THEGAYUK

Tag: UK

  • Many LGBT+ people hit out over plans to raise rainbow flags in doctors’ surgeries

    After it announced that there are plans to bring the rainbow flag to doctor surgeries, many in the LGBT+ community slammed the idea, calling for more focus on what really matters – saving people.

    The British Journal of General Practice released guidelines on how to make surgery waiting rooms more visually inclusive by adding rainbow flags or LGBT+ posters. The news was met with a mixed reaction, however many suggested that the move was a waste of money when resources should be spent on actually helping patients.

    The aimed of displaying the rainbow flag is to encourage many in the LGBT+ community feel more comfortable talking to their doctor about their health.

    The move comes just short of a year when it was announced that GPs are to start asking about patients’ sexuality, regardless of whether it is pertinent to the reason for their visit.

    THEGAYUK.com asked readers their thoughts on the proposal and the reaction was overwhelmingly negative.

    One user, Jane, spoke about how she had been stuck on a waiting list for a GIC (Gender Identity Clinic) for over a year, whilst others suggested that the long waiting lists for the specialised clinic could endanger the lives of transgender people. Adam on Twitter slammed the idea saying “Doctors can legally refuse me treatment because I’m trans but your big solution to ending discrimination is some fabric”.

    Daniel Browne, the chairman of Warwickshire Pride said that more literature was needed in the UK’s surgeries. Browne told us, “I do think that LGBT+ literature is required. All GP surgery staff should have LGBT+ awareness training too. Little changes can make a massive difference.”

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Hairspray, Sheffield Theatres

    ★★★★☆ | Hairspray – Sheffield Theatres

    Set in Baltimore in 1962, Tracey Turnblad is a big girl with a big heart, big dreams and even bigger hair. Tracey (with her best friend, Penny, in tow) cuts school one afternoon to audition to be a dancer on The Corny Collins Show, her favourite daytime TV programme. Despite the best efforts of Velma Von Tussel, the show’s producer, Tracey is chosen to be the new dancer; but when Tracey learns that her black friends aren’t allowed to dance with the white kids on the show, she sets out to change things once and for all. But can Tracey unite black and white on TV, win the hand of her heartthrob and fellow dancer, Link Larkin, and walk away with the Miss Teenage Hairspray Pageant crown?

    Based on the 1988 John Walters film, this is a colourful and energetic production which ups the camp value and fun factor to create a feel good, crowd-pleasing musical with a strong underlying message about social inequality.

    Matt Rixon pleases as Edna Turnblad, and bounces nicely off Norman Pace as Wilbur; whilst Brenda Edwards (X-Factor) belts out the tunes as Motormouth Maybelle and manages to nail her big number with ease. Rebecca Mendoza makes her professional debut as Tracey Turnblad, and despite some unnecessary gurning and an overly squeaky American accent, gives a competent performance, although one which would have showed her talents far better if her direction was reined in slightly, allowing the role to be played with a straight bat. The remaining cast provided for a spectacular ensemble, filling the stage to the brim in the musical numbers, and bringing with them an infectious enthusiasm.

    Featuring the songs “You Can’t Stop The Beat”, “Good Morning Baltimore”, “Welcome to the 60s” and “I Know Where I’ve Been”, the numbers come thick and fast, and are catchy, upbeat and instantly likeable. The dance routines are full of energy and ensure that there is always plenty to look on the stage, whilst the lighting and costume designs flood the stage with colour, adding to the pop-bubblegum feel of the piece.

    Utterly engaging and utterly enjoyable, Hairspray is a musical treat which is so much fun that you will find it hard resist its charms.

    Hairspray is at the Sheffield Lyceum (www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk) until Saturday 3rd February 2018 before continuing on an extensive national tour until 4th August 2018. To book tickets click here.

     

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Mary Stuart, Duke of Yorks Theatre

    ★★★★★ | Mary Stuart, Duke of York’s Theatre

    Two queens fighting to the death. No, not Vauxhall on a Saturday but a fascinating slice of Elizabethan history. Mary Stuart seeks refuge in England only to be imprisoned by her cousin, Queen Elizabeth the 1st, as a potential threat to the English throne. Mary anxiously awaits her fate whilst Elizabeth tortures herself deciding the best course of action. Sounds dry, fusty and irrelevant? Not in the slightest in this bold and modern update on Schiller’s play.

    Robert Icke is a director who can breathe extraordinary new life into works. His versions of Hamlet, 1984 and Uncle Vanya (to name a few) have garnered awards and shown his skills. Here, he’s taken the text, staging and costume and made it feel thoroughly modern and relevant. There’s barely a ruff in sight and the dialogue feels like something you might eavesdrop upon in Parliament in 2018.

    Two top UK actors take the lead roles, Juliet Stevenson and Lia Williams (currently to be seen in Kiri and The Crown). There’s a gimmick but it’s one with no hint of tackiness. Both actors switch roles depending on the results of a tossed coin at the start of the play. It’s a tense moment for both the actors and the audience as the two face off on stage and await their role allocation.

    All in, it’s a riveting three hours. The stripped back set, pared back dialogue and emotional intensity combine with two killer performances to make this a nail-biting experience. It’s a fine example of top acting in a top production that also remains entertaining.

     

    Mary Stuart runs at the Dukes Of York’s Theatre until 31st March 2018

  • LGBT+ Conservatives backtrack over c*nt Tweet

    The LGBT+ Conservatives have issued a statement on suggesting that MP David Davies was a c*nt.

    The LGBT+ Conservatives have backtracked on a message about the MP, David Davies, after he tweeted that “Somebody possessing a penis & pair of testicles is definitely not a woman”.

    In their initial response, the group Tweeted, “It’s clear that the T in his name stands for transphobe. It’s equally clear what the C stands for.”

    The MP hit back saying that the group were being misogynistic and that he would report them to the party’s chairman, Brandon Lewis.

    The LGBT+ Conservatives issued statement on Twitter saying that the first response was meant to be “light-hearted” and that it might have caused offence,

    “On reflection, yesterday’s tweet at which was meant to be light-hearted, may have inadvertently caused offence. This wasn’t our intention. We’ll continue to express disagreements with David on issues, but will hold ourselves to higher standards in future”.

  • Tory MP slammed for ‘transphobic’ message about trans women’s genitalia

    “Somebody possessing a penis & pair of testicles is definitely not a woman”

    David Davies, the MP for Monmouth has been slammed by trans advocates and his party’s own LGBT+ group for being a transphobe after he Tweeted a shocking message, which suggested that trans women who still have a penis and testicles are not women.

    Taking to Twitter he wrote,

    “Somebody possessing a penis & pair of testicles is definitely not a woman. This should be a biological fact not a matter for political debate. At least we can agree on something.”

    It wasn’t long before the party’s own LGBT+ group, LGBT+ Conservatives, commented, “David TC Davies’ transphobic views are abhorrent and out of kilter with Conservative Party policy.

    “It’s clear that the T in his name stands for transphobe. It’s equally clear what the C stands for.”

    The MP hit out at the group calling them a “disgrace” questioning whether the group was fit to stand for equality saying, “It is appalling that a Conservative group which purports to stand for equality is willing to allude to the word “c*nt” to describe MPs it doesn’t like. You are a disgrace.”

    LGBT+ voting record

    David Davies has, according to TheyWorkForYou.com, consistently voted against gay rights. During his time in office, he has voted five times against and been absent five times on LGBT+ equality laws. He also voted against same-sex marriage.

    Victim of abuse

    The MP went on to Tweet about the abuse that MPs face on social media.

    “Abuse on social media is par for the course as an MP – but it’s a sad day when it comes from a group based in the HQ of the party which I have actively supported for over 30 years.”

    He then called out the LGBT+ Conservatives for being misogynistic before suggesting that he would report the group for online abuse to the party Chairman, Brandon Lewis.

    Targetting the perpetrators of online abuse, cyberbullying and trolling have been in the sights of the Conservatives in recent years. Those found guilty of online maltreatment could face prosecution in England and Wales.

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Dietrich: Natural Duty

    ★★★★★ | Dietrich: Natural Duty

    Described as a one (wo)man show, Peter Groom’s take on legendary teutonic beauty Marlene Dietrich is literally breathtaking at points. There’s an uncanny likeness between him and the screen goddess with his cat-like cheekbones and arched brows. He’s clearly spent a vast amount of time studying her mannerisms and speech too as he captures every wink, every drag on a cigarette and each sultry gaze. There’s something uncanny about his appearance that makes you feel that you’re anywhere but in the Vaults which is essentially a dank series of tunnels under Waterloo Station. The bare brick and smoky interior is entirely appropriate with it’s underground club feel.

    Groom has written a witty show with a touch of pathos based around Dietrich’s wartime experiences. It was a stark choice for her as she made the decision to leave behind her beloved mother along with her mother country and flee to America. Taking on the role of ‘Captain Dietrich’ she entertained and supported the troupes and saw first hand some of the horrors of war.

    The show is based around a saucy cabaret performance with Groom slinking on in a spectacular gown and rasping out some of Dietrich’s songs. Heckling by a reporter makes her pause and reluctantly answer some probing questions. Not only is Groom a fabulous mimic but he’s also a deft and skilled writer as the script lurches between camp comedy and deep sadness. This is an absolute tour de force. If you can catch this tonight or tomorrow then get down to the Vaults Festival. If not then keep your eyes peeled as this is a show that’s sure that make a return.

    Dietrich: Natural Duty runs at the Vault Festival until 28th January 2018

     

  • Six things we loved about Oranges and Elephants, Hoxton Hall

    ★★★★☆ | Oranges And Elephants

    An all-female musical has opened in London, Oranges and Elephants

    1) The story. Set in Victorian London and there’s a turf war between two all-female rival groups, the Oranges and the Elephants, led by two fierce women and their battle to reign supreme. Plot: Get two sparring gangs, in a Victorian setting, throw in a newbie (a brilliant Sinead Long (Mary)) to the city, a quick lesbian romp, dressed it all up in drag king goodness conclude with an ending even Shakespeare would be proud of and you’re close to why Orange And Elephants is the most exciting musical to open in London in an age.

    2) The lack of men.  This show simply doesn’t need us menfolk. We’re not missed. At all.  So yeah, f*ck the patriarchy. The cast’s observation of masculinity and, well, frail masculinity at that, is superb. A special mention to Rebecca Bainbridge, whose gangster, Ada (Oranges), is frankly beyond scary and you won’t find a more vicious matriarch than Liz Kitchen’s Annie, leader of the Elephants.

    3) A new musical… At last a new musical that isn’t a jukebox musical. All new music and perfectly suited to the piece. It is ballad heavy but there are a few rousing gems from Jo Collins’ score. The entire cast gets involved with playing the instruments and acting without it feeling forced, and there’s also audience participation, expertly carried through by our narrator. Oh, and BTW, it’s funny. Very funny.

    4) Costumes. Some of the best costumery (Sara Perks) we’ve seen in a long time and while we’re at it, a special mention to the set design. Simple but incredibly effective. You won’t look at an A to Z in the same way again… (for those who just asked, what’s an A to Z, think Google Maps but on paper).

    5) Hoxton Hall. This is a double edge sword for us. On one hand, the music-hall design of the rather stunning venue helps transport you back to the Victorian era – but it has, without a doubt the most uncomfortable seating, so bring a cushion.

    6) A nod to the queer community – as there’s even a little bit of lesbian twist, which sticks two fingers up at the traditional boy meets girls blah blah blah. Bravo!

    A little rough around the edges, but a ruby in the Victorian dust.

    Oranges and Elephants runs at Hoxton Hall until 10 February.

  • Man jailed for multiple, non-recent sexual offences on six boys

    A man has been jailed for 16 years for multiple sexual offences against boys in 1970s.

    Retired musician, Neil Duncan, 74 from Southend-On-Sea, was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment on Wednesday. Along with his prison sentence, Duncan will be made to sign the sex offenders’ register for life.

    He previously pleaded guilty, in December 2017 to 39 offences:

    One count of attempted buggery with a victim aged under 16;
    – Seven counts of buggery with a victim aged under 16;
    – One count of incitement to commit buggery;
    – 13 counts of indecency with a child under the age of 14 years;
    – 15 counts of indecent assault on a male under the age of 16 years; and,
    – Two counts of making indecent images.

    Detective Constable Amy Dobner, from the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences (CASO) Command, said, “Duncan is a prolific offender who spent the 1970s abusing young children. I am grateful that they have since come forward so that we could take the necessary action to bring him before the courts.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to praise their bravery and resolve, and hope that today will further help them move on with their lives, knowing that Duncan has been punished for his crimes.”

    Showing boys pornography

    Police were first contacted by one of Duncan’s victims in March 2016. Three other victims subsequently came forward towards the end of 2016 and early 2017. They all told officers that they had been assaulted by Duncan as young boys in the 1970s.

    Duncan would show the boys pornographic material before forcing them to perform sex acts.

    Officers quickly established that he had offended across west London and the Home Counties.

    Duncan was arrested on 4 August 2016. A number of computers were seized and found to contain indecent images.

    Officers also discovered several diaries that were kept by Duncan which corroborated the allegations.

    He was charged in mid-August 2017.

    Detective Chief Inspector John Foulkes of CASO said, “Given the number of victims and offences that Duncan has admitted to, it cannot be ruled out that there are other victims who have yet to contact police.

    “I would urge anyone who has been abused by Neil Duncan to come forward and speak to police where you will be supported by specially trained officers.”

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the Barnet Child Abuse and Sexual Offences team on 020 8733 5139.

  • Isn’t it time UK law considered gay sex equal to straight sex?

    For those who continue to call same-sex marriage “marriage equality,” you might be interested to know that the UK government doesn’t consider your sexual activity equal.

    So when same-sex marriage came into law, it didn’t automatically spell marriage equality – it’s one of the reasons why THEGAYUK.com doesn’t use the term.

    One of those things that stopped us from fully embracing the marriage equality slogan was that in UK law gay sex and straight sex are not equal.

    How do we know this? Well, straight couples can get divorced because of adultery. Gay couples cannot. Effectively treating same-sex sexual relations differently from heterosexual sexual relations.

    Adultery is defined by UK law “voluntary sexual relations between an individual who is married and someone who is not the individual’s spouse”, but it only counts if the person is of the opposite sex. A spouse cannot commit adultery if the person they are cheating with is the same sex.

    Grounds for divorce, in this case, would have to be petitioned under “unreasonable behaviour”.

    This is also true of civil partnerships. Speaking to THEGAYUK.com last year, Andrew Smith, Associate Solicitor for Blacks Solicitors’ Family Law team told us,

    “…the definition of adultery is sexual intercourse with someone of the opposite sex outside marriage. Instead, civil partners have to use ‘unfaithfulness’ as one of a number of examples of Unreasonable Behaviour.”

    “Where is the equality?”

    Jodene Murphy is petitioning the UK government for change. Writing on the petition Murphy explains, “When the UK Government welcomed same-sex marriage and updated the Marriage Act accordingly, they neglected to sufficiently update the divorce law. We are now living in a country where same-sex couples cannot divorce under the grounds of adultery. Where is the equality? Equal rights for all.”

    The petition needs to garner over 10,000 signatures in order for the government to answer. At 100,000 signatures, the petition will be considered for debate in Parliament.

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Woman Before a Glass

    ★★★★☆ | Woman Before a Glass

    Lanie Robertson’s Lady Day at the Emerson Bar and Grill looked at Billie Holiday’s heroin fogged last days. Here his razor sharp wit is turned towards wealthy art collector Peggy Guggenheim.

    1960s Venice and Peggy is pontificating on the terrace of her palazzo with an arm full of designer dresses, wondering what to wear for a TV appearance. She’s in the mood for chatting and addresses the audience of the tiny Jermyn Street Theatre directly. Brash, vulgar and monstrous, she’s a vision of bouffant hair, free-swinging breasts and is mistress of the crude comment. Looking back at her life she stalks the stage, swigging gin martinis and smoking. She amusingly refers to numerous ‘fucks’ including a few of the local gondoliers and lovingly reflects on her modern art collection, spitting venom when talking about that bitch who her uncle married. Beneath the campy veneer of tasteless monstrosity, there’s inner sadness as she talks about her father (who drowned on the Titanic), her great love who tragically died and her troubled depressive daughter, Pegeen.

    This is a tight script with the 90 minutes broken down into three sections. The character of Peggy is well rounded and thoroughly credible. At points, it’s a bawdy comedy but it veers towards tragedy as this strong woman regales us with her triumphs and troubles.

    Judy Rosenblatt is nothing less than stellar and her Peggy is a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re already a devotee of Peggy Guggenheim or sadly unaware of this colourful character, this is a performance worth seeing.

    Woman Before A Glass is playing at the Jermyn Street Theatre until 3rd Feb 2018

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Still Ill, New Diorama Theatre

    THEATRE REVIEW | Still Ill, New Diorama Theatre

    Still Ill | ★★★

    Sophie is a jobbing actress who’s working in a terrible soap opera, playing a surgeon with a brain tumour. She’s making up her income having endless neurological examinations performed on her by trainee doctors. Struck down by a series of strange nervous system symptoms she’s left unable to function and feeling desperate with paralysis, spasms and seizures. Naturally, modern medicine has an answer. Even if there’s not a cure then there’s a name for what’s happening to you and some sort of treatment, isn’t there? But what if every doctor you meet tells you that it’s good news and the tests are negative? The more doctors you see (and there’s a lot of them), the more tests you have and the more time passes your symptoms get worse and there’s still no answer. Is it still ‘good news’ about how normal your test results are? Welcome to the world of Functional Neurological Disorder, a surprisingly common and debilitating condition.

    Still Ill returns to the The New Diorama Theatre near Warren Street after a successful run in 2016. It’s an achingly sad play with touches of comedy but an overall sense of optimism. It’s not as grim as the subject matter makes it sound. The company have carefully researched their subject under expert guidance and come up with a witty piece of theatre about a poorly understood area of medicine (and indeed life).

    The cast of three skilfully play multiple parts and it’s convincing and watchable albeit with the odd off note where it feels like they’re over-egging the pudding. There’s a strange backing track of live music and a sense of physicality to some of the action and it almost works. This is well worth watching not just to gain an understanding of a rarely mentioned illness but to see what appears to be a sane response to a mad world.

     

    Still Ill run at the New Diorama Theatre until the 27th January 2018