THEGAYUK

Tag: UK

  • Could homophbia in Scottish schools be a thing of the past?

    Could homophbia in Scottish schools be a thing of the past?

    The campaigning group Time For Inclusive Education has announced a new training scheme today (22 June), as they step up their efforts to end homophobia in Scottish schools.

    Supplied by TIE
    In the week marking sixteen years since the repeal of Section 28 (Clause 2A in Scotland), which banned the discussion of homosexuality in schools, the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign have outlined their plans to train school staff on LGBTI issues.

    The scheme will pilot with two free to attend training days in Glasgow and Edinburgh in October, and will be centred around how teachers can tackle homophobic attitudes and discuss LGBTI issues with their pupils in primary, secondary and additional support needs education.

    The course has been created by TIE campaigners and teachers, including John Naples-Campbell, Scott Mowat and Danielle Campbell, who have each been recognised and awarded for their work on equalities education in schools.

    The move marks the first time that a training course which is specific to LGBTI issues has been available to educators free of charge and is inclusive of the additional support needs sector.

    TIE emphasised that the decision to organise training has been the result of working with schools, teachers and young people for the past year, and has been created as a response to the “systematic barriers” which prevent teachers from accessing training.

    A TIE spokesperson said,

    “For a year now, we have been campaigning for the Scottish Government to ensure that all schools are inclusive of LGBTI identities, and while we have considerable political support for our cause – we have encountered some worrying trends which must be addressed immediately. Despite being sixteen years since Clause 2a was repealed, we are still seeing it’s impact in schools across the country. Indeed, we have met teachers who still think that the clause is in place, and we cannot wait for political change before taking steps to rectify this.”

    “Also, as a result of cuts to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) budgets, many schools are struggling to cover the costs of training their staff on LGBTI issues. This is why we have ensured that our course will remain free of charge and will be held out of school hours on Saturdays. Our events are a response to the systematic barriers which prevent schools from becoming inclusive of LGBTI young people, and we would encourage all teaching staff – whether probationary, trainee or currently practicing – to attend in October.”

    Attendees at the training course in Glasgow will be welcomed with speeches from human rights lawyer Aamer Anwar, Scottish Greens MSP Patrick Harvie and the Very Reverend Kelvin Holdsworth of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

    The training courses will be held on the 1st October in Glasgow, and 8th October in Edinburgh.

    The announcement comes after party leaders pledged swift action on TIE’s calls for LGBTI inclusive education last week during a Holyrood debate on the Orlando shootings.

    The campaign has received support from figureheads including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Liberal Democrats leader Willie Rennie, Harry Potter actress Emma Thompson and gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.

     

    This aritcle was written by TIE Campaign follow them on Twitter

  • Canterbury gay bar’s window reportedly “shot out”

    Canterbury gay bar’s window reportedly “shot out”

    Police are currently undertaking a search of the area surrounding the Limes gay bar in Canterbury after the window was reportedly “shot out”.

    According to Kentonline.com police officers are currently searching the area surrounding Canterbury’s only gay bar Limes Lounge, after a window was allegedly “shot out”. A small hole was discovered in the window, leading people to believe that the window had been shot at.

    It is not yet clear how the hole was created, officers are investigating the possibility that a catapult or air rifle was used. No weapon was seen by witnesses or seized by officers.
    A Spokeswoman for Kent Police said,

    “No injuries were reported and the investigation into the incident continues.

    “A window was broken and the cause of the damage remains under investigation. No weapons were reported to have been seen.”

    Officers were called to Rosemary Lane in Canterbury at 9.50pm on Sunday 19 June following a report of a disturbance after a number of people had been asked to leave a venue. A window was broken in the incident. The cause of the damage remains under investigation. No weapons were reported to have been seen.

    Shortly after 4am two people – an 18 year-old man from Dover and a 17 year-old woman from Hythe – were arrested in connection with the incident and are currently in custody.

    No injuries were reported and officers remain at the scene as investigation into the incident continues.

     

    In 2014 the boss at Limes said he was threaten with arson six months after it opened. The owner  Tony Butcher told Kentonline that he was also approached by a man in a dog collar who suggested that he should be cleansed of his sins by attending his church.

     

  • Theatre Review | The Rocky Horror Show

    ★★★★ | The Rocky Horror Show takes the audience on a strange journey, as Brad and Janet, two ordinary high school kids, have a little car trouble and end up at the castle of Frank-N-Furter; a cross dressing scientist cum force of nature, on the evening that he is to bring his Frankenstein-esque playmate, complete with “dark hair and a tan” to life. Featuring the songs The Time Warp, Sweet Transvestite, Science Fiction/Double Feature, I’m Going Home and Dammit, Janet;  will things ever be the same for our two high school sweethearts?

    Photo Credit – Sean Webb

    The role of Frank-N-Furter is so iconic, that you need a larger than life personality to fill the fishnets, and Liam Tamne does a great job blending Frank’s camptastic alluring persona whilst maintaining an underlying gruffness in his vocal performance of the songs, whilst Richard Meek excelled as Brad, particularly in his rendition of Once In A While. Dominic Andersen was the personification of perfection as he filled out the gold hot pants of Rocky, and Norman Pace (of Hale and Pace fame) traded quips with the audience as the Narrator. Sadly, Kristian Lavercombe was a slightly too shouty Riff Raff and Paul Cattermole (S Club 7) was nothing more than functional as Eddie/Dr Scott.

    Rocky Horror is presented here in all its gloriously loud, brash, colourful, neon Day-Glo garishness, with a set which looks luxurious and holds an almost cartoon-like feel to it; all accompanied by an excellent lighting design by Nick Richings which flooded the stage in reds, greens and purples, and some steady direction by Christopher Luscombe. But within that polished veneer, it loses some of the darker undertones of the piece, leaving it with a slight hint of almost being a caricature of itself. The slight stumbling block of this production is that, ironically, it is done so well.

    But that said, the show is a phenomenon, and the atmosphere at any Rocky Horror performance is one which has to be experienced. This production is a fresh take on a classic show and one which engages the audience like no other. So pull on your fishnet stockings, warm up your vocal chords and go and “give yourself over to absolute pleasure”.

    The Rocky Horror Show is at Sheffield Lyceum (www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk), who has just launched their new season, until Saturday 25th June 2016 before continuing on its national tour until the end of the year. See www.rockyhorror.co.uk  for full details.

     

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Aladdin

    ★★★★ | Aladdin

    Disney has done it again. They’ve produced another musical based on one of their very popular animated movies – this time it’s Aladdin.

    Already playing on Broadway where it opened in 2014 to very good reviews, Aladdin takes the colorful animated movie and successfully transfers it to the stage. It’s a production so colourful, so full of life, with quite a few memorable scenes, that it’s likely this show will follow in the footsteps of The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast in entertaining lots of children (and adults) for years to come.

    Of course the Aladdin film is most famous for Robin Williams as the voice of the Genie. It was a natural fit; his huge character persona so in line with the genie’s. In the stage version, the genie is just as memorable (played by a campy and very funny Trevor Dion Nicholas), who practically steals every scene he’s in. He can grant three wishes in this love story between Aladdin (Dean John-Wilson) and the Princess Jasmine (Jade Ewen). Aladdin is poor, and hangs out with a trio of losers and thugs in the town of Agrabah. Meanwhile Princess Jasmine is very unwilling to enter into an arranged marriage by her father the Sultan (Irvine Iqbal). But lurking in the background is the Sultan’s Prime Minister Jafar (Don Gallagher) – his right hand man – who wants to overthrow the Sultan and will do whatever it takes to do so. This entails locating a dangerous cave where there’s a special lamp that grants wishes.

    Back in town, Princess Jasmine dresses as a commoner and walks around town and meets Aladdin. They’re smitten with each other but the romance hits a rocky start when Aladdin gets arrested for being in the palace. He’s saved by Jafar, who enlists him to go into the cave to retrieve the lamp. But it’s Aladdin who, accidentally, gets to own the lamp, and like in the film, he has three wishes to make, wishes that will not only change his life but the lives of his friends and Princess Jasmine as well.

    Aladdin is not a perfect musical. There’s not very many memorable musical numbers (except the well-known ‘Friend Like Me’ and ‘A Whole New World,’ which plays out on a magic carpet flying above the stage with the stars twinkling all around. It’s a magical and mesmerizing scene).

    John-Wilson is good as Aladdin, but he doesn’t wow us. Gallagher as the evil Prime Minister is especially good. He’s evil, cunning and very clever, with the aide of his assistant Iago (Peter Howe).

    Former UK Eurovision contestant Ewen, as Princess Jasmine, is very good and proves that she can sing AND act. However it’s Dion Nicholas as the genie who you will cheer and applaud. But it’s the sets, wow the sets, that are the real star of the show.

    Moroccan deserts, palaces, villages, sunsets, and perfect costumes are all worth the ticket price. And while Aladdin resurrects the story and music written for the 1992 movie by Alan Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice and the late Howard Ashman, it’s no Lion King but it sure comes close.

    Alladin plays at the Prince Edward Theatre (London)

     

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Karugula

    ★★★ | Karugula

    What is “Karugula” and what is this play about? I’m not sure that you’ll leave this play with a definitive answer and you may well not even care but it’s an epic journey in this dark imagining of a dystopian world. Prom kings and queens are ritually shot dead, strange cults rule and a twisted version of the Kennedy assassination is a legend that has influenced society as the grassy knoll is reverentially mentioned. This is a sprawling and pleasantly confusing play with non-linear storytelling and a cast of seventy characters played by nine actors in a constantly changing set.

    Philip Ridley has been knocking audiences sideways and winning multiple awards for his ‘in-yer-face’ plays since The Pitchfork Disney in 1991. He’s elicited wide ranging critical responses and there are fables of fainting audience members and people stalking out of theatres in disgust. However, to look at his plays as ‘shock’ pieces would be to misunderstand and cheapen his work. His worlds are violent and terrifying but his skill is in integrating horror with the everyday world that we know. His work draws you in politely and then grabs you with an icy hand and refuses to let go. He’s also witty and wise, with a wry sense of the state of the world. Karagula is no exception. Ridley fans have learnt to never know what to expect from each new play. Here he’s crafted a fable reflecting modern society and the world’s political tensions but has set it the framework of an apocalyptic science fiction story. Much like Alistair McDowell’s ‘X’ and Anne Washburn’s ‘Mr Burns’ that both recently divided critical opinion; this is an unusual theatrical foray into an infrequently explored genre.

    Cheerleaders chant about assassinations, 1950’s housewives brag of murders in pink kitchens and milkshake parlours aren’t places you’d really want to be. Figures in white clothing inhabit starkly lit interrogation boxes and talk of concentration camps whilst Mad Max style renegades pick over ruins. It’s tongue in cheek and thankfully self-mocking throughout. There are insane touches reminiscent of a 1970’s Doctor Who episode intercut with David Lynch style eeriness. The science fiction references are frequent. Extremism, jingoism and patriotism abound. It’s a mad, mad world but one not far removed from our own. The dialogue is perplexing, odd and hilarious. Ridley’s hallmark style of slowly imbuing the innocuous and banal with sinister overtones works well here.

    The play is overlong at over three hours and is by no means perfect with uneven tones and scenes that feel extraneous. Emotion is rarely poignant or moving (with the exception of a beautiful scene surrounding a mother who’s daughter was taken from her). It’s housed in a disused ambulance station in Tottenham Hale. The production is shaky at times and Shawn Soh’s constantly changing set and the script’s moving focuses of action although impressive, are too distracting. Regardless of any flaws, the acting is skilled and Jethro Cooke’s throbbing ambient soundtrack is a suitable accompaniment.

    Overall it’s an intriguing play but feels less accessible and immediately beguiling than some of Ridley’s prior work.

    Karugula plays at the Styx Theatre until the 9th of July 2016

    Follow Chris Bridges on Twitter

  • Pro gay rights MP dies after being shot and stabbed multiple times

    A British politician has died after being stabbed and shot in the street in her constituency.

    Embed from Getty Images

    MP Jo Cox has died after being shot and stabbed several times in an attack in her constituency.

    The 41-year-old Labour politician had only recently begun her career in the Houses of Parliament after being voted in as the MP for Batley and Spen near Leeds in the latest general election in 2015.

    The lawmaker had recently called on the government to “to take further steps to end discrimination and bigotry against LGBT people in the UK and around the world”.

    A man, Tommy Mair has been arrested and is being questioned by police.

    West Yorkshire police said,

    “At 12.53 today, police were called to a report of an incident on Market Street, Birstall, where a woman in her 40s had suffered serious injuries and is in a critical condition.

    “Armed officers attended and a 52-year-old man was arrested in the area. There are no further details at present.

    “Police presence in the area has been increased as a reassurance to the community.”

    Embed from Getty Images

    The streets surrounding the area in which Ms Cox was attacked have been cleared and forensics teams are sweeping the area for clues and evidence.

    Embed from Getty Images

    Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn condemned the attack on Cox saying,

    “The whole of the Labour Party and Labour family – and indeed the whole country – will be in shock at the horrific murder of Jo Cox today.

    “Jo had a lifelong record of public service and a deep commitment to humanity. She worked both for Oxfam and the anti-slavery charity, the Freedom Fund, before she was elected last year as MP for Batley and Spen – where she was born and grew up.

    “Jo was dedicated to getting us to live up to our promises to support the developing world and strengthen human rights – and she brought those values and principles with her when she became an MP.

    “Jo died doing her public duty at the heart of our democracy, listening to and representing the people she was elected to serve. It is a profoundly important cause for us all.

    “Jo was universally liked at Westminster, not just by her Labour colleagues, but across Parliament.

    “In the coming days, there will be questions to answer about how and why she died. But for now all our thoughts are with Jo’s husband Brendan and their two young children. They will grow up without their mum, but can be immensely proud of what she did, what she achieved and what she stood for.

    “We send them our deepest condolences. We have lost a much loved colleague, a real talent and a dedicated campaigner for social justice and peace. But they have lost a wife and a mother, and our hearts go out to them.”

    Ms Cox is survived by two children and her husband Brendan Cox.

  • HOTEL REVIEW | Eccleston Square Hotel

    ★★★★ | Eccleston Square Hotel

    Eccleston Square Hotel

    I visited the Eccleston Square Hotel previously to review their restaurant, which I awarded five stars. Classed as London’s most hi-tech hotel, before arrival you’re encouraged to download their app from which you can request various items and drinks to be waiting in your room.

    Further to the app, your room comes with an Ipad 2. Again, you control everything using the iPad; from wake up call, free 3D movie requests (for your 46inch), to room service- and of course you still have the option to pick up the phone and speak with someone.

    Eccleston Square Hotel

    The bed was exquisitely comfy, and it wants to be with a price tag of 12k (literally sleeping on someone’s salary). The only thing it can’t do is make you climax, unless you’re super sensitive and switch that massage mode on full whack- it really goes for it!

    The bathrooms are kitted out palatially; a “rainfall” shower fit for four (channel Pamela Anderson in Barbwire when using the shower seat), a TV in the mirror, smart glass technology to frost the glass for privacy, and a lovely selection of L’occitane products.

    Upon request you can get the key for the Square’s shared private garden across the road, so we took our Cosmos and went for an evening walk around the gardens. Very pretty and peaceful.

    Due to birthday celebrations we took full advantage of the 24hr room service with a fair few bottles of fizz and post-prosecco paninis being brought to the room. So much so the next day we actually had to return a bottle of bubbles to the front desk as we had over ordered. I partly blame the iPad for making the process so easy & streamline.

    Breakfast was slightly unfortunate with pancakes cold and bacon hot for my friend, and everything was flavoursome in my full English, but the beans were beastly!

    Eccleston Square Hotel

    The experience altogether is a clever meeting of automated / hi-tech, and delivery with a smile from the kind and personable team that bring the real touch to your stay.

    Hi-tech, high spec , a stay you won’t forget.

  • Nearly a quarter of LGBTs afraid for their safety after Orlando massacre

    Nearly a quarter of LGBTs afraid for their safety after Orlando massacre

    Nearly a quarter of LGBT+ people in a flash poll said they were afraid for their safety after Orlando gay club massacre.

    Embed from Getty Images

    The LGBT+ community remain on high alert after an attack on a gay club in Orlando left 49 people dead.

    In a flash poll conducted by THEGAYUK 23% of people surveyed said that they were afraid for their safety after the deadly attack in Orlando.

    When asked if the attack in Orlando directly affected their feelings of safety in going out on the gay scene 23 per cent said that they were afraid.

    Seventy-seven per cent of those questioned said that they would not allow “hate to win” and they would not be put off going to gay clubs and bars.

     

    ALSO READ: Man arrested after threatening to come back “Orlando-style” at gay bar security staff.

     

  • Scottish Parliament holds one minute silence for Orlando victims

    Scottish Parliament holds one minute silence for Orlando victims

    Members of the Scottish Parliament fell silent to remember those who were massacred in the Orlando gay club shooting.

    Minute Silence in Chamber

    Scottish ministers held a minute silence yesterday in memory of the Orlando gay nightclub massacre victims before going on to discuss the importance of LGBT+ education in Scottish schools.

    Forty nine people were killed by a single shooter in the Pulse nightclub in Orlando over the weekend, in the worst single act of violence against LGBT people this century.

    Patrick Harvie, the co-convener of the Scottish Green Party, questioned First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on her plans to tackle homophobia in Scottish schools, after she lent her support to the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign, which is calling for school staff to be trained in how address LGBTI issues, during this year’s parliamentary election.

    He said,

    “There are, sadly, still people – including young people – subjected to the ideology that says certain sexual orientations or gender identities are inherent moral defects.”

    “The First Minister has described herself as a huge supporter of the TIE campaign – how long will it be before all schools in Scotland actively promote the equality and dignity of all of their young people, including LGBTI young people?”

    Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s First Minister, who has committed to the idea of better LGBT+ education, but failed to put in place a timetable to implement strategies said,

    “I don’t want to live in a country, yet alone be First Minister of a country, where any young person has to feel that, somehow, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, they are subject to judgement or made to feel in any way less than any other individual in our society. I have given a commitment to working with the campaign for inclusive education.”

    “The Scottish Government will continue to work to ensure that, whether it’s in a school or any other part of our society, the environment for any young people growing up – regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity – is one in which they feel comfortable.”

    Sturgeon also encouraged MSPs to attend Scottish prides in 2016 saying that politicians needed to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the LGBT+ community.

     

  • London Gay Village To Stand With Orlando Victims Tonight

    Tonight the community of Soho and London, both straight and gay people shall be gathering to respect and show support at 7pm for the victims and families of the Pulse nightclub shootings in Orlando.

    CREDIT: © nito103 /Depositphotos

    Hundreds are expected to be gathering at Old Compton Street, Soho, to pay respect for the 50 people killed and over 53 hospitalised in a terrorist attack on the LGBT+ community of Orlando.

    At 7pm tonight, 13th June, everyone is invited to come out onto the street to hold hands. Local bars and businesses shall stop serving during this time.

    You can keep up-to-date on the official FaceBook page for more information.

    Volunteers are being asked for from 6pm to help with what is expected to be a large turnout.

  • THEATRE REVIEW: This Much (or An Act of Violence Towards the Institution of Marriage)

    “A wedding is just paying lots of money so that your friends will treat you like a famous person for a day” ★★★

    (more…)