Neighbourhood Media Pride Magazine | February 2025 by Neighbourhood Media

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HISTORY

Mardi Gras History Part 2

COVER FEATURE

Sydney Dance is back with SOMOS

Aaron Little - 0402 046 340 08 16 10 22 12 24 28 14 06

The second issue of Pride of Sydney Magazine is here! This edition features an exclusive interview with the fabulous drag queen Vybe, who dazzled audiences on RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under. We also continue our deep dive into the rich history of Mardi Gras in Mardi Gras History: Part 2, exploring the evolution of this iconic celebration.

Our Chat with the Vivacious VYBE!

HUMANS OF PRIDE

What’s Your Favourite Mardi Gras Memory?

MARDI GRAS 2025

Catching up with Mardi Gras CEO

MARDI GRAS 2025

What to Wear?

HUMANS OF PRIDE COMMUNITY

Welcome to Oxtravaganza!

COMMUNITY

Want a peak behind the curtain? We chat with the Mardi Gras CEO about what it’s like at the helm. Plus, our What’s On Guide highlights the best events happening across the city, ensuring you don’t miss a thing. And if you need some fashion advice, our Costume Guide is packed with practical tips to help be safe and comfortable while maintaining your style. .

Whether you’re celebrating in the parade or cheering from the sidelines, Pride of Sydney Magazine is your essential companion for all things pride. Grab your copy and get ready to celebrate love, identity, and community!

The Neighbourhood Media Team

PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media

DESIGNER - Robert Everett

CONTRIBUTORS - Aaron Little, Rita Bratovich, Alec Smart, Rob Everett, Lisa Ferron

ADVERTISING - Georgina Pengelly - 0416 972 081

PUZZLE

Your Favourite LGBTQI Authors Do You Have The Answers?

HISTORY

Barely five years after it began, Mardi Gras had established itself as the preeminent LGBTQI+ event in the country and one of the largest Pride events in the world.

IIN 1983, Sydney City Council acknowledged the significance of the Mardi Gras Parade by placing banners on light poles along Oxford Street and Anzac Parade. Mardi Gras also received a significant grant from Australia Council for the Arts.

Sleaze Ball, which was held in September at Paddington Town Hall the previous year, was such a big hit that it moved to Sydney Showgrounds and became an annual fixture until 2010.

As the decade progressed, Mardi Gras continued to promote visibility and acceptance as well as nurturing queer culture. However, in 1985, Australia’s LGBTQI+ community, along with those around the world, was being devastated by HIV/AIDS. In the face of hostility, blame, fear, illness and death, solidarity was more important than ever.

The Mardi Gras festival provided an arts platform that allowed creative expression as well as shared grief and determination. The parade was a unique public vehicle that helped bring attention to the crisis and to the many groups and organisations that were providing hope and help.

In 1988, the parade welcomed its first Indigenous float featuring an iconic Captain Cook costume worn by an Indigenous activist. In 2005, the tradition of opening the parade with a smoking ceremony and having an Indigenous float lead off was established.

The now famous Dykes On Bikes float first took part

in 1988, with a humble eight motorcyclists stop-starting loudly in amongst other floats. Each successive year, their numbers swelled exponentially. By 1991 it became obvious that the roughly 250 odd motorbikes would need a bit more open road if they were going to participate, and so from then on, Dykes On Bikes became the pre-parade warm-up.

Speculation always bubbled over who would perform at the post-parade party (which was a closely guarded secret for many years until technology made that impossible). Surprise acts over the years have included Boy George, Kylie and Dannii Minogue, Marcia Hines, George Michael, Cyndi Lauper, Chaka Khan, Village People to name only a very few.

Mardi Gras was attracting thousands of tourists from around the country and overseas, bringing millions of dollars into the local economy. Big brands were hustling to be sponsors and big names were riding shotgun on big floats. From 1994, the parade was telecast live, initially on ABC, then on Channel 10.

The commercial, mainstream appeal of Mardi Gras was a mixed blessing for the organisation and the community…

COVER FEATURE

Queer Elegance and Spanish Passion Ignite Sydney Dance Company’s 2025 Season.

TTHE stage is set for 2025 with Sydney Dance Company’s hotly anticipated season, led by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela. Plunge deep into Somos, a sensual realm of human connection, that explores the rich textures of love, passion and identity. This bold work invites audiences into a space where boundaries blur, unfiltered and wholly alive. Somos will premiere in Melbourne at the Arts Centre from March 13 to 23, before returning to Sydney’s Neilson Studio from March 27 to April 6.

“Somos,” translating to “we are” in Spanish, is Bonachela’s personal ode to his Spanish cultural heritage. Known for his signature emotive choreography that celebrates the individuality and strength of his dancers, Bonachela embarks on an intimate exploration of identity, passion, and connection in this work. Expect a vibrant journey through solos, duets, and trios imbued with a distinctly Spanish essence—sensual, raw, and beautifully human.

Bonachela’s influence for “Somos” was none other than legendary Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, celebrated for his vivid storytelling and powerful portrayals of strong female characters. Inspired by Almodóvar’s rich use of Latin music, Bonachela curated a soundtrack featuring iconic Hispanic women artists, infusing the production with irresistible energy and heart.

In Bonachela’s words, “In 2023 we witnessed the profound impact ‘Somos’ had on audiences. It is a magnetic, vibrant, and deeply moving work, which captivated Sydneysiders throughout an extended season. Partially created during our 2023 tour in Madrid, ‘Somos’ draws on my Spanish heritage and the rich cultural influences of where we started to make the work. I’m excited to bring ‘Somos’ back to Sydney, with new company dancers and some new choreography. ‘Somos’ connected so deeply last time and I can’t wait to share this work with audiences once again.”

And for those who thrive on queer cultural cues, “Somos” is a dreamland of sensuality and celebration. Picture it: dancers intertwined in a pulsating rhythm of intimacy and liberation, all within arm’s reach of the audience. Performed in the round, the setup dissolves traditional audience boundaries, inviting you into a shared space of breath, motion, and emotion. This captivating closeness echoes the connection inherent in queer spaces—spaces where community thrives, and individuality shines.

Adding to the immersive experience, the foyer of Sydney Dance Company’s Neilson Studio will transform into the lively Bar Boca, a vibrant tapas bar perfect for pre and post-show gatherings. With tapas and drinks in hand, this promises to be a space to savor both the art and the energy of the community.

“Somos” not only offers a visual and auditory feast but also welcomes new faces into the Sydney Dance Company ensemble, including Mathilda Ballantyne, Mali Comlekci, Sonrisa Hubbard, Eka Perunicic, and Sam Winkler. Their debuts bring fresh energy to Bonachela’s magnetic choreography, promising a performance that’s as dynamic as it is unforgettable.

Don’t miss this chance to witness the transformative magic of “Somos.” It’s a celebration of identity, culture, and connection—perfect for lovers of dance and those who understand the beauty of a world without boundaries. With five-star reviews and a sold-out world premiere in 2023, the buzz is real. Queer, fierce, and achingly beautiful, “Somos” invites you to be part of something unforgettable.

Book your tickets now and let the passion of “Somos” sweep you off your feet. More information is available at: sydneydancecompany.com.

HUMANS OF PRIDE

By Rita Bratovich

The fourth season of Drag Race Down Under screened in November last year, showcasing ten of the best and fairest queens from Australia and New Zealand — none more spectacular than Sydney’s own Vybe.

TThe iconic queen’s striking figure can be seen on the door and on the stage of many of Sydney’s most popular queer venues, and she is in high demand as a hostess with the most dress. Being on Drag Race represents a mere notch among many achievements and further ambitions, but a significant notch non-the-less.

“Drag Race is an incredible opportunity to be a part of. It’s something that you have to audition and get through for… it’s something that I tried to get on for a couple of years — so, being able to get on and go on to do Season 4 was incredible,” Vybe told Pride of Sydney. “You know, it’s not the be all and end all of a drag career, but it is something that I was personally striving for and very happy to have ticked it off the bucket list.”

Vybe competed alongside notable queens including fellow Sydney queen, Karna Ford, and Nikita Iman. She also got to meet queens whom, up until Drag Race, she’d only interacted with on social media but had always admired.

“It was really great to be in the room with them and be able to do the challenge that is Drag Race. But I had a really, really great time, you know…I think I just laughed for the entire three weeks that we were filming,” says Vybe.

It was a tough competition which was eventually won by

Lazy Susan. Vybe nabbed a very respectable second place, with which she was more than happy.

“My goal was just to make it to the finale and represent the drag that I love from Sydney and the style of drag that Sydney is famous for.”

Vybe explains that there are lots of different types of drag: experimental drag, alternative drag, drag kings, drag creatures — there are no limits really, to how someone can approach the art form.

“The drag that I grew up with and have been doing for the last 13 or 14 years is very sort of traditional showgirl. So, it’s campy tracks, it’s big costumes, it’s sequins and massive hair and production shows and production quality drag.”

Vybe describes herself as a “very gay child” who was naturally drawn to dance programs, musicals, and generally arty things at school.

“Then when you leave school, the opportunities are very different. But I think going out on Oxford Street and seeing drag and meeting people who weren’t just the drag queens but some of the dancers, some of the choreographers and show producers. It was just like a world that just enticed me and pulled me in.”

The road to drag stardom, however, is rocky and heel-

breaking with a very steep learning curve. It takes time to gain sartorial skills, get make-up perfect, and finesse the performance. Vybe refers to the early stages as the “ugly years”.

“Stepping out in a horrifically ugly face and bad outfit just builds character,” she adds, philosophically.

It helps to have some good girlfriends by your side, and Vybe was blessed to have met drag sisters, Ivy League and Coco Jumbo early in her career.

“We sort of found each other, formed a little family and taught each other how to do drag, and we basically lived together since that day. It’s been more than 10 years that we’ve literally not left each other’s side and we’re still living in the same house today.”

So, with Mardi Gras around the corner, what has Vybe got going on?

“Lots of things. This year I’m performing at Poof Doof for their brunch on parade day and for their after-parade party.”

She’s also doing lots of corporates and lots of galas, basically bringing Mardi Gras to many varied places and people.

Beyond Mardi Gras, Vybe and her nine co-contestants will be touring Drag Race Down Under Season 4: Live on Stage! at capital theatres around the country in March. The Sydney show is at Roundhouse, Kensington on March 29. Tickets are on sale now (see link below).

“I literally could not shout from the heaven’s enough that each one of these girls is so incredible, and I’m so excited to get on the road and perform our damn arses off for everyone, so yeah, it’s an absolute must come to!”

Vybe has spoken. itdevents.com/tours/drdu

MARDI GRAS 2025

My very favourite personal memory of MG is from a few years ago. My friend, Julie Bates (who is an icon of sex-work activism) stood on the back of a ute in the holding area before we marched, absolutely surrounded by a sea of rainbows, pounding music, glitter, Queerness and joy. It was a very special moment of feeling both pride and that anything is possible if we all come together with joy and acceptance in our hearts.

Guy James Whitworth - Artist

WE’RE diving deep into the stories that matter most with our “Humans of Pride – Q&A” series. This is your backstage pass to the personal experiences that have shaped some of the most inspiring voices in Sydney’s LGBTQI+ community.

An unforgettable memory was back in 2018 when Cher was the headline act, performing with generations of incredible Australian Drag artists. We were squished into the Hordern with 10,000 others in an area sectioned off for the Drag Queens and we cried, sweated and danced our make-up off to one of the most incredible shows Mardi Gras has put on! Fingers crossed we return to that iconic level again!

VYBE - Drag Race Downunder

My fave memories of Mardi Gras are marching in the Parade and hearing the crowd cheering! This year I’ll be with the ACON team in the Parade. Look out for ACON Rovers and Sexperts throughout the Mardi Gras festival – and at Fair Day we’ll have lots happening at our ACON Village!

Matt Akersten - ACON

My favourite Mardi Gras memory was when I took part in early 2000 on the Twenty10 float. It was my first time being able to celebrate who I truly was for the very first time, and had the privilege to take part in the Mardi Gras parade. I remember just before our float started moving up the parade route, my emotions took over and I had tears flowing uncontrollably. They were triumph tears of all the struggles in my life that brought me to that moment and seeing everyone celebrating who we are. This memory I will always hold close to my heart.

Michael El-Bacha - Content Creator

Definitely my first Sydney Mardi Gras parade. I was in my early 20’s. I’d been out for a couple of years. We watched the parade from the roof of a pub. It was one of those magical nights in Sydney where it threatened rain with high imposing cloud cover with the occasional flash of lightning. Folks danced on the shop front awnings barely clothed, and at street level, the community came to watch and party. And milk crates were hot property!

Gil Beckwith - Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO

MARDI GRAS 25

““IT’S been a whirlwind year since taking on the role, no doubt about it! And dramatically different to being the CFO. Taking the reins of an organisation as beloved and historically significant as Mardi Gras is both an honour and a massive responsibility. Last year threw plenty of challenges our way—financial pressures, shifting landscapes, unexpected curveballs—but at its heart, Mardi Gras is about resilience.”

Beckwith says she is focused on strengthening connection with community, ensuring the right stories are told, creating spaces where everyone feels seen and safe.

“We’ve worked hard to refresh programming and introduce new experiences that reflect the full diversity of our community. I want Mardi Gras to feel like home to everyone in the LGBTQIA+ family, and that means making sure every decision we make comes back to that core purpose.”

As the festival approaches, the atmosphere in MG HQ buzzes with electric energy. Beckwith proudly acknowledges the passion and creativity of her team in delivering a unique, diverse program.

“For me, the best part is seeing how much this festival means to people,” says Beckwith.

“Out on the streets, you can feel it building—Oxford Street getting a little brighter, posters going up, conversations shifting towards parade plans and outfits. Mardi Gras has this way of making the whole city feel alive.”

While it is a glorious celebration, Mardi Gras is and always has been more than just pomp and party.

“We’re a platform for visibility, activism, and progress. Right now, trans and gender-diverse rights are front and centre, both here in Australia and globally. Harmful rhetoric is being amplified in some spaces, and it’s crucial that we continue to push back against that with love, solidarity, and action,” says Beckwith.

“This year’s theme, FREE TO BE, speaks directly to these

By Rita Bratovich

Gil Beckwith has been with Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras for more than six years, with four and a half as chief financial officer before becoming CEO. She spoke with Pride of Sydney about being at the helm of the prestigious organisation.

issues. It’s about recognising how far we’ve come, but also acknowledging that the fight isn’t over.”

Mardi Gras, from its incipience, has been a powerful force in providing visibility, impetus and solidarity, giving the community the ability to effect change. Much has been accomplished, but the world is in constant shift and there is never any guarantee that young queer kids can feel safe to be themselves.

Beckwith is particularly excited that Fair Day (which was cancelled last year) is back this year.

“It’s such a special day where everyone—families, friends, allies, even dogs —come together in one big, colourful celebration.”

And she’s thrilled about the arts program on offer and the partnerships that will contribute to the quality and variety of offerings, including events like Blak & Deadly at the City Recital Hall and Mardi Gras + at Qtopia.

“We have been collaborating with some of the more traditional organisations in Sydney, bringing an extraordinary Mardi Gras festival experience to institutions such as Sydney Opera House, State Library, Art Gallery and the Sydney Theatre Company. Embedding our LGBTQIA+ community throughout Sydney in our celebratory and joyous way.”

This year’s Mardi Gras festival features over 80 events spanning everything from theatre, music and art to walking tours, talks and picnics, and so much more. There’s something for every taste and budget. For Beckwith, the festival is the culmination of lots of blood, sweat and tears, but the reward is tenfold.

“At the end of the day, what I look forward to most is seeing our community take up space, take pride in who we are, and remind the world why Mardi Gras still matters and will continue to matter.”

Get fit, feel fab, have fun - it's time to shine this Mardi Gras season!

MARDI GRAS 25

By Rita Bratovich

It’s time to put your imagination and fingers to work. Mardi Gras is about being fabulous and letting everyone else know it, and the best way to do that is by dressing the part. Here are some tips on how to achieve sartorial splendour without a wardrobe malfunction.

SSURE you can hire a costume, but it’s much more fun, creative and original to make your own. And there are so many sources for material and bits ’n’ pieces, you’ll be limited only by your level of ostentation.

allows air to pass through.

SAFETY AND PRACTICALITY

But, before you start designing, there are some things you need to consider.

THE WEATHER

Summer in Sydney can be very hot and humid, so make sure your chosen materials will allow plenty of ventilation (with most costumes that’s not an issue!). Be aware that metallic, plastic, glass and other hard materials can get very hot if exposed to the sun for long periods. Glues, paint, latex, and make-up can fail and/or melt. Not a good look.

On the other hand, it might rain. Fur and feathers completely loose their magic once they are wet. Make sure your glue, paint and make-up is all water-proof. If you’ve got battery operated gizmos —lights, wings, music — ensure that the battery case is protected (most decorative lights are intended for outdoors are water-proof). You’ll want your costume to be made from material that dries quickly, or at least, won’t be too uncomfortable when wet.

Beware, the wind! Many a parade participant has learnt the hard way that a massive headpiece, sprawling wings, or voluminous gown is no match for a gust blowing down Oxford Street. At best, you might be thrown to the ground, at worst you can become airborne. Make sure your costume

Many gorgeous accessories are, alas, highly flammable. Be mindful of cigarettes, lighters, barbecues and other open flames.

Keep an eye on your long, pointy bits. You don’t want to take out an eye or stab yourself or anyone else. You’re going to be in that outfit for several hours at least, so ensure that everything fits comfortably without chaffing. Make sure you don’t restrict circulation anywhere (!). Don’t make your headpiece or anything that will be worn on shoulders, back etc, too heavy. If you plan to wear high heels make sure you’ve had plenty of practice on a variety of surfaces and for long periods.

Can you sit in your costume? Can you eat and drink while wearing your costume? Most importantly, can you go to the toilet? Try to make pieces easily removable so that you can do all these things.

If there’s no place for a handbag in your ensemble, think about sewing in a little pouch or carrying a small purse on a strap. At the very least, you’ll want your phone and may need to carry keys, tissues, chewing gum, lip balm, emergency glue and glitter.

It is essential that your costume is fun and fabulous, but most importantly, that it expresses who you are.

Happy Mardi Gras!

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9 March 2025 ⦁ Sydney Central Hotel ⦁ Sydney, NSW

SCAN ME

WHAT’S ON

DDARLINGHURST is set to dazzle once again as Oxtravaganza returns in 2025, bringing its signature blend of fabulousness and flair to Sydney’s Rainbow Precinct and beyond. As a proud part of the Mardi Gras festivities, this iconic fringe festival is a celebration of art, performance, community, and all things gloriously queer. And honey, it’s not just a party — it’s a two-week extravaganza that you won’t want to miss.

Now in its ninth fabulous year, Oxtravaganza will light up the streets from 14 February to 2 March 2025. With over 100 events spread across 40 venues in Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Kings Cross, and the Hollywood Quarter, the festival promises something for everyone — from art aficionados and brunch enthusiasts to drag devotees and families looking for inclusive fun.

Festival curator Lorraine Lock is pumped for what’s to come. “It’s such a great blend of events with locals and visitors enjoying all that this area of Sydney has to offer,” she shares. “Oxford Street is the cultural and historical heart of the LGBTQIA+ community with deep ties and many, many stories! Each year the excitement builds as we get ready to welcome over 100,000 people on Parade night, and in the weeks leading up to it, Oxtravaganza Festival is a non-stop swirl of parties and performances.”

A Fabulous Celebration of Pride and Creativity.

The festival’s lineup is as diverse as the community it celebrates:

• Art Exhibitions (14 February - 2 March): Dive into exhibitions at the National Art School, Tap Gallery, and Stanley Street Galleries. For those who love to roll up their sleeves, Fabulous Wondermama will be hosting interactive art workshops.

• Cabaret and Drag Performances (14 February - 2 March): The Burdekin, Stonewall, and Universal will be pulsing with drag performances, disco nights, and brand-new acts courtesy of Qtopia and Brand X at ESCAC.

• Drag Brunches and Bingo (14 February - 2 March): Darlinghurst does Drag Brunch better than anyone else. Think bottomless drinks, fierce performances, and a whole lot of sass at spots like The Winery, Taphouse, and Lumiere Cafe.

• Shop Til U Drop (Saturday, 22 February): Drag performers take over Oxford Street with impromptu performances, photo ops, and even style advice.

• Family Zone (Saturday, 22 February): A dedicated Kids Zone featuring drag story time, craft activities, fairy floss, and goodie bags — all in a less hectic space just a block from Oxford Street at ESCAC.

• Parade Night (2 March): Oxford Street will be transformed into a rainbow wonderland as the LGBTQIA+ community and allies come together for one of the rowdiest, most glamorous celebrations of the year.

• Recovery Sunday (3 March): Spots like Stonewall and Beresford keep the vibes alive for those who aren’t quite ready to call it a weekend.

Oxtravaganza is more than just a festival; it’s a reminder of the strength, creativity, and joy of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no better time to experience the heart and soul of Darlinghurst. So grab your glitter, gather your crew, and get ready for a spectacular celebration of pride and inclusivity.

HEAD TO OXFORD ST & SURROUNDS FOR DRAG SHOWS, ART, CABARET, BRUNCH, FAMILY ZONE, RETAIL DEALS, TRIVIA & GOOD TIMES!

CELEBRATE MARDI GRAS

14TH FEB2ND MARCH 2025

SYDNEY SCENE: WHAT’S ON

Discover the Best LGBTQI Events Lighting Up the City

EXPLORE our curated guide to the best LGBTQI happenings in Sydney and join in the vibrant festivities that unite the community in celebration of love and self-expression.

QUEER SCREEN’S 32ND MARDI GRAS FILM FESTIVAL

Location: Event Cinemas – George Street, Sydney

Dates: 13 February – 27 February 2025

Time: Various screening times throughout the day

Experience a dynamic celebration of queer cinema at the 32nd edition of the Mardi Gras Film Festival. This internationally recognized event curates a diverse lineup of films that explore LGBTQIA+ stories, challenges, and triumphs through innovative storytelling and creative expression. Beyond film screenings, the festival offers panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors, and special events designed to foster dialogue and community connection.

BINGAY AT THE BERESFORD HOTEL

Location: The Beresford Hotel, Darlinghurst, Sydney

Dates: Second Thursday of every month (Upcoming: 13

March 2025 and 10 April 2025)

Time: Evening (Exact start time TBC)

A twist on traditional bingo by mixing in dazzling drag performances. This mid-week event combines humor, theatrical flair, and classic bingo fun. With charismatic drag queens at the helm, Bingay creates a memorable night of entertainment while supporting LGBTQIA+ health services, making it both a joyous and meaningful community gathering.

SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL

Location: Various venues across Sydney

Dates: April – May 2025

Time: Multiple showtimes (varies by performance)

A celebration of humor and inclusivity, featuring a diverse lineup of established and emerging talent. With several venues hosting shows that range from stand-up to improv, the festival highlights queer voices and narratives. It’s a series of engaging, laugh-out-loud performances that offer insightful commentary on life while fostering an environment of acceptance and cultural diversity across the city.

SUNDAYLICIOUS AT THE COLOMBIAN HOTEL

Location: The Colombian Hotel, Darlinghurst, Sydney

Date: Sunday, 2 March 2025

Time: Afternoon to evening (Exact times TBC)

Set in the heart of Darlinghurst, Sundaylicious offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere with upbeat music, engaging performances, and a friendly crowd. It’s the perfect setting to unwind, mingle, and celebrate community spirit, blending a laid-back vibe with the excitement of upcoming LGBTQIA+ festivities.

THIS IS L-O-V-E

Location: QTopia

Date & Time: 4 - 15 March

Celebrate the many facets of love at «This is L-O-V-E,» an inspiring event dedicated to embracing all forms of love and identity. Featuring interactive installations, live performances, and engaging community dialogues, this experience invites attendees to explore what love means to them. Set in a vibrant Sydney locale, the event fosters connection and creative expression while highlighting the power of inclusion and diversity. For full details, please visit the event page on the City of Sydney What’s On website.

Lead with Purpose

The

LGBTQIA+ Executive Fellowship 21 – 25 July 2025

The LGBTQIA+ Executive Fellowship is Australia’s first program tailored to the unique lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ executives. If you’re ready to drive meaningful change, this fellowship provides access to world-class academics, future focussed insights, and a powerful network of leaders committed to progress and impact.

Step into your leadership potential and redefine success. Apply now

In proud partnership with

ARTS

Theatre, dance, and art collide in an unmissable year of creativity.

SYDNEY’S arts scene is gearing up for an unforgettable 2025, with a spectacular lineup of performances that promise to inspire, challenge, and entertain. From breathtaking dance to groundbreaking theatre and immersive visual arts, this season is set to showcase bold new works alongside reimagined classics.

Whether you’re a devoted arts lover or simply looking for a night of culture and excitement, 2025 offers something for everyone. Get ready to be swept away by the power of performance!

NEW THEATRE

New Theatre’s dynamic 2025 season kicks off from January 8 to 25, «Stags & Hens» by Willy Russell offers a rambunctious dark comedy that provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of working-class Brits in the late 1970s Following this, from March 4, the Australian premiere of «The Flea» delves into a gripping narrative set in 1889 London, exploring themes of secrecy and societal norms. These productions promise to deliver compelling storytelling and exceptional performances, solidifying New Theatre’s reputation as a hub for thought-provoking and engaging theatre.

SYDNEY DANCE

Sydney Dance Company’s 2025 season, Come Closer, invites audiences into the intimate world of contemporary dance with a bold and dynamic lineup.

The season opens with Somos (March 27 – April 6), an immersive experience of solos, duets, and trios set to Hispanic music, performed in the round at the Neilson Studio. In October, Continuum (October 22 – November 1) at Roslyn Packer Theatre presents a triple bill featuring Stephen Page AO’s Unungkati Yantatja, a world premiere by Rafael Bonachela, and Tra Mi Dinh’s award-winning Somewhere between ten and fourteen.

In December, New Breed 2025 (December 3–13) at Carriageworks showcases cutting-edge works by emerging Australian choreographers. The season also includes INDance in August, a platform for independent artists, and Club Origami in July, a family-friendly performance for young audiences.

SEYMOUR CENTRE

2025 is Seymour Centre’s 50th anniversary, and it begins with the launch of the annual Seymour Season. In Season 2025, experience five must-see events including three international plays and two locally produced works. Presented in partnership with Australia’s best independent theatre companies, these are ambitious theatre works of scale that wrestle with contemporary issues, challenge expectations and provide an unmissable theatre experience.

From a riotous gender flip of the western genre to a poignant reflection on the tragedy of Hiroshima, we invite you to look at our world with new eyes. These are stories of now:

Glass Child | Eureka Day | The Face of Jizo | RUINS أطلال | Cowbois

BELVOIR THEATRE

Belvoir is back for another year of joy, of imagination, and celebrating humanity. This season, there are stories from around the corner and around the world. From 1606, to the 1960s, to now. All told by an outstanding gathering of artists.

Judy Davis in Helen Garner’s The Spare Room. Two exciting new First Nations plays from two exciting new writers, Jacky and Big Girls Don’t Cry. Andrew Bovell’s new play Song of First Desire, which has tempted the great Kerry Fox and Sarah Peirse back to Belvoir. S. Shakthidharan’s first new play since Counting and Cracking went to New York – The Wrong Gods. Meow Meow. At Belvoir. At last. Doing her version of The Red Shoes. A new adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s visionary novel Orlando by a new generation of artists. The literary sensation Grief is the Thing with Feathers, performed by Toby Schmitz and directed by Simon Phillips, his first time at Belvoir in 25 years. And Colin Friels as King Lear.

... New Zealand Exploration

Join our private gay group for 12 nights of fun, departing Sydney 1st November 2025, onboard the stunning Celebrity Edge. pointsofdifference.com/explore or call 1300 990 390 Join our list for other great gay cruise updates!

VIBES OFF? LOOK OUT FOR THE ACON ROVERS WEARING PINK VESTS

Rovers are trained community members here to keep the party safe and judgement free.

WE CAN HELP WITH YOU CAN HELP BY

Safer drug use

Party resources (lollipops, earplugs etc)

Overdose prevention

Getting help for you/ friend

Learn more about the Rovers and what parties we’ll be at here

Telling a Rover or Medical immediately if you notice someone looking distressed, sleepy, or off. No one will get in trouble for seeking help.

Learning harm reduction tips and skills for you and your besties.

STAYING SAFE

Mardi Gras is a time to celebrate with community. Here are some tips to keep us safe:

Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert and trust your instincts. Plan head on how to get to and from venues.

If you are confronted with verbal abuse, try to remain calm and do not escalate the situation. Try to get away as fast as possible. Find a place with people. Notify staff/ security if at a venue. Use a whistle or personal alarm or scream to attract attention.

If you see violence taking place, and feel safe to do so, use video to record the incident.

Implement safety strategies when using hook up apps, like being wary of swapping apps, meeting in a public place and sharing your location with a friend.

Support others if they’ve been victims of violence. Call the police on Triple Zero (000) for assistance.

ACON can provide counselling support, information and referrals to LGBTQ+ people in NSW who have experienced abuse and/or violence. Call ACON on (02) 9206 2000. If you feel safe to do so, you can report all incidents of abuse and/or violence to the NSW Police Force (NSWPF). Call the Police Assistance Line 131 444. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

BESTIES, BE ICONIC AND TAKE

CARE THIS MARDI GRAS

TIPS TO STAY ICONIC ALL SEASON:

Have a party plan ahead of time. How will you pace yourself?

MG is a marathon not a sprint.

Research and know your substances. Decide on your limit and keep to safer doses.

Limit your supply. Don’t bring more alcohol, drugs or money with you than is wise to use.

Involve your besties. Party with people you trust, and talk about your limits/boundaries so you can support each other to keep them.

Know the signs and symptoms of overdose. Carry naloxone, regardless if/what you’re using.

If you’re headed to a festival or big event, plan a spot to meet your mates when you’re lost/your phone dies.

Remember, even at a party, it’s ok to say you’re not ok.

Plan your recovery day – food, water and rest are your best friends.

ARTS

AUSTRALIA has a rich literary tradition that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of its LGBTIQA+ communities. These ten books, spanning memoir, fiction, and poetry, offer powerful insights into identity, love, and resilience. Whether you’re looking for stories of self-discovery, heartfelt reflections, or compelling explorations of contemporary queer life, these titles are must-reads.

DRESS REHEARSALS by Madison Godfrey

Madison Godfrey’s Dress Rehearsals is a raw and lyrical poetry collection that explores gender, identity, and self-expression. With an evocative and deeply personal voice, Godfrey captures the complexities of growing up queer in Australia. Through vivid imagery and unflinching honesty, the poems examine themes of love, loss, and transformation. The collection is a celebration of fluidity and resilience, offering readers a window into the poet’s journey of embracing their non-binary identity.

ALL ABOUT YVES by Yves Rees

In this poignant memoir, historian Yves Rees takes readers on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and transition. All About Yves candidly explores the challenges and triumphs of gender transition in adulthood, offering a nuanced perspective on what it means to live authentically. Rees’s storytelling is both insightful and moving, weaving together personal experiences with broader reflections on gender, identity, and belonging. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of the transgender experience.

GREEN DOT by Madeline Gray

Madeline Gray’s debut novel, Green Dot, is a book to read in a single sitting. An incredibly funny book about a woman having an affair that’s a really bad idea, with her daringly specific and intimate voice, Madeleine Gray has created an irresistible and messy love story about the terrible allure of wanting something that promises nothing; about the joys and indignities of coming into adulthood

against the pitfalls of the twenty-first century; and about the winding, torturous and often very funny journey we take in deciding who we are and who we want to be.

GROWING UP QUEER IN AUSTRALIA, edited by

Benjamin Law

This groundbreaking anthology, edited by writer and advocate Benjamin Law, brings together a diverse range of voices to share their experiences of growing up queer in Australia. Featuring contributions from wellknown authors, activists, and everyday Australians, Growing Up Queer in Australia offers an unfiltered look at the joys and struggles of coming to terms with one’s identity. From heartwarming moments of self-acceptance to the challenges of navigating societal expectations, this collection is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTIQA+ community.

WRONG ANSWERS ONLY by Tobias Madden

Tobias Madden’s Wrong Answers Only is a heartfelt and humorous novel about self-discovery, love, and finding one’s place in the world. With his signature wit and charm, Madden crafts a relatable coming-of-age story that follows a young queer protagonist as they navigate the ups and downs of friendships, relationships, and personal growth. The book is an uplifting and poignant exploration of identity and belonging, making it a perfect read for anyone seeking a feel-good queer narrative.

YOU MADE ME THIS WAY by Shannon

Molloy

MadelineGray

OmarSakr

CROSSWORD

WHAT is the name of Sydney Dance Company’s first production of 2025? YOUR Mardi Gras costume could be ______, so keep away from open flames.

WHICH

Hukup Australia

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15 March – 13 July 2025

Banco de Mexico Diego Rivera