Queer Up North’s remaining highlights
May 18, 2008
Queer Up North has been giving Manchester arts lovers food for thought for over a week now. And what a week it’s been!
Sandra Bernhard opened the festival and you either loved it or hated it. Many left during the show, whilst others whooped her to the rafters. Think of her as a type of comedy marmite!
Sandra then appeared at the Cornerhouse to introduce the movie of her stage show, Without You I’m Nothing.
Film theorist, Richard Dyer and B Ruby Rich talked about gay representation in movies to a packed audience at the Cornerhouse on Monday evening. Meanwhile at the Library Theatre a small play called Tough time, nice time enthralled audiences with its thought provoking dialogue and challenging characters.
I also managed to catch the excellent film XXY (pictured right) which is still showing at the Cornerhouse until Thursday. This challenging film is worth seeing as it really makes you think. The story follows Alex, an intersex teen who has to make some life changing decisions. Far from worthy, it is a moving and funny portrait of growing pains.
If you have missed any of this, there is still much more to see. From Tuesday, Bette Bourne stars in Rock - a play which lifts the lid on homosexuality in Tinsletown. It stars Bette Bourne and is written by Tim Fountain, the two brilliant men behind the hugely successful Resident Alien, the Library’s previous hit about Quentin Crisp, which went on to wow audiences at the Lowry.
If Liza Minnelli’s upcoming gig at the Bridgewater Hall feels too pricey, you could check out some cabaret from the U.S in the guise of Justin Bond and Taylor Mac. I have seen Justin as Kiki in the comedy duo Kiki & Herb and if he is half as good as that, the audience at the Contact are in for a real treat. This show features music, dance and art and promises to a be a highlight of the festival. This weekend treat is on at Contact on Friday and Saturday night.
Talking of dance, the Lowry are hosting Stephen Petronio Company’s new programme which includes two UK premieres. With specially commissioned music by Rufus Wainwright and Fischerspoonmer, and songs by Antony & The Johnsons, this closing show of the festival is showing on Sunday and looks like a winner.
Is ‘Queer Culture’ Obsolete? What do you think? Well the debate entitled just that gives you a chance to have your say on Saturday, 24th May at the Contact. Featuring Justin Bond, Taylor Mac and the artistic director of the festival, Jonathan Best, this looks set to be an interesting discussion.
XXY- until Thursday - Cornerhouse
Rock - Tues 20- Sat 24 May - Library Theatre
Justin Bond with Taylor Mac- Friday 23- Sat 24 May - Contact
Is Queer Culture Obsolete? Saturday 24 - Contact
Stephen Petronio Company - Sunday 24 May - Lowry
Comments
-
Recent Posts
Advertisement
Other Regional Sites
