Our event brings in loads of different sorts of people that come in from all different walks of life, some of them it’s their first event, and we welcome them with open arms, we come together for a shared love of wanting to feel like we ‘belong’.Leah Brydon Roberts
Get ready for an unforgettable evening, folks! Teesside University Student’s Union is rolling out the rainbow carpet for the L!pstick Event, a night dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ performers from across the region. This event is more than just a stage for queer artists to showcase their talents; it’s also a safe and inclusive space for everyone to let their hair down and have a blast.
I recently caught up with Leah Brydon Roberts and Dan Mann, the driving forces behind L!pstick, to talk about the vibrant community they’ve built around their monthly events. Leah, 24, and Dan, 19, connected through the Middlesbrough club scene and began discussing how to make it more diverse and inclusive. “We used to go out a lot in Tiny and after it closed down we were just devastated by the news. I feel like the whole gay scene felt like it was on its knees after that news. Tiny had such a family and a bond, we felt that we needed to fill that gap,” Dan said.
It was like my little bit of freedom on a weekend where I got to be myself and be around people who are like me.Dan Mann
The significance of the L!pstick Event extends beyond the glitter, the glamour, and the fabulous performances. At its core, this event serves as a powerful catalyst for unity and community within the LGBTQIA+ sphere and beyond. In a world where divisions often take centre stage, L!pstick stands as a vibrant testament to the strength that comes from diversity, inclusivity, and collective celebration.
The event not only provides a platform for performers from various backgrounds but also creates a sanctuary where attendees can be their authentic selves. It’s a space where labels fade away, replaced by the shared human experience of joy, acceptance, and freedom. This sense of community is not just felt; it’s lived, breathed, and celebrated, making it a cornerstone of what L!pstick aims to achieve.
By fostering an environment where everyone is welcome, L!pstick does more than entertain; it builds bridges. It brings together people who might never have crossed paths otherwise, united by a common cause and a shared love for what makes us unique. In doing so, it sends a powerful message: that unity and community are not mere words but tangible experiences that can be crafted, nurtured, and celebrated together.
When asked about the history of the Middlesbrough LGBTQIA+ scene, Dan reflected, “It was like my little bit of freedom on a weekend where I have to be myself and be around people who are like me.” Leah added, “Our event brings in loads of different sorts of people that come in from all different walks of life, some of them it’s their first event, and we welcome them with open arms, we come together for a shared love of wanting to feel like we ‘belong’.”
For those who might be nervous about attending a L!pstick event for the first time, Leah has some advice. “I’d say message the Facebook page prior to coming because then obviously, one of us can always meet them at the door, walk them in and set them with a group, because it is very, welcoming,” she said. Dan chimed in, “Picture your superhero in that situation! So for example, when I’m scared of things I would always think, right, I’m going through a sea of sharks here. What would my superhero do? What can I do? I act as if I’m my own superhero and I step out into the world, and there’s a world of acceptance literally around the corner.”
Whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally, this event promises to be a night filled with laughter, performances, and celebrations. It’s not just about the performances; it’s about coming together as a community, celebrating our differences, and standing up against discrimination. Events like these are instrumental in breaking down stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.
Collaboration is so important for events like this, We work with wonderful artists like Penni T each month and provide a whole range of entertainment at our events, so there’s something for everyone!Dan Mann
Take, for example, the representation of the transgender community. Events like L!pstick shed light on the struggles and victories of transgender individuals, helping to dispel myths and misconceptions prevalent in society. By including transgender performers, this event provides a platform for these individuals to share their stories, talents, and experiences, thereby promoting understanding and acceptance.
And yes, we’re talking about some fierce drag queens and kings bringing their unique performances and adding to the electric atmosphere. Choriza May, a captivating drag artist, will be gracing the L!pstick Event with her mesmerising performances. But that’s not all! The night will be packed with a dazzling lineup of drag acts, singers, dancers, and club classics that will keep you entertained and dancing all night long.
For instance, one of the highlights of the evening is the ‘best-dressed’ competition. This event is not just a chance to strut your stuff on the dance floor but also an opportunity to show off your creative costumes. So, bring out your glitter, sequins, and rainbows, and you might just walk away with a prize!
Choriza May, known for her captivating stage presence and creativity, is just one of the outstanding performers you’ll see at the L!pstick Event. Choriza won Drag Idol in Newcastle in 2019 as well as being a contestant on Ru Paul’s Drag Rage UK Season 3, so she is sure to be delivering a fabulous performance on the night! The event is also fortunate to have the involvement of Monarchy, a local Middlesbrough Queen, and Dan’s alter ego, who is not only hosting and performing at the event but representing her crown from MX DRAG Great Britain – which she won earlier in 2023!
So, join the fabulous Monarchy and Penni T as they host an evening that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. They’ll be introducing a special guest who needs no introduction: Choriza May from RuPaul’s Drag Race as well as show-stopping performances from an incredible lineup of acts, including Kealea Sinlove, Arya Quinn, Flynnnn, Mouldy Horn, Lynx, and Angel Homo.
The night is set to be frightfully fun, complete with a best-dressed competition, audience participation, and even dance battles. And for those who want to keep the party going, they’ve even got an eerie, epic afterparty that will keep you dancing until the early hours.
The L!pstick Event is set to take place at Teesside University Student’s Union. You can grab your tickets through the event’s official website. And if you’re wondering how to get there, don’t worry. Teesside University Student’s Union is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab your rainbow flag, and get ready for a night of celebration, unity, and love!