<strong>Festival</strong> Introduction A message from our Artistic Director, <strong>And</strong>rew Ellerby: Oh my globs! We are back! Last year we launched <strong>And</strong> <strong>What</strong>? <strong>Queer</strong>. <strong>Arts</strong>. <strong>Festival</strong>. as a platform to show the work of <strong>Queer</strong> and LGBTQIA+ artists, makers and producers, to encourage different spaces for artistic conversation, open doors to venues and provide new experiences for audiences across London…. we didn’t expect it to be such a roaring success! So, we are back with that difficult second album, and this year, we have upped-the-ante. For anyone that doesn’t already know, <strong>2017</strong> is the 50th year since the partial decriminalisation of Homosexuality in England and Wales. In recognition of this <strong>And</strong> <strong>What</strong>? <strong>2017</strong> has kept its toe in the past and eyes firmly fixed on the future. Our programme is almost entirely made up of world premieres and/or London firsts, including brand new: theatre, music, live art, club nights, drag shows, youth engagement projects (Talking Genders / Himherandit), exhibitions, circus, cabaret and some really out-there ‘experiences’. Even our project commemorating partial decriminalisation Bouquet 50 is forward facing. It aims to create a living monument to keep the conversation alive until its next anniversary. Afterall, it’s not just about <strong>2017</strong>. Things will be happening across London, in traditional spaces like theatres and galleries; <strong>Queer</strong> spaces, like clubs and back rooms; public spaces such as cinemas and more unusual corners, nooks and crannies including churches, swimming pools and tattoo studios. Artists are national and international, emerging and world famous. We have created space for fresh ideas in our first ever Open-Call <strong>Queer</strong> Art(ists) Now that also allows artists to appear in a programme alongside names like Bruce LaBruce, Neil Bartlett and Peaches Christ. We also welcome some of the most exciting queer voices around like Alexander Geist (La JohnJoseph), Rosie Wilby, Nando Messias and Darren Pritchard/Cornel Simons (House of Ghetto: Black Pride). In total there are 30+ events, supporting more than 150 artists, and a little somethin’ somethin’ for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Jump in and enjoy the slightly murky waters of <strong>And</strong> <strong>What</strong>? <strong>Queer</strong>. <strong>Arts</strong>. <strong>Festival</strong>. <strong>2017</strong>. <strong>Queer</strong> <strong>Arts</strong> for the Hearts of London! ... and Beyond! With much love, <strong>And</strong>rew
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