Lowestoft’s first Pride event – Britain’s most easterly Pride – takes place tomorrow. Folk Features catches up with a few of those who will be performing on the Sparrows Nest Gardens’ stage
Neville Rowell runs Lowestoft community choir The Screamin’ Seagulls – and to say that they are all excited to take part in Lowestoft’s first Pride event, tomorrow, is probably an understatement! Neville says: ‘The ladies have really got into the vibe, and have all bought special rainbow scarves, to which we all said ‘wow’! They are bright and vibrant, like my ladies!’
Lowestoft Pride, organised by Lowestoft Town Council, will include a variety of live entertainment and stalls throughout the afternoon with the event starting at 12noon and ending at 5pm.
The Screamin’ Seagulls will be appearing on the main stage at Sparrows Nest Gardens. Neville continues. ‘I felt that Pride in the ‘Nest was fitting for a flock of seagulls! Seriously, I felt it would be a really family friendly, fun event. I’ve never had to say to the ladies I’m a gay man, I didn’t need or want to; they accept me just the way I am, and we have so much fun! We’re just people living our lives. So, when I asked if they would like to sing at Pride, they all were well up for it. Amy in my choir is giving me a giant rainbow flag which I will be wearing as a sash on the day.
‘We are a close group where everyone gets on with everyone. I feel very lucky to have them all, and if you love to sing Abba, music from Sister Act, musicals, pop classical then we’re the group for you!
‘I’ve never been to a Pride event before and wanted to support Lowestoft, as it’s been my home for over 20 years. I feel it’s still a worthwhile thing to support, especially in Lowestoft, as to me Pride is for those who are still afraid – it’s saying to them ‘you’re not alone and its ok’. To me that’s what Pride is all about: celebrating difference and to give a feeling of safety that you can be you, no matter where you are.’
He adds: ‘My ladies can’t wait to get stuck in and sing some Abba for you all! And the mostly lovely part is that the age range in the choir is 84 downwards. We will be singing John Lennon’s Imagine as we all feel it says it all: let everyone live in peace.’
The main stage in Sparrows Nest Gardens will also see the likes of The Marina Samba Band, Will Power, 4-piece funk, pop and soul band The High Points, and Raife Samuel, who appeared in the Russell T Davis, Channel 4 drama, It’s a Sin. Raife says: ‘I’ve never missed a pride event in my hometown of Blackpool since it began over 10 years ago. It’s one of the most important events for me in my annual calendar. I can’t wait to sing to everyone and for everyone to enjoy themselves in a family-friendly, attitude-free setting!’
And Suffolk-based performing arts group Neurodelicious will also be there. Co-Founder Hannah Aria says: ‘We will be adjusting our acts to be more family friendly for this event so expect cheesy tunes, Weird Barbie, Mermaids and Gloria Gaynor covers. Nix Nugent will be singing live while Tinderella and Dee Straction entertain the crowd with choreography, spoken word, and maybe even story time! We will do a lively dance party style set on the main stage for half an hour then later we will make an appearance at The Nest too for a more chilled out entertainment vibe. This should be a great family friendly inclusive event so bring your dance shoes and get ready to join in.’
Meanwhile, The Ness will be host to several information and activity stalls, highlighting local businesses and organisations, alongside a smaller entertainment stage. Broadway Players, Venue of Performing Arts, Ayers Performance School and James McDermott and much more will be performing.
Across both parks, a variety of stalls will be set up with activities and information. Activities for children are being provided by Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Suffolk Archives and Re-Utilise amongst others whilst Norfolk and Waveney MIND will be providing a Rest Hub, Anglia Care Trust will be signposting to their provisions whilst The Terrance Higgins Trust will be providing STD testing and advice. All the organisations involved champion the LGBT+ community.
Speaking ahead of the event, Cllr Sonia Barker, Mayor of Lowestoft, says: ‘I am delighted that Pride is coming to Lowestoft! This inclusive, family-friendly event has something for everyone. I wish to thank everyone who is involved with stalls, entertainment and volunteering to make this event possible.’
Lowestoft’s first ever Pride event, organised by Lowestoft Town Council, is taking place on Saturday 5th August, 12noon-5pm at Sparrows Nest Gardens and The Ness Park. The event is free and aims to be inclusive. The event is subject to being weather permitting. The day will be filled with live entertainment and stalls offering activities and information for support and advice. As part of Lowestoft Town Council’s Climate initiatives, attendees to the event are encouraged to use public transport or alternative transport with limited car parking available. Visit Events (lowestofttowncouncil.gov.uk).
Main image: Neville Rowell (in the foreground) and community choir, The Screamin’ Seagulls
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