT community and is renowned in London and Manchester for the specialism it brings to this area.

Phelim Mac Cafferty on behalf of LGBT Greens stated:
“We know that of the population who live on the streets or in temporary accommodation and who are young and LGBT are statistically more likely to self-harm. The Tories have effectively signed a charter to continue crushing the needs of this socially fragile group.

“The decision to exclude Albert Kennedy Trust- again - is absolutely outrageous for innumerable reasons. This is a kick in the teeth for all young LGBTs: for the numbers of young LGBTs who live in our city and who face uncertainty and possible homeless in the current economic recession; and the disproportionate amount of young LGBTs still becoming homeless who migrate to Brighton. The Tory Cabinet has a duty of care to all of our city’s citizens, which is sadly lacking. Again.

“Is it just more Tory heartlessness,” concluded Phelim “for those on the fringes of society or is it just the homophobia that we were told had been driven from the Tory Party? Maybe it’s both. LGBT Greens will continue to fight for homeless and voiceless LGBTs. The Tories have their work cut out if they think we will stop here.”

Cllr Bill Randall, the Green’s council spokesperson on LGBT issues said:
“We are deeply disappointed the Tories could not bring themselves to vote for the £3,000 needed to bring the Trust into Brighton and Hove.

“It’s barely a drop in the ocean for a council that will spend more than £700 million on services this year, and the return for the LGBT community and the city would far outweigh the cost. Local homeless charities and LGBT charities work very well with young LGBT people in Brighton and Hove, but none of them possess the expertise and understanding AKT has developed in its work with this very vulnerable group of young people in London and Manchester.

“The need for AKT’s services in Brighton and Hove had been demonstrated by the Count Me In Too research project in the city.” said Cllr Randall. “It’s hard to fathom the Tories’ implacable position on this issue. It makes no sense at all. Furthermore, they have paraded their contempt for democracy by rejecting a proposal voted for by the majority of councillors. We will not give up. The campaign to bring AKT to Brighton and Hove will continue.”

For more information about AKT view:
www.akt.org.uk

For more information about Brighton Greens view:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

To see the Count Me In Too Reseach view:
www.spectrum-lgbt.org/cmiToo/downloads/

# posted by gscene @ 7:54 AM

The Anglican Mainstream Organisation are holding a second anti gay conference in London this weekend called Sex and the City.

This homophobic conference will advocate the use of Reparative Therapy which aims to 'cure' people of homosexuality.

The organizers are claiming to be collaborating with JONAH (Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality). JONAH’s co-founder and co-director, American, Arthur Goldberg, JD, serves as President of PATH (Positive Alternatives to Homosexuality), a world-wide coalition of secular and faith-based ministries devoted to sexual healing and is presently involved in several therapeutic networks in the UK.

It was only last month that the recent research carried out by Michael King, a psychiatrist at University College London showed that gay men and women in Britain are being offered such controversial treatments to reverse their homosexuality, despite there being no evidence that such therapies are effective and in reality they can cause harm and distress to the individuals involved.

Andrew Hanuman, a Person Centred Counsellor from Brighton (UK) attended the first conference as part of his research into issues surrounding 'reparative therapy'.

Andrew said:
“What I learned through my research horrified me .I discovered that there were many right wing Christian ministries here in the UK offering to cure both the sickness and the sin of homosexuality.
Not only are these groups here and practicing in the UK offering their cures, they are also fixated on an agenda to erode away what civil rights the lesbian gay bisexual and transgender communities have fought so hard to achieve.

“They wish to oppose civil unions, curtail any sex education in our schools which offers anything but heterosexual marriage as the norm and seek to challenge what they see as a pro gay agenda.

“Reparative therapy and versions of it used to be practiced by psychiatrists employed through the NHS but due to homosexuality being declassified as a mental illness in 1992 it is no longer deemed as ethical.

"In attending the first conference I was interested to gain a deeper understanding of the organisations involved and the motives of the individuals attending. What I witnessed were pseudo psychological interventions dressed up as concern for the “broken” LGBT community and a real belief that it was a God given mission to heal the unfortunate sinners. I was able to give a short speech of defiance before my exit and restated my ethical position that as a counsellor I would never coerce or direct an individual in any way in relation to their questioning of their sexuality. That it is my ethical duty to provide a safe environment where a person can explore these issues without interference and find their own path to whatever sexuality that feels genuine to them.

“If a person is using counselling to explore issues around their sexuality then the therapist should at least be neutral and not manipulate the person with pseudo psychology and encouraging shame in that person.

“These people manipulate religion for their own political motives and they need to be challenged. I do not want to see billboards across the UK advertising the gay cure or people’s human rights eroded by groups who call themselves religious.

The conference is being held on Friday and Saturday, April 24-25 from 9.30 am - 5.30 pm at the Emmanuel Centre 9-23 Marsham Street, Westminster.

# posted by gscene @ 4:04 PM

Brief Encounter is an adaptation of Noel Coward's original which takes bits of the play, the film and Coward's songs and comes up with something which is very much a brand new work. Deftly mixing cinema, theatre and music hall it's certainly an impressive bit of stagecraft - adaptor/director Emma Rice has taken Coward's Still Life, taken it apart, then reassembled it without worrying about what the purists might think.

One of the main changes is that the focus is subtly shifted away from the married woman who meets the dashing doctor in a train station cafe when he removes a piece of grit from her eye. For Milford Junction is a place brimming over with romance. In this more proletarian telling of the story, the love between cafe proprietor Myrtle (Annette McLaughlin) and her Albert (Joseph Alessi) is just as important as that of the resolutely middle class Alec (Milo Twomey) and Laura (Hannah Yelland). And then, perhaps even slightly lower down the social ladder, is the earthier love of serving girl Beryl (Beverly Rudd) and her Stanley (Christopher Price). Having only seen the film I'm not sure how much this shifting of emphasis is down to Coward or Rice's adaptation - it's certainly fairer but as these couples aren't full of tortured emotions it's a shift which perhaps lessens the sense of drama. The performances are uniformly strong with Hannah Yelland particularly good as the repressed Englishwoman who certainly manages to put the Milf into Milford Junction.

Despite all the projections, the songs and the impressive set - or maybe because of them - the play never seems to have the emotional impact of the film. I might be horribly wrong but I think that a straight version of the play might have drawn you in to Alec and Laura's world more successfully. But then this Brief Encounter isn't Coward's and isn't intended to be. On its own terms it's certainly enjoyable but the reactionary in me couldn't help thinking something along the lines of 'if it ain't broke don't fix it'.

Brief Encounter runs till Saturday April 25.

For more information view:
www.ambassadortickets.com/Theatre-Royal-Brighton

# posted by gscene @ 4:09 PM

Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is warning that gay men living with HIV remain banned from travelling to the USA unless they have specifically applied for a visa to do so. Despite the recent introduction of an online visa waiver system (ESTA), people with HIV still need to attend an interview at the American Embassy in London before they can travel legally.

THT’s telephone helpline, THT Direct, has recently received calls from people living with HIV who have tried to enter the country by using the online ESTA system, which is an electronic version of the visa waiver process. In some cases, these people have reached the US border only to be refused entry by immigration control and turned back to the UK, incurring substantial travel costs.

Currently, people with HIV are permanently excluded from the United States except in exceptional circumstances. Following new legislation last year, the HIV entry ban is no longer law, but remains an administrative decision to be ruled on by the Department for Health and Human Services. THT continues to lobby for the complete lifting of the ban, which it includes as a priority in its policy document ’25 things the Government can do’.

People living with HIV who would like further information on their right to travel internationally can contact THT Direct on 0845 1221 200 from 10am to 10pm weekdays and from 12pm to 6pm weekends, or email info@tht.org.uk.

# posted by gscene @ 3:33 PM

A new forum has been created to represent the LGBT community in Eastbourne.

BourneOut has a range of aims, which include monitoring Eastbourne Council’s progress on equality issues, improving equality for LGBT people in minority groups and working with new and established groups in the area to improve services to LGBT people in Eastbourne.

The forum will launch soon and more information can be found at:
www.bourneout.org.uk/

or email: info@bourneout.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:31 PM

LGBT artists are wanted for the GFest-gayWise LGBT Arts Festival.

The festival needs people to submit short films, visual art and performance art exhibitions for the event, which will take place in London in November.

The Mayor of London has recognised the festival as one of the key LGBT cultural events in London.

GFest Artistic Director Niranjan Kamatkar said the festival provides the opportunity for a range of LGBT artists, whose work can often be not well funded, to showcase their work, reflecting themes that affect the LGBT community.

Niranjan said:
“GFest became the first LGBT arts initiative to be launched at the House of Commons as well as winning the support from celebrated LGBT artists, celebrities and politicians.”

To submit your work view:
www.gaywisefestival.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 7:47 PM

The first transgender comedienne to perform on the UK comedy circuit is coming to Brighton with her new show.

Shelley Cooper, who joined the UK comedy circuit in 2003, is bringing her new stand-up show, 'Britishness', to Brighton.

The show sold out when it premiered at The Comedy Festival in Edinburgh last year, and it covers the history of Britain and what makes the British so great.

Shelley will cover areas such as religion, race, ethnicity, Victorian values and the myth of the British Empire.

She is known for her hard-hitting humour.

As well as being a comedienne, Shelley is also a presenter, actress, writer and a psychotherapy expert in the field of human behavour and gender identity.

Shelley will be at the Laughing Horse, upstairs at the Quadrant from May 9-12
Tickets are £5 from the Brighton Fringe Box Office, on 01273 709709.

# posted by gscene @ 7:29 PM

Many Lesbians in abusive relationships are not asking for help, to avoid revealing their sexuality.

A study presented to the British Sociological Association’s annual conference found that many lesbians conceal physical and emotional abuse because they don’t want friends, family or colleagues to know they are gay.

Dr Rebecca Barnes, who carried out the research at the University of Nottingham, interviewed 40 women between 21-70 years old who had all suffered from forms of abuse. All 40 had experienced emotional abuse, 35 had suffered physical abuse and 18 had been pressured into unwanted sexual activities.

Dr Barnes said:
“The findings show that women in abusive same-sex relationships experience very similar challenges to women in abusive heterosexual relationships.

“However, being in a same-sex relationship poses additional barriers to seeking and receiving effective support.”

She said the findings showed the types of abuse can range from emotional, physical, financial to sexual abuse, but there is also homophobic abuse, where their partners can threaten to out them to their families.

She continued:
"One of the key differences with same-sex abuse is the secrecy which surrounds many same-sex relationships – a few of my participants had had relationships lasting years which their family or colleagues knew nothing about or which only a few close friends were aware of. This particularly applied to women who were in their first same-sex relationship."

Dr Barnes said the findings show that more support for Lesbians in these abusive relationships is needed, as the impacts of the abuse can affect their confidence and make some fearful of future relationships.

# posted by gscene @ 6:58 PM

Various Voices 09, the major lesbian and gay choral festival has been awarded the prestigious Inspire Mark by organisers of the London 2012 Olympics.

The Inspire Mark is awarded exclusively to non-commercial organisations delivering accessible events and projects inspired by the 2012 Games and that also mirror Olympic ideals.

Various Voices 09 will be Europe’s largest ever gay and lesbian musical event with more than 2000 singers from 60 choirs from across Europe and North America for four days of concerts, workshops and public events. The festival will include World and European premieres, big name performers and a whole range of social activities. The festival will take place across the May Day bank holiday weekend at the London Southbank Centre.

Martin Brophy, Festival Director for Various Voices said:
“It’s particularly important that an international gay and lesbian event such as ours is recognised as our choirs are all able to sing out about who they are and the lives they lead, whereas competitors from many Olympic countries cannot openly live their lives as lesbians and gay men without fear of prejudice and discrimination".

Bill Morris, Head of Culture, Ceremonies and Education at London 2012 said:
“It’s high quality and brings together the South Bank Centre, one of our great cultural venues, with choirs from both professional and non-professional origins in a festival celebrating international cultural understanding".

For more information visit:
www.variousvoices.com

# posted by gscene @ 6:41 PM

A law to ban homophobic hate speech passed a key vote in the House of Commons last month, despite Conservative MPs turning out to oppose it.

In the run up to the debate in the commons, LGBT Labour called on supporters to lobby MPs to save Clause 58 - a section of the Coroners & Justice Bill that promises to outlaw homophobic hate speech.

Shadow Cabinet member Nick Herbert recently claimed that:
"respect for gay people is one of the hallmarks of David Cameron's Conservatives".

But, the last time these protections came before the Commons just 5 Tory MPs voted in support. On March 3 every Conservative MP on the Bill's Committee voted against the protections for lesbian and gay people. At the vote on Tuesday (24) Tory MPs voted to remove Clause 58.

Simon Wright, LGBT Labour Co-Chair, said:
"This is a powerful reminder of the empty promises of change from David
Cameron's Conservatives. The LGBT community needs more than fluffy words. We need Labour MPs who will vote for equality - not Tories who say one thing and do another."

For more information about LGBT Labour go to:
www.lgbtlabour.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 6:39 PM

A Brighton Labour councillor has attacked a Conservative Councillor for calling the gay community ‘sexual deviants’.

Cllr Patrick Clark, the former deputy leader of the Derbyshire Conservatives, said the following in a Duffield newsletter:
“I object to being required to embrace an agenda that actively supports and positively discriminates in favour of people who I consider to be sexual deviants and who engage in practices contrary to my religious beliefs."

Brighton Labour councillor, Warren Morgan said Clark’s actions were unacceptable, but what he has found worse is the messages of support that have been posted to Clark on Conservatives blog.

One blogger wrote:
“Cllr Patrick Clark is absolutely right about homosexuality being a sexually deviant activity and us traditional Tories should be supporting him to the hilt.” April 15, 2009 at 09:33

Cllr Morgan said:
“The initial comments made by an elected Conservative are bad enough, but the response on the leading Conservative website shows the depth of true homophobic feeling amongst some rank and file Conservatives.”

Cllr Clark was suspended in early April after the comment and has since claimed he is not homophobic. He told the Derby Telegraph:
“The term deviant just means different, it was not derogatory.

"I do not have any problem with homosexuals. I don't agree with what they do but I accept they exist and respect their right to exist. I'm not a homophobic in that sense. What I do take issue with is the use of public money and resources to make a special case out of these people."

For more information view:
www.brighton-hove-councillors.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 4:26 PM

Pride London is searching for people whose lives have been changed by Pride events to act as ambassadors at Pride London in 2009.

Anyone with a story to tell about how Pride has change or influenced them are welcome, and Pride London would love to hear from those who took part in Pride prior to the decrimilisation of homosexuality.

Volunteers are needed to be involved in media work leading up to the event.

Patrick Williams, Director in charge of Equality and Diversity said:
“At Pride London we know how important it is to celebrate what it is to be Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgender. We are really looking forward to hearing about some of the special moments which Pride has given to some of those people."

Anyone who would like to take part should visit:
www.pridelondon.org/news.php

# posted by gscene @ 11:00 AM

Local drag artist Lola Lasagne aka Stephen Richards will be donning his high heels, putting a bit of lippy on and maybe even wearing a new frock to walk on this years Stonewall Equality Walk. This is Stephen’s first time on the walk.
He said:
“The work Stonewall does is very important. The proceeds from this years walk will go to help fund ‘FIT’ a video that tackles issues surrounding homophobic bullying in schools. I can’t think of a better project to support. I was bullied at school and I am happy to do anything that helps tackle this issue."

“If the weather is good I will do it in drag if not I will wear my baseball cap and trainers.”

To sponsor Lola go to: www.justgiving.com/stephenrichards1

The walker who raises the most sponsorship will receive a luxury weekend for two in Paris, including business-class travel on Eurostar, two nights stay in a luxury hotel and £250 spending money!

This year's walk starts from the Royal Pavilion Gardens on Sunday, May 3. Celebrity walkers include Amy Lamé, former Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner of the Met. and star of 'I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here', Brian Paddick and Mr Gay UK.

Walkers and their friends are invited to meet from midday for a pre-walk picnic. Then it’s on your toes for a warm-up with a difference before the 10km walk kicks off at 2pm.

Registration for the walk is just £10 (free for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult). Stonewall is encouraging all participants to bring along their families this year to enjoy the day.

Walkers receive a goodie bag, special commemorative T-shirt and a glass of bubbly or a soft drink for kids once they’ve crossed the finishing line at the end-of-walk party.

Last year’s Brighton Equality Walk raised more than £35,000.

The profits from this years walk will go towards funding a DVD of 'Fit', a play aimed at 11-14 year olds, that tackles the issue of homophobic bullying in schools. Stonewall want to send a copy of the DVD to every school in the country.

To register now go www.equalitywalk.org.uk

or contact: The Equality Walk team on 020 7593 2294 or equalitywalk@stonewall.org.uk

For more information about Stonewall go to: www.stonewall.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:05 AM

The London based Jewish Gay and Lesbian Group will be returning to Brighton for its third mid-summer event on the weekend of Friday June 19 – Sunday June 21.

Events planned include Erev Shabbat service and supper on the Friday night. Sundowner drinks on the beach on Saturday afternoon followed by a restaurant dinner, finishing off on the Sunday with a discussion and Bagel Brunch.

All Jewish LGBT community and partners and children are welcome.

Member are £30, non-members £50 and day prices are available on request.

For further information email info@jglg.org.uk or telephone 07504 942724

For more information about the Jewish and Lesbian Group view:
www.jglg.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 8:28 AM

Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard is seeking LGBT identified trustees to provide strategic direction to this long established local charity.

Switchboard provides information, listening, support and counselling to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community.

There are currently specific defined roles that are vacant on the board of trustees which include responsibility for IT and their involvement in Pride.

Applications are particularly welcomed from women, people who identify as trans, and LGBT people from the BME community, as these groups are currently under represented on the board of trustees.

Anybody interested in these specific roles or anybody who has skills that they feel would benefit Switchboard’s board of trustees can find out more information by contacting either:

Andrew Thompson, Lead Trustee at:
lead.trustee@switchboard.org.uk
OR
Natalie Woods, Services and Development Manager on 01273 207050
brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk

NB. There is a genuine occupational requirement that trustees of Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.

For more information about Switchboard view:
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 3:41 PM

St Andrews’, the ‘Church by the Sea’ in Waterloo Street invites friends old and new to visit the Church on Sunday May 3.

The Church will be open between 9am and noon.

Bert Hobden now in his 90s a boy chorister in the 1920s will be giving a guided tour and talk and will be sharing a fund of his marvelous memories.

Adam Tubero of the Friends of St Andrews, said:
‘’Our Church by the Sea is a lovely gem. Many who know it, love it. It is again becoming a focus for the local community. We invite all to come along and join with us for our special morning.’’

Organist Lyndon Ford will play a selection of music throughout the morning which was recently found in an old unopened cupboard in the Church. Refreshments will also be available.

The morning also marks the fifth anniversary of the founding of the Friends of St Andrews who work with The Churches Conservation Trust (TCCT) to maintain and care for this now Redundant Church. This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the TCCT.

For more information about St Andrews view:
www.visitstandrews.org

For more information about the TCCT view:
www.visitchurches.org.uk

St Andrew’s is also available for hire for performances and events.

# posted by gscene @ 3:24 PM

The Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus staged their annual jumble sale last Saturday, April 12, at the Brighton Tavern in the North Laines, raising £583 for the choirs funds.

The Brighton Tavern, which is a popular after rehearsal drinking venue for the choir, donated the venue free of charge to the choir for the afternoon.

Pictured is Jonathan Cave aka Mrs Bagot and Silvio Grasso aka Beryl who served up their special home made cakes and scones in the refreshment room of Milford Junction from the film Brief Encounter which was recreated in the side bar of the Brighton Tavern for the day.

For more information about the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus view:
www.cbgmc.org

# posted by gscene @ 3:06 PM

Boeing Boeing just needs to hang around for a decade or so more and it might get the status of theatrical warhorse. A huge hit in the sixties, it's also been made into a film with Jerry Lewis and Tony Curtis and there's even a Bollywood adaptation. It's a farce (you can tell this from the number of doors the set has - drama tends to have one or two doors, not six) about Bernard (Martin Marquez)a Parisian architect with three fiancees. He manages to keep them in ignorance of each other because they're all air hostesses whose flight schedules, somewhat improbably, mean that only one of them is ever in Paris at any one time.

One day he has a visit from his provincial cousin Robert (John Marquez) who is practically his opposite - awkward, unfashionably dressed and with no experience of women. Robert is amazed at the way Bernard runs his lovelife to strict deadlines - seeing Gloria out of the apartment one minute, as fiery Gabriella (Thaila Zucchi) arrives the next. Bernard is helped in his deception by his dour maid Bertha (Susie Blake) who has colour-coded boxes so that the flat can be decked out correctly depending on which of Bernard's fiancees is expected.

Of course the day of Robert's visit coincides with a major timetabling catastrophe and, inevitably, all three air hostesses find themselves in Bernard's apartment though made unaware of each other's presence through the ingenious device of being continually shunted behind doors. This is in no way a criticism - in fact had there not been split second near-misses as one woman disappears and another enters the audience would have rioted.

Boeing Boeing is a play without a thought in its pretty head. There's no subtext, it's not a metaphor, it's just women and doors. Director Matthew Warchus has turned the absurd-o-meter up to 11, the playing of the characters is so far divorced from how any human being has ever behaved it almost becomes a work of surrealism. Each performer gives it his or her all - the stand outs being John Marquez whose physical take on character could have come from a silent movie and Josephine Butler's Gretchen who is a terrifying - and slightly insane - force of nature.

For a comedy it has few good lines, but it is nevertheless an enjoyable evening though it never reaches the heights of, say, Noises Off. And if nothing else the cast members' dance at the end is really lovely.

Boeing Boeing plays at the Theatre Royal till Saturday April 18.
www.ambassadortickets.com/Theatre-Royal-Brighton

# posted by gscene @ 10:28 AM

BRIGHTON Green councilors Ben Duncan and Vicky Wakefield-Jarrett are to help raise cash to pay for an anti-bullying DVD to be distributed in schools across the country.

The pair have signed up to take part in the Stonewall Brighton Equality Walk, on May 3, to help Stonewall raise money to produce an educational DVD, based of the play ‘Fit”, which tackles issues of homophobia in schools.

Stonewall hope to raise enough money to pay for a DVD to be sent to every secondary school in the country.

Ben said:
“Figures collected locally show that homophobic bullying is a huge problem – even here in cosmopolitan Brighton.

“Raising awareness of the issue is vital – and this DVD will go a long way to doing that. It will prevent real suffering – and could even save lives.

“Please sponsor me and help make sure Stonewall meet their target and are able to get the message out across the country".

Vicky added:
“Unfortunately, homophobic bullying is still present in schools across the UK, and can leave LGBT youngsters questioning and straight youngsters intimidated, depressed and with low self-esteem. I’m really pleased to be taking part in this event, and hope that the DVD will help to curb this unacceptable abuse, and make the lives of all young people a little bit easier.”

To sponsor Ben or Vicky go to:
www.justgiving.com/benjduncan OR
www.justgiving.com/vickywj

For more information about the Green Party view:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 12:01 PM

The LGBT Charity, Gay Surrey are conducting a Police survey to help inform future policing services in Surrey.

The survey is completely anonymously and remains the property of Gay Surrey, who only release the statistics.

If you live in the GU postcode and would like to help inform future Police services go to:

www.gaysurrey.org/survey/index.php?sid=97841 ?

Past Stats can be found on:
www.gaysurrey.org/surveys.htm

For more information about Gay Surrey go to:
www.gaysurrey.org

# posted by gscene @ 11:59 AM

Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard needs volunteers to work on its help-line providing listening, information and emotional support to a wide range of callers from the LGBT community.

Volunteers need to demonstrate the experiences and personal qualities associated with listening and supporting people in a non-judgmental way, and be able to commit to the role requirements including the associated training requirements.

Applications are particularly welcomed from women, people who identify as trans, and LGBT people from the BME community as these groups are currently underrepresented.

Anybody interested in this rewarding opportunity please contact:

Natalie Woods, Services and Development Manager
01273 207050
brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk

For more information about Switchboard view:
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 11:57 AM

Marine Tavern regular, Barry Whitford arrived back at the bar this evening, Friday 10, to a rapturous reception after completing his five day fundraising bike ride to Paris and back in aid of the Sussex Beacon.

On Monday, April 6, Barry took the train from Brighton to London Victoria were he cycled to Dover to take the ferry to Calais. He then cycled to Paris via Amiens. From Paris he cycled to Dieppe via Dampierre, finally taking the ferry back to Newhaven.

He arrived back at the Marine Tavern in Broad Street this evening, were a large group of supporters and representatives from the Sussex Beacon cheered him on.

Barry made the ride solo with no back-up cars or assistance. Most organised charity rides to Paris ask for a minimum sponsorship of at least £1,200, from which they deduct accommodation and other costs.

Barry’s costs for this trip totalled about £250, which he paid himself, so every penny of sponsorship money raised will go directly to The Sussex Beacon.

Barry passed his target of £1,000 raising in excess of £1,400.

He said:
“I would like to thank Steve, Nat, Adrian and all my supporters at the Marine Tavern for all their help and support. My legs are sore and so is my bum".

Asked what was the worst moment of the journey Barry said:
“When I arrived in Amiens the hotel I had booked had closed down. I tried three hotels including the IBIS and they were all full. I was getting ready to sleep on a bench when I found a hotel at the fourth try".

You can still support Barry’s efforts. Go to:
www.justgiving.co.uk/barrywhitford

For more information about the Sussex Beacon go to:
www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 7:27 AM

Frankie and Molly, two of the vocalists from the Saturdays pop group have come down with a a bad cold causing the group to cancel their performance at Revenge on Saturday night, April 11. The girls have also cancelled all next weeks engagements.

A spokesperson for Helter Skelter Agency, the tour management said:
“It is with great regret that The Saturdays are unable to perform this Saturday at Revenge Club due to illness.

“The girls profusely apologise to their fans for this inconvenience and disappointment but are feeling very unwell and always want to perform to the best of their abilities.

“Many apologies again and The Saturdays wish everyone a happy Easter”.

Revenge are offering all ticket holders a full refund but if you still want to go to the club then take your ticket and you will get free entry and two free drinks per ticket as way of an apology.

For more information with regards to refunds then call the club on 01273 606064.

Revenge have made their contract with the Saturdays available for inspection online at:
www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6402805&id=636130373

Revenge are waiting to hear if the girls will schedule another date at the club.

For more information about The Saturdays view:
www.thesaturdays.co.uk

For more information about Revenge view:
www.revenge.co.uk

# posted by gscene @ 7:02 AM

Charleston, the Sussex home of the Bloomsbury group, opened its doors to the public again on April 1.

This season’s theme is Bloomsbury Design and the Omega Workshops. Visitors will be able to learn more about Bloomsbury’s decorative arts in a new tour entitled ‘From Omega; the Bloomsbury interior’.

The Omega Workshops were formed by Bloomsbury painter and art critic, Roger Fry in 1913, which produced textiles, ceramics, furniture and clothing. No artist was allowed to sign their work and everything was marked ‘?’ (Omega).

The walled garden at Charleston was designed by Roger Fry and is now open.

There are also new additions to the house and collection at Charleston that will be of interest for visitors, including three Duncan Grant works that have been lent to the Trust for 2009. Paper Flowers, painted by Grant in 1917; Venus and Adonis, painted in 1919 in shades of red, magenta and pink, unprecedented in British painting at that time and Juggler and Tightrope Walker, also 1919.

Dr Wendy Hitchmough, Curator of The Charleston Trust, said:
“We are very excited about all of the new things that there are to enjoy in the house and garden this season. Charleston was a centre for decoration and creativity, and we hope that visitors will be inspired by the wonderful Bloomsbury Designs that are on show during 2009.”

For opening times, directions and visitor information view:
www.charleson.org.uk
or call the info line on 01323 811265

# posted by gscene @ 6:59 AM

City Sightseeing Bus Tours are introducing an all new Brighton tour for 2009 with new routes, commentary and visits to Brighton’s enthralling locations.

A new commentary has been written by Marc Sinclair, a retired actor as well as additional dialogue by Eric Saward, well-known television and radio writer and historian.

Alistair Lock is the new voice of Brighton’s City Sightseeing Tour who has recorded and given the script a friendly and informed approach.

On each bank holiday in 2009 the Brighton City Sightseeing Tour will be giving the public the honour of meeting The Prince Regent, George, Prince of Wales and his wife Princess Caroline of Brunswick.

Their Royal Highnesses will allow an audience and give permission for paintings and drawings to be taken of them.

For more information view:
www.visitbrighton.com/site/things-to-do/city-sightseeing-tour-of-brighton-p349461

# posted by gscene @ 6:55 AM

THT’s annual Lighthouse Action raised an impressive £250,000 last week.

Tracey Emin and Nancy Dell’Olio teamed up to bid against Yasmin Le Bon for a private recital by renowned cellist, Jamie Walton who eventually agreed to offer two recitals after the women got down to some fierce bidding.

One bidder paid £10,000 for Joan Rivers to host a dinner party, another bidder paid over £3000 to go on a black cab tour of the east end with Barbara Windsor and a unique opportunity to have dinner with the Duchess of York raised £6,000.

The auction, was attended by high profile supporters of THT including Tracey, Yasmin Le Bon, Nancy Dell’Ollio, David Collins, Pattie Boyd, and Tolulu Adeyemi.

Now in its thirteenth year, the auction was held at Christie’s and saw a fantastic array of luxury items, bespoke packages and 'money can't buy' experiences snapped up by eager bidders.

An array of original artwork went under the hammer including a watercolour by Tracey called ‘Sex 24 25-11-07 Sydney’ was snapped up for £22,000. A photographic triptych by Jack Vettriano and Fred Marcarini as well as a painting by Jack raised £28,000 in total. Other artwork included pieces by David Bailey, Jake & Dinos Chapman and Mario Testino.

Debbie Holmes, Director of Fundraising at Terrence Higgins Trust said:
“We’re delighted the auction was such a success. There was some intense bidding going on and our supporters really dug deep. We’d like to thank everyone involved. The money raised will make a huge difference to our work, supporting people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS.”

For more information about THT view:
www.tht.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 6:51 AM

PROUD2CONNECT is a partnership service between Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard and Brighton Relate and provides relationship counselling to members of the LGBT community.

The service is currently seeking relationship counsellors who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.

Applicants must have Diploma level qualifications in couples counselling, relationship therapy and/or family counselling/therapy, with at least 100 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Interested counsellors can contact Relate’s Centre Manager Dana Cohen on 01273 608518 or dana.cohen@brightonrelate.org.uk for more details.

NB. There is a genuine occupational requirement that counsellors working for the PROUD2CONNECT service identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.

For more information about Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard view:
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

For more information about Relate view:
www.relate4u.org/connect.htm

# posted by gscene @ 6:46 AM

Sussex MPs have faced calls to step in and try to prevent the reportedly imminent execution of 128 LGBT activists in Iraq.

Ben Duncan, Green Party councilor for Queens Park, Brighton, says:
“Executing LGBT people is hardly the behaviour of an inclusive democracy: is this what British troops have been fighting for?

“Living in Kemp Town, it’s easy to forget how something as natural as falling in love is still a capital offence in countries around the world.

“In more than a third of all nations homosexual behaviour is punishable by imprisonment, torture or even execution.

“Sussex MPs simply must champion tolerance and human rights by insisting the British Government steps in to prevent these state-sanctioned murders.”

The requests comes after the Iraqi LGBT group reported that people were being executed for being gay.

They also claim that since December 2008 the government has a 'mass campaign to eliminate homosexuality'.

Mr Duncan added:
“We don’t know how many of these LGBT activists are facing imminent execution - and how many are imprisoned – but it’s clearly the job of our MPs to find out, and step in. I hope they do.”

For more information about LGBT Iraq view:
www.iraqilgbtuk.blogspot.com

For more information about the Greens in Brighton view:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:15 AM

The relative freedom in a newly democratic Iraq and the recent improvement in security have allowed a gay subculture to flourish, however the response has been swift and deadly from the authorities.

In the past two months, the bodies of as many as 25 boys and men suspected of being gay have turned up in the huge Shiite enclave of Sadr City. Several have been found with the word ‘pervert’ in Arabic on notes attached to their bodies.

Some Iraqis are enjoying freedoms that were unthinkable two years ago. A growing number of women walk the streets unveiled, a few even daring to wear dresses above the knee.

The reality, however, is that Iraq remains religious, conservative — and still violent.

“Homosexuality is against the law, and it’s disgusting” said Lt. Muthana Shaad, at a police station in the Karada district, a neighborhood that has become popular with gay men.

For the past four months, he said, officers have been engaged in a “campaign to clean up the streets and get the beggars and homosexuals off them.”

He also said that gay men can only be arrested if they are seen engaging in sex, and continued:
“These people, we make sure they can’t get together in a coffee shop or walk together in the street — we make them break up.”

Publicly, the Iraqi police have acknowledged only the deaths of six gay men in the neighborhood. But privately, police officials say the figure is far higher.

The chief of a Sadr City police station, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said family members had probably committed most of the Sadr City killings.

He said:
“Our investigation has found that these incidents are being committed by relatives of the gays — not just because of the militias,” he said. “They are killing them because it is a shame on the family”

Abu Muhaned al-Diraji, a Sadrist official in Sadr City, said the clerics were in no way encouraging people to kill gay men.

He continued:
“All we are doing is giving advice to people to take care of their sons.”

One thing is for certain- we will continue to hear of the relationship between homosexuality and Iraq.

For more information about Iraqi LGBT view:
iraqilgbtuk.blogspot.com

# posted by gscene @ 9:13 AM

Switchboard’s Winter Pride event held upstairs at Charles Street on March 15, raised £1012!

The event was a great success.

Switchboard would like to say a special thanks to all the performers, Romany Diva of Magic, Lorraine Bowen, Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, RedSarah, Julie Jepson, Dodgy Totty, and Yvo Luna, to Nicky Mitchell for compering the event, Charles Street for providing the venue and to a range of generous local businesses who provided great prizes for the raffle including Simon Etheridge (local artist), The New Steine Hotel and Bistro, Tube Station Tanning, Forde Hair, Gunn’s florist, Prowler, Tube Station Tanning and the Duke of York’s cinema.

To find out more about Switchboard or to offer your support as a help-line volunteer or with fundraising contact Natalie Woods on 01273 207050 or email brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk or view
www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 12:19 AM

Kemptown in Bloom voted local resident, Chris Cooke as their new Chair and Co-ordinator at a meeting at the Ambassador Hotel today, April 8.

The working group comprising local businesses and residents are planning for this year's entry into the prestigious South & South East in Bloom competition. Judging takes place on July 7.

Chris will be working closely with the newly reformed St.James's Area Action Group, and hopes that by July Kemptown will be a riot of colour.

Kemptown in Bloom won a silver award last year and are hoping to achieve even greater success this year.

For more information about Kemptown in Bloom contact: Chris at chrismartyncooke@yahoo.co.uk

Chris Cooke has been a busy bee this month and with the help of the council’s Environment Improvement Team has improved the façade to the Fitzherbert Centre on Upper Bedford Street in Kemptown. Chris is pictured with one of the large photos he has organised for the façade of the building.

# posted by gscene @ 12:18 AM

Bogus callers offering home safety visits have been made to residents within East Sussex and Brighton & Hove.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service would like to remind residents that they do not make cold calls of this nature or allow any unauthorised individuals to operate under the name of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.

All visits by the service are only actioned by request of the homeowner and staff are in correct uniform with full identification.

If you are in any doubt, please ask the caller for the contact telephone number on their identification card and call East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service to verify their identity.

When a stranger rings your bell, be cautious. Don't let anybody in unless you are expecting them. If you do receive a call of this nature, please call East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Home Safety Team on 0800 177 7069.

For more information view:
www.esfrs.org

# posted by gscene @ 12:14 AM

Various Voices 09, the major lesbian and gay choral festival has been awarded the prestigious Inspire Mark by organisers of the London 2012 Olympics.

The Inspire Mark is awarded exclusively to non-commercial organisations delivering accessible events and projects inspired by the 2012 Games and that also mirror Olympic ideals.

Various Voices 09 will be Europe’s largest ever gay and lesbian musical event with more than 2000 singers from 60 choirs from across Europe and North America for four days of concerts, workshops and public events. The festival will include World and European premieres, big name performers and a whole range of social activities. The festival will take place across the May Day bank holiday weekend at the London Southbank Centre.

Martin Brophy, Festival Director for Various Voices said:
“It’s particularly important that an international gay and lesbian event such as ours is recognised as our choirs are all able to sing out about who they are and the lives they lead, whereas competitors from many Olympic countries cannot openly live their lives as lesbians and gay men without fear of prejudice and discrimination".

Bill Morris, Head of Culture, Ceremonies and Education at London 2012 said:
“It’s high quality and brings together the South Bank Centre, one of our great cultural venues, with choirs from both professional and non-professional origins in a festival celebrating international cultural understanding".

For more information visit:
www.variousvoices.com

# posted by gscene @ 9:37 PM

Brighton and Hove City Councillor and AIDS Memorial Trustee Paul Elgood has visited Manchester's 'Beacon of Hope', AIDS Memorial to discuss with local representatives the impact of the memorial and longer term issues with regards to maintenance and up keep.

Paul originally proposed the AIDS Memorial for Brighton and Hove after the then Liberal Democrat Leader Rt Hon Charles Kennedy MP visited Manchester's 'Beacon of Hope' to mark World AIDS Day in 2005.

Paul said:
“I was inspired by the 'Beacon of Hope'. It is certainly a model we can emulate.

“It is very much at the heart of the Canal Street community and has been well maintained after a number of years.

“What it also shows is just how much potential the Brighton and Hove memorial has to become a national memorial to those lives lost to HIV/Aids.

“We have a hugely talented sculpture in Romany Mark Bruce, and a stunning location. The mix will create something quite unique and very special.

“Like the 'Beacon of Hope' we must ensure that the memorial is vandal resistant, this will be the key to creating a lasting memorial. I am glad work is going into ensure that.

“The 'Beacon of Hope' perfectly balances the need to acknowledge supporters of the project, without that taking it over. It also uses simple messages to get across its importance - that works well.

“We will need to create some kind of Friends group to ensure the memorial is kept looking its best.

“Looking at the 'Beacon of Hope' this will almost be a weekly, if not daily task to ensure that it is fit for the originally vision.

“I also feel the Trustees made the right judgement in not rushing the project. We certainly need to get this right, and ensure that a number of issues are properly dealt, such as seating and lighting. That will make it a lasting memorial”.

# posted by gscene @ 10:18 PM

Former England footballer, Teddy Sheringham, kicks off this year's Keep Your Eye on the Ball testicular cancer campaign by showing off his ball skills in a cheeky ad to be aired at football stadiums including Old Trafford, St James' Park and Goodison Park this weekend.

The nutty advert aims to get football fans across the UK to give their testicles a regular check in light of findings in the British Journal of Cancer that, if caught early, testicular cancer is 99 per cent curable.

Spectators will also see the advert on match screens at West Ham, Bolton, WBA and Fulham during Keep Your Eye on the Ball's Focus Fortnight from this weekend.

Sheringham joins a long list of England footballers including Steven Gerrard, David James and Peter Crouch who have supported the campaign since it was founded by the Everyman Male Cancer Campaign, the Professional Footballers Association and The Football Association in 2000.

Teddy say:
"I admit it wasn't the sort of call-up I was used to but when I was asked to support Keep Your Eye on the Ball, I had no hesitation in saying yes. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 44 while prostate cancer is the biggest killer of men over 50 - that's a huge portion of football fans in the UK. I want to encourage men to put as much attention into their health as they do their football so we can beat these diseases”.

All money raised for the campaign goes directly into funding research at The Everyman Centre - Europe's first and only centre dedicated to male cancer research and part of The Institute of Cancer Research.

Football fans can see the advert on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPHX6LAgTZk

To get involved in the campaign visit:
www.keepyoureyeontheball.org

# posted by gscene @ 10:17 PM

Brighton and Hove (actually) Gay Men’s Chorus has completely overhauled and redesigned its website.

The site provides up to date information about the chorus for its many fans and features an archive of high definition recent photos.

Future performances from the chorus include ‘Coming Out of Makeup' on May 23 during the Brighton Fringe Festival at St Andrews Church, Waterloo Street, Brighton and two shows during Pride on July 30 and 31 also at St Andrews Church.

The chorus rehearses every Thursday evening at St. Andrews Church in Waterloo Street, Brighton.

For more information about the chorus view:
www.bhagmc.org

# posted by gscene @ 9:31 PM

Born & bred in the north-east of England, it is maybe not surprisng I have had little exposure to the particularly English brand of musical theatre served up by Gilbert & Sullivan, save for The Two Ronnies doing The Mikado, which I'm not sure counts. Part of me was reluctant to break this duck, questioning the continuing relevance of a style I identified with Victorian middle-class England, the preserve of Oxbridge reviews and frightfully-nice dinner parties with Toby and Clara.

It was, therefore, an unexpected pleasure to find that HMS Pinafore, while in many ways the good old-fashioned romantic romp I expected, also has some acerbic observations on the British class system which still hold true today, and delights in exposing the snobbery of the upper classes rather than glorifying them.

The Theatre Royal was pretty much full for the opening night of a five night run, and I am sure I was not alone in being bewildered and underwhelmed by the visual theatre accompanying the opening overture which had the impact of a wet flannel. I'm not familiar with the score, but maybe this is a cunning ruse by the director to make us yearn for the ensemble to break into song. Yearning was quickly turning to desperation when silence was finally broken, and I'm relieved to say from thereon it's a perfectly enjoyable evening.

John Savident, familiar to most as butcher Fred Elliot in Coronation Street (Foghorn Leghorn in human form), was absent through illness, an announcement met by a chorus of groans which must send shivers up the spine of the understudy behind the curtain.

We need not have worried; the part of Sir Joseph Porter was ably deputised by Gareth Jones, who imbued the role with a good comedic dollop of pomposity, and negotiated the challenging libretto with absolute assurance. Adam Vaughan, duly promoted from the ensemble into Jones' regular role of Dick Deadeye, inhabits the dastardly Dick like a pantomime villain to the point where I had to restrain myself from hissing. Perhaps lacking the projection required for such a prominent role, his voice did however blend to excellent effect with the impressive Captain Corcoran in the duet, 'Kind Captain, I've Important Information'.

The main thread of the show involves the watchable young romantic leads, lowly ship's hand Ralph and the Captain's daughter Josephine, who resolve to marry secretly despite the disparity in their social standing. Poor Josephine also has the task of resisting the attentions of Sir Joseph, while Captain Corcoran himself restrains himself from falling for the lowly Mrs Cripps, his 'Little Buttercup'. The plot unravels against a backdrop of wry observations on the hypocrisy of class snobbery, and incorporates some of G&S's best known tunes along the way.

Both sets and costumes are pleasingly traditional, and the band breeze through the score with confidence, while the ensemble blends young blood and seasoned old hands in much the same way as regular ship's crew might. The resulting robust chorus shows that you truly can't beat the right mix of youth and experience, but there is also a lightness of touch when required, notably some deft comic touches from Su Douglas playing Hebe.

HMS Pinafore plays two shows a day at the Theatre Royal until Sat 11th April

For more information view:
www.ambassadortickets.com/753/664/Brighton/Theatre-Royal-Brighton/HMS-Pinafore

# posted by gscene @ 12:56 PM

The LGBT Charity, Gay Surrey are conducting a Police survey to help inform future policing services in Surrey.

The survey is completely anonymously and remains the property of Gay Surrey, who only release the statistics.

If you live in the GU postcode and would like to help inform future Police services go to:

www.gaysurrey.org/survey/index.php?sid=97841 ?

Past Stats can be found on:
www.gaysurrey.org/surveys.htm

For more information about Gay Surrey go to:
www.gaysurrey.org

# posted by gscene @ 9:31 AM

Women will be stripping down and rolling in chocolate, at Ghetto, Brighton tonight.

Ghetto is staging an Easter Chocolate wrestling match this evening, where women will wrestle it out in a ring of chocolate sauce to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Ghetto are supporting the charity's new 'It's a girl thing' campaign which aims to galvanise the support of women in Brighton & Hove to help beat breast cancer – a disease that will affect one-in-nine women in the UK at some stage in their lives.

Ghetto Brighton will be donating all door profits raised tonight to the new campaign. The cover charge for the evening is £3, NUS £2, all wrestlers go free.

DIVA have donated some fantastic prizes, and Macphie have kindly donated the chocolate sauce.

As well as raising funds for research, Cancer Research UK's ‘It's a girl thing’ campaign aims to make all women aware of the risk of breast cancer and raise funds to tackle the disease which affects more than 44,000 women every year in the UK.

Event organiser Sarah Aoun, Assistant Manager said:
“We want to support Cancer Research UK because we all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. Backing the ‘It's a girl thing’ campaign is a great way to have fun and help a really important cause.”

Cancer Research UK is the largest single funder of breast cancer research in the UK, spending around £45 million on groundbreaking work into the disease last year – a significant increase on the previous year, demonstrating an on-going commitment to tackling the disease.

The work covers all aspects of the disease, from understanding its molecular causes and investigating new ways to prevent and diagnose it, to developing better treatments and improving quality of life.

The fights kick off at 10pm tonight, at
Ghetto Brighton, 129-130 St. James' Street, Brighton
www.popstarz.org/ghettobrighton/index.html

For more information about Cancer Research UK view:
www.cancerresearchuk.org

For more information about 'It's a girl thing' view:
www.cancerresearchuk.org/breastcancer/

# posted by gscene @ 8:42 AM

Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard are holding their AGM at the Brighthelm Centre, Queens Road on Saturday April 25 from 3-5pm.

The AGM provides a unique opportunity to hear about Switchboard’s work and developments in the last year, including the services and volunteering opportunities it provides and a chance to meet the trustees, staff and volunteers informally over cheese and wine.

To help with catering requirement RSVP by writing to the Services and Development Manager, Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard, 6 Bartholomews, Brighton, BN1 1HG

OR email brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk

OR telephone 01273 207050

For more information view: www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 10:53 PM

Yesterday (April 6), Barry Whitford left on his five day fundraising bike ride to Paris and back to benefit the Sussex Beacon.

He took the train from Brighton to London Victoria where he cycled to Dover to take the ferry to Calais. He is at present cycling to Paris via Amiens. From Paris he will cycle to Dieppe via Dampierre and take the ferry back to Newhaven.

He expects to arrive back at the Marine Tavern around 10.30pm on Friday April 10 were Steve and Nat are throwing a celebration party to welcome him back.

Barry is making the ride solo with no back-up cars or assistance. Most organised charity rides to Paris ask for a minimum sponsorship of at least £1,200, from which they may deduct accommodation and other costs.

Barry’s costs for this trip total about £250, which he will pay himself, so every penny of sponsorship money raised will go directly to The Sussex Beacon.

Help Barry reach his target of £1,000 for The Sussex Beacon. For sponsorship forms ask at the Marine Tavern or donate at:
www.justgiving.co.uk/barrywhitford

For more information about the Sussex Beacon go to:
www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 10:43 PM

Labour’s gay parliamentary candidate for Worthing West, Ian Ross, has asked the Government Equalities Office to keep a closer eye on insurance companies, as it has emerged that gay and lesbian couples are still experiencing problems when attempting to take out insurance.

The Equality Act 2007 attempted to remove any remaining discrimination against gay couples who apply for insurance in the UK. When insuring couples, insurance companies are now required to treat civil partnerships and heterosexual marriages as the same when writing policies. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) confirmed this position to the public in July 2008.
However, a recent study carried out by No Claims Discount found that the bureaucracy in processing applications is causing added difficulties to civil partners because the forms and processes are only set up to deal with heterosexual couples.

Ian Ross explained:
"Many of the risk-management systems used by the insurance industry generally assume a person is heterosexual. The insurance bureaucracy itself, with its endless forms, procedures and legal jargon, may still be a barrier to gay couples getting the insurance they need.

“Even though an insurer may be in full compliance with the Equality Act, its on and offline insurance procedures may not be structured to allow for insurance policies for gay couples.

“It is important that insurance companies resolve this shambles so that gay couples are able to purchase insurance without all the hassle that currently exists.”

For more information about Ian Ross go to:
worthingwestlabour.org.uk/find-out-about-ian-ross

# posted by gscene @ 10:41 PM

BRIGHTON Green councilors Ben Duncan and Vicky Wakefield-Jarrett are to help raise cash to pay for an anti-bullying DVD to be distributed in schools across the country.

The pair have signed up to take part in the Stonewall Brighton Equality Walk, on May 3, to help Stonewall raise money to produce an educational DVD, based of the play ‘Fit”, which tackles issues of homophobia in schools.

Stonewall hope to raise enough money to pay for a DVD to be sent to every secondary school in the country.

Ben said:
“Figures collected locally show that homophobic bullying is a huge problem – even here in cosmopolitan Brighton.

“Raising awareness of the issue is vital – and this DVD will go a long way to doing that. It will prevent real suffering – and could even save lives.

“Please sponsor me and help make sure Stonewall meet their target and are able to get the message out across the country".

Vicky added:
“Unfortunately, homophobic bullying is still present in schools across the UK, and can leave LGBT youngsters questioning and straight youngsters intimidated, depressed and with low self-esteem. I’m really pleased to be taking part in this event, and hope that the DVD will help to curb this unacceptable abuse, and make the lives of all young people a little bit easier.”

To sponsor Ben or Vicky go to:
www.justgiving.com/benjduncan OR
www.justgiving.com/vickywj

For more information about the Green Party view:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 10:28 AM

Cleve Jones - human rights activist, founder of the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt and instrumental in the campaign to get Harvey Milk elected as a City Supervisor in San Francisco - gave an inspiring keynote speech at Stonewall’s Equality Dinner last week at London’s Dorchester Hotel.

Talking about Stonewall, he said:
"I salute you on your work…Peace and social justice was Harvey Milk’s vision and it’s the vision of the founders of this organisation. Young people in this country are being beaten and killed just as in my country. Our struggle against homophobia is not over".

The dinner was hosted by Amy Lamé and the celebrity auctioneer for the night was Christopher Biggins. Guests included Rhona Cameron, Maggi Hambling and Paul Gambaccini as well as ministers, MPs and peers and raised £280,000 for Stonewall’s campaigning work.

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said:
"This year’s Stonewall Equality Dinner had a special 20th anniversary theme. But we didn’t just look back proudly over all the achievements of the past two decades. We looked forward too – at all the steps towards lesbian and gay equality we plan to take in the next 20 years. Stonewall is busier than ever. We won’t stop until every single lesbian and gay person enjoys full equality – at home, at school, and at work. 1989. 2009. 2029. So much done. So much still to do".

Auctioned at the Dinner were a range of lots including a 1-2-1 styling session with Gok Wan, a painting by Maggi Hambling, dinner with Joan Collins and Christopher Biggins, a Kobi Israel print, and front row tickets for Waiting for Godot, with backstage champagne reception with cast members Sir Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart.

All funds raised will go towards Stonewall campaigns such as Education for All, tackling homophobic bullying in Britain’s schools.

For more information about Stonewall view:
www.stonewall.org.uk

Pictured Cleve Jones

# posted by gscene @ 3:54 PM

Leader of the Green Party and prospective parliamentary candidate for the Brighton Pavilion constituency, Caroline Lucas MEP, officially launched a four-week series of special Philosophy in Pubs (PIPs) event at the Park View Pub, Preston Drove, Brighton, yesterday morning (April 3), by raising the flag displaying Rodin’s ‘The Thinker’ statue holding a pint.

The Park View has been home of PIPs since it was launched in Brighton in June 2008. Since then it has become a regular feature on the social calendar giving ‘ordinary’ people the chance to ponder the meaning of life over a pint!

Every second Sunday of every month around 40 people turn up to discuss their ideas and thoughts on a particular subject whilst listening and learning from each other. Topics covered include political correctness, what makes us happy and belief as examples.

For the 2009 Brighton Festival Fringe PIPs will be tackling one of the bigger issues of life: 'Who’s to blame for me?’ Over the four Sundays in May speakers from philosophy, psychology, religions and neuroscience will explore ‘what makes people the way they are’. The audience will then divide into small discussion groups to share their thoughts and learn from others. Everyone is welcome.

Caroline Lucas MEP says:
“It is very encouraging that PIPs has grown so fast. It clearly highlights a thirst for discussion about the more serious things in life, in a very sociable setting, which is something the Green Party thoroughly supports. I wish PIPs continued success.”

For more information about Pips view:
www.philosophyinpubs.org.uk

For more information about Caroline Lewis view:
www.carolinelucasmep.org.uk

Pictured Pips organiser, Pam Lelliot and Caroline Lewis MEP

# posted by gscene @ 1:05 PM

Want to put on an event during the Summer Festival week? Organise a Carnival Parade float? Want a stall or tent at Preston Park?

Interested in volunteering with Pride? Or have you done it all before?

Pride invites those new to it all, as well as those able to share previous experiences and pass on knowledge to ‘newbie's' at:

The Queens Hotel,
1 Kings Road,
Brighton,
East Sussex, BN1 1NS

on Monday April 6, 6pm-8pm,

The venue is fully accessible; however please contact the Pride Office if you have any special requirements.

RSVP on 01273 775939 or email: office@brightonpride.org

# posted by gscene @ 10:14 PM

A groundbreaking new website has been launched for men who have been affected by eating disorders.

'Men Get Eating Disorder's Too' raises awareness of eating disorders in men by providing essential information so they can seek support and help.

The site has been created by a young man in Brighton who has overcome an eating disorder to develop this unique website.

Sam Thomas, 23, first started to battle with food when he was bullied as a schoolboy. He began binge eating as a means of escape, and soon developed bulimia. At the time he didn't understand what he was going through, and found little support and advice for men with similar conditions.

Sam says:
"I was under the impression that it was only a female issue, although I did realise I had a problem, I didn't realise what it was until I was 15 or 16 when I read about it in an agony aunts column in one of my mum's magazines".

Sam is fulfilling a long-held ambition to create what may be the first website for male sufferers with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and associated exercise disorders like 'Bigorexia.'

"I definitely would have benefited from a site myself," said Sam.
"It would have helped me put a name to my disorder and the symptoms that I had, which I didn't realise back then. It would have also helped ease the isolation by putting me in touch with other men in the same situation."

To view the site go to: www.mengetedstoo.co.uk

For further info and enquiries please contact Sam on sam@mengetedstoo.co.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:43 PM

Green Party Councillors on Brighton & Hove City Council have attacked Tories for failing to support proposals to try to improve services for homeless LGBT people in the city.

After refusing to include a Green Party proposal for the Council to sign up to the Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT) National Quality Assurance Mark costing just £3,000 at the Council’s annual budget setting meeting, Tory councillors abstained when the Greens brought a proposal for the Council to work with AKT, who support young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) homeless people, to full council last month.

It was carried with the support of Labour, Lib Dems and an independent councillor. The motion now goes to the next Cabinet meeting chaired by the member for housing, Maria Caulfield for a decision on whether to move forward with the proposal.

Tories argued there were already services in place with Allsorts and Hove YMCA, neither of who specialise in providing help to LGBT homeless people.

Cllr Bill Randall, the Greens spokesperson on LGBT issues said:
“For a modest amount of money, the Albert Kennedy Trust could bring their expertise to Brighton and Hove and improve services for this vulnerable LGBT Group”.

“Gaining support at full council takes us a step closer to bringing Albert Kennedy Trusts specialist services to the city".

"The motion must now be ratified by the Tory Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Maria Caulfield. The ball is in her court. We trust she will accept the will of the council, take our proposal forward and adopt the AKT Quality Assurance Mark, which offers a model of best practice to mainstream housing and homelessness organisations."

He continued:
“Our motion is not a criticism of the valuable services provided already by the Allsorts charity and Hove YMCA. AKT would complement their good work with a programme of training, policy advice, and practical support, which includes supported lodgings schemes, mentoring and befriending services.”

Pictured Bill Randall

For more information go to:
www.brightonandhovegreenparty.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:40 PM

Local drag artist Lola Lasagne aka Stephen Richards will be donning his high heels, putting a bit of lippy on and maybe even wearing a new frock to walk on this years Stonewall Equality Walk. This is Stephen’s first time on the walk.
He said:
“The work Stonewall does is very important. The proceeds from this years walk will go to help fund ‘FIT’ a video that tackles issues surrounding homophobic bullying in schools. I can’t think of a better project to support. I was bullied at school and I am happy to do anything that helps tackle this issue."

“If the weather is good I will do it in drag if not I will wear my baseball cap and trainers.”

To sponsor Lola go to: www.justgiving.com/stephenrichards1

The walker who raises the most sponsorship will receive a luxury weekend for two in Paris, including business-class travel on Eurostar, two nights stay in a luxury hotel and £250 spending money!

This year's walk starts from the Royal Pavilion Gardens on Sunday, May 3. Celebrity walkers include Amy Lamé, former Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner of the Met. and star of 'I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here', Brian Paddick and Mr Gay UK.

Walkers and their friends are invited to meet from midday for a pre-walk picnic. Then it’s on your toes for a warm-up with a difference before the 10km walk kicks off at 2pm.

Registration for the walk is just £10 (free for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult). Stonewall is encouraging all participants to bring along their families this year to enjoy the day.

Walkers receive a goodie bag, special commemorative T-shirt and a glass of bubbly or a soft drink for kids once they’ve crossed the finishing line at the end-of-walk party.

Last year’s Brighton Equality Walk raised more than £35,000.

The profits from this years walk will go towards funding a DVD of 'Fit', a play aimed at 11-14 year olds, that tackles the issue of homophobic bullying in schools. Stonewall want to send a copy of the DVD to every school in the country.

To register now go www.equalitywalk.org.uk

or contact: The Equality Walk team on 020 7593 2294 or equalitywalk@stonewall.org.uk

For more information about Stonewall go to: www.stonewall.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:38 PM

The Lib Dems have asked the Conservative Party to confirm whether or not they are going to form an alliance with a political party who have made homophobic statements.

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Youth and Equality, Lynne Featherstone has written to William Hague, asking him to clarify if the Conservatives are joining forces with the Polish Law and Justice party in the European Parliament.

She included in the letter that senior politicians from the Polish party have made homophobic statements, as well as racist statements about Barack Obama’s election marking ‘the end of white man’s civilisation’.

Tomek Kitlinski and Pawel Leszkowicz wrote in an article for online magazine, The Gully, that the leader of the party, Jaroslaw Kaczynski and his twin brother Lech, who is now President of Poland, both have homophobic views.

Jaroslaw called for homosexuals to be barred from teaching and told the Polish publication Ozon;
“The affirmation of homosexuality will lead to the downfall of civilisation. We can’t agree to it.”

They said Lech banned gay pride parades during his time as Mayor of Warsaw while allowing a ‘Parade of Normality’ to happen instead.

The writers said the twins are both homophobic for different reasons.
They wrote:
“Lech Kaczynski, the President, is married, with one child; at 56, brother Jaroslaw, the Law and Justice party boss, has never married and lives with their mother. The word on the gay street here is that Jaroslaw Kaczynski is a closet case whose homophobia is fueled by fear.”

The party was set up in 2001 by the twins. Lech became mayor of Warsaw in 2002, before being elected president of the country in 2005.

Lynne Featherstone said in her letter:
“By joining with these people the Tories would be to lending credence to their abhorrent views.

“Homophobia and racism have no place in mainstream politics".

She said that the Conservatives need to make it clear as to whether they will team up with the party despite all of these homophobic and racist issues.

# posted by gscene @ 9:37 PM

The Riverdance Farewell Tour powered its way into Brighton last night with a breathtaking display of music and dance.

The show is a journey through centuries of dance accompanied by the most fantastic music, composed by Bill Whelan. There is something about the driving beat behind the Riverdance sound. From the moment the music started the mood inside the Brighton Centre completely changed.

The roars of approval during the show were among the loudest I have heard at the Centre. Often audience appreciation is muted by the scale of the building. Last night it was not.

Riverdance is a rollercoaster ride of virtuoso brilliance. You barely catch your breath as one stunning number finishes and you are into the next.

Riverdance started life as a seven minute segment during the interval of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, the rest is legend and Riverdance troupes have been touring the world ever since.

The present tour by the Corrib Troupe is billed as the final UK tour of Riverdance. On the basis of last night's full house at the Brighton Centre, I can't imagine why. Maybe a marketing ploy?

The first half of the show is traditional, exploring the history of Irish Dancing from its Celtic roots. Highlights include the evocative pipe playing in honour of the warrior Caoineadh Chu Chulainn and Flamenco Dancer,? Marina Claudio in a stunning number called Firedance.

The staging is simple but the effect is dramatic with just the right ambiance created for each ensemble piece.

The solo music items are very effective and give just the right pause before the next dance number comes along. The first half finishes on a high with the original Riverdance number bringing the audience to its feet, and its only the interval!

The second half of the show is less traditional and mixes dance styles and big production vocal numbers headed up by the baritone Charles Gray that would grace any West End Musical Extravaganza.

The dance off between the Riverdance Tappers, Parker Hall and? Toby Harris and three of the Riverdance leads is a good as it gets. The two groups of dancers show their tricks and end up merging the dance styles of tap and Irish dancing into a thrilling Tour de force final dance off. The audience registered their appreciation very loudly.

The Moscow Folk Ballet Company bring a Cossack charm to the numbers they present with one of the dancers becoming a human spinning top. They were very popular with the audience.

Essentially Riverdance is an ensemble piece bringing together traditional Irish dancers, brilliant musicians and singers who merge the rigid constraints of Irish dancing with the flamboyant excesses of tap, flamenco and Russian folk dance.

Each segment is as important as the next. There is no Riverdance without the musicians, no Riverdance without the traditional Irish dancers and no Riverdance without the influences of the different genres of dance from other counties and cultures. All presented on a very clever set, brilliantly lit with sensational sound.

Over the years I had watched the DVDs but never seen the show live.

It is an uplifting experience. At times I stopped breathing as I took in all the elements of what was happening on stage. In the words of Mr Wogan it really does "make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up".

There are two more shows in Brighton. If you have never seen the show, make the effort.

Riverdance The Farewell Tour plays on:
Friday 3 and Saturday 4 at 8pm, Tickets are £37 plus booking fee

For Box Office telephone 0844 847 1515

More more information about Riverdance view:
www.riverdance.com

# posted by gscene @ 10:24 AM

The European Parliament have adopted the report by Dutch Green MEP Kathalijne Buitenweg, which extends discrimination protection beyond the labour market to goods and services for the discrimination grounds of sexual orientation, disability, age and religion/belief.

The proposal now appears likely to be adopted during the Swedish Presidency of the EU, following last week's commitment by the Swedish government to do so.

Jean Lambert, London's Green MEP, Co-President of the cross-party Intergroup on Ageing and Member of the Intergroups on Gay and Lesbian Rights, Disability and Anti-Racism, commented:

"I am very proud that we succeeded in getting a Parliament majority to support this extension of legal protection against discrimination beyond the labour market.

"This is a long overdue victory for the millions of people across Europe at risk of discrimination on grounds of their age, disability, sexual orientation or faith or belief.

"Despite the obvious benefits of greater equality in all areas of society, it has taken months of hard work to win support for the new legislation in the European Parliament. In the face of external pressure, I am delighted that a clear majority voted for these new rules.

"However, I regret that many in the PPE/ED Group which includes the Christian Democrats and currently The British Conservatives felt unable to vote for the proposals. I believe this shows we still have some way to go in developing a Europe of real equality."

Votes: For 363: Against 226: Abstentions 64

Pictured Green MEP Jean Lambert

For more information view:
www.jeanlambertmep.org.uk

# posted by gscene @ 9:33 AM

Former England footballer, Teddy Sheringham, kicks off this year's Keep Your Eye on the Ball testicular cancer campaign by showing off his ball skills in a cheeky ad to be aired at football stadiums including Old Trafford, St James' Park and Goodison Park this weekend.

The nutty advert aims to get football fans across the UK to give their testicles a regular check in light of findings in the British Journal of Cancer that, if caught early, testicular cancer is 99 per cent curable.

Spectators will also see the advert on match screens at West Ham, Bolton, WBA and Fulham during Keep Your Eye on the Ball's Focus Fortnight from this weekend.

Sheringham joins a long list of England footballers including Steven Gerrard, David James and Peter Crouch who have supported the campaign since it was founded by the Everyman Male Cancer Campaign, the Professional Footballers Association and The Football Association in 2000.

Teddy say:
"I admit it wasn't the sort of call-up I was used to but when I was asked to support Keep Your Eye on the Ball, I had no hesitation in saying yes. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 44 while prostate cancer is the biggest killer of men over 50 - that's a huge portion of football fans in the UK. I want to encourage men to put as much attention into their health as they do their football so we can beat these diseases”.

All money raised for the campaign goes directly into funding research at The Everyman Centre - Europe's first and only centre dedicated to male cancer research and part of The Institute of Cancer Research.

Football fans can see the advert on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPHX6LAgTZk

To get involved in the campaign visit:
www.keepyoureyeontheball.org

# posted by gscene @ 11:43 PM

Julien Boast, Chief Executive of the Theatre Royal Brighton and Wendy Walker, senior archivist for the East Sussex County Council Archive, are giving a talk on the Theatre Royal's illustrious history and will be discussing the book ‘200 YEARS’, which features a fascinating collection of theatre playbills spanning 200 years of productions at the Theatre Royal.

The event is free and includes a complimentary glass of wine. Julien and Wendy will host a Question and Answer session after the talk and the remaining limited copies of the book, some signed by actor Simon Callow, a patron of Theatre Royal Brighton and writer of the book’s foreward, will be on sale at a specially reduced price.

The talk is at Borders Books, Brighton on Thursday April 23 from 6.30pm-7.30pm. The event is not ticketed.

# posted by gscene @ 11:31 PM

Brighton & Hove City Council has agreed to investigate the way in which the city’s many road works have been managed over the past year.

The Environment & Community Safety Overview & Scrutiny Committee will produce a report later this year, after a request by Green Party Councillor, Paul Steedman that they consider how co-ordinated the works have been.

Currently, thirteen separate sets of road works are scheduled or taking place within the city causing chaos, especially on the seafront road.

Cllr Paul Steedman said:
“Over the last year, the city’s streets have disappeared under a never-ending round of road works.

“Residents have become frustrated at the endless delays: bus users, motorists and other road users have all have been affected.

“This kind of traffic chaos can also put people off visiting the city –with knock-on effects for local businesses and the city’s economy.

“I want to make sure the council is doing all it can to co-ordinate road works – waters, gas and other companies should all be working on the same stretch of road at the same time.”

# posted by gscene @ 11:10 PM

Brighton and Hove City Councillor and AIDS Memorial Trustee Paul Elgood has visited Manchester's 'Beacon of Hope', AIDS Memorial to discuss with local representatives the impact of the memorial and longer term issues with regards to maintenance and up keep.

Paul originally proposed the AIDS Memorial for Brighton and Hove after the then Liberal Democrat Leader Rt Hon Charles Kennedy MP visited Manchester's 'Beacon of Hope' to mark World AIDS Day in 2005.

Paul said:
“I was inspired by the 'Beacon of Hope'. It is certainly a model we can emulate.

“It is very much at the heart of the Canal Street community and has been well maintained after a number of years.

“What it also shows is just how much potential the Brighton and Hove memorial has to become a national memorial to those lives lost to HIV/Aids.

“We have a hugely talented sculpture in Romany Mark Bruce, and a stunning location. The mix will create something quite unique and very special.

“Like the 'Beacon of Hope' we must ensure that the memorial is vandal resistant, this will be the key to creating a lasting memorial. I am glad work is going into ensure that.

“The 'Beacon of Hope' perfectly balances the need to acknowledge supporters of the project, without that taking it over. It also uses simple messages to get across its importance - that works well.

“We will need to create some kind of Friends group to ensure the memorial is kept looking its best.

“Looking at the 'Beacon of Hope' this will almost be a weekly, if not daily task to ensure that it is fit for the originally vision.

“I also feel the Trustees made the right judgement in not rushing the project. We certainly need to get this right, and ensure that a number of issues are properly dealt, such as seating and lighting. That will make it a lasting memorial”.

# posted by gscene @ 3:24 PM

Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard are holding their AGM at the Brighthelm Centre, Queens Road on Saturday April 25 from 3-5pm.

The AGM provides a unique opportunity to hear about Switchboard’s work and developments in the last year, including the services and volunteering opportunities it provides and a chance to meet the trustees, staff and volunteers informally over cheese and wine.

To help with catering requirement RSVP by writing to the Services and Development Manager, Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard, 6 Bartholomews, Brighton, BN1 1HG

OR email brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk

OR telephone 01273 207050

For more information view: www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton

# posted by gscene @ 2:38 PM

GREEN city councillor Ben Duncan has promised to commute to work if elected MP for Kemptown & Peacehaven at the next general election – and promises not take a penny of public money to fund a 'greedy' second home.

His promise came as the extent of MPs claiming for second homes has come under increased scrutiny by the press.

He said:
"News that Brighton Kemptown’s Labour MP Des Turner has claimed more than £12,000 from the taxpayer for a second home in London is disgusting.

"I think he should be using public transport – and if it isn’t good enough for him he should be fighting to improve it.

"But however he chooses to organise his work-home balance, he should’t be asking the taxpayer to foot the bill, on top of his £64,000 salary.

"And then there is the morality of having two homes when some Brighton residents have none.

"Let me be absolutely clear: if I am elected as MP for Brighton Kemptown I will not claim a penny of expenses to pay for a second home in London.

"I will live in the constituency, and commute to work on the train like thousands of others."

Des Turner MP responded saying:
"The Greens came fourth in Brighton Kemptown last time so it is easy for their candidate to say this knowing he won't get elected. I am very mindful of spending taxpayers money which is why I have a basic 1 bed flat in London for which I claim half of the accomodation allowance, part of the cost of which is offset because I don't claim the cost of a train season ticket".

Pictured Green Councillor and candidate for Kemptown & Peacehaven, Ben Duncan

# posted by gscene @ 1:04 PM

A new campaign highlights HIV risks to Black men who ‘top’ without condoms.

BIG UP, the Black gay men’s project at GMFA, has launched a new advertising campaign focussing on the risk of HIV for Black gay men who are insertive during unprotected anal sex. The campaign follows research showing Black gay men are less likely to use condoms when they are the ‘top’ than guys from other ethnic groups.

Jaime Sylla, Project Manager for BIG UP says:
“It’s more risky being the receptive partner during anal sex without condoms, but that doesn’t mean tops aren’t at risk. Black guys more commonly think that being a top protects them. The truth is, lots of guys get HIV while being insertive without condoms. It’s worth reminding guys of the risks of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections too”.

Gay men use a variety of approaches to minimise the risk of HIV but sometimes they don’t have all the facts. That’s why the BIG UP group decided to dispel the myth that being a top during unprotected anal sex can protect you. Data from the Gay Men Sex Survey 2006 showed that 55.3% of black gay men had engaged in unprotected anal sex. Compared to the ethnic majority, black men were 2.76 times as likely to have IUAI with men they knew to be positive .

The campaign is sexy without being crude. It features two Black guys getting down to action, with the headline ‘HIV – From the Bottom to the Top’. The graphic elements clearly establish the route of transmission.

Matthew Hodson, Head of programmes for GMFA said:
“Using condoms can prevent the transmission of HIV from the top to the bottom or from the bottom to the top.

"Both partners should be able to take the responsibility to protect themselves or their partners”.

# posted by gscene @ 11:32 AM

The creators of Grand Designs and Property Ladder are developing a brand new prime time property series for Channel 4.

They are looking for beautiful homes that are starting to fall apart. In the programmes they intend to highlight the many problems that people face when their properties start to crumble or bad construction takes its toll.

For example, homes that have been damaged by flooding, collapsed ceilings, damp, pest infestations, major cracks, dry rot, subsidence or just the ravages of time.

They want to find people who have just started, or are about to start renovating because of these kinds of problems.

A team of experts will use the latest technology and hi-tech gadgets to investigate people’s houses, uncover the problems and look at ways they can be solved.

During the programme there'll be tips and advice to help viewers avoid similar situations.

We'll also see the process of how the buildings can be restored back into desirable homes.

If you would like to take part contact

louise.penez@redhousetv.co.uk and/or contact 0207 855 7418

# posted by gscene @ 10:28 AM

David Hare's latest work, Gethsemane, is a play about politics, specifically the Labour government under the last Prime Minister. Names are changed but the religious, drum playing, war-entering, big-business-sucking-up-to Prime Minister Alec Beasley bears - as these compound adjectives suggest - more than a passing resemblance to Blair.

The plot hinges on Tamsin Grieg's Home Secretary. Her daughter, Suzette, has become embroiled in a scandal when she's caught smoking some drugs. Suzette has also taken part in an impromptu orgy, a bad situation made worse because one of the attendees was the toxic journalist Geoff Benzine (the clue's in his name).

The Home Secretary's got further problems because she's married to a crook who's about to go on trial. And everyone despairs of the PM as he seems to be in thrall to fundraiser Otto Fallon - an East End wideboy who grants big business an audience with Alec, but at a price.

Gethsemane ticks over quite nicely, though it certainly never reaches any great heights. There's also little in it to give even the staunchest New Labourite reason to cry foul. Yes, compromises are made, and politics can be a dirty business. And business can be a dirty business too. Knowing what we do about what governments get up to the crimes of Beasley's administration seem rather trivial. But then I suppose Hare would say he's not putting the government in the dock, rather looking at the corrupting influence of politics on the individual. The result is rather low-key and occasionally a bit dull. Not as funny as it should be, or scathing, or ultimately that interesting. Perhaps the Blair regime deserves a murderous satire as opposed to some earnest, reasoned finger-wagging.

There's still some fun to be had. Stanley Townsend as Fallon is a vulgar force of nature who seems positively gleeful at having stormed the citadel of the Establishment. His second-in-command (Pip Carter) alternates between servility and rudeness to his employer - maybe these two should be given their own comedy spin-off show. Tamsin Grieg's Home Secretary is eminently watchable. And the set's impressive.

Gethsemane is an entirely respectable evening at the theatre. Though any reasonable artistic response to the moral and financial mess Labour are in needs to be anything other than respectable.

Gethsemane plays at the Theatre Royal until Saturday April 4:
www.ambassadortickets.com/Theatre-Royal-Brighton

# posted by gscene @ 10:06 AM

Gscene News Archive

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Government minister listens to concerns of Kemp Town traders

Last chance to register for Stonewall, 10k Equality Walk

Young LGBT people exhibit their work during the Youth Arts Fringe Festival

Show raises over £500 for charities

Dismay at court decision to turn down communities appeal against sewage works

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Hate Crime & Community Safety: Cause for concern

Cllr Bill Randall, elected new Green convenor

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Peaceful protest at Reparative therapy conference a great success

Young LGBT people exhibit their work during the Youth Arts Fringe Festival

Theatre Review: Seven brides for seven brothers by Eric Page

Monday, April 27, 2009

Candle lit vigil for Iraq LGBT in Brighton

Brighton and Hove Labour walks for Equality

New Bill makes equality a duty

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Police patrols to be increased during the summer months

Hate Crime & Community Safety: Cause for concern

Parents of missing boy appeal to the LGBT Community in Brighton for help to find their son

New Arts Theatre opens in North Laine

Heartless Tories say no to supporting young homeless LGBT’s

Friday, April 24, 2009

Homophobic conference to promote “gay cure"

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Theatre Review: Brief Encounter at the Theatre Royal by Michael Hootman

People living with HIV still refused entry to USA

Friday, April 17, 2009

BourneOut in Eastbourne

LGBT artists wanted

Trans comedy debut at Fringe

Research reveals Lesbians in abusive relationships, don’t ask for help

Lesbian and gay choir festival wins honour for upholding Olympic ideals

Homophobic hate speech banned, despite Tory opposition

Tory suspended after calling gay people 'sexual deviants'

Thursday, April 16, 2009

What has Pride ever done for you?

Lola walks for Stonewall

LGBT Jewish Group, Brighton weekend

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Switchboard seeks new trustees

Open Morning at the 'Church by the Sea'

Gay Choir raise £583 from jumble sale

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Theatre Review: Boeing Boeing at Theatre Royal by Michael Hootman

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Green Councillors to raise funds for anti-bullying DVDs

Gay Surrey – Police Survey

Switchboard seek help-line volunteers

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Sussex Beacon cyclist raises over £1,400

Saturdays cancel Revenge appearance due to illness

Charleston opens its doors and invites visitors to discover ‘Bloomsbury Designs’

New tours for Brighton’s open top buses this season

THT Lighthouse auction raises £250,000

PROUD2CONNECT service seeks relationship counsellors

Friday, April 10, 2009

Sussex MPs asked to prevent LGBT executions in Iraq

Gay in Iraq

Switchboard fundraiser raises over £1,000

Kemptown in bloom

Bogus caller alert

Thursday, April 09, 2009

Lesbian and gay choir festival wins honour for upholding Olympic ideals

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

Manchester's 'Beacon of Hope' inspires local Councillor

Check your balls!

Gay choir relaunch website

HMS Pinafore at the Theatre Royal: Confessions of a G&S virgin by David Hodgson

Gay Surrey – Police Survey

Ladies chocolate wrestling fundraiser at Ghetto tonight

Tuesday, April 07, 2009

Switchboard AGM

Sussex Beacon rider leaves for Paris

Fair deal for all

Green Councillors to raise funds for anti-bullying DVDs

Saturday, April 04, 2009

Cleve Jones addresses Stonewall’s 20th Anniversary Equality Dinner