August 07 issue - Out In The City
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HUDSON’S LETTER<br />

PAGE 22<br />

ENRIQUE IGLESIAS<br />

Nowadays, depictions<br />

of gay men on film or<br />

TV usually strive to be<br />

positive, sometimes at the<br />

expense of realism. Not<br />

all gay men are perfectly<br />

well-adjusted, happy and<br />

sorted… however many<br />

may claim to be so on their<br />

online profiles. Partly for<br />

this reason, I was intrigued<br />

and moved by new film<br />

<strong>The</strong> Walker, in which<br />

Woody Harrelson plays the<br />

sort of gay character that<br />

few would necessarily wish<br />

to identify with. Prissy<br />

and waspish, he still lugs<br />

around the sort of baggage<br />

that many of us have been<br />

straddled with at some<br />

stage in our lives. Watching<br />

it slowly dawn upon him<br />

that there are other ways<br />

to live his life, and that he<br />

is answerable to nobody<br />

Managing Editor<br />

David Hudson<br />

hudson@outmag.co.uk<br />

+44 (0)20 7258 1943<br />

Contributing Editor<br />

Adrian Gillan<br />

adrian@outmag.co.uk<br />

Design Concept<br />

Splicer Design<br />

www.splicerdesign.com<br />

Design<br />

Helen Mathias<br />

Clare Willis<br />

design@g3mag.co.uk<br />

design@outmag.co.uk<br />

+44 (0)20 7258 1943<br />

Contributors<br />

Simon Blake, Sam Bentley,<br />

Gabriele Giambrone,<br />

Katie McCrum, Chris Morgan,<br />

Mark Riese, Gary Ryan,<br />

Richard Tonks, Steve Watson,<br />

Donna Werbner, Emma Willis,<br />

Michael Wilton<br />

Photographers<br />

but himself, was both<br />

stirring and empowering.<br />

If you can, catch the movie<br />

when it opens in London<br />

this month.<br />

Read a fuller review in our<br />

film section, along with<br />

information on a novel gay<br />

film club that has sprung<br />

up on MySpace. <strong>The</strong>re’s a<br />

wealth of other reviews in<br />

this <strong>issue</strong>, from the latest<br />

music releases to the<br />

scene. Thanks for all the<br />

feedback – keep it coming.<br />

hudson@outmag.co.uk<br />

EDITORIAL//ADVERTISING<br />

Publisher<br />

Sarah Garrett//Linda Riley<br />

ISDN: 1473-6039<br />

Group Ad Sales Manager<br />

Victoria Lloyd<br />

victoria@g3magazine.co.uk<br />

+44 (0)20 7258 1991<br />

Sales Executives<br />

Dean Houlahan<br />

Doug Mayo<br />

dean@outmag.co.uk<br />

douglas@outmag.co.uk<br />

+44 (0)20 7258 1991<br />

Office Manager//Accounts<br />

Margaret Tapping<br />

margaret@g3magazine.co.uk<br />

+44 (0)20 7258 1936<br />

Head of Business Development<br />

Linda Riley<br />

linda@outmag.co.uk<br />

Square Peg Media Ltd.<br />

44 Huntsworth Mews<br />

London NW1 6DB<br />

Phone +44 (0)20 7258 1777<br />

Fax +44 (0)20 7258 1787<br />

<strong>The</strong> content of this publication, either in whole or in part may not be reproduced,<br />

stored in a data retrieval system or trasmitted in any form or by any means,<br />

electronic or otherwise, without prior permission from the publishers. Opinions<br />

expressed in <strong>Out</strong> <strong>In</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>City</strong> are not neccessarily those of the publishers.<br />

© Square Peg Media Ltd 2000 - 20<strong>07</strong>.<br />

Square Peg Media Ltd t/a <strong>Out</strong> <strong>In</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>City</strong> magazine will not take any responsibility<br />

for any loss/claim resulting from a transaction with one of our advertisers/<br />

Media Partners.<br />

CONTENTS<br />

PAGE 04<br />

LETTERS<br />

Send your<br />

correspondence to<br />

letters@outmag.co.uk<br />

PAGE 06<br />

MY LONDON<br />

Former BB housemate<br />

and radio presenter<br />

Richard Newman<br />

PAGE 08<br />

SHOPPING<br />

Canon’s new<br />

camcorder, plus<br />

shopping over the net<br />

PAGE 13<br />

DIARY<br />

<strong>August</strong>’s cultural<br />

highlights in and<br />

around London<br />

PAGE 14<br />

AUGUST HIGHLIGHT<br />

Soho Pride and the<br />

Metro Weekender<br />

PAGE 16<br />

BRIGHTON PRIDE<br />

All you need to know<br />

about this year’s<br />

festival on 4 <strong>August</strong><br />

PAGE 18<br />

ENRIQUE IGLESIAS<br />

<strong>The</strong> Latin heartthrob<br />

chats about his new<br />

album, career, and<br />

playing G-A-Y<br />

PAGE 22<br />

MUSIC<br />

New albums from <strong>The</strong><br />

Coral, Dragonette,<br />

Darren Hayes and<br />

Kosheen<br />

PAGE 24<br />

PEREZ HILTON<br />

PAGE 11<br />

INTERNET SHOPPING<br />

PAGE 24<br />

FILM<br />

Knocked Up, <strong>The</strong><br />

Hoax, <strong>The</strong> Walker and<br />

Gay Film Club<br />

PAGE 28<br />

THEATRE<br />

<strong>The</strong> Drowsy<br />

Chaperone reviewed<br />

PAGE 32<br />

COLUMNIST<br />

Den Maloney isn’t<br />

always pleased to<br />

receive a party invite<br />

PAGE 35<br />

OUT THERE<br />

Upcoming scene<br />

highlights for <strong>August</strong>,<br />

the history of the Royal<br />

Vauxhall Tavern, plus<br />

reports on Juicy’s post-<br />

Pride party, Salvation’s<br />

Gold Party and <strong>The</strong> Box<br />

PAGE 44<br />

PRIDE LONDON<br />

PAGE 06<br />

RICHARD NEWMAN<br />

PAGE 61<br />

OUTREACH<br />

<strong>The</strong> work of the Gay<br />

Business Association,<br />

plus the community<br />

listings<br />

PAGE 64<br />

OUTNEWS<br />

Gay stories from home<br />

and abroad.<br />

PAGE 68<br />

PROPERTY<br />

Living in King’s Cross<br />

and property advice<br />

PAGE 80<br />

OUTLAW<br />

Civil partnership news<br />

plus legal advice<br />

PAGE 87<br />

TRAVEL<br />

<strong>The</strong> cool appeal of<br />

Iceland<br />

PAGE 90<br />

HOROSCOPES<br />

PAGE 93<br />

HEALTH<br />

Pink <strong>The</strong>rapy and 25<br />

years of the Terrence<br />

Higgins Trust

ON FIRE<br />

WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT<br />

THIS MONTH’S RISE AND FALL<br />

GET IT ON<br />

ON ICE<br />

DEXTER<br />

We loved Michael C. Hall<br />

in Six Feet Under, and are<br />

loving him even more in<br />

Dexter – the serial killer it’s<br />

OK to cheer.<br />

MURDER MOST FAB<br />

Julian Clary relaunches<br />

himself as a novelist with<br />

this laugh-out-loud comic<br />

debut. Our favourite<br />

summer read.<br />

NIKKI BLONSKY<br />

Somehow manages to be<br />

more adorable than even<br />

Rikki Lake in the new film<br />

version of Hairspray. Can we<br />

have a big-screen remake<br />

of Pink Flamingos next,<br />

please?<br />

HARRY POTTER<br />

We are officially sick to the<br />

back teeth of Potter-mania.<br />

<strong>The</strong> last book has been<br />

published. Time to get<br />

over it!<br />

SUMMERTIME<br />

Rain, rain and more rain…<br />

we’ll just write off summer<br />

20<strong>07</strong>, shall we? Time to<br />

book that last-minute<br />

holiday to Gran Canaria<br />

perhaps…<br />

GAY.COM<br />

Huge in America, but<br />

seemingly unable to<br />

compete against Gaydar’s<br />

stranglehold of the UK<br />

online gay dating market,<br />

gay.com has announced the<br />

closure of its UK office.<br />

THREE CHEERS<br />

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Frank, Stratford<br />

CRY BABY<br />

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John, N1<br />

OUTCAST<br />

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TOP OF THE POST<br />

STAR LETTER<br />

WITH THIS RING<br />

I agree with Steve Watson on civil partnerships [July 20<strong>07</strong>].<br />

It’s nice to see how different couples are opting for such<br />

a variety of ceremonies. However, like him, I suspect that<br />

over time our ceremonies will become indistinguishable<br />

from the heterosexual norm… particularly when so many<br />

businesses have been so keen to flog us the same old tired<br />

wedding paraphernalia and matrimonial clichés. Civil<br />

partnerships should be a time for celebrating a relationship<br />

– not for placing that relationship under intolerable<br />

financial stress. I hope we won’t get dragged into the same<br />

sort of one-upmanship exhibited by some hetero couples<br />

in throwing the biggest and most lavish<br />

weddings that their credit cards can afford!<br />

Chris, SE11<br />

WIN!<br />

I LIGHT SPEAKER<br />

We are giving away an<br />

I-Lit lava lamp speaker to<br />

the writer of next month’s<br />

Star Letter. This kitsch<br />

prize will look great in the<br />

swankiest of London pads. <strong>The</strong><br />

retro, colourful lamp doubles<br />

up as two high quality speakers, which have a universal<br />

headphone jack that can be plugged into any MP3 device<br />

or CD player. <strong>The</strong> gadget is completely sound and light<br />

sensitive, so turn up the volume and create your own mini<br />

disco. <strong>The</strong> I-Lit weighs less than six eggs, so the crystal clear<br />

speakers are completely portable. To find out more, go to<br />

www.iwantoneofthose.com.<br />

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David, East London<br />

BLACK PRIDE<br />

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POP LIFE<br />

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Barry<br />

FAG FREE<br />

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Craig, W1

MY LONDON<br />

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PHOTOGRAPHY © CHRISJEPSON.COM - WITH THANKS TO PROFILE BAR, 56 FRITH STREET, SOHO, W1

TWINKLE<br />

TWINKLE...<br />

Whenever we’re in the Carnaby Street area, we always make a point of<br />

popping into Twinkled. This recently-opened celebration of all things<br />

retro harks back to the days when this famed thoroughfare truly was<br />

the centre of the fashion universe. Situated on the first floor of Kingly<br />

Court, this kitsch emporium offers a wide selection of retro fashions,<br />

accessories and homeware. Everything from jackets, trousers, t-shirts,<br />

belts, ties, airline-branded bags, and crockery to telephones, wallpaper<br />

and curtains… and much, much more besides. Whether you’re a<br />

vintage connoisseur or just looking for something a little unique, you<br />

won’t be disappointed.<br />

Twinkled, 1.5 Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, W1. 020-7734 1978.<br />

www.twinkled.net<br />

myspace.com/twinkled_retropolitan<br />

BOYS ON FILM<br />

Available from<br />

mid-<strong>August</strong> is<br />

Canon’s brand<br />

new HR10.<br />

<strong>The</strong> world’s<br />

smallest AVCHD<br />

DVD camcorder<br />

combines the<br />

convenience of<br />

straight-to-DVD<br />

shooting with stunning<br />

1080i HD video recording.<br />

With this little beauty,<br />

you can record High<br />

Definition DVD footage<br />

for HD-ready TVs, or make<br />

Standard Definition videos<br />

for playback on normal<br />

TVs. Discs can also be<br />

played back in Blu-ray<br />

players, and there’s a<br />

comprehensive range<br />

of software included for<br />

managing AVCHD footage.<br />

Basically, you don’t have to<br />

worry about the technology<br />

becoming obsolete or being<br />

superseded any time soon!<br />

www.canon.co.uk<br />

SHOPPING...<br />

WIRED FOR SOUND<br />

If you’re looking for a<br />

small, cheap MP3 player,<br />

you might want to check<br />

out Samsung’s new<br />

YP-U3. A step up from<br />

the company’s old U2<br />

model, the U3 is just<br />

25.4mm in height and<br />

weighs just 22.8g. It has<br />

the capacity to hold up<br />

to 4GB of memory, 33<br />

hours of voice recording,<br />

and playback for up to<br />

15 hours. It’s compatible<br />

with Samsung Media<br />

Studio - allowing you to<br />

download the latest tracks<br />

- has a built-in FM radio,<br />

and is available in black,<br />

white, pink, green and<br />

blue. Best of all, it retails<br />

at just £39.99.<br />

www.samsung.com/uk<br />

FASH MAG SLAGS<br />

A must for any illustrator, graphic designer or student<br />

of fashion, <strong>The</strong> Big Book Of Fashion Illustration<br />

is a contemporary sourcebook of illustration. <strong>In</strong>cluding<br />

everything from traditional watercolours, acrylics and pencil<br />

drawings through to designs made in Adobe Photoshop,<br />

Illustrator and digital photography, it represents the work<br />

of artists from all corners of the globe. With sections on<br />

menswear, sportswear, accessories and glamour, it’s a<br />

perfect coffee table tome that you’ll want to flick through<br />

again and again… and will perhaps make you wish you’d<br />

applied yourself a bit more during art class!<br />

<strong>The</strong> Big Book Of Fashion Illustration, by Martin<br />

Dawber, is published by Batsford and available priced<br />

£19.99 from all good bookstores.

WORLDWIDE<br />

FASHION<br />

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WWW.SCHULTZJEANS.CO.UK<br />

Let’s be honest… the first thing that grabbed our<br />

attention about Schultz Jeans were the jaw-droppingly<br />

gorgeous spunks who model for the label. Upon closer<br />

inspection, we couldn’t help but notice the innovative<br />

‘Schultz Strap’ that the jeans feature… thinking ‘what<br />

the hell is that?!’ Basically, the strap is designed to replace<br />

a belt, for those that like wearing their jeans low-slung,<br />

or even open at the fly to show-off their Schultz<br />

underwear… or anything else they feel like flashing.<br />

Each pair of jeans comes with two Schultz Straps,<br />

which are interchangeable or can even be updated for<br />

new designs as they become available. Check<br />

www.schultzjeans.co.uk for the full range of jeans,<br />

underwear, and plenty of arresting images!<br />

WWW.OTTERFASHION.COM<br />

Ever found yourself stumbling around your<br />

bedroom trying to find something appropriately<br />

trendy and practical down the gym? That’s<br />

exactly the dilemma that led Atlanta boy<br />

Joshua Harrell to set up fashion label Otter<br />

Fashion last year. <strong>The</strong> gay-friendly company<br />

specialises in t-shirts and sports clothing that’s<br />

good enough to wear whether you’re planning<br />

on working out or not. It’s also diversified to<br />

include underwear (right) and accessories. Given<br />

the fantabulous exchange rate of the £ against<br />

the $, picking up clothing from American<br />

websites can now prove cost-effective, even<br />

with the added shipping costs. For the full<br />

selection of t-shirts and sportswear, check<br />

www.otterfashion.com.<br />

WWW.ANDREWCHRISTIAN.COM<br />

Another Stateside site to take advantage of with the Brit-friendly exchange<br />

rate is www.andrewchristian.com. Producing urban-inspired menswear<br />

since 1997, this Los Angeles company continues to grow and establish an<br />

international reputation. Sponsoring London events<br />

like the Salvation parties prove its gay-friendly<br />

credentials… and the fact that it knows where its<br />

market lies. <strong>The</strong>re’s plenty of gorgeous underwear,<br />

swimwear, t-shirts and accessories. You can<br />

purchase Andrew Christian wear at online<br />

retailers Universal Gear and <strong>In</strong>ternational Jock, or<br />

direct from www.andrewchristian.com, which<br />

is packed with lovely pictures and yummy models<br />

(below). Also check out the myspace site at www.<br />

myspace.com/andrewchristianclothing.<br />

PHOTOGRAPH: © 20<strong>07</strong> ANDREW CHRISTIAN

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS//AUGUST 20<strong>07</strong><br />

26-27 AUGUST<br />

<strong>The</strong> TDK Cross Central festival returns to the King’s Cross Freight<br />

Depot. This cool celebration of electro, underground and<br />

indie rock will feature the likes of Franz Ferdinand, Killa Kela,<br />

Audiofly, Ryan Shaw, Robots <strong>In</strong> Disguise and many more. This is<br />

the urban festival’s fourth year, and the final to be taking place<br />

at the King’s Cross Freight Depot. Tickets £25 per day. www.<br />

tdkcrosscentral.co.uk<br />

THU 02-TUE 21: <br />

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THU 02-SUN 19:<br />

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PRINCE<br />

<strong>The</strong> pint-sized pop genius is<br />

coming to London… to take<br />

up a residency at the new 0 2!<br />

Yes, expect a full greatest<br />

hits show from the enigmatic<br />

creator of such hits as ‘Kiss’,<br />

‘Raspberry Beret’, ‘Sign O<br />

<strong>The</strong> Times’, ‘Purple Rain’ and<br />

many, many others. He’ll be<br />

performing <strong>August</strong> 1, 3, 4, 7,<br />

10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 24, 25, 28<br />

and 31 and September 1, 6, 9,<br />

12, 13, 16, 20 and 21.<br />

www.theo2.co.uk<br />

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31 JULY-26 AUGUST<br />

Following a sell-out run in March, Debbie Saloman returns to<br />

the King’s Head in Islington, reprising the role of Judy Garland.<br />

Get Happy! follows the legend as she rehearses for her 1960<br />

concerts at the London Palladium, and besides featuring<br />

little-known anecdotes and stories, also boasts a dazzling<br />

pitch-perfect selection of some of Garland’s best-loved songs.<br />

Tickets £15-£18. www.kingsheadtheatre.org<br />

THU 23-MON 27:<br />

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Erol Alkan performs at<br />

East London’s Field Day<br />

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02-11 AUGUST<br />

Get along to the gorgeous Somerset House for the summer<br />

open air movie season, held in conjunction with FilmFour. With<br />

a giant, 14m screen and state-of-the-art projection, catch the<br />

UK premiere of hit comedy Knocked Up on Thursday 2 <strong>August</strong>.<br />

It’s followed by screenings of horror movies <strong>The</strong> Descent and<br />

<strong>The</strong> Thing (Friday 3 <strong>August</strong>), <strong>The</strong> Good, <strong>The</strong> Bad And <strong>The</strong> Ugly<br />

(4 Aug), Rushmore (5 Aug), Rear Window (6 Aug), E.T (7 Aug),<br />

Walk <strong>The</strong> Line (8 Aug), Chak De <strong>In</strong>dia (9 Aug), Hot Fuzz and Point<br />

Break (10 Aug), and 2001: A Space Odyssey (11 Aug). Tickets<br />

from Ticketmaster. www.somersethousesummer.org.uk and<br />

www.filmfour.com

HIGHLIGHT EVENTS//AUGUST 20<strong>07</strong><br />

SOHO PRIDE<br />

SUNDAY 19 AUGUST<br />

CROWD PHOTOS: DAVID HUDSON<br />

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PHOTO: CLEO LENG<br />

METRO WEEKENDER<br />

If you’re not planning on disappearing up to Manchester for<br />

the city’s annual Pride festival, then you may be interested<br />

to hear about the Metro Weekender - a big late-summer<br />

knees up set to hit Clapham Common on the bank holiday<br />

weekend (25-26 <strong>August</strong> 20<strong>07</strong>). <strong>The</strong> idea is to host one<br />

day of dance acts, followed by a day of indie, punk and<br />

hip-hop. To this effect, get along on Saturday 25 <strong>August</strong> for<br />

the South West Four day, when<br />

there will be performances and<br />

live sets from Pete Tong, Paul<br />

Van Dyk (pictured left), Sasha,<br />

Ferry Corsten, Shapeshifters,<br />

Judge Jules, John Digweed,<br />

Josh Wink, Eric Prydz, Sander<br />

Kleinenberg and Smokin’ Jo, to<br />

name but a few.<br />

<strong>The</strong>n, on Sunday (26 <strong>August</strong>), for<br />

the Get Loaded <strong>In</strong> <strong>The</strong> Park<br />

part of the festivities, catch sets<br />

from Dirty Pretty Things, <strong>The</strong><br />

Streets, <strong>The</strong> Go Team, Peter<br />

Bjorn and John, Art Brut,<br />

Dizzee Rascal, <strong>The</strong> Mitchell<br />

Brothers, 2ManyDJs and Mia.<br />

Last year’s event attracted about<br />

Paul Van Dyk<br />

<strong>The</strong> Streets and<br />

Shapeshifters<br />

20,000 revellers on both days, and<br />

this year’s event looks like being<br />

just as well attended. Day tickets<br />

cost £35, and full details can be<br />

found at the website at www.<br />

metroweekender.com

WORDS BY LOREM DELOREM | PHOTOGRAPH BY MAET IPSUM

BRIGHTON ROCKS<br />

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GETTING THERE<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are approximately four trains per hour from<br />

London Victoria to Brighton, operated by Southern<br />

Trains. A return ticket costs £17.40.<br />

Thameslink trains also run from London to Brighton,<br />

stopping at King’s Cross Thameslink and London Bridge.<br />

A same-day return costs £16.50. For best fares and<br />

times, check www.nationalrail.co.uk. For details of<br />

coach travel, check www.nationalexpress.com<br />

If driving, set out early and expect road closures and<br />

delays. Check the www.brightonpride.org website<br />

nearer the date for information on possible road closures.<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

If you’re looking to book yourself a room, you’d<br />

better get your skates on – much of the city’s<br />

hotels and B&B’s are booked up for Pride. For<br />

more help, check out the following websites:<br />

www.gaydealsbrighton.co.uk<br />

www.gay.brighton.co.uk<br />

www.realbrighton.com<br />

• www.laterooms.co.uk<br />

WWW.BRIGHTONPRIDE.ORG<br />

PHOTOGRAPH © BRITAINONVIEW/BRIGHTONONVIEW<br />

PHOTOGRAPH: © THT<br />

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PHOTOGRAPH: © WWW.REALBRIGHTON.COM

MAP<br />

THE SCENE<br />

BRIGHTON’S GAY QUARTER CAN BE FOUND CHIEFLY AROUND ST JAMES STREET AND OLD STEINE, STRETCHING<br />

ALONG THE FRONT FROM THE PALACE PIER INTO THE AREA CALLED KEMPTOWN… OR ‘CAMPTOWN’ AS IT IS<br />

SOMETIMES DUBBED. ADRIAN GILLAN CHECKS OUT SOME OF THE VENUES WORTH A VISIT…<br />

<strong>The</strong> Bulldog Tavern (31 St James Street), on St James<br />

Street itself, is the oldest gay venue still functioning. It’s<br />

got very late opening hours and will be open around the<br />

clock for Pride. <strong>The</strong> Marine Tavern (13 Broad Street),<br />

just off on Broad Street, joins a crowd of other traditional<br />

Kemptown bars that generally cater for the older crowd,<br />

while the bears tend to head for the Star <strong>In</strong>n (7-9<br />

Manchester Street). Or try the all-in-one Amsterdam<br />

(11-12 Marine Parade) on the seafront - a hotel-bar-sauna<br />

multiplex that pulls in travellers from afar who strangely<br />

fancy everything under one roof. To rev up, the Queen’s<br />

Arms (7 George Street) - over on George Street across St<br />

James’ - is still one of the liveliest, campest pubs in town<br />

with regular drag acts and karaoke laid on all week for a<br />

drunken cheery crowd. R-Bar (7 Marine Parade) ups the<br />

style stakes with unbeatable views of pier and sea. Almost<br />

next door, Charles Street (8 Marine Parade) – a bit like<br />

Soho’s Rupert Street but bigger - is the real style-meister<br />

hereabouts, with room for 500, many of whom you’ll find<br />

queuing at the long bar, if not busy making a big entrance<br />

or exit down the illuminated ramp.<br />

massive Wild Fruit (Creation, 78 West Street -<br />

www.wildfruit.co.uk). This year Wild Fruit’s official<br />

post-Pride party will take place at Audio, with tickets<br />

£18-£20. Other post-Pride parties include a Monkey<br />

meets Crash Pride Special at Gloucester Nightclub,<br />

and a Discotec and Queer Nation special at the<br />

Ocean Rooms – check www.wildfruit.co.uk<br />

for ticket information.<br />

THE PARADE<br />

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PRIDE IN THE PARK<br />

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ST JAMES STREET<br />

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<strong>The</strong>re are several main devotedly-gay clubs in Brighton,<br />

each offering varied nightly flavours to suit most<br />

tastes. V2 (5 Steine Street) holds court on Steine<br />

Street. Around the block, Revenge (32 Old Steine -<br />

www.revenge.co.uk) is just about the biggest club in<br />

the south of England outside London, playing host to a<br />

young, mainstream crowd across multi-floors; vying with a<br />

host of regular rival nights – not least the<br />

PHOTOGRAPH: © WWW.REALBRIGHTON.COM

THE SON ALWAYS

SHINES<br />

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I LOVE WHAT I DO,<br />

AND I RESPECT<br />

WHAT I DO, BUT I<br />

SWEAR TO YOU I DO<br />

NOT TAKE MYSELF<br />

THAT SERIOUS

WHEN I DO<br />

INTERVIEWS PEOPLE<br />

ASK ME MORE ABOUT<br />

MY PERSONAL LIFE<br />

THAN THEY DO<br />

ABOUT MY ALBUM…<br />

THEY WANNA HEAR<br />

ABOUT WHO YOU’RE<br />

WITH AND HOW BIG<br />

YOUR PENIS IS<br />

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Enrique Iglesias’ new album, <strong>In</strong>somniac, is out now.

ALBUMS OUT IN AUGUST<br />

THE CORAL<br />

Roots & Echoes<br />

(Datasonic)<br />

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<strong>Out</strong>: 6 <strong>August</strong><br />

<br />

DRAGONETTE<br />

Galore (Universal)<br />

Despite relocating to<br />

London and playing<br />

every pop festival and<br />

open-air gay gathering of the last six months, the launch<br />

of Canadian popsters Dragonette has not quite set the<br />

world alight in the way that label Mercury might have<br />

desired. <strong>The</strong>y were arguably robbed of a chart hit with<br />

debut single ‘I Get Around’, and if second single ‘Take It<br />

Like A Man’ has not earned itself a place in the top 30 by<br />

the time you read this, then there’s something seriously<br />

amiss. With cute husband and wife duo Dan and Martina<br />

(backed by fellow Canadian Joel and Brit guitarist Will),<br />

melodic hooks aplenty, a classic pop sensibility and the<br />

hint of something a bit darker and fetishistic beneath the<br />

chart-friendly sheen, all the ingredients are seemingly in<br />

place… or are they just lacking that indefinable X factor?<br />

Debut album Galore follows pretty much the same<br />

template laid down by their first two singles. Guitardriven<br />

electro pop that veers between Gwen Stefani and<br />

MOR 80s acts like Duran Duran. Possible future singles<br />

include the likes of ‘Black Limousine’, with its squelchy<br />

synths, and the Christian-baiting ‘Jesus Doesn’t Love Me’,<br />

in which Martina possibly tries to hard to push the ‘ooh,<br />

aren’t we naughty’ angle a little too hard.<br />

Dragonette produce polished pop that’s a lot better than<br />

some of the dross clogging up the lower reaches of the<br />

charts. However, on the evidence of Galore, the jury’s still<br />

out on whether they’ve got the nous to make the leap<br />

from first division to premier league. DH<br />

<strong>Out</strong>: 6 <strong>August</strong><br />

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<br />

KOSHEEN<br />

Damage (Moksha)<br />

From the opening lyric<br />

of Damage, it’s apparent<br />

that vocalist Sian Evans<br />

has just recently come out of a bitch of a relationship.<br />

Against a gutsy backdrop of drum and bass, the first<br />

Kosheen release in over four years is Evan’s thinly-veiled<br />

attempt at catharsis - and it doesn’t always make for easy<br />

or comfortable listening. On ‘Thief’, she positively spits,<br />

“You keep your jacket, I don’t want it!”. Elsewhere, on<br />

tracks like ‘Same Ground Again’ and ‘Overkill’, Evans further<br />

unleashes her frustration and despair at the disintegration<br />

of her union.<br />

<strong>The</strong> name Kosheen is derived from the Japanese symbols<br />

for ‘old’ and ‘new’, and Damage combines both elements<br />

of the band’s namesake. On a handful of tracks, the<br />

Bristol-based trio revisit some of the acidic elements of<br />

their debut album Resist, but the songs have a tendency<br />

to get a little lost amongst the bleeps and techno<br />

flourishes. Damage has more impact when the formula<br />

is thrown out the window. ‘Analogue Street Dub’ is sparse<br />

and fuzzy, ‘Guilty’ pits the guitar riff of <strong>The</strong> Cure’s ‘A Forest’<br />

against new-wave pop, and ‘Under Fire’ is effectively<br />

haunting and minimalist.<br />

<strong>The</strong> highlight of Damage, however, is ‘Cruel Heart’, a<br />

song Evans wrote about her teenage son discovering<br />

his independence from her. It’s truthful without being<br />

sentimental... and the subject provides a welcome relief<br />

from the trauma of her bitter break-up. Here’s hoping she<br />

finds more contentment before album number five. MW<br />

<strong>Out</strong>: 27 <strong>August</strong><br />

<br />

DARREN HAYES<br />

This Delicate<br />

Thing We’ve Made<br />

(Powdered Sugar)<br />

Savage Garden sold over<br />

25 million records within the space of four years, managing<br />

to crack the lucrative American market in the process.<br />

Perhaps singer Darren Hayes saw himself as some kind of<br />

tortured artist trapped within a generic pop act, because<br />

just like George Michael did with Wham!, he split the band<br />

up at the height of their fame.<br />

On his first two solo outings, Hayes flirted with electronica,<br />

but the songs lacked conviction and subsequently failed<br />

to cut through or score the same amount of commercial<br />

success as he’d previously enjoyed. However, This Delicate<br />

Thing We’ve Made, an ambitious double offering that he’s<br />

released on his own label, is dark, brave, and much more<br />

strident.<br />

Although he’s gone to great pains to mark his own identity,<br />

Hayes pays distinct homage to his idols. He often employs a<br />

lyrical obliqueness similar to Kate Bush’s work; he plunders<br />

Prince’s Purple Rain on the funktastic ‘Bombs Up <strong>In</strong> My Face’;<br />

and ‘Who Would Have Thought’ could easily be a cast-off<br />

from Madonna’s Ray Of Light.<br />

Double albums have a reputation for being self-indulgent<br />

and inconsistent, but Hayes only briefly drops the ball in<br />

the middle of the second CD. ‘I Just Want You To Love Me’<br />

nods to the schmaltzy heyday of Savage Garden, briefly<br />

reminding us of a past which, elsewhere, he’s done such<br />

a good job of letting us forget about. MW<br />

<strong>Out</strong>: 20 <strong>August</strong><br />

<br />

WORDS BY DAVID HUDSON AND MICHAEL WILTON

THE HOAX<br />

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EAGLE VS. SHARK<br />

FILMS OUT IN AUGUST<br />

KNOCKED UP<br />

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THE BEST DVDS<br />

AUGUST ’<strong>07</strong><br />

BLADES OF GLORY<br />

OUT: 6 AUGUST<br />

Will Ferrell and Jon Heder<br />

are the rival figure skating<br />

champions who are forced to<br />

unite as a team after they find<br />

themselves disqualified from<br />

competing as singles. Good<br />

for a giggle, this is an effective<br />

but generic Hollywood comedy<br />

that offers slapstick humour, light-hearted homo-eroticism<br />

and lots of outrageous Lyrcra outfits. But please Will, no<br />

more sports send-ups, eh?<br />

<br />

SUNSHINE<br />

OUT: 27 AUGUST<br />

Director Danny Boyle’s epic scifi<br />

spectacle may not be able to<br />

quite decide whether it wants<br />

to be 2001: A Space Odyssey,<br />

Silent Running, Alien or Event<br />

Horizon, but it still provides<br />

more than enough special<br />

effects and thrills to keep fans<br />

of the genre happy. Cillian Murphy and Chris Evans star as<br />

the astronauts on a mission to revive the dying sun and<br />

save the earth... when they pick up a distress signal from<br />

another craft.<br />

<br />

FAST FOOD NATION<br />

OUT: 27 AUGUST<br />

Greg Kinnear, Ethan Hawke,<br />

Patricia Arquette, Avril<br />

Lavigne and Kris Kristofferson<br />

are among the ensemble<br />

cast in Richard Linklater’s<br />

semi-successful adaptation<br />

of Eric Schlosser’s worldwide<br />

bestseller. A series of<br />

interwoven, separate stories examine t he underbelly of the<br />

fast food industry, from the production of its menus to the<br />

exploitation of lowly-paid staff and migrant workers.<br />

<br />

WHEN THE<br />

LEVEES BROKE<br />

OUT: 27 AUGUST<br />

If you missed this when it<br />

was on BBC4 earlier this year,<br />

do try and catch a viewing of<br />

this on DVD. Director Spike<br />

Lee’s monumental and epic<br />

documentary on the damage<br />

and aftermath wreaked by<br />

Hurricane Katrina upon New Orleans – and the ensuing<br />

bureaucratic ineptitude of the authorities - is unmissable.<br />

It draws heavily on first hand accounts from the survivors<br />

of the worst natural disaster in living US history. It’s both<br />

gripping viewing and a testament to the spirit of the<br />

citizens of this stricken city.<br />

<br />

REVIEWS BY DAVID HUDSON

THE WALKER<br />

GAY FILM CLUB<br />

DO YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN FILM, BUT NOT<br />

ALWAYS SOMEONE TO ACCOMPANY YOU TO<br />

CATCH THE LATEST ART HOUSE MASTERPIECE?<br />

OR DO YOU JUST FANCY MAKING NEW FRIENDS<br />

WHILST TAKING IN THE LATEST MULTIPLEX<br />

BLOCKBUSTER?<br />

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<strong>Out</strong> recently stumbled across the London-based<br />

Gay Film Club on MySpace (www.myspace.<br />

com/gayfilmclub). <strong>The</strong> concept is simple – a group<br />

of gay film lovers get together once every 2-3 weeks to<br />

watch a movie, with events co-ordinated via messages<br />

on MySpace.<br />

<strong>The</strong> group was set up in March by one Nick Boogiepop.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> film club was born out of two reasons,” he told<br />

<strong>Out</strong>. “<strong>The</strong> first is simply my passion for film and how<br />

little I had been getting to the cinema for a while. I<br />

would always have a checklist of upcoming films I<br />

really wanted to see, but as their release dates came,<br />

I either wouldn’t manage to find a time when both<br />

myself and one of my friends were able to go, or worse<br />

yet a time would be set up only for my friends to<br />

cancel on me at the last minute.<br />

“I felt that setting up a film club would mean that even<br />

if it was just a handful of people that turned up there<br />

would always be somebody to see the film with. Also,<br />

making it into an event such as this would give people<br />

that extra little incentive to go out to the cinema.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> second reason was that I just felt it would be nice<br />

to have a gay social gathering outside of clubs, which<br />

really tended to be the only place I would meet new<br />

people.”<br />

Gay Film Club is currently organising a home<br />

edition to view a John Waters triple bill, plus a cinema<br />

outing to see either Transformers or <strong>The</strong> Simpsons<br />

Movie – they’re currently debating online as to what<br />

most people want to see! Check the MySpace site for<br />

more details.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> best way to stay in touch is definitely the<br />

MySpace,” says Nick. “However, I have just recently set<br />

up a Facebook group also (London Gay Film<br />

Club) and I am starting up a<br />

mailing list - send an email<br />

to gayfilmclub@hotmail.<br />

co.uk to join.”

ALL THAT JAZZ<br />

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY CATHERINE ASHMORE<br />

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Box office: 0870-950 0935 - www.drowsychaperoneuk.com<br />

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO Q<br />

<strong>Out</strong> was pleased to join with the<br />

cast of Avenue Q at the<br />

Noel Coward <strong>The</strong>atre as they<br />

celebrated the first birthday<br />

of the West End production<br />

recently. It’s a tribute to the<br />

material that many of the<br />

original cast are still with the<br />

production 12 months down<br />

the line – something that is<br />

increasingly rare in the West<br />

End these days. Having seen the<br />

production shortly after it opened<br />

last year it was great to revisit<br />

what has become an even funnier<br />

evening in the theatre. Huge credit<br />

must go to Jon Robyns, Simon<br />

Lipkin and Julie Atheron who, as<br />

the lead puppeteers, have created<br />

some truly memorable characters<br />

– from internet porn-loving<br />

monsters and gay republican<br />

accountants and the truly inspired<br />

Bad Idea Bears. With tickets<br />

recently reduced midweek to a<br />

top price of £35, now’s the time<br />

to book tickets and check out<br />

what all the fuss is about!<br />

Box office: 0870 950 0902<br />

www.avenueqthemusical.co.uk<br />

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID DOLMAN

RESTAURANT<br />

HUDSON REVIEWS KU BAR’S NEW LUNCHTIME MENU…<br />

Ku Bar, 30 Lisle Street, Leicester Square, WC2.<br />

t| 020-7437 4303. www.ku-bar.co.uk<br />

Pub grub can be very much a hit or miss affair… and usually more miss than hit.<br />

Thankfully, when the Ku Bar took up its lovely new residency on the corner of Lisle<br />

Street and decided to offer a lunchtime food menu, the team decided to call in some<br />

professional help. To this end, they’ve recruited the crew at Boulevard to prepare their<br />

new menu. Boulevard is the stylish, café-restaurant eatery that’s situated right next<br />

door to Comptons on Old Compton Street. <strong>The</strong> Boulevard chefs have come up with a<br />

small but perfectly formed selection of<br />

lunchtime treats, available at the Ku between the hours of noon and 4pm every day.<br />

If you’ve not yet been to the Ku, then this new menu is as good a reason as any to check<br />

it out. <strong>The</strong> new venue underwent a multi-thousand pound refurbishment to bring it up to<br />

Ku standards, including some gorgeous black and gold wallpaper, and all-new fixtures<br />

and fittings. <strong>The</strong> ground floor bar is long and narrow, with the tables at the far end being<br />

reserved for lunchtime food service. Lunch offers a selection of dishes priced in the £5-£8<br />

region. We perused the menu while greedily gobbling down an array of warm bread,<br />

served with butter, olive oil and tapenade (a finely chopped olive paste). Dishes include<br />

the likes of minute steak baguette with French fries and tomato-onion chutney, honey<br />

oak smoked salmon with celeriac remoulade, Caesar salad, and a meat board, with a<br />

selection of Parma, Serrano and cured ham, salami and chorizio. My partner decided<br />

to try the homemade burger (£8) – which was a hefty slab of premium quality meat,<br />

served in a fresh bun and accompanied by chips and chutney. It certainly hit the spot.<br />

I opted for the Eggs Benedict – two freshly poached eggs served on ham and muffins,<br />

smothered in a Hollandaise sauce. Decent value at £6.50, and I’d happily have paid more<br />

if a smoked salmon version had been available. <strong>In</strong> fact, for those who like things a little<br />

fishy, the bar’s signature dish is mussels – served either in white wine and cream, Thai<br />

curry or Calvados and apple sauce (£7.50).<br />

<strong>The</strong> Ku has seen business grow and grow since its move to swanky new premises. <strong>The</strong><br />

introduction of a well-prepared and affordable lunchtime menu will hopefully attract<br />

further custom still, and certainly adds another string to this trend-setting gay bar’s bow.

PARTY MONSTER<br />

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CLUBS>BARS>FASHION>GOSSIP>NEWS>TRENDS>SCENES>QUEENS>FACTS> <br />

<br />

PAGE 36<br />

SALVATION<br />

<strong>The</strong> long-running night<br />

turned gold for Pride<br />

weekend...<br />

PAGE 44<br />

PRIDE LONDON<br />

It rained cats, dogs and<br />

gays... but that didn’t<br />

stop the partying!<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©<br />

SHADOW TURNS SIX<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

PAGE 48<br />

JUICY<br />

<strong>The</strong> official post-Pride<br />

bash took place at<br />

Juicy. Unsurprisingly,<br />

it was packed to its<br />

illuminated rafters!

SALVATION<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Held in the glamorously opulent setting of the art deco Bloomsbury Ballroom, the team<br />

transformed the venue with lighting rigs, a mega sound system, staging, podiums,<br />

lasers and chandeliers, creating an aural and visual feast for the senses. <strong>The</strong> crowd were<br />

whipped into a frenzy by a constant stream of stilt walkers, go-go’s and drag queens who<br />

paraded across the stages scattering give-aways and goodies to the upraised expectant<br />

hands. Speaking of the crowd, you’d be hard pushed to find a sexier, more buffed up,<br />

collection of guys and gals anywhere outside of Brazil. With gold as a theme many of<br />

the revellers had daubed themselves with metallic paints, donned impossibly tight gold<br />

shorts, glittered down their pec’s and festooned themselves with ornaments, chains and<br />

more bling than an Elizabeth Duke sample sale!<br />

Music came courtesy of deckmeisters Elliot Brown and Luke Hope, who dished<br />

out fruity and funked up house and arms-in-the-air anthems, and half way<br />

through the evening we were treated to a PA from gay-twin-brother-pop-duo<br />

Nemesis Rising (interviewed in last month’s mag). <strong>The</strong> crowd seemed somewhat<br />

bemused by a couple of shirtless 32-year-olds, but their debut single ‘Number One<br />

<strong>In</strong> Heaven’ is an inoffensive little pop ditty and their dance routines were certainly<br />

enthusiastic! Not bad for a couple of guys raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses!<br />

With their super-sexy dancers, lush venues, great DJs and the following of the hottest<br />

hunks on the scene, the Salvation crew definitely have a winning formula, and being a<br />

monthly club night definitely makes it a destination night to plan towards.<br />

Talking of which… put the next Salvation date in your diary now as it’s going to be an<br />

extra special one. For one night, the team will be taking over the Grand Hall of the New<br />

Connaught Rooms (61-65 Great Queen Street, WC2) for a spectacular Grand Summer<br />

Ball. With a whopping capacity for 2,000, it’s sure to be one of the most talked-about<br />

parties of the year. Doors will be open from 5pm till midnight and spinning the sounds<br />

will be DJs Elliott J Brown, Sharon O’ Love, Luke Hope, Pier Morrocco, Per QX, and Mattias.<br />

Tickets are on sale now (priced £15) at <strong>The</strong> Box, Clone Zone, Prowler, Profile Bar and Trax,<br />

or on-line from www.clubtickets.com<br />

Jacob from Nemesis<br />

Salvation returns Sunday 29 July to the New Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden. Tickets<br />

priced between £15 and £25 (VIP). For more details, check www.salvation-london.com

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

THE BOX<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Set apart from the main<br />

drag of Old Compton<br />

Street and the gay bars<br />

of Soho, <strong>The</strong> Box has very<br />

much its own identity and<br />

geographical niche. It’s<br />

been running for just over<br />

ten years, but new owners<br />

Frank Kaszynski and Nadir<br />

Suleman moved in and took<br />

the place over just a few<br />

months ago.<br />

So far, they’ve been getting<br />

to grips with the running<br />

of the business. Respectful<br />

of the loyal clientele and<br />

the image that the venue<br />

has established, they’re not<br />

about to make any radical<br />

changes, but are looking to<br />

improve on what’s already<br />

on offer. <strong>In</strong> short, they<br />

want to offer good quality<br />

food and drink, in stylish<br />

café-bar surroundings, for<br />

a discerning, modernminded<br />

customer.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Business has increased<br />

since we took it over,” says<br />

Nadir, “predominantly<br />

because we have kept<br />

the ethos of <strong>The</strong> Box<br />

but tweaked what’s on<br />

offer and made it better.<br />

Better menu, better wine<br />

list, better service and<br />

kept the prices static.<br />

We’ve given it a lick of<br />

paint and TLC, ahead of<br />

a major refurbishment in<br />

September-October time.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> venue has always<br />

attracted a healthconscious,<br />

gym-friendly<br />

crowd of clubber, and<br />

besides its food and drink<br />

menu, sells advance<br />

tickets for all the big<br />

clubbing events. <strong>The</strong>re’s a<br />

rotating exhibition of art<br />

and photography gracing<br />

the walls, while the light<br />

and airy feel of the place<br />

contributes to its popularity<br />

over the summer months.<br />

On the night of our visit, the<br />

boys were spilling out on to<br />

the Seven Dials pavement,<br />

and the atmosphere felt<br />

suitably European and<br />

sophisticated. <strong>In</strong> fact, it<br />

felt more like Barcelona or<br />

Paris, and lacked the more<br />

drunken ambience of Old<br />

Compton Street.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> bar’s popularity<br />

is partly because of its<br />

location outside Soho,”<br />

agrees Nadir. “We offer a<br />

very relaxed atmosphere<br />

without attitude, a very<br />

good-looking crowd,<br />

and we know what our<br />

customers want. <strong>The</strong><br />

secret of the bar’s success<br />

is listening to what our<br />

customers want and<br />

offering them a professional<br />

service… with a little bit<br />

of added sex appeal!”<br />

<strong>The</strong> Box, 32-34 Monmouth<br />

Street, Seven Dials, WC2.<br />

020-7240 5828.<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

CENTRAL STATION<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Although it’s been<br />

around for over 15<br />

years, Central Station<br />

has retained its<br />

position on the London<br />

gay scene through<br />

constantly changing,<br />

adapting and updating<br />

itself. Earlier this year the<br />

team had a revamp of their<br />

ground floor bar, bring in<br />

comfy leather sofas and<br />

new tables. Along with an<br />

extended wine menu, the<br />

changes added a touch of<br />

class to the venue. Now,<br />

owners Martin and Duncan<br />

have gone an added a roof<br />

terrace, to take advantage<br />

of the summer weather<br />

and to provide smokers<br />

somewhere to head when<br />

the urge for a nicotine fix<br />

takes them. <strong>The</strong>re’s seating<br />

and tables up there too, and<br />

it’s already proved a very<br />

welcome addition, post-1<br />

July smoking ban.<br />

“It’s proved very popular,”<br />

Duncan confirmed,<br />

“despite the poor weather,<br />

because it’s partly covered<br />

– although the rain’s been<br />

great for the plants!”<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Out</strong> team visited the<br />

bar on a Friday evening,<br />

and arrived just in time<br />

to catch entertainment<br />

from Drag With No Name.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re’s cabaret every<br />

Friday and Saturday night,<br />

and an eclectic line-up<br />

of attraction throughout<br />

the rest of the weekend,<br />

including queer films<br />

each Wednesday at Film<br />

Wotever, stripper action<br />

on Thursdays, and karaoke<br />

on Sundays. <strong>The</strong>n there’s<br />

the basement disco, with<br />

its selection of dance and<br />

cruise clubs.<br />

Throughout the whole<br />

of <strong>August</strong>, the team are<br />

inviting you to ‘Get Horny<br />

For Free’. Horny is the name<br />

of the Thursday night cruise<br />

session, and for the month<br />

of <strong>August</strong>, admission to the<br />

ground floor and basement<br />

will be free on Thursdays.<br />

Cabaret highlights for the<br />

month include Lizzy Drip<br />

on Saturday 18 th <strong>August</strong>,<br />

Sandra on the 24 th , Lola<br />

Lasagne on the 25 th and<br />

Kandi Kane on the 31 st .<br />

Central Station, 32 Wharfdale<br />

Road, N1. 020-7278 3294.<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

PHOTOGRAPH BY HEIDI RYAN<br />

WHAT IS SHE<br />

WEARING?<br />

<br />

<br />

We’ve all got a friend like it. <strong>The</strong> fantabulous friend<br />

that just can’t help himself. He’s always got a cheap, snide<br />

comment handy. Always a ‘God what is she wearing’ or a<br />

‘Look at the state of her’ aside. Think you recognise this vile<br />

queen? Think it could apply to every third homo registered<br />

in your phonebook? You should recognise her honey – take<br />

a look in the mirror.<br />

<strong>The</strong> sport of bitching on the gay scene is something that has<br />

fascinated me since those pioneering days of late teendom<br />

when I ventured into various provincial hellholes chasing<br />

sex as a prime young free-range chicken. I achieved various<br />

degrees of success, believing what I wanted was someone<br />

to praise my fabulous outfit and reward me with a night of hot<br />

sex when what I really needed was an affirmation that<br />

being gay was ok and some genuinely friendly companions<br />

(something that was apparently in short supply in Walsall).<br />

Arriving out on the gay scene, whether you’re a<br />

buffed-up old queen or lean baby clubber can be a<br />

daunting experience, and we’re all used to braving that<br />

less than lukewarm welcome to certain sections of the<br />

gay scene. Even if you’ve got the right look, the right<br />

complexion, the right clothes and perfect pec-to-waist<br />

ratio, you’ll still be fair game for a lashing from some vile<br />

perma-tanned queen with a peroxide fringe like a Weetabix.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are clubs of course that market themselves as a<br />

‘friendly’ alternative to everything else that’s out there. As<br />

a pan-scene clubber, may I take the liberty of quashing<br />

this belief and confirm that this is in fact a complete lie. It<br />

doesn’t matter where in the known gay universe you decide<br />

to indulge in your partying, there will always be a nasty<br />

group of muscle queens somewhere vehemently dissing<br />

the show of less well-developed totty on the dancefloor,<br />

while over in the neighbouring ‘alternative club’, a gaggle of<br />

floppy-fringed indie-dudes will cackling at the state of their<br />

brothers’ eyeliner. Or something like that.<br />

What is it about gay men and their obsession with<br />

bitching? We just can’t help ourselves, eh?<br />

And then of course, there’s that scandalous blog. Not<br />

only do we indulge ourselves of releasing our bitchiness<br />

across the dancefloor, some Grand High Bitch has apparently<br />

cause for documenting her scorchingly eloquent acidity and<br />

releasing it for all to see out there in the cyberscene.<br />

<strong>In</strong> case you’ve missed it, the tantalisingly anonymous<br />

and short-lived naffnaffqueenqueen.blogspot.com<br />

blog offered a series of caustic bi-weekly observations<br />

with the sole intention of mocking, maiming and generally<br />

bitching about the state of the scene. No club remained<br />

unturned. Promoters, hosts, drag, DJs and scene-queens<br />

become fair game fodder for character defamation and<br />

inflammatory remarks. Hell, this queen even has an<br />

interactive poll set up for our delectation, giving us all a<br />

democratic (and crucially anonymous) opportunity to<br />

systematically flay the personalities that keep the scene<br />

ticking over.<br />

Judging by the amount of congratulatory posts (many<br />

made by the recipients of the hammering), this popular<br />

nugget of gay life has set tongues wagging across all<br />

WHAT IS IT ABOUT<br />

GAY MEN AND THEIR<br />

OBSESSION WITH<br />

BITCHING?<br />

WE JUST CAN’T HELP<br />

OURSELVES…<br />

corners of the scene and become the most significant bitch<br />

‘whodunnit’ controversy to hit the scene for years. We just<br />

love it, don’t we?<br />

Put yourself in the ‘scene personality’ category<br />

(I used the word loosely) and you literally put yourself on a<br />

level where you’re going to be open to attack. After lengthy<br />

conversations with some of the featured personalities of the<br />

site, we came to the conclusion that to achieve any level<br />

of success on the gay scene, you must by default attract a<br />

degree of hostility. ‘It’s all part of the job’.<br />

<strong>The</strong> thing the worries me is that bitchiness is catching,<br />

and it’s an activity that I’m guilty of indulging in myself.<br />

<strong>In</strong> the niche ghetto of hardcore muscle and pumping gay<br />

after-hours, hard bodies, butt-hugging designer jeans and a<br />

masculine square jaw mask a rather needy tendency to hide<br />

our weaknesses. Everyone strives to look like they’re having<br />

the time of their lives – and of course, some are – but the<br />

rest are busy elevating their status and hardening their face<br />

by out-bitching their gay brothers.<br />

Try living by that ‘what you give is what you get’ maxim<br />

for a bit. If someone is mean and bitchy to you, perhaps you<br />

need to adjust the way you’re presenting yourself – and<br />

walk away. And take a long hard look at your inner bitch.<br />

Perhaps she’s not quite as fun as you thought she was.<br />

GET ON THE<br />

GUEST LIST<br />

Join hostess Megan and<br />

the Horizon team on<br />

Saturday 25 <strong>August</strong> for<br />

a special Bank Holiday<br />

weekend foray Under<br />

<strong>The</strong> Sea, featuring lost<br />

treasure, underwater<br />

caves and sexy mer-gogo<br />

boys. Saucy sea dogs<br />

spinning those salty<br />

sounds include Stevie B,<br />

<strong>The</strong> Oli, David Jimenez,<br />

Gonzalo and Dave Cross.<br />

Stay on free of charge<br />

for Later and ride the<br />

Atlantis tide into Sunday!<br />

<strong>The</strong> crew also host a huge<br />

Bank Holiday Orange<br />

blow-out from 11pm on<br />

the Sunday.<br />

Horizon’s Under <strong>The</strong><br />

Sea Party is Saturday<br />

25 <strong>August</strong> at Fire, South<br />

Lambeth Road, Vauxhall.<br />

Doors are open from<br />

11pm till 10am and entry<br />

is £12 in advance.<br />

www.fireclub.co.uk<br />

Check out DTPM’s DTEP<br />

party on Sunday 26<br />

<strong>August</strong> at Fabric, featuring<br />

an extended session of<br />

funky and tribal-laced<br />

house tunes courtesy<br />

of Justin Ballard, Lisa<br />

German, Paul Heron and<br />

pals. Black II Basic’s Basil<br />

leads the percussion on<br />

Floor Two, and you can<br />

expect a whole host of<br />

sexy go-go action and<br />

surprise guests.<br />

DTPM’s DTEP is on<br />

Sunday 26 <strong>August</strong> at<br />

Fabric, 77a Charterhouse<br />

Street, EC1. See www.<br />

blue-cube.net for more<br />

information.

Trafalgar Square<br />

Stonewall<br />

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID HUDSON & SARAH GARRETT

PRIDE<br />

LONDON<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Well, the weather couldn’t have been much worse,<br />

could it? Given that we had the wettest June since records<br />

began, Pride London unfortunately didn’t escape<br />

getting a bit of a soaking… and that wasn’t its only<br />

problem. It took place on Saturday 30 June - less than<br />

48 hours after unexploded car bombs were discovered in<br />

central London – for a while there was a chance<br />

that the whole thing might have been called<br />

off!<br />

Fortunately, after discussions between<br />

organisers and police, the event took place<br />

as planned… and the wet conditions didn’t<br />

do anything to dissuade thousands of gay<br />

folk from attending. <strong>In</strong> fact, we reckon it was<br />

the biggest and best march in years – even<br />

beating last year’s Europride festivities.<br />

Maybe the fact that the parade now<br />

takes in such a high-profile route has<br />

helped to boost numbers. We joined it at<br />

Oxford Street… just as the heavens were<br />

opening and the umbrellas were being<br />

raised. We couldn’t help feeling sorry<br />

for the various armed forces and police<br />

contingents on the parade, who weren’t<br />

allowed to raise umbrellas and just had<br />

to endure a good soaking!<br />

It was gratifying to see a high number<br />

of corporate floats from various bigbusiness<br />

employers such as Barclays,<br />

Shell and British Airways – all keen to<br />

assert their gay-friendly credentials. <strong>The</strong>re also seemed to<br />

be a great number of gay sports groups, decked out in kit<br />

and eager to demonstrate their prowess along the route<br />

– be it volleyball, rugby or football.<br />

Our umbrella-less forces<br />

Old Compton Street

GMFA showing their colours<br />

(picture courtesey of GMFA)<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were the<br />

obligatory leather<br />

men, while probably<br />

causing the most looks<br />

of amazement was<br />

transsexual superstar and<br />

porn actor Buck Angel,<br />

who rode a Chariot<br />

pulled by a gang of<br />

semi-naked hunks from<br />

the Hard On club. Not to<br />

be outdone, Fire had<br />

their own hatchback with<br />

hostess Megan proudly<br />

waving the placards, and<br />

glitter-dusted selection of<br />

Vauxhall studs.<br />

<strong>The</strong> parade made its way to<br />

Westminster, and was followed<br />

by the rally in Trafalgar Square and<br />

cabaret in Leicester Square. Here the<br />

likes of Darren Hayes, UnkleJam, Axe<br />

Girl and Dragonette provided sterling<br />

performances, while the likes of Graham<br />

Norton, John Barrowman and Amy Lamé<br />

acted as comperes, and deputy Labour<br />

leader Harriet Harman gave speeches.<br />

<strong>The</strong> persistent rain couldn’t fail to slightly<br />

tarnish proceedings, and many ended up<br />

disappearing up to Soho to enjoy cover in the many<br />

bars that were throwing their own Pride parties. We<br />

saw queues to get in to the Yard, Village and Comptons,<br />

while <strong>The</strong> Edge also did a roaring trade on Soho<br />

Square, where Fire DJs spun the sounds for the crowds.<br />

We didn’t crawl home till the early hours… slightly<br />

damp but with smiles on our faces.<br />

A big thanks to everyone who came to say hello to the<br />

<strong>Out</strong> <strong>In</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>City</strong> team on our stall in Trafalgar Square<br />

– look out for us again at Brighton Pride!<br />

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID HUDSON & SARAH GARRETT

JUICY PRIDE<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<strong>The</strong> torrential rain that<br />

characterised most of<br />

last month’s Pride day<br />

festivities continued<br />

well into the night, so<br />

it’s no small mercy that Fire<br />

enjoys a location adjacent<br />

to the relative sanctuary<br />

of a railway arch, which<br />

afforded the hordes of<br />

glammed-up clubbers that<br />

had turned out in force<br />

a little shelter from the<br />

driving rain.<br />

Fire has enjoyed a degree of<br />

extensive notoriety of late –<br />

perhaps not for all the right<br />

reasons – but it’s post-Pride<br />

official celebration, hosted<br />

by the team that bring you<br />

pumping Saturday-nighter<br />

Juicy, was proof enough<br />

that the capital’s coolest,<br />

campest and muscled-up<br />

club kids show no signs of<br />

wavering their support for<br />

the venue that brings you<br />

those hi-octane non-stop<br />

whoppers.<br />

<strong>The</strong> night featured four<br />

rooms of fierce and funky<br />

sounds. Gonzalo, Paul<br />

Martin and <strong>The</strong> Oli mashed<br />

up the funked-up uplifting<br />

vibes on that lunatic main<br />

floor, while Sean Dickson<br />

and David Jimenez mixed<br />

up more of an electroinfused<br />

and bass-driven<br />

set in Room Two. Over in<br />

the LightBox, Stevie B kept<br />

our hands in the air with an<br />

uplifting set that sent the<br />

temperatures soaring – just<br />

the way we like it at these<br />

massive all-night parties!<br />

Specially-customised<br />

and rainbow-coloured<br />

projections were paraded<br />

across the venue’s recentlyadded<br />

plasma screens,<br />

and the extra-camp<br />

glittered-up Brazilian<br />

go-go contingent gave us<br />

a streaming, saucy set and<br />

left us lingering over their<br />

writhing torsos with keen<br />

and hungry eyes… where<br />

do they find them, eh?<br />

If you’ve not been down to<br />

Fire recently, expect to see<br />

something in the way of<br />

jaw-dropping makeover.<br />

<strong>The</strong> smaller dance arena<br />

has long gone, replaced<br />

by a swanky, woodpanelled<br />

‘Fire Lounge’ bar<br />

area that wouldn’t look<br />

out of place in Soho. <strong>The</strong><br />

Lightbox proved to be<br />

one of the most popular<br />

rooms – with a full-on<br />

light assault on your senses<br />

with a full 360-degree<br />

light-changing experience.<br />

Most of the toilets have<br />

seen a vast improvement,<br />

and the club’s connecting<br />

thoroughfares have been<br />

spruced up – did anyone<br />

else trip the light fantastic<br />

in that amazing colourmorphing<br />

corridor between<br />

the Mirror Arch and the<br />

LightBox?<br />

As is always the case<br />

with Fire, it’s the eclectic<br />

mix of clubbers that give<br />

its rotating programme<br />

of events the edge over<br />

other nights in the capital,<br />

and added international<br />

elements attracted to town<br />

by Pride added to the<br />

madness levels.<br />

‘We can’t thank our regulars<br />

enough for supporting<br />

us over Pride weekend,’<br />

Fire’s scorching First Lady<br />

Megan told us. ‘And a huge<br />

thanks to all those guys that<br />

were only in town for the<br />

weekend and chose Juicy’s<br />

Pride party as their official<br />

after-party – it was an<br />

honour to entertain you all!’<br />

As night gradually turned<br />

into day and the club<br />

magically morphed into<br />

a special post-Pride Later<br />

before our eyes, our<br />

attention turned to the<br />

garden, when the sun<br />

occasionally managed to<br />

break through the clouded<br />

skies that characterised<br />

the month of July, and we<br />

remembered why Fire, and<br />

all the club promotions<br />

that sail within her, are<br />

responsible for so many of<br />

the mind-blowing nights<br />

that the scene has to offer.<br />

Check out Juicy at Fire, South<br />

Lambeth Road, Vauxhall on<br />

Saturday 4 and 18 <strong>August</strong>.<br />

<strong>The</strong> crew are also presenting<br />

a special Bank Holiday Orange<br />

followed by an extra-special<br />

Later on 26 <strong>August</strong>. For more<br />

details of Fire’s upcoming<br />

events, check out the website<br />

at www.allthingsorange.com<br />

WORDS BY RICHARD TONKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

SHADOW<br />

LOUNGE<br />

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Whenever the Shadow Lounge throws a party, you<br />

know it’s going to be something pretty special. <strong>The</strong><br />

team take pride in hosting some of London’s most lavish<br />

bashes, and it was typical for them to pull out all the stops<br />

for their sixth birthday, which took place on Thursday 19<br />

July 20<strong>07</strong>.<br />

<strong>The</strong> theme for the night was ‘Jungle’, and the decorators<br />

truly went to town, transforming the Brewer Street venue<br />

with a forest of gold foliage and palms. <strong>The</strong> delectable<br />

waiters and bar staff were all turned into Tarzans for the<br />

night… with no shortage of customers only too happy to<br />

play Jane!<br />

Other treats included a PA from <strong>The</strong>rese (of ‘Put ‘Em<br />

High’ fame), plus blistering disco sets from <strong>The</strong> Oli, Mark<br />

Bambach and Paul Heron, which managed to fuse funky<br />

house beats and contemporary hits with some classic cuts<br />

from yesteryear. <strong>The</strong> assembled throng happily guzzled the<br />

Cosmopolitans and other cocktails from the bar, and were<br />

treated to lavish goodie bags at the end of the evening,<br />

which included a party mix CD from Paul Heron, shopping<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

Gaydar’s Dolly and Dick<br />

vouchers, a Madonna DVD and other delights. <strong>The</strong> whole<br />

event was media partnered by OK! magazine, with further<br />

sponsorship from the likes of Aussie Bum underwear and<br />

Level Vodka.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Shadow Lounge’s 6th Birthday party was a huge<br />

success,” said Guy Monkhouse of parent company Soho<br />

Clubs & Bars. “Our designers let their creative juices run wild<br />

to create an ‘<strong>Out</strong> Of Africa’ experience for our members, their<br />

guests and celebrities. <strong>The</strong> Shadow Lounge staff in their<br />

Aussie Bum underwear and their jaw-dropping body makeup<br />

set the scene for one of the hottest, sexiest and most<br />

extravagant parties that Soho has witnessed this year. We’re<br />

proud that <strong>The</strong> Shadow Lounge continues to create a unique<br />

clubbing experience - here’s to another great year ahead!”<br />

If you want to ensure an invitation to future parties then<br />

you’re best bet is to become a member… but you’d better<br />

hurry. <strong>In</strong> a membership drive, the management are offering<br />

discounted membership until 31 July 20<strong>07</strong> – costing £230<br />

instead of £330. For more details, check out the recently<br />

relaunched website at www.theshadowlounge.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Shadow Lounge<br />

5 Brewer Street,<br />

Soho, W1.<br />

www.theshadow<br />

lounge.com<br />

Singer<br />

<strong>The</strong>rese

ROYAL<br />

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TODAY AND THE FUTURE<br />

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<strong>The</strong> Royal Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington<br />

Lane, SE11. For full details of events<br />

taking place at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern,<br />

including check www.rvt.org.uk<br />

RVT PHOTO BY MIKEKEAR.COM. TIMBERLINA PIC BY CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©

HIGHLIGHTS<br />

FICTION’S BACK!<br />

I SHOULD COCO<br />

Acclaimed New York drag queen Coco Peru swings into<br />

London in <strong>August</strong>, with a residency at the Soho <strong>The</strong>atre<br />

from 13-25 <strong>August</strong> (hitting the stage at 9.30pm). Created<br />

and performed by Clinton Leupp, Miss Coco Peru is best<br />

known in the US for her award-winning solo shows and<br />

her roles in various US movies and television shows (she’s<br />

had cameos in Arrested Development and Will and Grace).<br />

She first appeared in the US spotlight in 1991, with her<br />

show My Goddam Cabaret running for two years at New<br />

York’s cabaret landmark Rose’s Turn. She soon became a<br />

downtown cult favourite.<br />

Tickets for 13-15 <strong>August</strong> cost £10 in advance or £12.50<br />

on the door. Tickets for 16-25 <strong>August</strong> coast £15/£12.50 in<br />

advance, or £17.50/£15 on the door. You’ll find the Soho<br />

<strong>The</strong>atre at 21 Dean Street, W1, and for more details check<br />

www.sohotheatre.com<br />

PHOTOGRAPH: CHRISJEPSON/LONDONCLUBLAND.COM ©<br />

DISCOTEC<br />

As if we needed any more reason to get ourselves down<br />

to Thursday nighter Discotec… they’ve now gone and<br />

introduced a happy hour! Get along early to take advantage<br />

of the Discotec Speed bar, which is open every from 10pm<br />

till 11.30pm. Enjoy Smirnoff Ice at £2 per bottle, Becks at<br />

£1.60 a bottle, Smirnoff and Red Bull at £2, house spirit and<br />

mixer at £1.60 and Pop Champagne at just £7.50 a bottle.<br />

Highlights at the club for the month of <strong>August</strong> include<br />

Tom Burns, Guy Williams and Justin Ballard tearing up the<br />

main room on the 9 th , and a special Black & Blue party<br />

on Thursday 30 th , which will feature special guest Charles<br />

Poulin from Montreal. <strong>The</strong> smaller Lounge Mondiale Room<br />

will feature the likes of DJ Ariel (2 nd Aug), Firmed Up (9 th<br />

Aug), and the Pac Man collective (30 th Aug).<br />

You’ll find Discotec at <strong>The</strong> End, 18 West Central Street,<br />

WC1. Visit www.discotec-club.com or check out www.<br />

myspace.com/discotec.<br />

Fiction, which called time on its long-running residency<br />

at <strong>The</strong> Cross in N1 earlier this year, has announced its<br />

return to the scene. <strong>The</strong> team behind the polysexual Friday<br />

nighter have been scouring London for a suitable venue<br />

to host the night, and think they’ve discovered the perfect<br />

location. Launching again on Friday 27 July, it will be taking<br />

over Island. That’s the swanky venue found next door to<br />

Heaven – formerly known as the Soundshaft.<br />

“We’re taking Fiction back to its roots,” a spokesperson told<br />

us. “It’ll be a more intimate affair, so cast your minds back to<br />

when it started at the Cross... long before those extra arches<br />

were opened, and you’ll get our drift. <strong>The</strong> venue itself opens<br />

on our night, with Fiction of course being its first residency.”<br />

You can expect two rooms of funkin’ pumpin’ electronic<br />

bliss, with DJs including Kellilicious, Lora, Luke Hope, Mark<br />

Westhenry, Nick Tcherniak and Simon Hunter in room one,<br />

and Guy Williams, Justin Ballard, Malcolm Duffy, Nick<br />

“Bodyrox” Bridges and Kam in the second room.<br />

Doors will be open from 11pm till late each week, with<br />

admission £8 in advance, £8 for members, £10 with a<br />

flyer, or £12 without. You’ll find the Island at Hungerford<br />

Lane, Charing Cross, WC2. For more details, check out the<br />

revamped Fiction myspace at www.myspace.com/<br />

clubfiction<br />

G-A-Y GUY<br />

Darren Hayes celebrates<br />

the release of his brand new<br />

solo album, This Delicate<br />

Thing We’ve Made, with<br />

an exclusive appearance<br />

on stage at G-A-Y on 18<br />

<strong>August</strong>. Expect tracks from<br />

the new album, plus some<br />

classics from his back catalogue, including his huge hits as<br />

part of Savage Garden.<br />

Before all this, the G-A-Y team bravely try to summon up<br />

the spirit of summer with their very own annual Beach/<br />

Pool Party on 4 <strong>August</strong>. Take your swimwear and dip your<br />

toes in the club’s own pool – the less you wear, the cheaper<br />

the admission on the night!<br />

Finally, host Jeremy Joseph would like to hear from any diehard<br />

Kylie fans. He’s currently putting together a collection<br />

of messages from G-A-Y regulars for a special DVD - anyone<br />

interested in taking part should email info@g-a-y.co.uk<br />

You’ll find G-A-Y at the Astoria, 157 Charing Cross Road,<br />

WC2. www.g-a-y.co.uk

DECKS APPEAL<br />

<strong>In</strong> its continued quest to<br />

unearth new DJ talent, DTPM<br />

has recently been running its<br />

Decks Factor contest. Get along<br />

to the Farringdon Sunday<br />

nighter on 5th <strong>August</strong> to catch<br />

the winner playing their debut<br />

spot on the main floor!<br />

“We’ve taken a step back and<br />

reviewed our ticket prices,<br />

giving you even more value<br />

for money and making DTPM<br />

more accessible no matter<br />

what your wage packet,” a<br />

spokesperson tells us. “Advance<br />

tickets - available from Profile,<br />

Clone Zone, Prowler, Trax and<br />

online - are now £8, members<br />

£8 and on the door it is £10<br />

with a flyer, £12 without. So<br />

you can get into DT for under<br />

a tenner!”<br />

Smokers will also be pleased<br />

to know that the team have<br />

introduced a comfortable<br />

outdoor smoking area, which<br />

has proved very popular over<br />

recent weeks. For more details,<br />

or to join the mailing list, log<br />

on to www.blue-cube.net<br />

GOING<br />

Boogaloo Stu<br />

VENUES:<br />

CENTRAL LONDON<br />

79 CXR, 79 Charing Cross Road,<br />

WC2. 020 7734 <strong>07</strong>69. Leicester<br />

Square tube. Mon-Sat 1pm-3am,<br />

Sun 1pm-10.30pm. Cover charge<br />

after 11pm. Large, cruisy, late-night<br />

bar.<br />

ADMIRAL DUNCAN, 54 Old<br />

Compton Street, W1. 020 7437<br />

5300. Leicester Square tube.<br />

Friendly, traditional gay pub.<br />

ASTORIA, 157 Charing Cross Road,<br />

WC2. 020-7734 6963. Tottenham<br />

Courtg Road tube. Huge, former<br />

theatre, with 2,000 capacity. Now<br />

home to G-A-Y club nights. www.<br />

g-a-y.co.uk<br />

BARCODE, 3-4 Archer Street, W1.<br />

020 7734 3342. www.bar-code.<br />

co.uk. Piccadilly Circus tube.<br />

Mon-Sat 4pm-1.30am. Sun until<br />

10.30pm. Dance bar on two floors,<br />

with club-style basement. Comedy<br />

Camp stand-up night each Tuesday.<br />

BLOOMSBURY BALLROOM,<br />

Bloomsbury Square, WC1. Ornate<br />

dance space, home to monthly<br />

muscle boy dance club Salvation<br />

- check website for dates - www.<br />

salvation-london.com<br />

THE BOX, 32-34 Monmouth<br />

Street, Seven Dials, WC2. 020 7240<br />

SHINKY BIRTHDAY<br />

Get along to the Oak Bar<br />

(79 Green Lanes, N16) in<br />

Stoke Newington on Friday<br />

10 <strong>August</strong> to help Boogaloo<br />

Stu and his crew celebrate<br />

the tenth birthday of Shinky<br />

Shonky. Yes, the odd-ball,<br />

left-of-centre club night<br />

has now been running for<br />

a whole decade, happily<br />

occupying its own little niche<br />

within the scene and playing by its own rules.<br />

Stu and his rotating line-up of co-hosts, including the likes of Miss<br />

High Leg Kick, DJ Albert Twatlock and Miss Dolly Sparkle, entertain<br />

the crowd with smutty gameshows, inane quizzes and an eclectic<br />

selection of pop and indie chart hits.<br />

<strong>The</strong> birthday party will run from 10pm till 3am, and admission will<br />

be £6 or £5 with a flyer. Treats planned include plenty of classic<br />

Shinky Shonky floor fillers from Mr Twatlock, classic badges, cabaret<br />

from Stu, Le Gateau Chocolat and Princess Twinkle Knickers, plus the<br />

return of popular audience-participation game ‘Tittiewank’!<br />

For more info, check out www.boogaloostu.com<br />

5828. Leicester Square tube. 11am-<br />

11pm. Stylish and award-winning<br />

gay café bar popular with scene and<br />

muscle queens.<br />

CANDY BAR, 4 Carlisle Street, W1.<br />

020 7494 4041. Tottenham Court<br />

Road tube. Mon-Thu 5-11.30pm.<br />

Fri & Sat 5pm-2am. Sun 5-11pm.<br />

Long-running and famed lesbian<br />

bar.<br />

COMPTONS, 52 Old Compton<br />

Street, W1. 020 7479 7961.<br />

Leicester Square tube. Noon-11pm.<br />

A Soho institution. Large, traditional<br />

gay boozer on two floors.<br />

DISCOTEC, <strong>The</strong> End, 18 West<br />

Central Street, WC1. 020-7419<br />

9199. Famed and long-running<br />

Thursday nighter, running at<br />

gorgeous, designer, two-roomed<br />

venue <strong>The</strong> End.<br />

THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON,<br />

77 Wardour Street, W1. 020 7439<br />

1274. Piccadilly Circus tube.<br />

Mon-Thu noon-11pm, Fri & Sat<br />

noon-midnight, ‘til 10.30pm on<br />

Sun. Traditional and fun gay pub<br />

over two floors.<br />

THE EDGE, 11 Soho Square, W1.<br />

020 7439 1313. Tottenham Court<br />

Road tube. Noon-1am, Sun 2pm-<br />

11.30pm. Stylish, hip gay bar<br />

spread over four intimate floors,<br />

with regular nights from top DJs.<br />

ESCAPE, 10a Brewer Street, W1.<br />

020 7734 2626. Piccadilly Circus<br />

tube. 5pm-3am. Cover charge after<br />

11pm. Every night’s a party at this<br />

late-night video dance bar.<br />

EXILIO, LSE Underground,<br />

Houghton Street (off Kingsway),<br />

Aldwych, WC2. Saturday night gay<br />

Latin and salsa night.<br />

FIRST OUT CAFÉ, 52 St Giles<br />

High Street, WC2. 020 7240 8042.<br />

Tottenham Court Road tube.<br />

10am-11pm. Sun 10.30pm. Over<br />

20 years old and still going strong.<br />

Long-running community café bar.<br />

FREEDOM, 66 Wardour Street,<br />

W1. 020 7734 0<strong>07</strong>1. Piccadilly<br />

Circus tube. Opulent style bar, with<br />

late-night club promotions for a<br />

metorsexual crowd.<br />

www.freedombarsoho.com<br />

FRIENDLY SOCIETY, 79 Wardour<br />

Street, WC1. Trendy and unique,<br />

intimate basement bar, which<br />

attracts a mixed crowd.<br />

G-A-Y BAR, 30 Old Compton<br />

Street, W1. 020 7494 2756.<br />

Leicester Square tube. 12pm-12am.<br />

Huge, poptastic gay bar, with a<br />

multitude of video screens, pop<br />

tunes and drinks promotions.<br />

www.g-a-y.co.uk<br />

G-A-Y LATE, 5 Goslett Yard,<br />

off Charing Cross Road, WC2.<br />

Tottenham Court Road tube.<br />

11pm-3am. Late-night sister venue<br />

to G-A-Y Bar – more video screens,<br />

camp pop fun and cheap drinks.<br />

GHETTO, 5-6 Falconberg Mews,<br />

W1. 020-7287 3726. Subterranean,<br />

trend-setting gay club venue, with<br />

nightly alternative promotions.<br />

HALFWAY TO HEAVEN, 7<br />

Duncannon Street, WC2. 020 7321<br />

2791. Charing Cross tube. Mon-Thu<br />

noon-11pm, Fri & Sat 12pm-12am.<br />

Old-style gay pub spread over<br />

two floors.<br />

HEAVEN, <strong>The</strong> Arches, Villiers Street,<br />

WC2. Charing Cross Road tube.<br />

Huge, world-famous gay club.<br />

www.heaven-london.com<br />

THE KINGS ARMS, 23 Poland<br />

Street, W1. 020 7734 59<strong>07</strong>.<br />

Oxford Circus tube. Mon-Thur<br />

12pm–11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am,<br />

Sun 12pm-11.30pm. London’s bar<br />

for bears and blokes. Traditional<br />

atmosphere, pool table upstairs<br />

and BearHug each Friday.<br />

KU BAR, 30 Lisle Street, Leicester<br />

Square, WC2. 020 7437 4303.<br />

Leicester Square tube. Large,<br />

upmarket gay bar spread over three<br />

floors, open till 3am daily. www.<br />

ku-bar.com<br />

KUDOS, 10 Adelaide Street, WC2.<br />

020 7379 4573. Charing Cross<br />

tube. 3pm-11pm, Sat noon-11pm,<br />

Sun noon-10.30pm. Beautiful and<br />

stylish café bar (great food!), with<br />

clubbier vibe and video screens in<br />

the basement. Popular with Asian<br />

crowd.<br />

LONG YANG CLUB, the basement,<br />

Thai Square, 21-24 Cockspur Street,<br />

Trafalgar Square. Sunday evening<br />

club for Asian men and their<br />

admirers. www.lyclondon.com<br />

THE PHOENIX, 37 Cavendish<br />

Square, W1 (behind Debenhams<br />

on Oxford Street). Straight pub with<br />

basement club, which plays host to<br />

gay indie night Rebel Rebel once a<br />

month (www.clubrebelrebel.co.uk).<br />

PROFILE, 56 Frith Street, Soho,<br />

W1. Tottenham Court Road tube.<br />

Stylish, big gay bar, owned by the<br />

team at Gaydar.co.uk - spread over<br />

three floors, with internet access<br />

and Gaydar radio.<br />

THE QUEBEC, 12 Old Quebec<br />

Street, WC1. 020-7629 6159.<br />

Marble Arch tube. Huge pub, on<br />

two floors, attracting an older<br />

crowd. www.<br />

thequebec.<br />

co.uk<br />

MATINEE BANK HOLIDAY<br />

One of the most successful events to take place at Area, the boys<br />

from Matinee will again be jetting in from Barcelona for a big bank<br />

holiday extravaganza on Saturday 25 <strong>August</strong>. <strong>The</strong> Matinee parties<br />

are always extra busy affairs, and you can expect the bank holiday<br />

outing to be no different. It will be followed by another Future<br />

afterhours session at Club Colosseum on the morning of Sunday<br />

26th <strong>August</strong> – visit www.areaclub.info for admission prices and<br />

advance ticket details – with special offers if you buy a joint ticket to<br />

Matinee and Future.<br />

Other dates for your diary from the Crash/Area camp include<br />

Chunk’s third birthday, which will be a one-off extravaganza at<br />

Crash on Saturday 28 July. Doors will be open from 10pm till 6am,<br />

and admission will be £8 in advance or £10 on the door.<br />

Megawoof takes place on Saturday 4 <strong>August</strong>, the original Crash<br />

night returns on Saturday 11 <strong>August</strong>, followed by Queer Nation at<br />

Crash on Saturday 18 <strong>August</strong>. www.crashlondon.co.uk

FUSION RETURNS<br />

Following up its successful<br />

launch over the May Bank<br />

Holiday weekend, Fusion is<br />

set to return to the Arches, 53<br />

Southwark Street, SE1, for the<br />

<strong>August</strong> Bank Holiday weekend.<br />

Taking place on Sunday 26<br />

<strong>August</strong>, between the hours of<br />

10pm and 6am, the team will<br />

once again be taking the best<br />

elements of XXL, and fusing<br />

them with some exciting innovations.<br />

Last time around they<br />

bought you a live gig from the<br />

Freemasons, and for their second<br />

outing they’ll be bringing an<br />

exclusive appearance from Soul<br />

Avengerz. This hot production<br />

duo have remixed the likes of<br />

<strong>In</strong>aya Day, Katherine Ellis and<br />

Marshall Jefferson, as well as<br />

producing the likes of Angie<br />

Brown, Shena and Javine. Other<br />

names involved with the night<br />

will be revealed nearer the time<br />

– check www.sundayfusion.com<br />

for more details.<br />

Also, put Saturday 22 September<br />

in your diaries now, as that’s the<br />

date that XXL will be celebrating<br />

its seventh birthday!<br />

RETRO BAR, 2 George Court,<br />

WC2. 020 7321 2811. Charing<br />

Cross tube. Mon-Fri noon-11. Sat<br />

5pm-11pm, Sun 5pm-11pm.<br />

A traditional boozer for the gay<br />

scene’s indie, alternative and<br />

student-types – Tuesday’s pop quiz<br />

is an institution.<br />

RUPERT STREET, 50 Rupert<br />

Street, W1. 020 7292 7141.<br />

Piccadilly Circus tube. 12-11pm,<br />

Sun 10.30pm. Large, designer style<br />

bar, popular with professional gay<br />

boyz and post-work crowd.<br />

SHADOW LOUNGE, 5 Brewer<br />

Street, W1. 020-7287 7988.<br />

Piccadilly tube. Exclusive, gorgeous,<br />

late-night bar and club for A-list<br />

gays and celeb-spotters. www.<br />

theshadowlounge.com<br />

SOHO REVUE BAR, 11 Walkers<br />

Court (off Brewer Street), W1.<br />

020-7734 0377. Legendary Soho<br />

cabaret club, attracting very gay<br />

crowd with nightly cabaret, gigs<br />

and burlesque.<br />

SUNDAY FUSION, <strong>The</strong> Langley,<br />

Langley Street, WC2. <strong>07</strong>872958660<br />

(mobile rates). Check www.<br />

thelangley.co.uk for upcoming<br />

dates.<br />

TRASH PALACE, 11 Wardour<br />

Street, W1. 020 7734 0522.<br />

Piccadilly Circus tube. Sun-Thu<br />

5pm-midnight. Fri & Sat 5pm-<br />

3am. <strong>In</strong>die, rock and trash fun on<br />

two floors – very popular with<br />

students and alternative club<br />

freaks.<br />

VILLAGE, 81 Wardour Street, W1.<br />

020 7434 2124. Piccadilly Circus<br />

tube. 12-1am, Sun 11.30pm. Late<br />

night door charge. Soho’s original<br />

gay café bar, spread over four<br />

floors, and now with basement<br />

dancefloor and discos.<br />

THE YARD, 57 Rupert Street, W1.<br />

020 7437 2652. Piccadilly Circus<br />

tube. Mon-Thur 4pm-11pm, Fri<br />

& Sat 1pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-<br />

1.10.30pm. Busy gay bar with<br />

hugely popular courtyard area,<br />

outdoor balcony and loft bar.<br />

NORTH LONDON<br />

THE BLACK CAP, 171 Camden<br />

High Street, NW1. 020 7428<br />

2721. www.theblackcap.com.<br />

Camden Town tube. Shufflewick<br />

Bar: Mon-Thu Noon-1am, Fri-Sat<br />

12noon-2am, Sun Noon-10.30pm.<br />

Club: Mon-Thu 10pm-2am, Fri-Sat<br />

10pm-3am, Sun 10pm-1am.<br />

Long-running, famed gay pub<br />

– probably the most famous<br />

cabaret pub in London, with<br />

nightly DJs and entertainment.<br />

CENTRAL STATION, 37<br />

Wharfdale Road, N1. Tel: 020 7278<br />

3294. Kings Cross tube. Mon-Wed<br />

5pm-2am, Thur 5pm-3am, Fri<br />

5pm-4am, Sat 1pm-4am, Sun<br />

1pm-12am. Big gay bar on three<br />

floors, with ground floor cabaret<br />

and infamously cruisy cruise nights<br />

in basement.<br />

CLUB KALI, <strong>The</strong> Dome, 1<br />

Dartmouth Park Hill, Tufnell Park,<br />

N19. World’s biggest lesbian and<br />

gay Asian music night, running<br />

every third Friday of the month.<br />

www.clubkali.com<br />

COSMO LOUNGE, 43 Essex Road,<br />

N1. Tel: 020 7688 0051. Angel<br />

tube. Sun-Wed 2pm-Midnight,<br />

Thu-Sat 2pm-1am. Long, narrow,<br />

intimate gay bar popular with<br />

locals girls and boys.<br />

THE GREEN, 74 Upper Street,<br />

N1. Tel: 020 7704 <strong>07</strong>13. www.<br />

the-green.co.uk. Angel tube.<br />

Mon-Wed 4pm-midnight, Thu<br />

4pm-1am, Fri 12noon-2am, Sun<br />

11am-midnight. London’s first<br />

‘gay-stropub!’ Stylish, Islington<br />

bar, serving full food menu and<br />

wide range of drinks and cocktails.<br />

Mixed, chilled crowd.<br />

KING EDWARD VI, 25 Bromfield<br />

Street, N1. Tel: 020 7704 <strong>07</strong>45.<br />

Angel tube. Sun-Thu 12noon-<br />

12midnight, Thu 12noon-1am,<br />

Fri-Sat 12noon-2am. Very<br />

long-running gay pub, with ‘local’<br />

atmosphere and character, plus<br />

popular beer garden.<br />

KW4, 77 Hampstead High Street,<br />

NW3. 020-7435 5747. Large,<br />

cost, traditional old gay pub, with<br />

regular entertainment, beer garden<br />

and food. www.kw4.co.uk<br />

THE LOAD OF HAY, 2<strong>07</strong> Pinner<br />

Road, Watford, 01923-441113.<br />

Watford‚s only gay pub, with<br />

big beer garden and regular<br />

entertainment! www.loadofhay.<br />

co.uk<br />

MA1 BAR, Central Station, 37<br />

Wharfdale Road, King’s Cross, N1.<br />

<strong>In</strong>timate, sleazy men-only cruise<br />

bar, open throughout the week<br />

- www.ma1.co.uk<br />

THE OAK BAR, 79 Green Lanes,<br />

N16. 020-7354 2791. Manor House<br />

tube. Friendly, divere gay bar with<br />

late-night club promotions, open till<br />

3am at weekends. www.oakbar.com<br />

THE SCALA, 275-277 Pentonville<br />

Road, N1. 020-738 2336. King’s<br />

Cross tube. Large former cinema,<br />

now huge club and live gig venue<br />

– home to Friday night indie/rock<br />

club Popstarz (www.popstarz.org).<br />

SOUTH LONDON<br />

AREA, 67-68 Albert Embankment,<br />

SE11. Gorgeously-designed, hard<br />

dance club and cabaret rooms,<br />

with eclectic roster of different gay<br />

club nights throughout the month.<br />

(Chunk, Matinee, Bootylicious...).<br />

www.areaclub.info<br />

BARCODE VAUXHALL, Arch 69,<br />

Albert Embankment, SE11. 02<strong>07</strong><br />

734 3342. Vauxhall tube. Open 7<br />

days a week. Mon-Thu 4pm-1am,<br />

Fri-Sun 4pm-4am. Recently<br />

opened and very popular club bar,<br />

with dancefloor and mezzanine<br />

chill-out space.<br />

CLUB COLOSSEUM, 1 Nine<br />

Elms Lane, Vauxhall, SW8. Huge,<br />

late-night venue for after-hours<br />

crowd – hosting various one-off<br />

promotions such as the monthly<br />

Future.<br />

CRASH, 66 Albert Embankment,<br />

SE11. 020-7793 9262. Large hard<br />

dance club beneath railway arches<br />

– hosts different nights (Queer<br />

Nation, etc) each weekend.<br />

EGO, 82 Norwood High Street,<br />

SE27. 020 8761 5200. West<br />

Norwood BR. Sun-Thu 8pm-late,<br />

7pm-4am. Door charge on<br />

weekend. Large, popular bar and<br />

club, attracting big crowds at<br />

weekends.<br />

FACTORY, 65 Goding Street,<br />

SE11. Stylish, railway arch Vauxhall<br />

venue, hosting occasional dance<br />

and cruise nights.<br />

THE FORT, 131 Grange Road,<br />

SE1. 020-7237 7742. Small cruise<br />

club, open till 11pm throughout<br />

week, with regular boots-only<br />

and underwear parties. www.<br />

thefortlondon.com<br />

FIRE, South Lambeth Road,<br />

Vauxhall, SW8. Vauxhall tube.<br />

<strong>In</strong>famous, late-night gay venue<br />

beneath the Vauxhall railway<br />

arches, host to the likes of Rude<br />

Boyz, Orange, A:M, Juicy and<br />

Gravity. Open around the clock at<br />

weekends. www.allthingsorange.<br />

com or www.fireclub.co.uk<br />

THE GEORGE & DRAGON, 2<br />

BlackheathHill, Greenwich, SE10.<br />

020 8691 3764. www.gandd.org.<br />

uk. Deptford Bridge DLR. Mon-Thu<br />

4pm-1am, Fri & Sat 4pm-4am,<br />

Sun 4pm-2am. Late-night pub<br />

with nightly entertainment and<br />

popular cabaret nights.<br />

HIDDEN, 100 Timworth Street,<br />

SE11. Railway arch club venue,<br />

home to infamous Hard On night<br />

once a month (www.hardonclub.<br />

co.uk) and now Beatwood (www.<br />

beatwoodclub.com)<br />

THE HOIST, Arch 47c, South<br />

Lambeth Road, SW8. 020 7735<br />

9972. 10pm-late. Door charge and<br />

strict dress code. One of London’s<br />

most famous dress-code and cruise<br />

clubs and packed with men-only<br />

crowd. Open Friday-Sunday and<br />

occasional Thursdays (SM Gays).<br />

KAZBAR, 50 Clapham High<br />

Street, SW4. 020 7622 0<strong>07</strong>0.<br />

Clapham North tube. Mon-Thu<br />

4pm-midnight, Fri 4pm-1am, Sat<br />

noon-1am, Sun noon-midnight.<br />

Clapham video bar, popular<br />

throughout the week and DJs at<br />

weekends.<br />

LITTLE APPLE, 98 Kennington<br />

Lane, SE11. 020 7735 2039.<br />

Kennnigton tube. Open 7<br />

days a week. Small,<br />

traditional gay boozer<br />

for local gay boys<br />

and girls.<br />

NEW BALLS<br />

Anyone for tennis? <strong>The</strong> 12th<br />

Tennis London <strong>In</strong>ternational gay<br />

tennis tournament hits London’s<br />

Sutton Tennis Center from 3-5<br />

<strong>August</strong> 20<strong>07</strong>. An estimated 200<br />

players from all over the world<br />

are expected to participate, and<br />

if you want to join the fun, then<br />

bear in mind that it all kicks off<br />

with a welcome party at new<br />

Soho bar Profile on Thursday 2<br />

<strong>August</strong>. It’s open to the public,<br />

as will be the Saturday night<br />

tapas party overlooking the<br />

London eye and Parliament. Expect<br />

guest DJs and celebrities at<br />

both. Check www.tennislondon.<br />

com for more details.<br />

ON YOUR MARKS<br />

Older readers may well remember the institution that was the<br />

Vauxhall Tavern Sports Day. It would traditionally run on Bank<br />

Holidays in the late 80s and early 90s. Well, after an absence from the<br />

scene of several years, gay men’s health charity GMFA are about to<br />

resurrect the tradition, with the first GMFA Gay Sports Day set to<br />

take place in Spring Gardens (behind the Royal Vauxhall Tavern) on<br />

Monday 27 <strong>August</strong>, between 2 and 6pm. Expect the likes of egg and<br />

spoon races, handbag tossing, and drag relay!<br />

Anyone can take part but teams should consist of five members.<br />

Each team will be asked to raise a minimum of £250 through online<br />

sponsorship (that’s just £50 per team member) and there’s a prize for<br />

the team that raises the most cash. To register, email tim.molloy@<br />

gmfa.org.uk. <strong>The</strong> deadline for entries is 10th <strong>August</strong>. <strong>The</strong> majority of<br />

the proceeds will go to GMFA but Vauxhall <strong>City</strong> Farm and the Friends<br />

of Spring Gardens will benefit too.<br />

As well as all the frivolity, there’s a serious side too. <strong>The</strong> event will<br />

helps to promote GMFA’s new online guide to sports clubs and social<br />

groups. Check it out at www.gmfa.org.uk/theguide

LOVED-UP<br />

Club For Lovers And<br />

Losers was a one-off May<br />

Bank Holiday event that<br />

took place at indie hangout<br />

Trash Palace to celebrate<br />

the publication of the latest<br />

novel from gay novelist<br />

and journalist Paul Burston.<br />

Lovers And Losers was a witty<br />

and nostalgic tale of 80s one-hit wonders A Boy And His Diva, and<br />

suitably enough, the club night was a true celebration of all things<br />

80s, with the likes of Princess Julia and Paul himself (pictured above)<br />

taking a turn at the decks. Anyway, the night proved such a success,<br />

that they’re going to be doing it all again, with another Club For<br />

Lovers And Losers taking place on Sunday 26th <strong>August</strong> (bank holiday<br />

weekend). Doors are open from 9.30pm till 3am, and admission is<br />

free! Paul, Tommy Turntables and guests will spin the 80s electro and<br />

trash, and there will be 80s karaoke in the upstairs bar.<br />

Trash Palace can be found at 11 Wardour Street, W1.<br />

MANBAR, 82 Great Suffolk<br />

Street, SE1. 020-7928 3223.<br />

London Bridge tube. Late-night<br />

cruise bar (with showers!) for<br />

men-only. www.manbar.info<br />

THE POWDER MONKEY, 1 King<br />

William Walk, Greenwich SE10.<br />

020 8293 5928. Greenwich BR<br />

and tube. Stylish, designer gay bar<br />

spread over three floors.<br />

ROYAL VAUXHALL TAVERN,<br />

372 Kennington Lane, SE11.<br />

020 7840 0596. Opening times<br />

vary. Vauxhall tube. Door Charge.<br />

Huge, traditional and historic gay<br />

pub, with long history of hosting<br />

cabaret. Packed to rafters on<br />

Saturday (Duckie) and Sunday<br />

(the post-club Chill-<strong>Out</strong>).<br />

SOUTH CENTRAL, 349<br />

Kennington Lane, SE11. 020 7793<br />

0903. Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat<br />

9pm-late, Tue 7.30-10.30pm, Sun<br />

4pm-2am. Vauxhall tube. Large,<br />

club-bar with nightly promotions.<br />

Horse Meat Disco (Sundays) is<br />

particularly popular.<br />

THE STAG, 15 Bressenden<br />

Place, SW1. 020 7828 7287.<br />

Victoria tube. Mon & Tue<br />

midday-midnight, Wed-Fri<br />

midday-2am, Sat 5pm-2am,<br />

Sun 4pm-midnight. Dark and<br />

atmospheric gay bar in Victoria<br />

– weekend cabaret.<br />

STONEWALLS, 286 Lewisham<br />

High Street, SE13. www.<br />

stonewalls.info. Mon-Wed<br />

5pm-1am, Thur 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat<br />

5pm-4am, Sun 5pm-12.30am.<br />

Large, late-opening gay pub and<br />

club, with regular entertainment<br />

and cabaret.<br />

THE TRAFALGAR ARMS,<br />

148 Tooting High Street, SW17.<br />

020-8767 6059. A spacious,<br />

lively, attitude-free pub. Excellent<br />

food served all day. Weekly DJs<br />

on Friday and Saturday nights.<br />

Karaoke on Wednesdays.<br />

THE TWO BREWERS, 114<br />

Clapham High Street, SW4. 020<br />

7498 4971. Clapham Common<br />

tube. Mon-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri &<br />

Sat 5pm-4am. South London’s<br />

most famed gay cabaret venue.<br />

Large bar and separate dancefloor<br />

room. Busy at weekends. www.<br />

the2brewers.com<br />

XXL, <strong>The</strong> Arches, 53 Southwark<br />

Street, SE1. www.xxl-london.com.<br />

London Bridge tube. Huge club<br />

for bears, big men and admirers,<br />

on Saturday and Wednesday, plus<br />

the monthly XXL Extreme party.<br />

EAST LONDON<br />

THE ANGEL, 21 Church Street,<br />

E15. Tel: 020 8555 1148. Stratford<br />

BR and tube. Big gay pub, always<br />

popular at weekends, with regular<br />

cabaret, DJs and disco nights.<br />

THE BACKSTREET, Wentworth<br />

Mews, off Burdett Road, E3.<br />

020-8980 8557. Over 20 years old<br />

– small but legendary dress code<br />

leather club, open Thur-Sun.<br />

THE BLACK HORSE, 168 Mile<br />

End Road, E1. Tel: 020 7790<br />

1684. Mile End tube. Mon-Thurs<br />

8pm-1am, Fri-Sat 8pm-3am, Sun<br />

8pm-1am. Late-opening,East End<br />

cabaret bar and disco.<br />

BISTROTHEQUE, 23-27<br />

Wadeson St, E2. Tel: 020 8983<br />

7900. Bethnal Green tube. Very<br />

mixed, gay/straight crowd of<br />

trendy metrosexuals. Great bar,<br />

restaurant, plus separate cabaret<br />

room.<br />

CHARLIE’S BAR, 124 Globe<br />

Road, E1. Tel: 020 7790 10<strong>07</strong>.<br />

Whitechapel tube. Recently<br />

refurbished, Moroccan style<br />

– friendly, local gay bar.<br />

FABRIC, 77a Charterhouse Street,<br />

EC1. 020-7749 1199. Big, trendy<br />

club venue, home to legendary<br />

funky house night DTPM each<br />

Sunday. Check www.blue-cube.<br />

net for details.<br />

THE JOINERS ARMS, 116<br />

Hackney Road, E2. Tel: 020 7739<br />

9854. Debauched decadence<br />

– old-skool boozer popular with<br />

post-club crowd at weekends.<br />

KINGS HEAD, 11 Church Street,<br />

E15. Stratford BR and tube.<br />

<strong>In</strong>timate and welcoming East End<br />

gay pub – regular cabaret.<br />

THE OLD SHIP, 17 Barnes<br />

Street, E14. Tel: 020 7790 4082.<br />

Limehouse DLR. Open from 7pm<br />

Mon & Tue, from 6pm Wed-Sat,<br />

from 4pm on Sun. Small, local,<br />

traditional pub, with regular<br />

cabaret.<br />

BJ’s WHITE SWAN, 556<br />

Commercial Road, E1. Tel:<br />

020 7780 9870. Limehouse<br />

DLR. Mon 9pm-1am Tue-Thu<br />

9pm-2am, Fri-Sat 9pm-3am,<br />

Sun 5.30pm-midnight. A large,<br />

long-running gay pub and club,<br />

open throughout the week and<br />

legendary across London! Fun,<br />

friendly, and loaded with East End<br />

charm. Wednesday’s Amateur<br />

Strip is an institution. www.<br />

bjswhiteswan.com<br />

WEST LONDON<br />

BROMPTONS, 294 Old<br />

Brompton Road, Earls Court, SW5.<br />

020 7370 1344. Earls Court tube.<br />

Big, long-running gay pub and<br />

club, open late throughout week.<br />

Regular cabaret and club nights.<br />

COCO LATTÉ SW5, 180-184<br />

Earl’s Court Road, SW5. Glamorous<br />

and upmarket gay bar and club,<br />

with late-night promotions at<br />

weekends and members/VIP<br />

room. www.cocolattesw5.com<br />

COLEHERNE, 261 Old Brompton<br />

Road, Earls Court, SW5. 020 7244<br />

5951. Earls Court tube. Noonmidnight.<br />

Larfge and legendary<br />

pub. <strong>The</strong> spit’n’sawdust feel has<br />

gone, but still popular with mixed<br />

crowd of male drinkers.<br />

THE CULVERT, 54 Cowley Mill<br />

Road, Uxbridge. 01895 256 690.<br />

Uxbridge tube. Mon-Wed 4pm-1am,<br />

Thu noon-2am, Fri & Sat noon-3am,<br />

Sun 3pm-1am. Regular discos,<br />

cabaret, karaoke and one-off events.<br />

www.theculvert.com<br />

THE RICHMOND ARMS, 20<br />

<strong>The</strong> Square, off Princes Street,<br />

Richmond. 020-8940 2118. Longrunning<br />

local gay pub, regular<br />

cabaret and entertainment.<br />

TED’S PLACE, 305a North End<br />

Road, West Brompton, W14. 02<strong>07</strong><br />

385 9359. Earls Court or West<br />

Brompton tube. Mon-Fri from<br />

7pm-late, closed Sat & Sun. West<br />

London cruise club. Sleazy… but<br />

that’s why the regulars love it!<br />

WEST 5, Popes Lane, South<br />

Ealing, W5. 020-8579 3266.<br />

Large, popular gay pub with<br />

Piano Room and cabaret bar,<br />

open till late at weekends with<br />

entertainment and DJs.<br />

WINDSOR CASTLE, 152<br />

Bath Road, Hounslow, TW3.<br />

0208577 6590. Large, local<br />

gay pub with regular cabaret<br />

and entertainment. www.<br />

windsorcastlehounslow.co.uk<br />

MAGAZINE MAN<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is a whole month’s worth of cabaret and other attractions<br />

at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. Timberlina has taken a<br />

break from his Monday night cabaret, and for a limited period<br />

only, David Hoyle (pictured) has returned to the venue<br />

for a series of Monday night avant garde, confrontational<br />

cabaret outings. His Monday session is entitled ‘Magazine<br />

– reprint’, following up his first Magazine nights earlier this<br />

year, and they will run from 24 July till 24 September. <strong>The</strong>re’s<br />

a different theme each week, including the likes of ‘Crime &<br />

Punishment’ (6 Aug), ‘Immigration’ (13 Aug), ‘Dogging’ (20<br />

Aug) and ‘Media Studies’ on Bank Holiday Monday (27 Aug).<br />

Doors open at 7pm, the show starts at 8pm, and admission<br />

is £5.99.<br />

<strong>The</strong> other new development at the RVT is Topping &<br />

Butch’s School Gang night each Wednesday. ‘Join the<br />

award-winning Topping & Butch as they open the Royal<br />

Tavern Comprehensive School for Comedy stand-up - where<br />

the kids take over the lessons! Smoking strictly behind the<br />

bikeshed only, plus a free drink for those wearing a school<br />

tie. Bring a can of the worst crap you can find for the Weekly<br />

Harvest Festival Hamper – with prizes given for the worst!’.<br />

Topping & Butch appear every Wednesday throughout<br />

<strong>August</strong>, while resident hostess Zoe returns on 5 September.<br />

Tuesday’s Jazz Night is also taking a break through <strong>August</strong>,<br />

but will return in September. <strong>The</strong> wonderful Vauxhallville<br />

runs each Thursday, with Duckie on Saturday and Chill-<strong>Out</strong><br />

and S.L.A.G.S on Sunday. Fridays were still to be confirmed<br />

as we went to press.<br />

You’ll find the Royal Vauxhall Tavern at 372 Kennington Lane,<br />

Vauxhall, SE11

INTERVIEW BY ADRIAN GILLAN<br />

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For information about the Gay Business<br />

Association and its work: www.gba.org.uk

meetings once a month.<br />

HIV//AIDS<br />

LGBT Choir: <strong>07</strong>980 023578. Call<br />

Michael for more information.<br />

Crusaid: 020 7539 3880,<br />

www.crusaid.org.uk.<br />

London Friend: 020 7837<br />

3337. Groups in Islington.<br />

GMFA: 020 7738 6872. <strong>The</strong> gay<br />

men’s health charity.<br />

LONDON PRIDE RUN<br />

<strong>The</strong> 4th annual London Pride<br />

Run will take place in Victoria<br />

Park, Hackney, on Saturday<br />

18 <strong>August</strong> from 11am.<br />

Sponsored by LGB running<br />

club, London FrontRunners,<br />

the event is open to runners<br />

of all abilities, gay and<br />

straight alike, and supported<br />

by the Mayor of London, with<br />

all money raised going to<br />

Stonewall. To register, visit<br />

www.londonpriderun.org.<br />

GROUPS//ORGS<br />

Albert Kennedy Trust: 020<br />

7831 6562 (London). Housing<br />

advice for under 21s.<br />

Antidote: 020 7437 3523.<br />

Counselling, support groups,<br />

Thurs drop-in, complementary<br />

therapies around alcohol & drug<br />

<strong>issue</strong>s.<br />

ELOP: 020 8509 3898. Support<br />

and community events in<br />

Walthamstow. Youth, advice,<br />

counselling and groups.<br />

Gay and Lesbian Humanist<br />

Association, (GALHA): 01926<br />

858450, www.galha.org.<br />

Regular London events.<br />

<strong>Out</strong>rage!: 020 8240 0222.<br />

Political group. Regular<br />

meetings.<br />

Metro Centre: 020 8265 3311,<br />

www.metrocentreonline.org.<br />

Regular groups in Greenwich.<br />

Mosaic: <strong>07</strong>931 336668. www.<br />

mosaicyouth.org.uk. Youth<br />

group, every Wednesday.<br />

PACE: 020 7700 1323. Groups<br />

promoting lesbian and gay<br />

health and well-being.<br />

Quest LGB Catholics: 0808<br />

808 0234.<br />

Regard: Regard, BM REGARD,<br />

London WC1N 3XX, secretary@<br />

regard.org.uk/www.regard.org.<br />

uk. Disabled LGBT.<br />

Step <strong>Out</strong> Tower Hamlets:<br />

Social & support group for<br />

gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans<br />

& questioning young people.<br />

5-8pm Tues <strong>07</strong>9 4633 7160<br />

South London Gays: 020 8672<br />

5268/020 8674 5191. www.<br />

slago.org.uk/slg. A friendly group<br />

with a range of social activities.<br />

Stonewall: 020 7881 9442.<br />

Campaign group for LGBT rights.<br />

HATECRIME<br />

Gay Police Association:<br />

Action Line <strong>07</strong>092 700 000<br />

(24hrs), info@gpa.police.uk.<br />

Galop: 020 7704 2040. www.<br />

galop.org.uk. For victims of<br />

hate crime<br />

National AIDS Trust: 020 7814<br />

6767, www.nat.org.uk.<br />

Terence Higgins Trust: <strong>07</strong>090<br />

422 828. Counselling Services.<br />

SPORTS<br />

<strong>Out</strong> to Swim<br />

Cruisers basketball: 020 8960<br />

<strong>07</strong>50 (Debbie)/ 020 7582 7009,<br />

www.cruisers.org.uk (Jordi).<br />

Mixed basketball.<br />

Frontrunners: <strong>07</strong>092 346340,<br />

www.londonfrontrunners.org.<br />

Running group.<br />

Goslings Swimming: <strong>07</strong>814<br />

258 055. Gay social (non<br />

competitive) swimming group,<br />

Thur 8.30pm-9.30pm. www.<br />

goslingssportsclub.com<br />

Kings Cross Steelers Rugby<br />

Football Club: <strong>07</strong>090 421 367,<br />

www.kxsrfc.com. Gay men’s<br />

rugby.<br />

<strong>Out</strong> to Swim: <strong>07</strong>090 422<br />

526, www.outtoswim.org. Gay<br />

swimming group.<br />

Raiders Softball Club: <strong>07</strong>931<br />

721 377, www.rainbowraiders.<br />

com. Mixed baseball in Regents<br />

WESTMIINSTER LGB YOUTH<br />

Westminster LGB Youth Project: www.wlgb.org.uk<br />

Westminster Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual Youth Project is run by the <strong>City</strong> of Westminster’s Youth<br />

Service; and is open to young people aged 13-21 who identify as being lesbian, gay or<br />

bisexual, or who are questioning their sexuality. <strong>The</strong> Project offers them opportunities to<br />

socialise, relax and be themselves, whilst providing information, guidance and support<br />

- including mentoring and a peer led anti-bullying and befriending scheme. <strong>The</strong>re are also<br />

fun activities, an annual residential, plus regular workshops and outings.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Project’s Personal Development Group runs 3-6pm in Soho. Nearest Tube: Piccadilly/<br />

Leicester Square. Fuller details on the website. Activities - including outings, discussions,<br />

workshops, chill-outs and support - are planned and organised by the young<br />

attendees themselves.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Project’s Drop-<strong>In</strong> - open to anyone aged 25 or under - runs Thursdays, 5-8pm, at Clash,<br />

11 Warwick Street London W1. Nearest Tube: Piccadilly. It provides support around a great<br />

number of <strong>issue</strong>s, including coming out; sexual health; where to go if you are a victim of<br />

homophobic crime, abuse and violence; housing advice; plus drug and alcohol <strong>issue</strong>s.<br />

For a comprehensive listing of other London LGBT youth groups: www.ygm.org.uk<br />

Park / Primrose Hill area.<br />

Stonewall Football Club:<br />

<strong>07</strong>090 422 390. Sunday soccer.<br />

HELPLINES<br />

Dazz-elle: 020 8257 3068.<br />

London drug/alcohol support.<br />

Lesbian & Gay Immigration<br />

Group: 020 7922 7811. Every<br />

Mon 12-5pm and Wed 6-8pm.<br />

London Lesbian & Gay<br />

Switchboard: 020 7837 7324<br />

London Friend: 020 7837<br />

3337. Counselling service.<br />

PACE: 020 7700 1323. Health<br />

and wellbeing. Tel info/support<br />

on Saturdays, 1-3pm.<br />

Stonewall Housing Advice:<br />

020 7359 5767.<br />

Unison: 0845 355 0845/0800<br />

0967 968 (minicom). Works with<br />

LGBT community about work<br />

and employment problems.<br />

Please send all your listings to<br />

listings@outmag.co.uk<br />

Islington LGB Forum:<br />

Rachael: <strong>07</strong>989 747824. An<br />

initiative between local police,<br />

the council & victim support.<br />

Jewish Gay and Lesbian<br />

Group: 020 8952 0137.<br />

Kairos: 020 7437 6063, www.<br />

kairosinsoho.org.uk. 9 Archer St,<br />

London W1D 7AZ.<br />

Lesbian Gay Christian<br />

Movement: 020 7739 1249,<br />

lgcm@lgcm.org.uk/www.lgcm.<br />

org.uk.<br />

Lesbian and Gay<br />

Immigration Group: 020<br />

7922 7811, www.uklgig.org.uk.<br />

GAY RIGHTS RECEIVE A BOOST FROM THE BIG LOTTERY FUND<br />

<strong>The</strong> provision of Employment Law advice to Lesbians and Gay Men by Central London Law Centre at the East London<br />

<strong>Out</strong> Project (ELOP) is in its second year of funding from the Big Lottery Fund. <strong>The</strong> service continues to provide an<br />

advice surgery at the East London <strong>Out</strong> Project in all matters of employment law advice, particularly discrimination, to<br />

lesbians and gay men living in East London.<br />

<strong>The</strong> surgery runs once every other week from ELOP’s premises in Walthamstow and gives much needed legal advice, assistance and representation to clients with<br />

employment law problems. “Often lesbians or gay men with work related difficulties find seeking advice difficult, especially if the problem is related to their sexuality<br />

and they are not out to their work colleagues” said Philip Tsamados of the Central London Law Centre who runs the surgery. <strong>The</strong> surgery provides a safe and accessible<br />

venue for lesbians and gay men to seek legal help.<br />

<strong>In</strong> addition, the Law Centre funding extends to Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) in the area. <strong>The</strong> Law Centre can take referrals from CAB in Waltham Forest and Newham<br />

of cases involving any form of discrimination at work.<br />

To make an appointment at the surgery, contact ELOP on 020 8509 3898.

STEPPING OUT IN SPAIN<br />

Fundraisers hit the streets of Barcelona on Saturday 14 July in<br />

the hopes of finding treasure on the 10k Stonewall Equality<br />

Walk. Last year the participants raised around £40,000, but the<br />

campaigning organisation are hoping to break records by hitting<br />

over the £50k mark, proceeds will help fund the<br />

‘Education for All’ campaign.<br />

NEWS FLASHES<br />

UK NEWS<br />

LESBIAN SHOT DEAD BY POLICE<br />

37-year old lesbian, Ann Sanderson, has became the first<br />

woman to have been purposely shot by British police - gunned<br />

down by marksmen in Sevenoaks, Kent - after brandishing an<br />

(it turned out, imitation) firearm at officers which she refused<br />

to surrender. Friends say she may have been suffering from<br />

mental illness. Some reports suggest she might have goaded<br />

police into killing her, a practice known as “suicide by cop”.<br />

JAZZ GIANT GEORGE MELLY DIES<br />

Bisexual jazz singer, Soho swinger and life-and-soul George<br />

Melly has died at his London home, aged 80 – wife by his side.<br />

He had been suffering from dementia and lung cancer, for<br />

which he refused treatment.<br />

GAY.COM’S LONDON OFFICE CLOSES<br />

Struggling Gay.Com and Advocate publisher, Planet<strong>Out</strong>, has<br />

announced that it will close its international offices – in Buenos<br />

Aires and in London.<br />

BICON 20<strong>07</strong><br />

A weekend of workshops, discussions, talks and entertainment,<br />

the 25th annual bisexual gathering – BiCon - takes place at the<br />

University of Glamorgan, 16–20 <strong>August</strong> 20<strong>07</strong>. More at: www.<br />

bicon20<strong>07</strong>.org.uk<br />

GAYS BETRAYED IN BRITAIN’S SCHOOLS<br />

A major survey of Britain’s secondary schools by Stonewall has revealed that almost two<br />

thirds (65%) of LGB pupils – 156,000 children - have been victims of homophobic bullying.<br />

Of those, 92% (143,000) have experienced verbal homophobic bullying; 41% (64,000)<br />

physical bullying; and 17% (26,000) death threats.<br />

NEW QUEERS IN GOVERNMENT AND OPPOSITION<br />

Despite there being now no openly-gay ministers in Brown’s Cabinet, Angela Eagle - the<br />

UK’s first and so far only openly-lesbian MP - has been named Exchequer Secretary, a junior<br />

ministerial position in the Treasury. Gay Ben Bradshaw moves from the Department of the<br />

Environment to become Minister of State at the Department of Health – as well as Minister<br />

for the South West. And former gay Cabinet minister Nick Brown returns to government as<br />

Minister for the North West – as well as Deputy Chief Whip.<br />

UK BLACK PRIDE FESTIVAL<br />

Just as we were going to press, news reached us that the Official UK Black Pride Festival<br />

(UKBP) takes place from 11am on Saturday 18 <strong>August</strong>, at Regent’s Park College. It promises<br />

to be a fun-filled day of entertainment, guest speakers, live performances, music, market<br />

and information stalls and much, much more. More at: www.ukblackpride.org.uk<br />

WE ARE IN<br />

SERIOUS<br />

MORAL<br />

TROUBLE<br />

BECAUSE<br />

EVERY TYPE<br />

OF LIFESTYLE<br />

IS NOW<br />

REGARDED AS<br />

LEGITIMATE.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Rt Rev Graham Dow<br />

Bishop of Carlisle, who has<br />

claimed that the recent floods<br />

in the UK are, in fact, a divine<br />

judgment on society’s moral<br />

decadence, and not least on<br />

us queer folk.

TOWERING TURING<br />

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...AND FINALLY<br />

NEWS FLASHES<br />

INTERNATION NEWS<br />

SÃO PAULO:<br />

Three million Brazilians have<br />

taken part in São Paulo’s 11th<br />

Gay Pride, marching down<br />

the main Avenida Paulista<br />

- making it easily the world’s<br />

largest such event. <strong>The</strong><br />

mayor, governor and<br />

several ministers all<br />

took part.<br />

LITHUANIA:<br />

An estimated 2.5 million<br />

queer and gay-applauding<br />

revellers converged on Madrid<br />

to celebrate EuroPride; and<br />

to salute Spain’s socialist<br />

government for bringing<br />

in legislation that has<br />

transformed what was once<br />

one of the continent’s most<br />

staunchly conservative<br />

nations into a beacon of<br />

homo-hope - an example to<br />

the world, not least to<br />

nearby neighbours in<br />

Eastern Europe.<br />

HUGH’S HOOKER CLAIMS ALL’S DIVINE!<br />

Divine Brown, the former prostitute best known for her arrest whilst giving Hugh<br />

Grant a fifty buck blow job, claims she is eternally grateful to the aging star for<br />

publicity that reputedly earned her over $1.6 million. Gushed she: “Everything<br />

worked out for the better. I was blessed that it could get me out of that lifestyle. I<br />

love Hugh Grant. He put my kids through school.<br />

US CIRCUMCISION RATE: CUT<br />

Every year, worldwide, around 10 million Muslims, one million all-American boys,<br />

100,000 Jews and sundry others – totting to about 1 in 6 males worldwide - have<br />

the foreskin that billions of years of evolution has bestowed on them, severed from<br />

their manhoods. Although controversial, circumcision is the most commonlypracticed<br />

medical procedure on Earth. Yet latest stats show, in no small part due to<br />

the large influx of the nation’s Asian and Latin immigrants, the US circumcision rate<br />

– which peaked at 90% back in the early 60s - has now been slashed to just 57%; in<br />

some states, being well below half. That said, some are predicting a fight back – in the light of recent<br />

studies suggesting circumcision could well drastically reduce the rate of HIV infection!<br />

VIEWERS TUNE INTO HOMOPHOBIA ON BIG BROTHER<br />

Angry viewers wrote in to Ofcom regarding the use of the word ‘poof’ on Channel 4’s Big<br />

Brother. <strong>The</strong> show has been accused of double standards over how they have handled<br />

the situation following contestant Emily being sent home earlier in the series for using<br />

the word ‘nigger’. On the show aired on Sunday 1 July, BB contestant Laura laughed as<br />

she jokingly called Liam a ‘poof’, but viewers have queried how this discrimination<br />

differed from the earlier incident.<br />

OUTSPOKEN:<br />

SEBASTIAN ROCCA<br />

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR<br />

OF THE UK LESBIAN & GAY<br />

IMMIGRATION GROUP<br />

CLAIMS ASYLUM SEEKERS<br />

ARE BEING FAILED BY<br />

THE UK<br />

<br />

If you are an LGBT asylum seeker then – according to<br />

numerous official refusal letters <strong>issue</strong>d on behalf of the UK<br />

government - you can just go straight back to where you<br />

came from; and conceal your homosexuality to avoid harm.<br />

You can go home, hide your true self, never live with your<br />

partner and deny the very core of your identity.<br />

Would we tolerate such a situation ourselves, in our own<br />

country? If not, should we return desperate people, seeking<br />

help, home to face such inhuman discrimination elsewhere?<br />

...LEAVING THEIR HOME<br />

COUNTRY IS NOT A MATTER OF<br />

CHOICE – APART FROM THE<br />

CHOICE OF LIFE OVER DEATH<br />

For many LGBT asylum seekers, leaving their home country<br />

is not a matter of choice – apart from the choice of life over<br />

death. Most of us here are lucky enough to have little idea<br />

what that means. When the UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration<br />

Group (formerly Stonewall Immigration Group) began in<br />

1993, our main challenge was to win the right for same sex<br />

couples with a foreign partner to remain together in the UK.<br />

Our long and painstaking battle achieved gradually increasing<br />

rights until equality was finally reached in December 2005,<br />

when the first civil partnerships took place.As we became<br />

aware that this goal would be achieved, the focus of our work<br />

moved to providing legal support to LGBT asylum seekers.<br />

Despite legal LGBT-related advances in the UK, in more than<br />

80 member states of the United Nations, consensual acts<br />

between same sex adults are still criminalized.<br />

Sometimes the focus of the media and politicians is on the<br />

small number of unfounded claims for asylum or on the rapidly<br />

increasing number of asylum seekers removed from the UK,<br />

rather than on the real <strong>issue</strong>s and real people behind such<br />

numbers. This emphasis creates a culture of disbelief and lack<br />

of trust within communities, rather than promoting genuine<br />

‘social integration’ – words very popular with politicians. Few<br />

people know, for example, that many African lesbians come to<br />

the UK and claim asylum because they are raped or threatened<br />

with genital mutilation by members of their families or their<br />

community, in an attempt to ‘turn them straight’.<br />

PHOTOGRAPH: HUGO GLENDINNING<br />

GATELY ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR<br />

Stephen Gately has been announced as the leading role in the rock opera<br />

musical Godspell, which will tour this autumn. <strong>The</strong> former Boyzone star and<br />

gay singer recently did a spell on ITV’s Dancing On Ice but after previous West<br />

End appearances he can’t wait to return to the stage. Godspell is being hyped as<br />

the new high-energy modern-day song-and-dance production depicts the<br />

last days of Jesus through its uplifting music.<br />

Tour <strong>In</strong>formation Line - 01584 873912.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is very little support available for LGBT asylum seekers<br />

in this country; and our project is a vital lifeline. It is a place<br />

to meet others struggling with similar <strong>issue</strong>s and a source of<br />

quality legal advice, of practical and emotional support and<br />

– importantly – of hope.<br />

To make a donation or find out more about the UK Lesbian &<br />

Gay Immigration Group’s work: www.uklgig.org.uk.

One of the best investments<br />

in the capital is the<br />

dramatically changing<br />

‘Gateway to Europe’<br />

<br />

GOING OUT<br />

TOP HANGOUTS<br />

We find the most popular gay<br />

hotspots around King’s Cross<br />

THE PLACE TO BE:<br />

KING’S CROSS<br />

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CENTRAL STATION<br />

37 WHARFDALE ROAD<br />

King’s Cross’s famous bar<br />

with roof terrace, cabaret,<br />

strippers. underground disco<br />

and more.<br />

www.centralstation.co.uk<br />

GOLDEN LION<br />

2 BRITANNIA STREET<br />

A gay institution offering<br />

cabaret, bingo, quizzes and<br />

karaoke. <strong>The</strong> refurbished bar<br />

offers has a new beer garden.<br />

www.goldenlionlondon.co.uk<br />

POPSTARZ @ SCALA<br />

PENTOVILLE ROAD<br />

<strong>The</strong> popular alternative<br />

indie night for Fridays has<br />

been running for over a<br />

decade. 10pm-4am.<br />

www.popstarz.org<br />

KING’S CROSS<br />

WHAT YOU CAN<br />

BUY IN THE<br />

AREA<br />

01 BUNNING WAY, £279,950<br />

A two bedrooms flat (right) in a<br />

modern development just off Caledonian<br />

Road. <strong>In</strong>cludes parking.<br />

Chesterton. 02<strong>07</strong> 262 5060<br />

02 PENTONVILLE ROAD,<br />

£279,950<br />

A one bedroom, ground floor<br />

flat in a Grade II Listed Georgian<br />

house on Pentonville Road. <strong>The</strong><br />

property comprises open plan<br />

living room, bathroom, bedroom<br />

and pretty communal gardens.<br />

Winkworth.<br />

020 7430 2510<br />

03 KING’S CROSS ROAD,<br />

£930,000<br />

A three bedroom and three<br />

reception five story Georgian<br />

property (left), currently<br />

configured with a ground and<br />

lower ground floor commercial<br />

A3 unit. Located within walking<br />

distance of King’s Cross and St<br />

Pancras stations.<br />

Sandfords. 020 7723 9988<br />

LONDON FRIEND<br />

CALEDONIAN ROAD<br />

Offering workshops,<br />

counselling and a helpline.<br />

For more information check<br />

online or drop by.<br />

www.londonfriend.org.uk

Why set up a gay focussed property<br />

business?<br />

I feel that there are not enough people that<br />

offer this service and the ones that do are very<br />

few and far between, especially those that<br />

concentrate on the commercial acquisition side. I<br />

have ten years of property experience and wanted<br />

to use my knowledge to assist ‘gay’ or ‘gay run’<br />

companies that are setting up, looking to acquire<br />

some additional space or individuals who want to<br />

purchase freehold buildings either for investment<br />

or owner occupation.<br />

What reputation do you try to build?<br />

A good one… [laughs]. Perhaps steer away from the<br />

typical estate agent stereotype. Someone that people<br />

can rely on and trust, so they can achieve the best deal<br />

possible when acquiring new space. An estate agent<br />

that seems to be on the tenants and purchasers side<br />

not the landlord or vendor for a change!<br />

What made you go into business?<br />

At my old firm I was instructed by approximately ten<br />

clients at any given time. Just before the end of last year,<br />

eight of these happened to be gay. This is where the idea<br />

for my company came from. Working on a one-on-one<br />

basis with these clients is a proven success (see the<br />

testimonials). Proof is in the pudding. It’s about placing<br />

people with properties that they are looking for.<br />

What is unique about your approach to property?<br />

I take pride in taking the time out, meeting my clients and<br />

PROFILE BEN KAYE<br />

We find out more about the entrepreneur who just happens<br />

to be hot property.<br />

talking through all of their requirements. Pinpointing<br />

exactly what they are looking for so not only do they<br />

feel satisfied with the service, and hopefully they<br />

will recommend me to their friends and colleagues.<br />

At the moment there is no consultancy fees (for<br />

the first six months of the year ) just a one off<br />

payment when a deal is completed (this is on the<br />

commercial side). As far as the residential side is<br />

concerned, I will not be charging applicants to<br />

look at our instructions or register, unlike some<br />

competitors.<br />

What advice you have for gay people<br />

setting up their own business?<br />

<strong>The</strong> same as anyone setting up their business<br />

- gay or straight - you have to know your niche<br />

market.<br />

What else inspired you?<br />

My uncle, who is also my business partner, is<br />

a property developer and investor in Central<br />

London and indeed throughout the UK. He<br />

started off at a very young age and has built<br />

one of the biggest property portfolios<br />

in the UK. If there is anyone to look<br />

up too it would have to be him.<br />

Ben Kaye deals with clients looking to acquire offices or commercial<br />

accommodation and residential customers: 104 Great<br />

Portland Street, London W1W 6PE. 020 7637 0558. www.<br />

ben-kaye.co.uk<br />

RECRUITMENT: JOURNALISTS<br />

LOOKING TO BREAK<br />

INTO JOURNALISM<br />

OR SEEKING FRESH<br />

EXPERIENCE IN AN<br />

EDITORIAL OFFICE?<br />

RECRUITMENT: FREELANCE WRITERS<br />

<br />

<br />

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<br />

We regret that only successful applicants will be notified.<br />

RECRUITMENT: BOOK KEEPER<br />

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<br />

We regret that only successful applicants will be notified.<br />

<br />

<br />

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<br />

We regret that only successful applicants will be notified.<br />

Square Peg Media is an equal opportunities employer.<br />

44 Huntsworth Mews, London NW1 6DB. Switchboard: 020 7258 1777

DESIGN TEAM<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

DEAR DESIGN TEAM,<br />

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<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

HI BRIAN,<br />

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DEAR DESIGN TEAM,<br />

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DEAR ROBERT,<br />

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Katie McCrum is owner<br />

of London Rooms<br />

Design, her focus is on<br />

architectural design<br />

concentrating on<br />

space usage. Mark Riese is<br />

the owner and managing director of urban living the inspiring<br />

furniture emporium in London’s trendy Marylebone village.<br />

Please send questions to: designteam@outmag.co.uk.<br />

BEST BUY//BARGAIN BEDS<br />

For an extra clever storage idea, Martin Barnett Furniture have ash wood bed frames of all sizes with<br />

an hydraulic lift up system that gives you direct access to all the space under the bed – loads of extra<br />

storage with easy access! <strong>The</strong>y are currently running a special offer of a double storage bed with a<br />

“Firmrest” mattress for only £650.<br />

See www.martinbarnett.co.uk

Picking up a bargain at<br />

auction is easy, at the drop<br />

of the hammer the property<br />

is yours<br />

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05 TIME IS MONEY<br />

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06 GUIDE PRICE<br />

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<strong>07</strong> SMALL PRINT<br />

HAMMER IT HOME<br />

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01 SORT OUT YOUR FINANCES<br />

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02 GET A STRUCTURAL SURVEY<br />

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03 RESEARCH YOUR AREA<br />

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04 KNOW WHEN TO STOP BIDDING<br />

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08 VIEWING TIMES<br />

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09 SELLER’S PACK<br />

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10 BE A RISK TAKER<br />

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Popular London auction houses:<br />

Savills: www.savills.co.uk<br />

McHugh and Company: www.mchughandco.com<br />

Strettons: www.strettons.co.uk<br />

Allsop: www.allsop.co.uk<br />

Or for all properties: www.propertyauctions.com

WE WANT...<br />

<br />

<br />

01<br />

01 ASSORTED VASES | BOCONCEPT<br />

Since layering patterns, colours and textures is this month’s “hot trend”, try a mix and match<br />

with accessories, like these vases from BoConcept. <strong>The</strong> perfect solution if you’re not yet<br />

ready to dive into the smorgasbord of wallpapers, materials and other such fixed designer<br />

statements.<br />

RRP £24 - £89<br />

ww.boconcept.com<br />

02 VACUUM JUG | STELTON<br />

Designed in the 1970s by Erik Magnussen, the Vacuum Jug is Stelton’s all-time best-selling<br />

product. Not surprising considering it’s an effortless and colourful amalgamation of classic<br />

chic, and even easier to appreciate when it’s hanging from your freshly painted (designer)<br />

kitchen wall.<br />

RRP £50<br />

www.panik-design.com<br />

03 DAB RADIO| DUALIT<br />

Praised for the brushed steel brilliance of their industrial produce, Dualit has inevitably<br />

entered the consumer electronics market to equal high acclaim. Designed to compliment<br />

other products in the coveted brand, their DAB Radio’s polished aluminium casing and<br />

iconic style do just that.<br />

RRP £199.95<br />

www.johnlewis.com<br />

02<br />

04 REGOLIT LAMP | IKEA<br />

Ikea’s winning attitude towards budget style will never fail to draw in customers, but<br />

sometimes the Swedes manage to even outdo themselves. <strong>The</strong> Regolit lamp embodies<br />

every timeless trends ever to grace “the moment”: functional and gorgeous.<br />

RRP £36<br />

www.ikea.com<br />

05 COCOA LEAF DUVET COVER | AMENITY HOME<br />

Adorned in an exotic leaf print and alluring cocoa colour, this duvet set from American<br />

textiles specialist Amenity Home will speak volumes in the quiet hush of your boudoir.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re’s just one snag – it’s only available in the US. Better find an American friend, fast!<br />

RRP $320<br />

www.amenityhome.com<br />

06 WRONGWOODS CHEST OF DRAWERS | RICHARD WOODS AND<br />

SEBASTIAN WRONG FOR ESTABLISHED & SONS<br />

Sebastian Wrong is a founding member of the pioneering British furniture dealer<br />

Established & Sons. Woods, his partner in design crime, has recently produced some solid<br />

work for London Underground. “Wrongwoods” is the celestial brainchild of both creatives’<br />

iconic styles: graphic, laminate, and incontrovertibly must-have.<br />

RRP £ on request<br />

www.establishedandsons.com<br />

<strong>07</strong> CARAFES | LEONARDO<br />

<strong>The</strong> transparent earnestness of plying us with such stylish, contemporary and cosmopolitan<br />

glassware is almost enough to call buyers at Leonardo and offer them a drink! Finally - a<br />

company prepared to make genuine labeled goods at humble, humane prices, purely for the<br />

love of design.<br />

RRP £38 (each)<br />

ww.leonardo.de<br />

WORDS BY EMMA WILLIS<br />

03<br />

08 BALL CHAIR BY FINN STONE| BODIE AND FOU<br />

British designers are currently enjoying some time under the international spotlight,<br />

including Finn Stone, creator of the now iconic Ball Chair. It’s a little piece of Panton-inspired<br />

heaven for the derrière, available now at Bodie and Fou in every imaginable colour (well,<br />

almost).<br />

RRP £140<br />

ww.bodieandfou.com

04<br />

05<br />

06<br />

<strong>07</strong><br />

08

ON THE REGISTER<br />

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Pink Weddings are organisers<br />

of the Gay Wedding Show, check<br />

www.pinkweddings.biz for<br />

more information.<br />

<br />

TOP TEN MOST<br />

POPULAR AREAS<br />

01 Greater Manchester<br />

02 Brighton and Hove<br />

03 Westminster<br />

04 West Yorkshire<br />

05 West Midlands<br />

06 Kensington and Chelsea<br />

<strong>07</strong> Kent<br />

08 Islington<br />

09 Surrey<br />

10 Hampshire<br />

Edinburgh is the most<br />

popular city for Scotland<br />

and Cardiff for Wales.

ONE-STOP LAW SHOP<br />

VISIT OUR RESIDENT SOLICITOR GABRIELE GIAMBRONE IF YOU HAVE A<br />

DIFFICULT LEGAL PROBLEM AND NEED THE ANSWERS. PLEASE SEND ANY<br />

QUESTIONS TO LAW@OUTMAG.CO.UK.<br />

DEAR LEGAL DOC,<br />

I am getting registered with my partner in a Civil Partnership, but he says he wants to do a Pre-Civil<br />

Partnership Agreement with me. Besides the fact that I don’t feel he trusts me anymore, I have heard<br />

that these are a waste of time as they don’t actually stand up in court. Could you please advise me, I feel<br />

so in the dark. Mike<br />

DEAR JB,<br />

First of all, congratulations on deciding to register your civil partnership. Secondly, please do not feel that because your<br />

partner has asked you to sign a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement he no longer trusts you. A Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement<br />

is a document which is signed by both partners prior to entering into a Civil Partnership which sets out the assets that each<br />

partner has brought into the relationship and also sets out what should happen to those assets should you dissolve your Civil<br />

Partnership. It is correct that such Agreements are not legally binding in this country; however they are not a waste of time.<br />

Case law has shown that such Agreements can be highly persuasive in court proceedings where the financial assets are in<br />

<strong>issue</strong>. A Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement would be more effective if it provided for full and frank disclosure of both partner’s<br />

assets, if both partners received their own independent legal advice, if neither partner was put under any pressure to sign the<br />

Agreement and the Agreement was signed in advance of the registration of the Civil Partnership, a suitable amount of time<br />

would be around 21 days prior to the registration.<br />

Pre-Civil Partnership Agreements are not obligatory and you do not lose your rights if you enter into an Agreement as a Pre-<br />

Civil Partnership Agreement cannot oust the jurisdiction of the court; however, as stated above, a properly drafted Agreement<br />

would be an important and persuasive factor in deciding how to divide the assets upon dissolution and therefore is highly<br />

recommended in order to protect each partner’s financial position. Gabriele<br />

For further advice, please speak to Avv. Gabriele Giambrone at gabriele@gaylawyers.co.uk , or call him on 0870 0427 631.<br />

www.gaylawyers.co.uk. Please note that this is very general advice and we strongly recommend you seek advice from a solicitor<br />

specialising in same-sex couple <strong>issue</strong>s and will and probate.<br />

NEWS I’M ‘TAX’ FREE

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE<br />

Couples like Julian and<br />

Sandy left their complicated<br />

mortgage to Compass, so they<br />

could continue living their<br />

busy lives<br />

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HOME: A GAY PLACE<br />

TO WORK, REST<br />

AND MORTGAGE<br />

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Chris Morgan is Managing Director of Compass, Financial Advisers<br />

to the gay community www.compassifa.co.uk and editor of<br />

Pink Finance the gay finance magazine www.pinkfinance.com<br />

CO PRODUCED BY CHRIS MORGAN AND DAVID SELF

ICE, ICE BABY<br />

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LINKS<br />

www.gayice.is<br />

www.visiticeland.com<br />

www.visitreykjavik.is<br />

www.northiceland.com<br />

Gulfoss<br />

Akureyri

BEARS ON ICE<br />

NORTH, THEN NORTH AGAIN…<br />

<br />

If you can’t make it<br />

for Reykjavik Pride,<br />

then a month later the<br />

annual Bears On Ice<br />

festival takes place. <strong>The</strong><br />

northernmost bears gettogether<br />

in the world,<br />

this small festival takes<br />

place 7-9 September<br />

20<strong>07</strong>. This year’s event<br />

will include a whale<br />

watching expedition,<br />

Blue Lagoon trip, and<br />

parties at the MSC Club<br />

and guest London club,<br />

Come To Daddy.<br />

Check www.gayice.is/boi<br />

for full details and<br />

accommodation and travel<br />

advice.<br />

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Reykjavik<br />

<strong>The</strong> Blue Lagoon

21 MAR-19 APR<br />

ARIES<br />

Be wary of getting defensive<br />

with someone who is trying to<br />

find a joint resolution. Now is the<br />

time to tread carefully in conflicts<br />

– either at work or closer to<br />

home. You have diplomatic skills<br />

Aries and now is the time to<br />

draw upon them. Do also keep<br />

an eye out for a special event in<br />

the first few days of <strong>August</strong>.<br />

23 JUL-22 AUG<br />

LEO<br />

20 APR-20 MAY<br />

TAURUS<br />

Taureans can expect to hit some<br />

real but surmountable obstacles<br />

in the early part of the month.<br />

However, don’t give up at the<br />

first hurdle. <strong>August</strong> also brings<br />

romantic developments – keep<br />

an eye open for new possibilities<br />

or positive changes in your<br />

current relationship. Go with<br />

the flow.<br />

<strong>The</strong> midsummer sun is in your<br />

house Leo, and now is the<br />

time to give love to those close<br />

to you. Look afresh at things that have caused you grief, as a new<br />

bout of optimism will help you see things in their true perspective.<br />

All is positive on the creativity and romance front, and expect the<br />

unexpected around the 13th. Welcome it in whatever form it may take.<br />

LEO<br />

She may do her best to<br />

hold back the years,<br />

but there’s no escaping<br />

the fact that Madonna<br />

turns 49 on 16 <strong>August</strong>.<br />

A typical Leo, she’s a<br />

survivalist with a need<br />

for approval. Leo’s are<br />

often warm, with a flair<br />

for drama and ‘what<br />

you see is what you<br />

get’ attitude.<br />

21 MAY-21 JUN<br />

GEMINI<br />

<strong>The</strong>re have been some rough<br />

times over the last few months,<br />

but Geminis can expect an<br />

upturn in their finances from the<br />

beginning of <strong>August</strong>. Don’t blow<br />

it all on a wild weekend binge!<br />

You can also look forward to<br />

some new work opportunities<br />

after 17 <strong>August</strong> – be prepared to<br />

move out of your comfort zone.<br />

23 AUG-22 SEP<br />

VIRGO<br />

22 JUN-22 JUL<br />

CANCER<br />

Stop being so hard on yourself<br />

Cancer. Even a small boost in<br />

your self-esteem this month will<br />

reap financial rewards and alter<br />

your perceptions of your earning<br />

power. Accept your limitations<br />

with grace and publicise your<br />

strengths. Stay practical and<br />

re-visit that ‘must do’ list of<br />

errands and plans.<br />

Early <strong>August</strong> is a time for quiet<br />

and contemplation…ideal if<br />

you’ve got a relaxing holiday<br />

planned! Take stock of your life and the things you want to change<br />

– then devise ways for doing so. Virgos can expect a period of<br />

self-indulgence around the 22nd, but try not to overdo it. Pamper<br />

yourself and be open to the possibility of physical fulfillment.<br />

23 SEP-22 OCT<br />

LIBRA<br />

Face it Libra… you can’t keep<br />

everyone happy all of the time,<br />

and attempting to do so is<br />

leaving you exhausted. Be wary<br />

of over-stretching yourself,<br />

particularly when it comes to<br />

saying ‘yes’ too often at work.<br />

A new relationship – friendship<br />

or otherwise – is set to blossom<br />

around the 17th <strong>August</strong>.<br />

23 OCT-21 NOV<br />

SCORPIO<br />

Fasten your seatbelt… it’s going<br />

to be a bumpy ride! Expect a<br />

boost in your work and home<br />

life, following the full moon on 9<br />

<strong>August</strong>. Changes to your routine<br />

may make you anxious at first,<br />

but keep your head together<br />

and you’ll reap the rewards.This<br />

month may be emotional, but<br />

you’ll see things clearer by the end.<br />

22 NOV-21 DEC<br />

SAGITTARIUS<br />

<strong>The</strong> full moon on 9 <strong>August</strong><br />

inspires off-the-wall ideas, but<br />

pursue them with foresight<br />

and discipline. Even great ideas<br />

can fail if poorly executed. Be<br />

wary of advice from others,<br />

and the tendency for some of<br />

those around you to gossip and<br />

exaggerate. Yes, even on the gay<br />

scene… shocking, eh?!<br />

22 DEC-19 JAN<br />

CAPRICORN<br />

You’ve been partying hard lately,<br />

and <strong>August</strong> is the time to kick-start<br />

a new exercise regime. You’ll<br />

reap particular benefits from all<br />

physical activity between now<br />

and the end of September. It’s<br />

time for a mid-year detox and<br />

health kick. A lunar eclipse on<br />

28 <strong>August</strong> finds others coming<br />

to you for advice. Give it wisely.<br />

20 JAN-18 FEB<br />

AQUARIUS<br />

You can sometimes be plagued<br />

by indecisiveness Aquarius, but<br />

you know that following your<br />

gut instinct pays dividends.<br />

<strong>August</strong> brings fresh challenges<br />

– mainly in your relationships<br />

with friends and loved ones, but<br />

be true to yourself and stand<br />

firm. 23 <strong>August</strong> is a good time<br />

to make a new action plan.<br />

19 FEB-20 MAR<br />

PISCES<br />

Stop complaining that your life<br />

is in a rut and do something<br />

about it! Now is the time to<br />

book a holiday somewhere<br />

unusual… or even just to visit<br />

somewhere locally that you don’t<br />

normally venture. Try hanging<br />

out at a different bar or club for a<br />

change. You might be pleasantly<br />

surprised.

HOLDING<br />

BACK THE<br />

YEARS<br />

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THE GAY POPULATION<br />

IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE<br />

INDUSTRY LEADER,<br />

HAVING FEWER<br />

INHIBITIONS IN<br />

USING ALMOST ANY<br />

METHOD TO LOOK<br />

THEIR BEST<br />

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<br />

Dr Bowler’s is Medical Director<br />

of Court House Clinics<br />

(0845-555 5050) and<br />

co-founder of the British<br />

Association of Cosmetic<br />

Doctors, which can offer<br />

independent advice on<br />

medical cosmetic procedures.<br />

www.cosmeticdoctors.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPH: WWW.MIKEKEAR.COM<br />

ALL IN THE MIND?<br />

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DOMINIC’S<br />

TOP TIPS<br />

FOR STAYING<br />

MENTALLY FIT…<br />

• Make and maintain<br />

some good friends<br />

- be loyal to, and care for,<br />

each other.<br />

• Take time to think<br />

about your life<br />

- maybe keep a journal<br />

of your feelings and<br />

thoughts.<br />

• Find five new ways<br />

to have fun - which<br />

don’t involve having sex,<br />

drinking, taking drugs or<br />

shopping!<br />

PINK THERAPY…<br />

has a UK-wide online<br />

directory - listing over<br />

300 therapists, of all<br />

orientations, who won’t<br />

judge someone because<br />

of their sexuality. It<br />

also runs an extensive<br />

training programme for<br />

therapists to learn more<br />

about the specifics of<br />

being from a gender<br />

or sexual minority and<br />

how this impacts on<br />

lives. It has just moved<br />

from Harley Street to the<br />

very lap of Soho: 02<strong>07</strong><br />

434 0367 or www.<br />

pinktherapy.com<br />

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I HELP EVERYONE,<br />

FROM CORPORATE<br />

EXECS TO ESCORTS

25 YEARS &<br />

COUNTING<br />

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FROM ITS SMALL<br />

BEGINNINGS IN A<br />

FLAT IN CENTRAL<br />

LONDON, THT<br />

HAS GROWN TO<br />

BECOME THE UK’S<br />

LEADING HIV AND<br />

SEXUAL HEALTH<br />

CHARITY - ONE OF<br />

THE LARGEST IN<br />

EUROPE<br />

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<br />

Terry Higgins<br />

Will Nutland<br />

BLEACHED!<br />

<strong>The</strong> Trading Standards<br />

<strong>In</strong>stitute (TSI) has found that<br />

many of the most common<br />

tooth whitening kits available<br />

to buy over the counter<br />

contain illegally high levels<br />

of bleaching agent hydrogen<br />

peroxide.<br />

<strong>The</strong> popularity of such kits has risen drastically in<br />

recent years, as people seek and quick and cheap way<br />

of whitening their teeth. However, hydrogen peroxide<br />

can aggravate gum disease, damage tooth enamel, and<br />

increase tooth sensitivity. <strong>The</strong> TSI found that hydrogen<br />

peroxide levels were higher than the legal limit in 18<br />

out of 20 DIY products tested, with one particular brand<br />

exceeding the legal limit by a factor of 230 times!<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were keen to point out that their tests were carried<br />

out only on teeth whitening kits, and not whitening<br />

toothpastes. <strong>The</strong> two whitening kits that passed their tests<br />

were the Boots Expert Teeth Whitening Programme,<br />

and the ‘Brilliant’ tooth whitening system from Brilliant<br />

Products.<br />

Commenting on the findings, a spokesperson for the British<br />

Dental Association told the BBC, “It is important any patient<br />

considering having their teeth whitened consults their<br />

dentist, who will examine their mouth properly, take a full<br />

medical history and discuss treatment options.”<br />

SALTY<br />

SANDWICHES<br />

Recent research has revealed<br />

that some brands of prepackaged<br />

sandwiches can<br />

contain high levels of salt.<br />

A high level of salt in your diet<br />

is known to raise blood pressure,<br />

and can lead to heart disease and stroke. Consensus<br />

Action on Salt and Health (CASH) analysed the<br />

nutritional content of 140 sandwiches, and found that<br />

41% cent contained one-third of the recommended<br />

daily salt intake for adults. That’s not too bad if a<br />

lunchtime sandwich makes up one of your three meals<br />

of the day. However, 8% of the sandwiches studied<br />

contained half the recommended daily salt limit. Worst<br />

offenders were ‘All Day Breakfast’ sandwiches – some<br />

of which contained the same amount of salt as seven<br />

bags of crisps! All sandwiches containing bacon and<br />

ham tended to have higher salt levels, while lowest<br />

were the Co-op’s Healthy Living Tuna and Cucumber<br />

and Tesco’s Healthy Living Chicken Salad, with only<br />

0.6g of salt (around 10% of your recommended daily<br />

intake). CASH’s advice to consumers was to always<br />

check the labels, and urged retailers to always provide<br />

such information on their packaging.

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