News Articles
17th July 2008
"Scottish and inspirational" Pop Idol
headlines Dumfries Pride
(Source: PinkNews.co.uk)
Michelle McManus will play the Dumfries Pride on 16th August as the opening act.
It is the first Pride to take place in the region.
Organisers thought it would be fitting to have the first Scottish woman to debut
at number one entertaining revellers.
Michael Hawthorne, Community Health Manager for LGBT Youth Scotland, told
PinkNews.co.uk that McManus was chosen for Dumfries' first Gay Pride because,
"she is Scottish and inspirational."
The Pop Idol winner has begun to make a name for herself on the gay club circuit.
She played Soho club G-A-Y last year and recently performed at Blackpool Pride.
Other acts announced include local opera singer Nicky Spence, who will entertain
the crowd with songs from his debut album, My First Love.
Michael Hawthorne said Pride was aimed at "raising awareness of LGBT issues
and the LGBT community in Dumfries."
He also said it was a great opportunity to "get everyone together and have a
bit of fun."
Dumfries has had few recorded cases of homophobia, but Mr. Hawthorne said
there had been "cases of name calling," towards to the LGBT community.
There is an LGBT centre in the Scottish town, which has been running successfully
for the last two years.
They offer self-esteem building courses as well practical advice.
Dumfries Pride will take place on 16th August in Park Farm.
A Pride Prom at DG One leisure centre will start at 8pm.
The organising committee is looking for volunteers, especially those who can assist
with stewarding on the day.
Contact Dumfries Pride on 01387 739 888, email: dandg@lgbtyouth.org.uk or find
more information at www.bebo.com/dumfries-pride.
