The date has been announced for this year’s Poole Pride.
With its home at Lighthouse, the day-long free festival will be on Saturday 7th June, returning for a second year.
Plans include cabaret, comedy and music performances as well as workshops, talks and craft.
Martha Earley, Creative Engagement Manager at Lighthouse, said: “It’s a day for all communities to be proud of, a celebration of the beautiful and diverse identities of the town’s people in a safe space where everyone can be themselves.
“As a much-loved part of life in Poole, Lighthouse is perfectly placed to host an event that absolutely encapsulates inclusivity and features some first-class entertainment as well.”
Hoping to reprise its success from last year, the Coming Out Cabaret will stage performances showcasing local LGBTQ+ artists; while Dorsetborn’s Writing Out Loud will provide a platform for heartfelt LGBTQ+ stories written and performed by local queer artists.
Sukie Baker who, as ‘tender revolutionary’ Thorn, compered the Come On Out Cabaret, said: “People were excited to be at their first Pride in their hometown, having it here in Poole was an amazing thing.”
New features for include a ‘gayleidh’ with opportunities to get into the groove with a baby rave, silent disco and even a queer lunchtime recital.
Dorset-based artist-sewist Matt Wilding will also be showing his installation, Wings of Pride. Quilted in two pieces and based on an eagle’s wingspan, the wings are both a celebration of Pride and can also be used to protect and comfort.
On the front are the colours of the progressive Pride flag while the back is all gold fabric with the thread in Pride colours.