Mardi Gras is famous for its world-class comedy, performances, vibrant colours and characters. And this year will be no exception.
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has announced a range of exciting events to take place throughout February.
In response to COVID-19, the festival will adapt to ensure that the safety of the community is its main priority. Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger, said, “In response to the pandemic, and to ensure we’re providing safe spaces for the community to come together, this year’s Mardi Gras festival will look different than it has in the past.
“We’re delighted to announce the return of the Laugh Out Proud comedy gala, Queer Thinking, My Trans Story and new event, My Drag Story. These events will take place in a live COVID-safe format, and also be available digitally for members of our communities who are unable to join us in person.”
Here are four shows to be featured during Mardi Gras 2021 that Sydneysiders and tourists alike should book into their calendars.
Laugh out Proud
Friday 26 February 2021
Enmore Theatre
Some of Australia’s best LGBTQI+ stand-up talent including Geraldine Hickey, Mel Buttle, Thomas Jaspers, Rosie Piper, Margot Tanjutco, Selina Jenkins, Jake Howie and Jay Wymarra will be gathering once again for a night of laughs hosted by the award-winning Nah Valvo. The inaugural event in 2020 was a sold-out success, so be sure to get your tickets early.
My Trans Story
Friday 26 February 2021
NSW Teachers Federation Auditorium
Despite their crucial role at the core of many revolutionary movements, trans stories are too rarely told and celebrated on the big screen, stage and in popular media. When we do hear trans stories being told, they so often focus on trauma, discrimination, surgery and coming out. It’s time to focus on trans people and celebrate all their stories. This event showcases funny, fierce and fearless trans and diverse storytellers including Tea Uglow, Andrew Guy and more.
My Drag Story
Saturday 27 February 2021
NSW Teachers Federation Auditorium
Australian drag artists have fought tooth and acrylic nail – um, I mean claw – to earn their place on the world stage and even help to bring the art form into the mainstream. The 1994 earth rattling event that was Priscilla, Queen on the Desert has opened many eyes to the power and beauty of drag. This year you’re invited to dive into the world of Aussie kings, queens and gender defying royals to discover the people behind the make-up. While the full line-up is yet to be announced, you can expect to see big names including Amelia Airhead, Cindy Pastel, Nana Miss Koori and Sexy Galexy.
Queer Thinking
Saturday 27 February 2021
NSW Teachers Federation Auditorium
Join the conversation in these interactive talks that invite the audience to take part in critical thinking and discussion about the problems facing the LQBTG+ today. They include:
Dating when you’re different – Tips & Tricks with Julie McCrossin & Friends.
Lesbian icon Julie McCrossin invites you to a conversation about dating, relationship failures and questions just how welcoming the community really is to newcomers. If you have tips and tricks of your own, you’ll be encouraged to share them while other are welcome to scribble down notes.
The Flight Ahead
Benjamin Law gathers policy makers, activists, community members and parents to located anti-queer culture, and discuss the next essential steps to protect the community’s most vulnerable members.
Raising the rainbow flag: Rising up for ‘GAYRABIA’
Proud ‘Gayarab’ Patrick Abbound hosts a discussion on the experiences and fears shared by some Arab Australians in the LGBTQ+ community who struggle their identity and potential social and familial changes. This live panel discussion of international and local heroes will share their own experiences and challenges for the first time, followed by an audience Q&A.
To purchase tickets for these events and to find more information, visit www.mardigras.org.au.
Have you been to a Mardi Gras celebration before? Will you be attending this year? Which event excites you the most?
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