Pinkboard's Mardi Gras Graffiti Wall 2010 #1

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Mardi Gras 2010 Graffiti Wall #2
Mardi Gras 2009 Graffiti Wall #1

oooh im first ....i think?? ...yay!!

The official Mardi Gras after party 'Toybox' tickets on sale to members on 22/12/09!!!!!

ooh wow i'm the first on this wall !! yay

Well I'm against the split Parade/Party.

Why ? well my friends next year will be attending the Party only. Not the Parade as they cant afford to either stay here for a whole week or to make 2 trips etc.

The Party although its sounding great will be no different than any of the other parties throughout the year.

With the Parade you get hyped up watching them starting to arrive on the TV , head off to the Parade which gets everyone pumped and then to the Party and the bonus is you see all the people in the Parade in their costumes etc.

Sure I've heard the line that it gives the people in the Parade time to recover for over the week and to be able to attend the Party but just how many need to recover as opposed to how many Internationa/Interstate people wont be turning up for the Party as they were here for the Parade and then headed off on the rest of their trip ?
And I have had many friends do the Parade and still have a great time and last the Party out.

Will miss at the Party all those beaming faces from the Parade people walking around in their costumes, being complimented , pics taken etc. Its a buzz that will be lost after a week.

And I am the second on this wall, Yipee!!!

Can you believe the price of a ticket has gone up $15.00 from last year... it is getting out of control and the market will not be able to sustain these inflated prices (people will speak with their pockets). Every bubble bursts and I think we are in for one very soon or these parties/festivals will not be around much longer. CPI is lucky to be no more than 2% and wages increased by the same or even less, so how can festival organisers justify a 10+% increase in ticket prices..... CRAZY!!!!! only time will tell.

Come on Mardi Gras give me a xmas present by announcing you have Above & Beyond for the party.............

Bring on Above and Beyond, can you imagine them for the Hordern.... it would make my night.

Not sure what price you're looking at. it's $135 this year. Been checking my posters and last year was $130, 2008 was $140 and 2007 was $125.

$13.50 an hour.

Good value, I say.

Big Day out is $150 and it sells out every year. In comparision I think the party ticket price is reasonable.

The costs of putting on such a big event like this must be quite large as well. I guess you have take into account risk management when setting these ticket prices. If the event doesn't sell out, what would be the attendance figure at these pries to break even?

Big Day out is $150 and it sells out every year. In comparision I think the party ticket price is reasonable.

The costs of putting on such a big event like this must be quite large as well. I guess you have to take into account risk management when setting these ticket prices. If the event doesn't sell out, what would be the attendance figure at these prices to break even?

Grammatical errors corrected

Toybox is $147 plus postage and credit card fees.

When you consider that the MG party is a fundraiser, it's good value.

We're told the Hordern line-up will be as heavyweight at the one in the RHI (Guetta, Bimbo Jones). Who do you think they've got??

Junior Vasquez!

LoBOS presents “Romulus and Remus”

Romulus and Remus!
Lobos means wolves in Spanish, and the original idea was to enter a float along the lines of Shakira’s “She Wolf” video, the Latino gay men love their divas just as much as the rest, and trust us….. We love Shakira!

But then we got to thinking about history of the world and queering up some already queer myths and legends over time, for us the Romulus and remus legend/myth is the perfect ripe for the satire. Thus, we need to hear from you to tell us what you think and how you can help us to deliver an outstanding float. In fact, Whoever would love to get involved with us can help us dressing up “Roman Empire Style”. We are also on the search for our Hot Latin Models who would love to be our very Gay Romulus and Remus; if you got what it takes please stay in touch by email at mauricio.ardila@lobos.org.au to work out details.

We really want to make a big splash on parade night, and maximise the exposure of Mardi Gras to Sydney’s Latino/a LGBTQI communities; so we need volunteers to contribute their time and energy and help make our float the amazing creation we know it will be with your contribution! Get in touch with us!

Only 71 days to Mardi Gras Party!

Only a token visit CDB? We need more of you. Hope you had a nice Xmas and have a great New Year,

Only RHI and Hordern are mentioned on the NMG website. What does this mean? Panther, with respect, can we stand this colour for another two months?

I'd rather spend my money to buy a Whitney Houston's concert ticket. If I bought MG party ticket, I have to spend other additional budget such as drugs, drinks, and costume, plus after party ticket, then another drugs and drinks. Hahaha.....gonna cost me a return holiday ticket to Phuket. MG party ticket keep increasing every year, year 2009 wasn't a good year, lots of people lost their job. MG management doesn't think and consider of the above I mentioned.You are greedy, wrong management strategy. Please do your home work again, re-read your marketing management book, how to grab lots of customer and to be successful run the business in the difficult economic situation. You should decrease the price, and you will get more customer and the profit will increase, rather than having a huge amount of price increased. Yes, ...minority people can afford your super duper expensive ticket, but please think about whether you could gain profit or loss, or maybe you need to use the petty cash to cover up the expenses, such as paying the staffs, entertainer ( dancer and singer ), and paying the DJs, etc.Only time will tell. If you like using the gambling method in your management marketing, hahaha.....only time would tell. Please think about the strategy in a smart way

It's that time of the year again. That Mardi Gras/Summer party season time of year again and we know what that means - "I think....". " I think ***$ is too much to pay for Mardi Gras/*** party". "I think ***music is crap and they should play ***music to keep ME happy." "I think ***people should get their own party." "I think *** would be a better act at Mardi Gras than ***".
Well that's just what I think and I guess that makes me no better or worse than anybody else. Anyway. I guess. So I think. Hmm.

Awesome the Count is back ....

How many people stay there for the full 10 Hours? and besides that is not the point, it is still $135.00 inc GST, if you buy from ticketek (online)....
and Yeah I know what will come next.... If you don't like it, don't go!!!

It was also good value when tickets were $80.00 too..... I have an old Hand in Hand ticket in my photo album form 1997 for the price of $45.00.
Ahhh, those were the days, when the parties were a good price, everyone bothered to dress up and the party condiments were fantastic.

The BDO always sells out because anyone above 15 can attend where probably 30% or more in attendance is between the age of 15-17 yrs, and it is also not a dance party (it is a festival) which has more choice for entertainment.

John Digweed and Above and Beyond.

BDO has been the same size for around 10 Years and so has the Mardi Gras parties, but the ticket prices keep on going up and up and up.

Yes all of that but for $150 a ticket, it sells out every year guaranteed!

Maybe if people in our community stop their bickering and bitching, support our organisation then our parties will sell out too!!!

Previously I was against the split format however think it may just work, however this will only happen if we support NMG through this exciting time!!!

Thanks to my mate Stephen for allowing me to pinch these pictures from his facebook site.

http://www.facebook.com/stephenblomfield?ref=name#/photo.php?pid=54951&id=1037985445


http://www.facebook.com/stephenblomfield?ref=name#/photo.php?pid=54950&id=1037985445&fbid=1010042364826

I know. I know. Tell me about it. The cost of Mardi Gras has just become so exorbitantly overpriced. I mum used to talk about when you could go to the pictures on a shilling and have change for a meat pie. Those were the days.

Yes but so much legislation has come in since the old days. The most recent hikes in the past couple of years should be blamed on the music companies who are so desperate for money because thier inability to control music piracy that they now take a cut of the ticket price of your local club and dance party. Plus I am am sure Playbill get a pretty big share given that they dictate the terms of hire for the venue plus take the entire bar profits.

It's just a fact of life. You will neve see tickets for under $100 again. It's just not possible to put on such a big event with the standards that everyone expects plus the need to cover the ever rising costs and turn a profit to pay for the parade etc.

I'd rather concentrate to my bills, paying the rent, and help others who needy than spent in total around $500 all up ( inclusive : MG party, drugs, drinks, taxi , sauna, after party ). The mentioned amount is only for a local ( sydney sider), if you came from interstate, I'm sorry guys, at least you need to spare around $1500 , because you need to pay airfare plus hotel room. And the end of the day, what you got ? feeling drug F**k, arguments with your partner, unable to perform good at work, hung over, etc.

What a sad miserable sack you sound like!!! I for one am glad you are not attending, by the sounds of all you are talking about you wouldn"t have remembered the party anyway!

It's all about having fun, you don't need to do everything!!

your list is a hoot...

"taxi, sauna, after party..."

no wonder you are still paying rent. There's no way you could save for your own property wasting money like that.

Most people budget for the ticket, a MODEST amount for hallucinogenics, and water. That's it.

They walk to the party and if they visit from interstate they get a cheap flight and cheap room since they won't use it anyway.

I always imagined that profits from the bar went to Mardi Gras to help support future festivals and parades. Not so?

nah a few years back I researched Fox as a venue for a smallish party and they wanted a non-refundable deposit, venue hire fee, 20% of all ticket sales AND all bar takings. When I mentioned this was for a non-profit social group, they didn't care and just wanted the money.

One of the reasons ANY party at Entertainment Quarter are expensive is because of the control Fox has over it. Including chosing the caterers/bars. Unfortunately this stops getting good deals with sponsors too eg. Smirnoff

No I believe that Mardi Gras does not get one single cent from the bar takings... Playbill takes the lot. Playbill also force them to use Ticketek so they are locked into their fees as well.

Do you see why it starts getting expensive then as everyone is trying to get a peice of the profits along the way.

I heard from a reliable source that Kylie and Darren Hayes will both be playing our party this year!

Awesome, can't wait!!!

All this moaning over ticket prices ?

the 15% increase poster is a laugh.

the poster "no more NMG party" really made me laugh.

Fortunately some other sane posters have posted that Toybox will be $147 and Big Day Out $150.

Considering that Mardi Gras party has at least 3-5 Halls or more , you are getting fantastic value. Toybox is one style only ( not knocking Toybox here ).

I will be first in line at the gates.

They also ignore the fact that Mardi Gras runs the parties as FUND RAISERS for their activities such as the parade and festival.

sheesh.

My group always support Mardi Gras and Sleaze over the other parties because of this ie Fund Raiser etc . No funds no more Mardi Gras Parade/Fair Day/Queer Screen/ Party etc

I have been going since about since about 1985'ish. Sure there have beens some average ones but overall all they have been great. Besides with multiple halls you can always move around unlike a party in one hall if you dont like the DJ you have to wait out the next one.

But ragging on about the price when other parties with less halls etc have similar prices is a laugh.

You want DJ's and lighting and some sort of production for $80 ? only if its in an established club where the lighting rig is permanently set up along with the speakers etc.

Unfortunately Sydney doesnt have a Super club like you get overseas.

So Fox Studios or Luna Park has to be completely built up and that is what really costs.

Have always thought wouldnt it be better for say Toybox or Frisky who put on a day party after Mardi Gras or Sleaze etc share the costs of the bump in and lighting ?
in something like the Hordern.

Like NYE so many were wanting a big NYE party but none. Surely some promoters can get together and share the cost of something like the Hordern. Night time crowd in , out at 8am , clean up and then ready for the midday start of the day party.

Maybe then the ticket price would come down.

I wish people would stop whinging about the ticket prices of parties. Don't they realise tix prices have been this high for a few years now. So do what I and my friends do - choose the ones you want to go to and budget for them. We do Mardi Gras, Toybox and Sleaze parties with a few of the smaller ones thrown in for rest of year.

Life is too short - get out and enjoy yourselves.

Still waiting on NMG to announce Above & Beyond in the Hordern......:D

The Sydney Symphony wishes to advise that the upcoming Burt Bacharach performances at the Sydney Opera House on 4, 5, 6 March have been postponed for medical reasons.

The legendary hit-maker is recuperating from recent back surgery in Los Angeles with an excellent prognosis and will return to Australia in November 2010.

Concert dates for Mr Bacharach's highly anticipated Sydney performances at the Sydney Opera House are rescheduled for Thu 11, Fri 12 and Sat 13 November.

All previously issued tickets for Burt Bacharach’s Sydney concerts will be valid for the rescheduled November dates.

Hmm, waiting for Brad and Noisy Gypsy's opinion on the idea of sharing equipment, but I think they have given up on Pinkboard.

News just in today, I have it from the horses mouth that Lady Gaga will be flying in especially from Japan for the 8am show!!! Just Dance !!!

Can anyone confirm if the Dome will be open this MG? In a funny sort of way, I'll be relieved if it's not (do I really believe what I've just written???) A: It's frustrating to find so few lusty, filthy, groping Dome-Men in the new, squeaky-clean MG (which is still fun, just different). B: Now that crowds are smaller, it's better to cram people in to fewer spaces to generate that special MG buzz. There's nothing worse that a half-empty hall at 6am.

Lady Gaga is playing in the UK on the 5th of March. Given the travel time I doubt she will make an 8am appearance at Mardi Gras to perform in an unrehearsed show.

No, she wasn't coming to perform, just to see the show in VIP bar!

Check out Kelly Rowlands home page for tour details in March. I see Sydney Mardi Gras on 6th March and Brisbane's Big Gay Day on the 7th March as well as Metro City Perth 5th March. Looks like a quick tour of Australia. Now that has upped the anti for both Mardi Gras and Brisbane's Big Gay Day. Looks like both party's will be huge.

Sides Toybox what other juicy parties are on the Sunday?

My friends dont want to blow another $150 on a day do.

Cheers

Get out!

No Dome and I know my gang wont go ! you dont get any of that popcorn/fluff/vocal stuff in there !

I would say Extra Dirty is one of the best parties on the Sunday night.

looks like her website has the dates taken off now?

I think the cat will be let out of the bag sometime later today & MG will be making some BIG announcements :-0

From SameSame website....

Mardi Gras have released further news of this year’s party line up, confirming that the headliner for the Hordern will be world-renowned DJ Carl Cox.

Carl Cox [pictured] has worked with some of the biggest names in the business – Fatboy Slim, the Freemasons, Fedde Le Grand and Pendulum, and his regular night at Space Ibiza has been voted Best Club Night on the entire island. DJ Magazine named him the first ever number one DJ in the world, and MixMag rated him the number one DJ of the past 25 years.

Cox will be joined by gay, Aussie techno and hard house DJ Dusty Kid, as well as the much loved Alan Thompson of Housexy and DTPM acclaim, and Sydney favourite Scott Pullen.

The RHI will be headlined by DJs David Guetta and Bimbo Jones, alongside local legends Dan Murphy and Jake Kilby. The Forum will feature DJs Gemma and Sveta, and will also host Australian dance pioneers Itch-e and Scratch-e – the prodigious partnership of Paul Mac and Andy Rantzen. They’ll be joined by Sydney band Chaingang, described as having “spastic energy” and “whirling Siouxie style howls”.

The Dome will be all about tribal and heavier beats, and will feature Paris’ own Leomeo, as well as Ben Drayton, Mandy Rollins and Steve Sonius.

http://www.samesame.com.au/news/local/4969/More-Mardi-Gras-Party-Line-Up-Revealed.htm

Dome it is Paul D. Sorry.

http://www.samesame.com.au/news/local/4969/More-Mardi-Gras-Party-Line-Up-Revealed.htm


The Dome will be all about tribal and heavier beats, and will feature Paris’ own Leomeo, as well as Ben Drayton, Mandy Rollins and Steve Sonius.

Looking at the SX magazine online today and to my amazement I saw the headlines , "Carl Cox playing at the Mardi Gras party, headling in the hordern". Oh yes,yes,yes, I don't care what anyone says about NMG, they RULE. Thank you so much NMG this has made my going out all these years all worth it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://www.mardigras.org.au/about-nmg/news/mardi-gras-party-line-up-revealed/index.cfm

So Dome is on! Yah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I cannot believe the CRAP dj's that are offered up this year .. There are SO many local dj's that would be better suited ... It's SO bad that they are using dj's that have NOTHING to do with Gay issues or Mardi Gras wants .....
I will not be going this year even if George or Whitney are the acts ... the music will be the WORST ever !!!!!!
Where are the likes of Mark Alsop ??? he's been a favourite of our community for over 20 years and still he gets ignored over the likes of Carl who has NOTHING to do with our music scene .... This SUCKS !!! Mardi Gras should be ashamed of themselves ..... NO Retro Room ...?
Hilda Hiscock would be turning in his grave !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carl Cox is a music icon! He has been playing at gay and lesbian pride events around the world for over 25 years. He is a great supporter of our community and now resides in Australia for 6 months of every year. He has a lot to do with our music scene and I can't wait to hear him at a Mardi Gras Party, who cares if he is straight!

I'm sure our local DJs would be very unhappy with they were never allowed to play at straight events.

And if its retro that you want maybe you should check out itchy and scratchy. They may not be your style of music but could definately be considered retro now

You are entirely entitled to your opinion, naturally. But please, please don't use such a beautiful man's name to push your cause. The lovely, late David would never succumb to such bitching and whinging. Please think before you type.

Have you even heard Carl Cox play? The guys is a legend & a true gentleman to boot.

Maybe it's time you ventured off the strip & think outside of your bubble.

Congratulations NMG on a fantastic entertainment lineup to suit our truly international event.

Bravo!

Hey there dude, pull your head in, you talk about using dj's that have nothing to do with Gay issues or Mardi Gras wants, yet think of all the gay dj's who play at straight events...
Who cares if NMG decide to stick a couple of well known international dj's in the playing roster, there are still loads of local dj's playing anyway.

Mark Alsop has had his share of playing the big parties and as for Carl who, you obviously have your head in the sand when it comes to international music. Move with the times and get out of your lunch box world and have a wander about.
From reading the last few words of your blog, it is obvious you are only whinging because there is No Retro, boo hoo hoo, there are better tasting sandwiches than cheese.

You make a good point in some regards, but in others not really. New Mardi Gras is a business and in past years without headliners and great performers they have started to tumble with numbers declining.

I praise new Mardi Gras for finally using common sense and sharing costs of performers who are already in the country and strengthen the line up and value of the party.

I dis agree that we just need to have all GAY dj's and I for one and alot of others would probably not attend. I mean I can see them any weekend on oxford street.

I think this year's line up is shaping up to be one of the best line ups I have seen in a long time!!

I am surprised however there is no trance dj's as such on the line up, and I am waiting for all the trancey crowd to start complaining but aside from that 9/10 so far!

Well done Mardi Gras for listening to the punters and delivering what the majority want!!

This just shows that it is impossible to please everyone and whatever you do someone will bitch and moan.

Carl Cox has been a leader in the dance world - why wouldn't we want to see what he can offer us? And David guetta - ummm, did you somehow miss "when love takes over"?

What I'm pissed off about is that, yet again, to support these huge acts, Mardi Gras have again gone with DJ's from sydney that have become regular fixtures in the dance party scene. Mardi Gras really need to examine what is happening in the weeks prior to the event and see which DJ's are NOT playing at other parties, or at least ask DJ's that they have confirmed as a part of their lineup to ONLY PLAY MARDI GRAS... I'm sick and tired of going to MArdi Gras party and seeing the same DJs supporting... Come on, there's other working DJ's out there that would perform equally well (if not better in some of the cases from this year's lineup). I think MArdi Gras' stuff up can be seen in the harbour party lineup - WHY are the headlining dj's for this party the ones from last years and the year before's MG party lineup. WE'VE HAD ENOUGH!

I'd imagine that ALL DJs will be working over the MG festival at different parties around town & if they're not, they are most likely not very good DJs. So do you expect MG to book DJs that DON'T play at parties?

You can't be serious...

They are our community and have good followings also. Thats probably why, but I do agree Harbour Party is a little meh, location sells that which is a little bit of a shame.

But Mardi Gras makes up for it !!!

So we can expect Carl Cox at every Mardi Gras party now - seeing as he resides here for 6 months of the year?

What happened to getting Above & Beyond? - Big Fail NMG.......

No trance at Mardi Gras cause Toybox is taking that market off them. You should be pissed off at Toybox for not getting Above and Beyond, don't you think?

Watch this space.... heres hoping! x x x

What happened to getting Above & Beyond? NMG NEVER said they were getting Above and Beyond. It was pure speculation and wishful thinking on this wall.

Maybe NMG did approach Above and Beyond & maybe they were already committed as they are actually playing other gigs around the country at that time. Maybe there were to expensive. Who cares?

Carl Cox will rock it!

Above and beyond would have kicked it, maybe next year.... hopefully.

Geez... Theres just no pleasin some ppl!!
If u think these DJ's are crap, i shudder to think which "DJ's" you think are good!! Meh...

The difficulty for NMG is that they have two quite distinct audiences. Young, mostly Sydney-based party-goers want cutting edge DJs. Older and inter-state people really have no interest in the music (provided it's not so awful that even I can't move to it. Think "9 to 5"). RHI needs fast, upbeat, recognizable music with lots of vocals. Hordern needs lasers. The Dome needs very dim lights with lots of thump and perhaps a 6am closure.

Older really have no interest in the music ?

At 54 I can assure you I do and my group of friends as well.

No tribal in Dome no us attending.

But they are so will be there.

As for the Intl DJ's can count on one hand the ones that got glowing reports. No matter what they play on the International scene they generally disappoint when at the Party. 25 years of partying has proven that.

But it keeps people happy/going so fine with me. After all its only 1 set from them.

It's a brave DJ selection, lots of new choices, but I can't help but think that it is very hard to work out who its target audience is. It's interesting which is great, but if I ran most of those names via my friends, who are regular club goesr, party goers, they wouldn't have a clue who they are. Whilst that may not be a good thing - I think they are fairly typical of the audience for Mardi Gras. However - I think that DJ selection is irrelevant to 80% of people who go to Mardi Gras. They know whether they like the music once they are there - but they would have no idea who would be playing beforehand.

I think this year's issue will be that with the parade being the week before Mardi Gras, there's going to be a very restricted audience for the Mardi Gras party. The weekend prior to Mardi Gras seems to be developing as the party weekend at the moment. The party weekend is becoming increasingly irrelevant.

I do not know where you get your crystal ball from, but to say "the party weekend is becoming increasingly irrelevant" is a farce, there is only a week between the parade and party as previously it was 2 weeks, so people will stay around and I bet you and your friends will go too.

To also say " that Dj selection is irrelevant to 80% of people who go to Mardi Gras" is a joke.

You might as well be saying if you put Metallica in the line-up people will not care. But then again because your friends are regular club goers, they would not know who Metallica is or even Car Cox for that matter, but that could be a good thing....

huh ?

2 weeks between the parade and party ? where have you been.

And not everyone will be hanging around for that extra week after the parade for the party. Some countries only get 2 weeks annual leave and do their own parties anyhow.

My group wont be going to the parade and only attending the party.

The cruise people who arrive on the parade day wont be hanging around either as the cruise departs ! and 1500 will be on it.

Thats why NMG are going all out on this party ( and really as they should all parties ) to get people to go.

The parade gets people all pumped and then they head to Fox Studios for the great party.

A week apart has been a big cock up. Lets hope it does get its numbers otherwise NMG may be in trouble.

The primary role of the Mardi Gras party has always been as a fundraising event so ticket sales are very important. Choosing a DJ lineup that fosters confidence in partygoers to buy tickets is of utmost importance. After the collapse of old Mardi Gras in the 90's and its rebirth ticket sales started to dwindle. However the last 2 Mardi Gras parties have seen ticket sales returned to healthy proportions (although not to the numbers in the halcyon days of the late 80's/early 90's). It would be foolish to stray too far from this winning formula at this stage. Also the target audience includes a bigger proportion of straight people which must also be taken into consideration with the DJ lineup. Whether some in the gay community like it or not the straight attendees deserve some respect and consideration now too because without the support of the straight dollar as well as the pink dollar Mardi Gras would cease to exist. The pink dollar alone now is not enough to prop up Mardi Gras at its chief fundraiser any more. So quit the bitching. If you want to support Mardi Gras and are able to and want to go then buy a ticket and go. If you don't like the DJ lineup or have other reasons for not attending then don't. Simple.

do you even understand what a local dj gets paid for playing at mardi gras? let´s just say, you would not be feeding yourself and paying your rent for much more than a week in sydney at those rates. i love your altruistic idea, but sorry, it is a job.

on the other hand, check out the international dj´s fees, and ask why they play also several times in australia, and perhaps even in sydney on this same tour.

as for carl cox... this is one serious dj god! when faithless were talking about that, they were probably talking about cox, or one of his true peers.

i think you really ought to go over and have a quick geez at carl cox, even if for 15 mins to convince yourself you´re right, and we´re wrong. i doubt you´ll leave after 15 mins. the man is like an octopus DJ with ears that actually take into account the combined sound of what his hands are making live on the spot.

That is a great summary, I think that should put an end to the Crap Dj's blog. Boy, we are still over 5 weeks out till the main event, and it is getting hot in here already. You have to love it...

I'm just listening to the Above & Beyond podcasts from their set in Moscow... they would have been amazing at Mardi Gras!

Oh well looks like I'll have to get my trance fix from Future Music Festival and then Toybox the next day.

I saw a media release come across a desk this week saying Bette Midler and Samantha Fox will be playing the party..... Awesome can't for the wind beneath my wings ....

The media release I saw had the aliens that abducted Elvis returning him to the RHI stage at 4.00am

yes ! for once ! something right on the wall

I heard that Danni Minogue will be having her baby at Mardi Gras Party? Is this true?

the wind beneath my box

It is my first Mardi Gras. I will be in Sydney Feb 23rd until March 1 and then returning March 5th through March 9th. Can someone tell me what are the best parties to attend? Also, what are your thoughts on the GlamStand tickets? Last, what is the website to purchase the party tickets?
Thanks Guys!

MG Party and Toybox are the best. Not sure about GlamStand. ticketek.com.au toyboxparty.com.au

Get all the info you need at http://www.mardigras.org.au

Best parties: Harbour Party on Sunday 28 Feb, Mardi Gras Party on Sat 6 March and TOYBOX on Sunday 7 March.

GlamStand is good if you want to watch the parade in style, save on those aching legs of having to stand all night.

Hope you have fun when you are here.

Best parties :

MG party (sat March 6th) and Xtra DIRTY party (sun March 7th)

And dont forget the numbers will never return to the late
80/90's as in those days Mardi Gras the THE party and virtually no competition. Even the parties from that ear like Bacchnalia/Sweatbox/RAT etc would be hard pressed to get those high figures.

Comepetition is what its all about now. In those days gay and straight went to the same party as it was the only one on that weekend. Pick up an gay or straight paper and there are half dozen on most weekends.

Music back then was mainly one type as well but by early 90's others started to emerge.

Mardi Gras is still the best party for being able to sample different styles of music.

The anti straight thing annoys me as does the line of its our 1 night of the year. I go out with my friends who are a mix of gay and straight and if ever they managed to ban straights at Mardi Gras then I would not go. My friends are so gay friendly they constantly fend off advances from guys/girls during the night and in a very nice way.
I've seen more arrogant/drugged out queens I'd rather not be partying with. Strip away the straights and you most definately will have a lower attendance.
Anyway how would we look discrimating against others ?
best leave that alone.

Good comments, especially on the last paragraph.

so you'd rather spend your money on a Whitney ticket, same price but for 2 hours of entertainment while MG provided 4 halls and 10 hours of entertainment. Do the maths. It 'aint hard to figure out which is better value.
That god also that MG and Toybox are now working together instead of fighting eachother. It's good to see.

INDULGENCE Sun MArch 7!

Great comments all! Coming over from Chicago USA for a couple weeks and sounds like the parties will be great!

so if toybox are an official recovery why no nmg discounts? seems like they don't have mardi gras members best interests at heart.

my weekend will be, mardi gras party and dj paulo on sunday night at homosexual

there is no points giving discounts to people when it always sells out. it would simply result in less lights or at least less iceblocks. and i want my iceblock thankyou.

Actually you pay for your iceblock (not that I ever recall seeing any).

Bring on the David Guetta and Kelly Rowland Duet!!! Awesome

You can bitch all you like about Toybox - but the proof is in the pudding.

Will be at both Mardi Gras and Toybox parties - can't wait to get hot and sexy with all those men.

nup water, iceblocks, fans, and other accessories have always been FREE. But you pay for it in the ticket price obviously.

I am curious whether there is a need to argue with someone that has never seen something so really how would they know?

Is this heresay?

Water free at Mardi Gras? I don't think so (though I guess you can re-fill bottles from the taps in the toilets).

Yep, there's free water at Mardi Gras. It's a NSW licensing requirement that free water be available at all bars - I've been given free bottles of water before when I've asked for it.

Thanks for answering that question of mine, I have always wanted to know how they comply with the legislation... I appreciate it

So I wonder how the bar service at MG party would react if person after person after person in the 100's and 100's all progressively thru the night kept asking to be served a glass of free water....

It wouldn't last........

Hi all. I'm a bit confused and would like correct information about functions following the MG parade this year. I've seen on the MG site that there is a party at the old showgrounds. I had heard there was another function aimed at the cruiseship crowd. Can anyone clarify this for me? Thanks.

Simple, the organisers put in mobile tap basins and connect then up to a hose around the outside of the venue like they do at other big dance events.

The Parade Carnival is on after the Parade http://www.mardigras.org.au/mardi-gras-2010/events-calendar/parade-carnival/index.cfm
Next night is Harbour Party http://www.mardigras.org.au/mardi-gras-2010/events-calendar/harbour-10/index.cfm
The following week the the Mardi Gras Party http://www.mardigras.org.au/mardi-gras-2010/party/index.cfm
Followed by Toybox http://www.mardigras.org.au/mardi-gras-2010/events-calendar/toybox-luna-park/index.cfm

Shania Twain and Whitney Houston will be playing at the party ... woo hoo

Thanks, Panther. So now for more questions: What's the general feel about the Parade Carnival? Will it be well attended? Or is it likely to be mostly parade participants and officials, and not a lot of others? I'll be in Sydney from north Queensland, and would like to know if the Parade Carnival is likely to be a good 'investment'. I've been coming to Mardi Gras for years, and have always enjoyed the 'post parade' element of the party. Any thoughts??

Hi Mort

well have heard its only Dome/City Live that will be opened as the Hordern/RHI are for the Antique or some type of Fair. Friends who do some volunteer work have said its the Cruise Folk who will get the tickets and Parade entrants etc and any left over sold to general public.

My gang going the week after when its all the Halls like we have normally had.

This is going to be the biggest worry for NMG....people like yourself who are down just for 1 weekend. Some may be able to stay for the 2 weekends but others wont be able to afford or have the time to be able to do the 2 etc.

How are ticket sales going for Mardi Gras Party? What have we got 5 weeks to go now?

Time now for NMG to pull out the big guns to push sales up for the party.

The Parade Carnival has never happened before, so no one knows the vibe. I'll be there because it is free for members.

It will sell out with Carl Cox headlining the hordern. Cant wait!!!!!!

Feel the vibe man....

Yes this is true, Kelly Rowland is the guest act, she will be singing when love takes over.

Whitney Houston's concerts in Perth (6&7 March) have been cancelled, leaving her free to perform at Mardi Gras Party.

I tried getting tix for Whitney in Perth several weeks ago. It appears that the Sunday 7th concert never actually went on sale. I smell a smoke screen.

Both Tina Arena and Cyndi Lauper both performed as part of the festival and then went on to perform at Party.

My tips are Kelly Rowland, Whitney Houston and Natalie Bassingwaite (yes again!)

Want to get naked?

The location for the Spencer Tunick Mardi Gras installation The Base has just been revealed as at the Sydney Opera House.



http://www.mardigras.org.au/tunick/

Heard some exciting news about the staging and lighting rigs planned for the RHI today... very exciting indeed!

Whitney has just announced she will be playing in Nz on March 6 at New Plymouth

Check it out-

Awesome work Mardi Gras with the video, very slick and looks unreal! Makes me proud to be a sydneysider!

Really looking forward to Mardi Gras this year, even though we the parade and party change, I think the last few years Mardi Gras has stepped it up a notch!

Well Done!

I would prefer the party on the same night as the parade though it it can be booked properly next year

What an excellent promo for the Mardi Gras, I hope it really does well, I can not wait for it. Looks like NMG has stepped up way beyond the next level. Well done NMG!!!!

And it's taken them this long to get a slick video up on Youtube advertising Mardi Gras? How long has Youtube been around?

Boy, damned if MG does, damned if MG doesn't.

now now ... be nice

New Mardi Gras announces that due to the small number of entries received for the girls' DJ Spin-Off competition, the deadline has been extended to 5pm on Friday 5 February. All up-and-coming DJs are encouraged to enter the competition for the chance of playing at the Mardi Gras party on March 6. For full details see www.mardigras.org.au/djcomp or page 30 of the Mardi Gras Festival Guide.
Derek Hodgkins
DJ Competition Co-ordinator

Get over yourself. Mardi Gras have been realeasing stuff on youtube for years. stop being so vicious!

This season looks so exciting!

I agree - Well Done Mardi Gras!

Does anyone know who is performing at the Party? It would help ticket sales to know???

I really hope George Michael will perform, good onya mate if you do it!!!

forget it.

a/ i NEVER buy a ticket without knowing what i am paying for. i think this NMG policy "keeping ppl excited n surprised" is one massive bull****.

b/ harbour party line up - what a joke! i hope the thousands cant waith to dance to "santa maria" again.

i know its hard to please everyone but the word "classy" seems to be for the nmg something they will never understand. especially when it comes down to the harbour party.

ps has anyone told the people in australia that freemasons are sooo 3 years ago and trance at least 8 ???

ps2 panther can you label me with "this post is not nice but somehow correct but we wont admit it cause were are....im sure you'll think of something clever and original

happy mardi gras everyone and good luck with those "keeping it secret" policies. (no straight promoter would survive with such thinking, or gay anywhere else around the world)

Just found out today that members have to register on the MG website if they want to attend the post-parade Carnivale. Only have until 12 February to register. Did anyone else know about this?

Yes, do you not read the emails sent from MG?

Alexander the Great (336–323 BC) created one of the largest empires in ancient history. It is believed that Alexander was bisexual.

The theme for Mardi Gras is "History of the World". Picture of the Day will bring you all sorts of historical and possibly hysterical items.

"no straight promoter would survive with such thinking, or gay anywhere else around the world"

Thats because they dont have guest performers! Sure they announce their DJ lineups... just like Mardi Gras does!

The shows are like 15 minutes of a 10 hour party of which a few thousand of a potential 18,000 will ever see. Shows are great but hardly the ticket pulling power that you make them out to be.

And given that their are no trance DJ's playing at Harbour or Mardi Gras party maybe you should take your anti-trance agenda elsewhere.

Here Here!!!

On 28 June 1969 the Stonewall Inn in New York was the site of riots where the homosexuals fought back. Wikipedia

There are rumours of a gay racecourse at Randwick. http://www.pinkstiletto.com.au/video.htm
Could he be performing at the party?

Thank you for this picture. I will treasure it.

Not a nice message. MG has always fostered mystery! It's part of the hype.

Where do I take off my clothes for this artist guy? I'm happy to strip off anywhere - including the Dome!

Please share this exciting news. Only 4 weeks to go and I can't wait. Won't be leaving the RHI under the mirror ball as always.

I cant wait for MG! I love wondering around the place, checking out all the different types of music, people, shows, lights... Its awesome! Just a massive night of fun with everyone enjoying themselves!! Woohoo!!

Tallulah (1902–1968) was an actress on stage and screen. She had many lovers including William Langford, Billie Holiday, Marlena Dietrich, and Sybil Thorndike.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tallulah_Bankhead http://www.fyne.co.uk/index.php?item=228

And a very interesting biography.

I read it about 15-20 years ago.

One scene still comes to mind. She is in a night club and goes to the toilet and enters a cubicle. The cubicle next to her has someone in it as well.
Then suddenly Tallulah realises no toilet paper !

Tallulah: excuse me darling do you have any toilet paper.
Person : no
Tallulah: well then darling do you have 2 $5's for a $10 !

hahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaa

Antonius (111-130) was the beloved of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. He seems to have posed for many statues such as this one of Osiris. Wikipedia

anyone wanting to join the award winning MARCHING GROUP for ICONS 2010 mardio gras entry... visit the website for more info. lots of cute boys and girls already in... we are marching to kylie, george and lady gaga - plus some very special suprises!
past parade entries included the brokeback cowboys, kylieand dannii marching groups and divas

http://www.drmarks-marchingacademy.com/

Would love to, but so can't afford the money to do so. Am thinking of going in the PFLAG float. Anyone know of any other good floats that are free?

well I'm in it and its going to be great.

Well good for you.

The world's most famous transsexual, Amanda Lepore is headed to Sydney for Mardi Gras as Chief of Parade!

This iconic figure is Queen of the clubs in New York, has been the face of companies such as Swatch and MAC cosmetics, and is a big supporter of community organisations such as DIFFA.

After honouring influential gay men and women over recent years, we're excited to have a transsexual as Chief of Parade.

The often-naked, always-outrageous Amanda will be leading the floats along Oxford St at 7:30pm Saturday 27th February.

James Barry (c.1795 – 1865) was a surgeon in the British Army. He lived his adult life as a man but it is believed that he was born as Margaret Ann Bulkley. He may have been intersex. Wikipedia

Strangely this happened in "Central" Newspaper yesterday which is a local Inner City Sydney newspaper. The relevant quote comes from Steph Sands:
“We look forward to seeing how this new structure works out. Our board will be holding an EGM after the season to consult, review and look forward to how we will organise 2011.” The link is:
http://sydney-central.whereilive.com.au/news/story/cruise-company-blamed-for-sydney-mardi-gras-parade-party-split/

King James the VI of Scotland and I of England had a number of male lovers during his life. It seems that when Queen Elizabeth died they cried "The King is dead! Long live the Queen!" This is the same King James that is responsible for that version of the bible. Wikipedia

A lot of people have complained over the last couple of years about there being no lasers in the RHI.
I love having lasers in the lighting rig and don't think they have to go with just Trance - the overwhelming positive feedback about the lighting at Sleaze 2009 was a testament to that.
Anyone know if we'll see them return to the RHI this year?

Well, there is much debate about the suitability of the chosen tranny to lead the Parade on Facebook.

Who chose this person without thinking about the girls from Oz that made this place?

Not sure but I believe they are working on a moving lighting rig which will be a pretty big feat since the venue owners forbid it.

Lord Alfred Bruce Douglas (1870–1945) known as Bosie is best known as the lover of Oscar Wilde. It was a tempestuous relationship with lots of break ups and reconciliations. He was the son of Marquess of Queensberry to whom he wrote "I detest you". His poem Two Loves ends with the phrase "... the Love that dare not speak its name."

Hear tickets have almost sold out. Buy now if you don't want to miss out. It's your own fault if you get left all dressed up with nowhere to go on Mardi Gras night 'cos you can't get your arse into gear.

I have heard that they are going to have moving lighting rigs in the RHI for the first time in many years. Playbill have agreed to allow this to happen.

Part will definitely sell out with Carl Cox playing, he is the Dj's, Dj and plays the most kick ass funky sets you will ever hear.

So will it be sheer for all the sexy boys and girls? This is my first Mg party. Do a lot of party goers go in theme like Sleaze?

Happy Mardi Gras Every one.

Hooray!!

No surprise there..........

I've got tickets - yay!!!

So how many people are doing both MG & Toybox? Am I the only one?????

Inaya Day, George Michael, Kelly Rowland and maybe even The Prodigy.... Now wouldn't that just be an awesome guest act package?

Of course you'd be tight lipped with a line up like that!

Happy Mardi Gras!

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has lost its political and activist roots, preferring alliances with corporations rather than community. And the queer media is no better, writes Peter Hackney.

The modern queer rights movement was born on June 28, 1969 in New York City.

That night, NYC queers endured one too many police raids on a gay bar, the Stonewall Inn. For once, they fought back, in what became known as the Stonewall Riots.

Stonewall gave succour to the queer rights movement worldwide, including here in Australia where in 1978 the first Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras was held to commemorate the riots.

http://www.thescavenger.net/glbsgdq/corporatisation-mardi-gras-queer-media-censorship-10357.html

Yeah going to both Mardi Gras party and Toybox as well. Cant wait!

Me...........can't wait.

Specially presented by Sydney's Seymour Centre, photographic exhibition, TAKE A DRAG (15 Feb-6 Mar) explores transgender, diversity and community in celebration of this year's Mardi Gras.

Sydney artist Cynthia Sciberras' collection of portraits taken in Bali from 2005-09 is an intimate, colourful and theatrical photographic exhibition, aiming to question and challenge the boundaries of culturally-defined gender, and celebrate the essential beauty of the individual.

For five years Cynthia observed the world of drag queens, spending time in the noisy and popular drag district and
cabaret bar in the back streets of Kuta, Bali.

These images have, as the artist puts it, 'an authenticity of the kind found in theatre'. However the portraits also provoke the questions of what drives gender and the place of individuality and tolerance in a world full of judgment.'

Yes I read that last night, an interesting read!

This picture of the opening of Gay Games I was meant to coincide with the opening of the Winter Olympics.

The first Gay Games was held in San Francisco in 1982. It was the creation of Dr Tom Waddell who had participated in the Olympics. It was originally called the Gay Olympics, but organisers were forced to change the name.

Gay Games VI were held n Sydney in 2002. One of the highlights of the opening ceremony was k d lang, who also was a highlight in the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, her home country. The crowd in Sydney sang Happy Birthday for her 40th birthday.

Gay Games VIII will be held in Cologne in August later this year.

Federation of Gay Games website, Gallery, Wikipedia

Kung Hei Fat Choi


Emperor Wu of Han (156 BC – 87 BC) was the seventh emperor of the Han Dynasty of China. He is cited in as the greatest emperor of the Han dynasty. He was openly bisexual and had many children. He also favored a number of men: Han Yan, Han Yue, and Li Yannian.

Wikipedia

with all the stuff going around at the moment about groups being told they can't march and others having the numbers of participants restricted, I'm wondering what fellow Pinkboarders think of this. Instead of shrinking the event and shortening the festival how about a bolder approach. The Festival goes back to being a month long with a daytime parade to launch it on the first Saturday and a night parade at the end, with the Party, on the last Saturday to finish. It means more spaces for marchers and community groups and more exposure for sponsers? Any comments.

" the Dome will be transformed for one night only into Mardi Gras home of retro and disco, with DJs Luke Leal, Alan T and Justin Scott."
http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=33834&ref=moshtix

This is from the blurb when booking for the $50 entry Carnival straight after the parade.
If you loved the retro space last year, then this will be great.
I would consider going to this PLUS the Party on 6th March if it had Retro too- but no announcement on that front yet. If not, then I'll just stick to Carnival & only spend $50 bucks.

A month is way too long. I think the way they have got it this year is good. So long as this carnival thing after the parade is fun and the parade is still as exciting. 'Sydney' is trying to be a more 'cultural' city by spreading events out and creating new ones, such as picnicing on the harbor bridge, in order to quash the idea that Sydney is not cultural enough. But still, spreading it out over a month is too long. Also, can anyone confirm for me that the parade route starts further along therefore making it shorter?

I have only read of one group being told they can't march this year. I understand it was a group that was nothing to do with gay and lesbian issues.

Due to the problems in recent years in and around Hyde Park the holding area for the floats/parade entrants has been moved to Wentworth Ave, away from Elizabeth Street and Hyde Park. The start of the parade will be from Whitlam Square - The bgeinning of Oxford Street as opposed to Liverpool Street. This is also one of the reasons why Mardi Gras have been strict this year on the number of entrants.

Fair dinkum.

Why don't they just start at Driver Avenue and march into Fox Studios and around the Hordern and RHI?

The world has gone mad....

This isn't Michelangelo (1475–1564) himself, but rather one of his beautiful sculptures "David". Michelangelo had a love of male beauty. Michelangelo was devoted to many men during his life, such as Tommaso dei Cavalieri.
Wikipedia

The Atlantis cruise departs Auckland today bound for Mardi Gras with 1400 gays on board!

Kick on after Fair Day at the Bank Hotel, The Official Fair Day After Party venue. The Bank Hotel has held the official after party for 3 years now. With 6 of Sydney’s leading DJs spinning the best tunes over 3 levels, this is a fantastic After Party!

Sun yourself on the outdoor decks, relax in the beer garden or dance your ass off in the heaving bars… this is an event not to be missed and the perfect end to the fun and festivities of Fair Day.

The Bank Hotel have pulled out all stops for a fantastic DJ line-up to keep the party rocking. Guest DJ, Bobby Blaze, born & raised in New York City, will open the Velvet Room to play from 5pm -7pm. Bobby has performed at NYC's Tunnel, Twilo & Palladium & has held residencies At Pink Elephant, The Gates, The Box, Greenhouse & the famous Gansevoort Hotel Pool Parties. Bobby has rocked some of the hottest events & clubs around the world as well, including the Love Parade (Berlin), La Bain Douche, Queen & Rex (Paris), The Roxy (Amsterdam), The Voice (Israel) & Bunk 94 (Rio).

Joining Bobby Blaze in the Velvet Room will be Alex Taylor & DJ Delacroix. Alex, who has been wowing crowds in Ibiza will be playing a special 'Ibiza Space Terrace set' on the night & DJ Delacroix is the hottest new DJ in the gay community, winning the coveted 'Break The Bank DJ Competition in 2009. His mixing & programming skills have to been seen & heard to be believed will no doubt make a big impact on the day.

In the Terrace Bar downstairs, 2 of the hottest girl DJs that have been creating a real buzz around town, Sista P & Shalyn Gray, will be serving up some infectious grooves guaranteed to keep you movin! Playing the opening set in the Terrace Bar will be music aficionado & a great DJ to boot, Josh Kirkby, who will be playing a mix of pure house classics from the past mixed with the best of the new.

Sunday 21st February 3pm - Midnight
BANK HOTEL NEWTOWN

Now Rodney Croome faces a Mardi Gras ban. Yes, Rodney Croome, who's probably done more for GLBT people than anyone else in this country. From PinkNews.co.uk:

The world's biggest gay festival, Sydney Mardi Gras, has been criticised for being too interested in corporate relationships, rather than community values and local activism.

Earlier this month, festival organisers New Mardi Gras (NMG) refused to give a float to an animal rights group, despite its gay members and having been a fixture at the event for the last 14 years.

Now, a tourism booklet by Australian gay rights advocate Rodney Croome has been banned. Mr Croome, who produces the Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Visitors' Guide, will not be allowed to distribute copies or have a themed stall at next weekend's event....

Rest of the article here:

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/02/15/sydney-mardi-gras-attacked-for-being-too-corporate/

The weather is looking good for Fair Day this Sunday. Hopefully warm enough for all the eye candy be topless and strutting their stuff.

See you all their with bells on.

The weather bureau gets Sydney weather wrong for the following day let alone in 4 days time.

It only seems that way coz you tend to remember the bad days not forecast correctly...mostly they get it right.

is it just me or is there NO buzz for mardi gras party this year. putting all their money into acts might just backfire

Accuweather reckons it's going to be a hot day 29C
AU|NSW|SYDNEY&metric=1&fday=5
Feels like 32C

will be a lot of iCandy I'd presume.

Many guys hit the gym and solarium just to look hot at Fair Day and Mardi Gras party.

Then winter sets in and they hibernate again until Sleaze

Jane Addams (1860-1935) was the second woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. She founded Hull House, a place which provided social and educational opportunities for working class people. Jane won the peace prize in 1931 for her involvement in the peace movement and for speaking out against World War I.

Jane had a "romantic friendship" with Mary Rozet Smith. The extent of this friendship is unknown.

Wikipedia , Biography

oh give us a break! I am sick of these self interested people whj\o are trying to make a profit trying to leach of the good will of mardi gras by crying "poor me" when they know damn well that they thing costs a fortune to put on and that they only way the whole thing is going to stay afloat is if its underpinned by sponsorship.

jusy because you are gay doesnt give you the right to bleat on when you dont get your own way!

There darling!

Here here I say! Well said indeed!

I don't know a single soul who is coming up from Melbourne this year.

OR - if you feel like a more gentle and restorative trip down Diva-memory lane, join Linda Hansen at the Supper Club from 8pm after Fair Day, sharing her Fistful of Divas where she'll examine Bessie Smith, have a quick check in with Nina Simone - cast her eye in the direction of Dusty Springfield and explore the ins and outs of Shirley Bassey - with one more surprise diva up her sleeve! Lounge into Mardi Gras with a Diva-history of the world!

I saw their entry last year. It did present itself as a gay and lesbian entry with plackards saying they were gays, lesbians & queers who supported animal rights. In that sense they are a gay community group. The gay community does have members who support animal rights and it does seem to be true that the animal rights movement has a large GLBTQ contingent and that the people involved are usually very progressive in support for G & L Rights. Clearly in this way they are a legitimate GLBTQ community group, just as other participating groups are from organisations as diverse as the NSW Police Service, representatives of various churches, Gay & Lesbian lifesavers, the union movement and political parties.It would be naive to say that their presence does not assist these organisations in a political or PR sense. However the animal rights group also held plackards promoting animal rights issues, directly promoting a political cause other than GLBTQ rights and it is for this that they are to be excluded from this year's parade. Presumably the rule is that although there is an indirect promotion for the organisations in the parade who are non-sponsors they cannot go further than that with plackards which directly promote causes other than those about GLBTQ communities. Sponsors are an exception to that rule.

The Bank hotel is a pretty crappy venue! When its packed, it is so difficult to stand and speak, let alone dance, move around or do anything that requires any sort of movement!

I know at least 6 people coming up from Melbourne - Melbourne will be here (even if it is on a Tiger flight!).

There's plenty of room down Erskineville Road... Oh That's right, it's still closed!!

I reckon the Bank Hotel is probably one, if not the nicest renovated pubs in Newtown. If it wasnt for the Bank there would be know where for us to have a drink.

Alan Turing (1912-1954) was a genius. He was also gay.

Alan Turing is considered one of the fathers of modern computing. During World War II he was a lead figure in Bletchley Park where they broke the codes for the German Enigma machine. In computer science he is remembered for the Turing Test and the Turing Machine.

In 1952 he was charged with gross indecency and chose chemical castration over imprisonment. He committed suicide by eating an apple laced with cyanide.

Last year British Prime Minister Gordon Brown issued an apology for Alan's treatment.
Wikipedia

One day till the launch of Mardi Gras at Fairday, one week till Alantis docks in Sydney in time for the Parade and Carnival and two weeks till we party hard to the sounds of Carl Cox in the laser ladden Hordern (my favouite dance arena).

I'm sooooooo excited - this is my gay christmas time.

Happy Mardi Gras everyone.

Awesome some positive Mardi Gras post!

Yah!

Happy Mardi Gras to you too, I am also looking forward to it, but there are some big sad sacks on here.

I will be there next to you honey dancing to Carl Cox, with my hands reaching for the lasers. He is by far the best party DJ going around the globe.

I'm excited too, wow! George Michael, Parade, Carnival, Harbour, Party, Enchanted Forest! AWESOME!!!

Now with all these cancellations, in Perth and New Zealand. It's highly possible that Whitney Houston could perform at the Mardi Gras party. Now wouldn't that be fabulous ... Lucky I have a ticket ...

Just heading off to Fair Day. Beautiful day.

Andrew McManus Presents regrets to announce that, owing to a dispute with the venue's owner/operator, the Whitney Houston concert scheduled to take place at the New Plymouth's TSB Bowl of Brooklands on 6 March 2010 has been cancelled. Whitney and Andrew McManus are extremely sorry to have to disappoint all of Whitney's many New Zealand fans on this occasion.

Whitney will now perform an exciting Up Close and Personal concert at The Plenary in Melbourne on 6 March 2010.

Great new look Panther!

Well done to all the guys at Fairday, what a great day and a credit to each and all involved.
Hope it was a success, and i hope the public appreciate all the hard work all the volunteers did today. I noticed one guy quite shaky on the feet, that heat was a killer.

I just wish people would be nicer to the volunteers some were so rude on entry, what the hell is $5....

agreed

$5 these days is what 50c used to be.

Ferdinand (1861-1948) was born Prince Ferdinand Maximilian Karl Leopold Maria of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Ferdinand's interests were writng, botany, entomology and philately. And men, but that was later in his life. Ferdinand holidayed regularly on Capri, then a famous haunt for wealthy gay men.

Ferdinand abdicated in favour of his son Boris III in 1918 after defeat in World War I. He went into exile and spent most of his time devoted to artistic endeavours, gardening, travel and natural history. However, he would live to see the collapse of everything he had held to be precious in life.

Wikipedia

Just got my tickets for the awesome Parade Root! All my fave dj's on the night of the parade, on the parade route! #Win!!

Does anyone know when NMG will announce set times for the Party?

Gays and Lesbian's who support annimal rights should march in the animal rights parade not the G and L Mardi Gras Parade. Mardi Gras is a vehicle to promote G and L issues not animal rights issues.

I agree, it is a G and L protest for human rights, not animal rights and it blows me away to even think how this even became an issue in the first place, knowing too well the march has been about G and L rights for the past 32 years.

Bernard King (1934-2002) was a well known Australian TV Personality. He was best known as a TV Talent judge in shows such as Beauty and the Beast and Pot of Gold. He was also a wonderful chef with his TV Show King's Kitchen.

And he was gay. Camp as a row of tents. He gave shows in shopping centres surrounded by The Bernadettes, scantily clad men.

Wikipedia , Photo in National Portrait Gallery

Guys does anyone know if there going to get a crowd at the race day i think its the best idea and hope its a success for eveyone.

When is NMG releasing the set times for the party? Anyone......

I wish I could have gone but all my friends are working that day. I think this is a brilliant idea from Mardi Gras and was the only event I wanted to do this year.

I agree! They are NOT even a gay and lesbian group. Talk about hijacking Mardi Gras.

Someone needs to post the email that came from Steph and Nick today re the Mardi Gras CEO's letter to the editor.

Mardi Gras was not set up to promote animal rights and its good to dee Mardi Gras taking a stand!!!

"I agree, it is a G and L protest for human rights, not animal rights and it blows me away to even think how this even became an issue in the first place, knowing too well the march has been about G and L rights for the past 32 years."

I understand these sentiments but the animal rights group has actually been in the parade for 14 years, a tradition in itself. Furthermore other activist groups, although identifying themselves clearly as Gay and Lesbian,have also had many years of appearing in Mardi Gras. I can remember Aboriginal groups and environmental groups. Church groups have been allowed to promote their faith. Political parties and Clover Moore have wanted the Gay & Lesbian community's votes. Marching Police officers make a very effective promotion for the Police Service at times indirectly countering controversy.
Satire used as part of the G & L Mardi Gras organisation's own entries has targeted current affairs with puppets of Imelda Marcos and John Howard amongst others.

My personal position is one of tolerance for certain groups expressing opinion beyond gay and lesbian issues as long as they clearly identify themselves as part of the GLBTQ communities and supporters of GLBTQ rights
and there aren't so many of these entries that they change the overall GLBTQ message of the parade.

The GLBTQ communities are very diverse and for us to come together for Mardi Gras tolerance and respect for peoples right to express an opinion, within reason, is vital.

It's also the case that Mardi Gras is allowing other parade entries this year that express opinions beyond GLBTQ rights.

The Raelians will be entering again this year and will be allowed to have plackards promoting their beliefs, which are more laughable than controversial. To quote samesame.com.au : "this year the Raelians have been permitted to march in their float bearing the message “UFOs bring love”.........However, a bunch of gay people marching for the rights of animals has been deemed less relevant." So clearly New Mardi Gras is not enforcing a new rule that bans directly promoting causes other than GLBTQ rights. Rather it is in the sticky situation of justifying a subjective decision to ban a group of Gays and Lesbians for not being queer enough in their entry. No wonder it's caused controversy, including articles in the international gay media.

New Mardi Gras sometimes has a difficult balancing act but this isn't the first time it's shown a lack of sympathy for activist groups. Last year it made Amnesty International change it's entry to tone it down forcing it to change plans to use a large noose to dramatise the plight of Gays & Lesbians in some countries.

By adopting a style that increasingly references daytime pride celebrations overseas rather than Sydney's rich G & L Mardi Gras history it is effectively toning down the whole event. Moving the parade from the being the penultimate event in the festival calendar reduces the focus on it, is also downgrading it's significance.

is full of sunshine and with a late summer feel in the air will assure the crowds will come rushing in if the conditions are ideal on the day. Consult the bom site for more relevant information closer to the day or ring up your local TAB for a precise forecast or to just place a bet?

Alan Turing was a 'hero' and 'genius' and should be buried in Westminster Abbey. Thank you Wikipedia for the great photos, etc. of gay men and women in history


Alan Turing was a 'hero' and 'genius'; and should be buried in Westminster Abbey. A great deal of what we enjoy today is due to Alan Turing. Thanks Wikipedia for the photos, etc of gay men and women in history.

AcidJasmine's 4am Fucked Up Bimbo Jones 2010 Mardi Gras Mix

get yourself in the mood for Bimbo Jones at this years Mardi Gras party.

available to download at

http://acidjasmine.blogspot.com/2010/02/acidjasmine-4am-fucked-up-bimbo-jones.html

Warning!!! It's commercial hands in the air dance music.

Tracklisting:

1hr 09 mins 12sec 94.9 MBs MP3 192kbs

All Bimbo Jones Club/Extended/Radio Mixes

Keeps Gettin' Better - Christina Agu1lera
7Things - Miley Cyrus
If U Seek Amy - Br1tney Spears
Fame - Natur1 Naughton
For Your Entertainment - Adam Laambert
So What! - P!nk
Already Gone - Kelly Clarkson
Come Back To Me- Vanessa Hudgens
Piece Of Me - Britney Spears
Love Songs - Anjulie
To Love Again - Alesha Dixon
Battlefield Jordin Sparks
U & Ur Hand - P!nk

No Countdown Boy? Can the end of all things be far off?

The Greek poet Sappho (ca620BC-ca570BC) was born on the island of Lesbos. Her poems contain powerful emotional content directed toward other women and have been interpreted as expressing homosexual love.

It was not until the start of 19th century that the words Lesbian and Sapphic (derived from Lesbos and Sappho) were used.

Lesbos has become a favourite destination of Lesbians and has been immortalised in books suck as Tales of the City.

Lesbos , Sappho

I have started to capture what happened at this year's Fair Day in Pinkboard's new Wiki.
http://www.pinkboard.com.au/wiki/Mardi_Gras_Fair_Day/2010
Please feel free to contribute your photos and memories.

Letter from the CEO of MArdi Gras, emailed to members and sent to SX and SSO...

I’m just back from Fair Day and it was pure adrenaline to see tens of thousands of our community having a great time.
Fair Day often marks the point when the news and commentary agenda moves from criticisms of decisions NMG has made in preparing for the season to the exciting stuff that’s happening.
What’s surprising is how few stories crop up given the huge variety of decisions NMG makes each year. There were really only two stories in the last couple of weeks I believe really touched on issues of principle: our rejection of Animal Liberation’s parade entry and the exclusion of a Tourism Tasmania brochure from Fair Day.
In both cases I believe NMG made the right decision and acted wholly in line with our Constitution and the objectives New Mardi Gras was set up to achieve.
With more people applying to participate in our parade than we can safely accommodate we looked harder at entry guidelines than ever before. These reflect our Constitution and our history as a gay pride organisation.
Animal Liberation have been in the parade many times, may have some gay members, but is patently not a GLBT organisation, provided no record of support for the GLBT community outside marching in the parade and had an entry with no emphasis on gay pride. That they reissued an application with ‘queer’ in the title didn’t change our view.
If you believe Mardi Gras should be a vehicle for progressive political bodies or just anyone with a message to get out there then you’d include Animal Liberation’s message about cruelty to battery chickens, however, that is not what New Mardi Gras was set up to do.
Our parade entry criteria broadly reflect our Constitution which is essentially about GLBT pride and celebration.
We have four sponsor entries out of around 140 entries this year. Without the financial contribution of sponsors, there would be no parade or Fair Day today.
The nature of the sponsorship is that it generally — though not always — offers a degree of exclusivity. We have an agreement in place with Events NSW that gives them exclusivity vis-a-vis other state tourism bodies.
It was sensationalist to claim Mardi Gras was in the business of banning books by excluding a Tourism Tasmania stall and their brochures from Fair Day. Tourism Tasmania have other options to get their message out and accept our position.
What all this debate has suggested to me is that there is a discrepancy between some people’s view of what Mardi Gras should be about and the reality of our Constitution and business model.
Rather than muddle through, let’s debate what Mardi Gras, and particularly the parade is about. Let’s look at its purpose, composition and funding and work towards a clear statement (or restatement) of our objectives and values. By doing this, we’d go a long way to ensuring Mardi Gras’ relevance into the future.
Once this season is over I will work with our board to set out a process of consultation and debate on these topics which I hope will engage a broad section of our community with the aim ultimately of putting that vision forward to our members for approval.

— Michael Rolik, CEO, NMG

the strip tonight (including the much publicised Brent Corrigan appearance at Nevermind) was DEAD! Bodyline tonight was DEAD!

I acknowledge that neither are head-lining Mardi Gras events (chuckle chuckle) but both are indicators of the the energy on the pink mile. In years past - even very recent years - the strip was pumping the week before Mardi gras. It definitely wasn't pumping tonight!

I am by no means a nay-sayer, always looking for the negative - quite the opposite - I usually LOVE this time of year. But this year is different. where is the energy? where is the excitement? I went out tonight expecting to feel it and expecting to share it, but there was NOTHING!

I am not looking to lay blame (Mr now-deposed-mardi-gras-chair-who-accidentally-booked-the-wrong-night-for-the-party), but one has to question, "is Mardi gras the Parade and the weeks leading up to it?", or "is it the party and the week leading up to it?"

I used to think (maybe naively) that Mardi gras was about the parade, about the GLBTQI community taking back the streets, the city. But now I am not so sure.

What are your thoughts?

The term Friends of Dorothy has long been used as a code for gay men, especially when homosexuality was illegal. It refers to Dorothy's companions from The Wizard of Oz.

Dorothy was played by Judy Garland (1922–1969) who has long been a gay icon. Her death is linked with the Stonewall Riots.

Judy's signature song "Over the Rainbow" came from the movie:
Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high,
There's a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue,
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true.

Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far
Behind me.
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me.

Wikipedia

I think the pre mardi gras week action will happen next week, most of my friends are going out then - i have mates coming from the US - middle of next week - they have come 6 times before and the party not the parade is the main event for them - out of 25 gay friends in sydney I do not know one who is actually going to the party or the parade - toybox yes. It was a great event yet its over for allot of the people who made it so big (over 40s)
and younger guys who have greater acceptance don't seem to need that sense of community that once seemed so important. This is not a sad thing its just that times change. Maybe you should try Daylesford Chillout thats where all the over 45s are

Mardi Gras is taunting us with this:
And don't forget the big name surprise guests. We've heard you all guessing who it's going to be, and only we know the truth. But keep trying, we promise at least one person you'll never expect...
Kelly Rowland, George Michael and Whitney are top of the rumours, but there's more. Who is your guess?

Pinkboard will offer one used party ticket to the closest correct answer.

im a member at the Australian Jocky Club at Randwick and I rang to book a table in the Champagne bar and were told its booked out! This is looking to be a fun day.How many mardi gras events have been amazing the first time they do them (when no one is there) and then the next year is a big success. The Pink Slipper is going to be like this> I know about 20 people (gay and straight) going and for $15 its gotta be the best value in sydney!!!!

ITs on this friday when most queens are hard at work - yet you don't have to go for the whole day - like Melbounre cup - allot of people go about 3 oclock have a bet and a few Champagnes and get in mardi gras mode.

The money also goes to bobby goldsmith charity who are fantastic and there are special races organised and if you don't know where the track is its three bus stops from the flinders hotel

Don't miss it - let me know if you are going?

Awesome ... love it Panther!

Nana Mouskouri, live from her nursing home?

Well according to SAMESAME site it appears it will be Adam Lambert who arrives on March 5 for a promotional tour and is doing an in store apperance at Hum Records on March 6.

Gust Artist - Kelly Rowland, Adam Lambert, George Michael and Whitney Houston.

I know a bit of a stretch but who knows

It's going to be Shirley Valentine. She'll be serenading us with River Deep Mountain High.

Bring on Lady Gaga !

Or Prodigy just to mess with everyones head lol

and the gay Icon Inaya Day, would it really be a Mardi Gras without her???

I'm thinking a Kylie and Darren Hayes duet for sure!

God I hope its not Whitney playing at Mardi Gras!
I went to her concert last night in Sydney and it was just awful.
I'll give her full points for guts - she didn't back away from trying to sing any of her big hits from the old days but the problem is that she's now only got about a tenth of the vocal range required to sing them. She couldn't even sing the songs from here latest album very well - and I would have thought that album would be closer to her current abilities. Most disappointing was that I paid $200.00 for the ticket - it was a $90 premium seat concert at best.

Love that in theory. In practice I'm not sure you could do a Jimmy Barnes with the Prodigy? ACDC mind you....

Looking forward to George Michael tomorrow!

i wonder if Pam Ann is going to perform her "From NY to LA"

1. I thought Kelly Rowland was a definite?? Not a maybe.
2. Who is Adam Lambert?
3. Whitney would not want to do Mardi Gras in my opinion.
4. George Michael will be the suprise. (assuming Kelly is a definite...otherwise the suprise is Kelly).

Make sure you know your rights regarding what the police are / are not allowed to do before you go partying over Mardi Gras:
http://www.mardigras.org.au/projectblue

John Maynard Keynes (1883-1946) is responsible for central theories of modern economics. He advocated interventionist government policy to mitigate the adverse effects of business cycles.

John was part of the Bloomsbury Group, a group of writers, artists and intellectuals near Bloomsbury in London. He had a relaxed attitude about his homosexuality. Between 1901 to 1915 he kept separate diaries to record his sexual relationships. He later married Lydia Lopokova, a Russian ballerina.

Wikipedia

It does seem a bit quiet on the strip but Mardi Gras isn't about the parade or the party or any single event. There is something for everyone - sports, theatre, parties, art, dinners. Just not animal liberation so it seems. So it's about the entire festival and the community making of it what they want. Good that your not looking to blame the old chair for that booking thing too as it wasn't his (unpaid) job, it was the (paid) ceo's job, and her error (if that's what it was - no one apart from those involved will ever really know the facts.) Note that she made a quiet departure soon after the new board was appointed...

One of the great things about the split of the parade and party is that this year I can attend both and with full energy. Usually I choose the party over parade or in the years I have done both it takes quite a bit of effort.

I've just come from Oxford Street and the giant pink flags down the breadth of the street look amazing! The other exciting thing I noticed is that all the light poles, particularly around Taylor Square, have mini lighting rigs attached, with moving spotlights and other coloured lights attached. I think we are in for one of the most amazing parades ever and I am so glad I snapped up tickets to the membership viewing area before they sold out!

And what to expect of Carnival - the after parade event? It's surely going to be a low budget affair but one with a capacity for 15,000 people! It's not a dance party but the Dome and Forum will be playing dance music until 6am. With the parade participants, volunteers and Mardi Gras Members all getting FREE entry its certainly going to have a celebratory buzz about it but without all the craziness of a full blown party.

This Mardi Gras will be what you make of it so have fun at the parade and party and enjoy what will be a very different year!

I agree! Great comment! I'm looking forward to it too, and the party sounds like it is building up nicely - The RHI with the new stage concept and laser overload for hordern along with the artists all is sounding very promising!

look out!

Yes I just came back from a stroll along Oxford Street and it is being dressed up for the parade tomorrow night. Plenty of tourists walking around too, so the strip will be buzzing from tonight onwards.

Looking forward to seeing the parade and soaking up the excitement.

Happy Mardi Gras.

Thanks for the link. Answered a few questions I had.

Even George Michael was worried about the Police. Even though he didn't say anything particular, he did mention that the police here are not like European Police and we should just be careful! George Micheal's concert was just wonderful, I have never felt such Gay Pride at a concert. He is an out and proud performer and bloody good to boot!

Looking like great weather tonight!

Parade is at capacity - something like 150 floats!

Lighting has been erected on all the light poles from Crown Street to Taylor Square.

The parade is all over the news this morning. Plus Foxtel are broadcasting live tonight.

Its going to be huge!

Once again, out of the city for MG, but I grant proxies to my wonderful Sydney friends to mix it on my behalf.

Celebrate our freedoms, but keep in mind how far we have to go. When you get an equality bill voted down in the Senate because our alleged political supporters and representatives couldn't be arsed to turn up...

http://www.theage.com.au/national/senate-rejects-gay-marriage-bill-20100225-p5zv.html

...it may give you an indication that there is still work to do.

Party hearty. Stay safe. Take care of your mates.

Photograph from Tribune

After a morning protest march and an afternoon forum, an evening street party or "Mardi Gras" was organised. Police had given permission. A truck and sound system was hired.

Hundreds of people gathered at Taylor Square. Some had dressed up. As the parade moved down Oxford Street they called "out of the bars and into the streets".

At Hyde Park the police ordered the truck to turn into College Street and confiscated it. The party in Hyde Park was abandoned and the marchers continued up William Street towards The Cross. The police channelled the marchers into Darlinghurst Road towards El Alamain Fountain where the police cornered the marchers.

A riot ensued with 58 people being arrested.

The end of the march was only the beginning of a horrific story.

Tonight is the 32 anniversary of that march. Back then being homosexual was illegal and was considered a disease. We are now legally allowed to have sex. We are equal in many ways. We do not yet have full equality in Australia. Our brothers and sisters in Uganda may soon face a death sentence.

Tonight celebrate the progress we have made, but also remember that we still have a way to go.

Exhibition by Pride History Group

That would have to be the worst Mardi Gras Parade ever. 5 minute gaps every 10 minutes, at least a half hour break between the Dykes on Bikes and the 1st float, too many frigging YMCA's and I Will Survive, pick up trucks wrapped in a bit of crepe paper do not make a float. Seriously underwhelming. Met a couple of newbies from Melbourne who had never seen the parade before and their reaction like mine was WTF? This is as boring as Moomba!

bring back the old Mardi Gras format, last night was a little disappointing , and i dont think they understand was a carnival actually is!! It was like going into someones back yard, organised as ever i see...

Oh well bring on the party next week fingers crossed it will be better

Backstreet Boys

I was in the parade and had a great view of the first half before our group headed off. I love being in the parade.

There were a lot of creative entries, but there were also groups who just put together a banner and t-shirts. Our community is diverse, and so the parade should be.

The parade is not just the floats. It is the people having a fabulous time and making a statement just by being there. It is the crowds on Oxford St blowing their whistles so loud we could not hear our float music. It is the the creative highlights in among the people like PFLAG and the fire brigade who are just proud to be there. It is the politics and the glamour.

The Carnival was not The Party, but it was full of happy people having fun. I was saving myself for Harbour Party tonight so didn't party seriously, but it was a good way to wind down from the highs of The Parade.

A few photos so far:
http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/entertainment/sydneys-mardi-gras-parade/20100227-paaf.html
http://www.news.com.au/pictures/gallery-e6frflv9-1225835165026
http://wentworth-courier.whereilive.com.au/photos/gallery/sydney-gay-and-lesbian-mardi-gras-parade-2010/

Agree. A total yawn. About the least creative parade in the History of the World. How ironic......

I wasnt the worst - and overall its still a thrilling event - but yes - you're right - the floats were not particularly interesting or imaginative - it may certainly be a political statement - so go ahead and make it - but were it the wit and appeal - the ones that were good stood out as did there message - the many who just frocked up for the ego boost were boring - everyone looked and seemed the same - so you really couldn't tell which community group was which - they all looked the same - no acknowledgment of theme or imagination - you cant blame NMG for the lack of inspiration and imagination that was so evident from too many of the community groups.

I thought it was great - it was good to just sit and chill after the parade - get something to eat and drink and chat and laugh with mates on the grass. And how good was the music in both venues? - and packed. Such an event may not happen again - but it was a very pleasant way to finish the parade - thank you Mardi Gras

How completely underwhelming the parade was last night. Oh, and the "ad break" for FOXTEL. Sorry, but just because Charlotte Dawson (from said televising channel) or Ricki Lee (WTF) want to blab on about being inclusive or use air time is no excuse to halt a parade and cause it to be filled with big gaps in it with spectators and community wondering WTF. one word for this years parade. FAIL

I had a ball... the Egyptian Marchers were my favourite, they looked hot!!*

As for the carnival, it was essentially a free event that Mardi Gras never budgeted for, it would have cost them a fair bit to put on with the venue hire I'd say, the bars never had a line up at all so not much $ from there either... so, since it was free, I think it was great, I really liked it, it was a chance to catch up with other marchers, grab some dinner and a few drinks and ride that amazing vibe that comes after the parade as opposed to scurrying away to get changed for the after party, splitting everyone up. It will be interesting to see what happens with the party numbers next week though. Fingers crossed.

*I may or may not have been one of those said marchers

A few photos in Pinkboard Wiki - more coming
Add your own!

IT was good to see the high police prsence at the parade.There are a lot of idiots out there who would spoil it for other people if they could.
The post carnival party was great and the music wa exactly what I needed to here and dance too!
I personally prefer to separate the parade from the party. It allows us to extend the celebration rather than everything over a done with in one night.
I would support NMG to keep the new format.

First of all well done to all those who participated last night but I got to say the Parade was one of the most dull I have ever seen. Where has the creativity gone? Way too many walking groups who just walked holding a sign - how boring is that? How about some music, lights and choreography next time please.... this is a parade... put your best foot forward and strutt your stuff. Thank goodness for the ANZ float, the Marching group, the Egyptians, the George Michael and the Super Heroes entries. Even the MG lead float was shameful... come on MG lead by example... make an effort. Maybe the Parade Committee need to employ a creative director to advise and assist community groups in putting together their float. Do we really need 3 fire fighters floats with a fire engine with it's only impact it's read and blue flashing lights. We can do better than this Sydney.

Can I have my $140.00 back please. Prior to waiting in a queue for almost 20 mins to get to our seats we abandoned the queue for the bar as it was just not moving. MG made an effort putting Varilights and spotters all along Oxford St and Taylor Sq all we got from BGF was this cheap and nasty red string light along the barrackades. Oh thanks BGF for the providing us with those 2 drag queens who would not shut the f@#k up with the mindless pyscho babble. We left the BGF area and walked back up towards taylor sq where the was a much better atmoshphere. How dare you BGF call this a glamstand and how dare you charge $140.00. Will never support any BGF fundraising event again.

I hate to agree but the parade was shambolic. I don't know whether it was the new start area the caused difficulties, Foxtel or just bad organising.

First some positives: the DJ's at Taylor Square had the crowd in the mood before the start... if only they could have kept playing the whole night. Plus whoever programmed the pro-marijuana float too immediately follow the police is a genuis.

However:

There were too many instances of 5-10 minute gaps between floats which just lost the momentum.

There were too many floats with music programmed one after the other which was just aweful to listen to and meant that some floats got drowned out completely... I remember a few floats where I couldnt tell what song they were dancing too. Surely the floats blasting music could be more evenly spaced out between those that dont have music.

There were too many boring government floats in the parade that have nothing to do with anything: Rail Corp, Sydney Buses, City Rail... just get them out!

Self promoting politicians who use the parade as an election campaign should be banned... I laughed when the crowd on the hill at Taylor Square gave Clover Moore the thumbs down.

The parade participants all put a lot of effort in each year but they seem to have been let down by some organising and programming issues.

Adamx, the Egyptian Marchers where my favourite too.*

Though ANZ's entry certainly caught my attention...as well as the Lifesavers.

Maybe Panther will share what his favourite was too. Yep, I saw you.

* I may also have been one of these marchers. Sorry to ride on your coatails Adamx...your shameless post made me laugh.

well that would have to have been the most lame parade, "carnival" and habour party EVER. let's hope next weekend's mardi gras party is good, or maybe we might have to accept that finally the time has come to find something new.

"And how good was the music in both venues? - and packed"
Yes, LOTS & LOTS of fun Retro music & Pop music.
But as yet, NO WORD about any Retro Space at the "official" party next Saturday.
Last year at the last minute they set up a Retro "tent" with drag shows. Unless the quickly announce something for this year then myself & my friends won't be buying tickets & will just be satisfied to dancing to lots of fun retro/pop music last night for only $50 bucks.

Oops I forgot to mention the life savers. You were great too.

Have to agree - we also left mid way through the parade. Stand was so near the end - everyone was tired, lights or sound systems were no longer working and we were so cramped in. All this for $140 - never again BGF.

It was disgusting - walkways were too narrow to move in and out - what happened BGF??? For $140 I wanted to be able to go to the bar and come back to my seat easily - not get pushed about and worried in a crowd - not good

Considering the Carnival was a FREE event for parade participants, vollies and members I'm not sure that it deserves any criticism.
There was a real buzz around the outdoor areas with lots of people catching up and relaxing in the show ring and the dome and forum were packed.
Not sure who the 1st DJ was in the Forum but he was fantastic.

I was an Egyptian I am proud to say. We were the New Mardi Gras marching group. It was a fun float, though I was exhausted by the end of the parade.

Just come back from freezing my naked arse off on the steps of the Opera House. It was quite an amazing experience.

Had lots of fun at the Races on friday - dancing in the afternoon sun behind the members stand was a stand out - very sexy friendly crowd and lots of fun without any drug taking !!!! Free busses to ox st afterward all really well thought out and planned and i won $400!!! Good on you randwick

yes spencer tunic was a blast - very cold though!!!

The DJ is Francisco Guerra from San Francisco, his music and his passion just got me off!

FANTASTIC! What a great experience! Including Grant D from Sunrise dropping his dacks and running into the crowd. We all know who were there that these photos are going to be great - and we are a part of them. Best event of the season. Thank you Mardi Gras.

Pink Stiletto on Friday was absolutely fabulous. I have never had so much fun at the races and i'm a regular racegoer. The AJC really put alot of effort into making it a really inclusive event as did NMG & Bobby Goldsmith. I really hope they stick with it next year. Although the crowd was only 4000 or so I think next year it will be the must do event.

Any reports on Harbour Party?

Sorry Panther but I have to say this as it needs to be said!

I think some people on here need to pull their head out of their asses.

George Michael, the Mardi Gras Parade and Harbour Party (especially Wayne G - you rock fella) made for an exceptional start to the festival for me...

Thank you NMG for such an amazing time! The whole weekend was awesome!

Harbour Party was great. It really went off. The dance floor was packed the whole time I was there.

"Rowland also continued touring Europe, Asia and Australia as a solo artist throughout late 2009 and early 2010, including a tour of Australia in March 2010 which includes shows in Perth and Brisbane, and most notably as one of the headlining acts of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras concert party on March 6th, 2010. She is also a headliner of the arena tour "Jamfest", which will tour Australia in April 2010."

Just wanted to say i loved the format this year. Im so glad I can now do the parade and the after party properly on separate occasions rather thna everything be over in 12 hours. Had a blast!

I'm with damo. Too many negative posts here. We had a great weekend in Sydney thanks to NMG.

We had a ball at Harbour last night. Started off a bit damp, but then resolved into a lovely evening. Met lots of friendly tourists and danced my socks off to PAUL HERON. Bring him back anytime.

And the real action doesn't start till next Sat..

A huge congrats to Mardi Gras for organising Spencer Tunick as a key festival event.

The photos look amazing and it looks like its getting massive publicity around the world. Great for Sydney, great for Mardi Gras.

I am out of town so didn't get to particpate but friends that did told me it was an amazing experience.

Harbour Party seemed to be WAY busier this year. Was awesome looking down on the dance floor from the upstairs pathway... speaking of which so glad they re-opened the big stairs and path this year... nice to be able to walk around

Mardi Gras Special
Encore Friday 6th March 9.30pm
http://www.arenatv.com.au/web/show.aspx?id=81

Panther are you suggesting you were amongst us at the rehearsals and I had no idea... I would loved to have met you... maybe I did! Which section of the group were you in?

I agree, the NMG format offers greater oppotunity to experience the whole event including the parade and the coming party.

I'm an out-of-towner who has been coming to Sydney for Mardi Gras parade and party for 15 years. At enormous expense, I have been down for the Parade and Carnival, have come home, and am back down again this weekend for party. I'm not especially keen on the idea, but have been prepared to give it a go (the options were not favourable). For me, the wonderful thing about parade followed by party was the great energy of the parade, followed by the tremendous energy and huge numbers at the party. It has always been an overwhelming and fantastic experience to party with a huge group of predominantly gay and lesbian people, after the public celebration that was the parade.

This year I went to Carnival. It seemed crowded at the start, and was good fun. It didn't have the same energy as MG Party usually has, but I guess that was its nature. It was quite casual and relaxed. My sense was that, about 3:00 a.m. , crowds started to wane. I guess some were exhausted after parading, some were getting ready for Harbour Party etc. I left not long after that, because, for me, the vibe was quietening. I usually stay at MG party until about 6:00 a.m., even after watching the parade. I wonder how the party will go this weekend if it doesn't have the parade to set a tone.

I love both the parade and the party, and would find it hard to choose which to attend. But I will have to do that in future years. The expense of the two trips is too much, not to mention the challenges of trips to Sydney two weekends in a row. And holidays at that time of the year are not possible.

I hear Mardi Gras is going to be widely surveying members and non-members for next year. I'm really interested to know whether out-of-towners like me are prepared to go both weekends, or whether the parade and/or party will, over time, develop a Sydney focus.

On another note, we watched the parade from Flinders St, in a similar spot to last year. Last year police roamed inside the barriers, taking alcohol from people in the crowd and pouring it out. This seemed heavy handed and inflammatory - we saw no evidence that those whose alcohol was taken were likely to cause hassles (though, of course, who knows what might have happened later). This year was very different. Some hours before the parade the police came by, and in an assertive, but not aggressive manner, took some alcohol from already drunk crowd members. But during the parade, they were hardly around. It was good to see a more light-handed approach to this issue this year. I also saw no police presence at the Carnival. Much more welcoming than the sniffer dogs at Sleaze last year!

Hey Mort, If you have not joined Mardi Gras' mailing list yet then i suggest you do, this will ensure that you receive the MG survey after this years festival finishes.
The Carnival was good and catered well for those who wanted to catch up, have a dance or relax after the parade. No doubt the atmosphere at the party this weekend will be different to previous years but there will still be a packed RHI and Hordern full of guys and girls up for a great night. Just think Sleaze Ball in March!!

Hey all,
Anyone know when the DJ times are going to posted or sent out? I'm a member and there's been nothing yet that I've received. Am gaggin' to plan the night (and yes, I know the plan will go out the window as soon as I'm there, but anyways...)

Born Sylvester James (1947-1988) but better known as Sylvester was one of the first Hi-NRG Disco singers. He is known for many songs in the 70s and 80s including "Do You Wanna Funk", "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" and "Take Me To Heaven". He was gay and black.

In the early 70s Sylvester became the star transvestite vocal group called the Cockettes, which included Divine. He later formed a band called the Hot Band whith whom he released his first album.

Sylvester died of an AIDS related illness in 1988. In 2005 he was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame.

Wikipedia

Yes interesting, that would usually have been done by now. Does that mean someone has pulled out of the DJ Lineup?

Or have they got a surprise DJ/DJ's up their sleeves?

Any reports about Pool Party which was held on Monday?

No ones pulling out! They don't usually release times until the Thursday or Friday - The parties going to be amazing as per the last few years, even with the scheduling thing it has a great vibe and there are still alot of tourists here still attending!

SX is to publish the Party details tomorrow. I'm sure this will include set times.

Wet but sexy and fun - hot guys - and good music. Music has been good at all the events - and the DJs at the party on Saturday are all great - cant wait - and George Michael!? - o yeah - got a few friends who have changed their mind and have bought tickets - so its not sold out - yet - friends told that tickets were selling fast over the past couple of days - bring it on - and God bless the United States of America - many US guys at the Pool Party are staying for the 'big one'!

For those members that missed the email today about the party...

Members may take one guest with them through the members entrance(guests must be accompanied by a member).

When you and your guest pass through the members entrance you will both be given a wristband for the members bar entry.

The members bar this year has moved to Fuse Bar! Bigger and better than ever before!

I'm worried there are 5 DJs in the Hordern. That had better not mean a short set for Carl Cox or I will be spewing! He is unreal and to think he won't get 3 hours will piss me off!!

From SX...

A new approach to production and creativity will see a host of supercharged show at the Royal Hall of Industries at the Mardi Gras Party.

This year New Mardi Gras (NMG) is bringing the beauty and theatricality back into a supercharged RHI, with a central stage and moving lighting rig that will revolutionise the space at different points throughout the night.

There will be at least four major production shows this year full of dancing, drama and superstar surprises. There will be a rich drag element, and you can expect to see Verushka Darling, Carmen Geddit, Vinny Vargoosh, Shelley Legs Diamond, Charisma Belle, Minnie Cooper, Tora Hymen, Rocco D’Amore and, making her last appearance at Mardi Gras – at least for a while – the iconic Mitzi Macintosh (pictured).

Up-and-coming creatives Squared Division, who recently demonstrated their talents with the House of Gaga show featuring Decoda Secret, will be responsible for one of the largest shows of the night –an avant-garde extravaganza to present one of the night’s big stars. Best described as plastic-fantastic, with an overwhelming use of colour and fluoro, the boys have selected some very kitsch and unique songs.

Craig Pearce, who choreographed last year’s ‘I Just Wanna Dance’ with Alison Jiear, is also creating a show that no one will want to miss. It’s huge and top secret and the only clue NMG has provided is that “it’s all about the love”. Hmmm – what could that be? The style will be slutty-glamour, and it will bring the house down.

Aaron Farley, better known as Minnie Cooper, is directing the history show. Farley directed his first Mardi Gras Party show in 1992 and has created some of the most memorable and hilarious moments in Party history.

Josephine Baker (1906–1975) was a singer, dancer and actress. She was born in USA, but became a French citizen in 1937. Josephine was the first African American to star in a major motion picture. She was often accompanied on stage by her pet cheetah, Chiquita, who was adorned with a diamond collar.

Josephine was active in the American Civil Rights movement during the 50s and 60s. She spoke at the March on Washington where Martin Luther King gave his "I have a dream" speech.

Josephine was involved in numerous lesbian affairs, both while she was single and married. This included an affair with Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

Wikipedia

where the heck is Fuse bar?

I think it's opposite the Fox & Lion heading towards the Forum

Yes. That's right. A little bit of research and it's really quite easy to find.

Who else is excited about this weekend? I am going to both Mardi Gras Party and Toybox and cant wait!

Mardi Gras Party is looking to be very special. Central stage in the RHI with moving lighting rig, so many big stars in town and Hordern full of lasers. Toybox will be the perfect finale... trance heaven!

Who's dressing up?

Yep Looking forward to it as well.

Our group is dressing up as drug police with sniffer dogs on leases.

Where are the Dj set times NMG, they should have been released over a week ago!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah, come on NMG, we need to know DJ times in advance so we can plan our night. This is torture...what is taking so long?

Been hideously busy this year with a new job, so long days and not much going out. However I am creating my own vibe and excitement for Saturday as best I can.

The DJ's look great on paper and I hope they are. But history shows this is not often the case.

What a beautiful night - Kerryn Phelps and Rebecca Spindler were inspiring speakers - the Bird Show - Animal Encounters with the cutest echidna - and Sydney Harbour - excellent - plus US drag queen Shaquida who was terrific and very funny - partner and I hope this happens again next year

Adam Lambert performing at the party!!!

How excitement!!!!

Just annouced he's performing at the Mardi Gras Party during So You Think You Can Dance.

Each and every one of us should take the time to go over and say thank you to the ACON Drug Rovers. They're not hard to find in those bight pink vests. I've made a point of doing this for as long as I can remember and, believe me, they appreciate it. Some of the best photos from the parties I've been to are with these guys and gals that give up their time to make sure that we stay safe.
It'll only take a second or two and they're all lovely.
Lets make this party the Year Of The Drug Rover!!

Start annual leave as of now and yes, getting excited.
Doing both parties as well.

Busy day tomorrow - spray tan, final gym session, haircut.
Keeping costume simple... ie. taking my shirt off

Can't wait to see that moving light rig in the RHI!

On 7 February 2001 a memorial was unveiled in Green Park, Darlinghurst. It was to commemorate those who had died at the hands of the Nazis in World War II, and everyone else who has been killed because of their sexuality.

The memorial is in the shape of a pink triangle. The pink triangle was worn by homosexuals in the Nazi concentration camps. Jews wore yellow stars.

At the launch of the memorial Kitty told the story of the man who helped her survive Auschwitz. A man with a pink triangle risked his life to bring her and her sister potatoes. This supplement to the starvation rations was the reason they survived.

The memorial was erected on the site of toilets which were a notorious beat.

http://www.zipworld.com.au/~josken/glhmp1.htm

Very nice words and Yes these guys as are all the volunteers - A M A Z I N G!

Well Done to all who make this one of the worlds best GAY and LESBIAN Parties - Feels good to be an Australian even better as a Sydney sider

With Adam Lambert confirmed more confirmed as well Kelly Rowland and George Michael are also confirmed:

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/party-a-go-go-for-george-michael/story-e6frewz0-1225837106587

So it seems the people will be Adam Lambert, Kelly Rowland, Adam Lambert and I'm guessing Admanda Lepore as the 4th?

Steph Sands has confirmed on her Facebook blog that there will be 4 international guests performing at Mardi Gras Party.

I'd say Adam Lambert and Kelly Rowland are safe bets particularly as they were at a party press conference.

George or Whitney are strong possibilities.

Then I think there will be a big surprise like Lady GaGa or similar.

Excited or what!

To all of you who are wondering when the set times are for the Hordern, I managed to contact Carl Cox's manager the lovely Lynn Cosgrave, where she has kindly given me the information.

Hordern Pavilion:
>>>
>>> GI Jode 10pm-11pm
>>> Scott Pullen 11pm-1am
>>> Carl Cox 1am-4am
>>> Alan Thompson 4am-6am
>>> Dusty Kid 6am-8am

Thanks for nothing NMG......

From SX

DOME
HOUSE/TRIBAL

Mandy Rollins 10pm - 12am

Leomeo (FRA) 12am - 2am

Ben Drayton 2am - 4am

Steve Sonius 4am - 6am

what you do what you do...you're just a...

I hate to dissapoint everyone but George Micheal is not doing mardi gras - its a nice idea but its just not going to happen - mark my word

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/party-a-go-go-for-george-michael/story-e6frewz0-1225837106587

BOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Go be negative somewhere else - Read the articles he is in so many papaers confirming it today and David Guetta has also confirmed he is playing!

Obviously so one is not going to the party!!!

Facebook status update from Steph Sands...

Steph Sands...so... i can tell my closest facebook friends that there are 5 (FIVE) BIG BIG BIG shows in the RHI this year.... and the special surprise guest will blow you away!

Thanks for the set times, I just looked in the latest SX and NMG have only the set times for the Dome and Forum. They have waisted 4 pages on hyping the party up but NO SET TIMES!!! Who on earth is running the program?

You just walk right in, walk walk walk right in

Hope those times are right. 3 hours of Carl cox!!!!!!! yiipppppeeeee

The parties just keep getting better and better!!! Everyone thought it would be hard to top the 30th Anniversary party in 2008, but 2009's party was lightyears better. And it looks like 2010 is going to be even better again with Katrina Marton doing the production and a fantastic line-up of artists. This is going to be the best Party ever! Can you tell I'm excited! Just hope there aren't too many doggies. Hopefully they'll be worn out from Future Music at Randwick.

Yep mega excited!

OMG OMG OMG OMG

Please be Lady GAGA!!!

Isn't gaga touring in the UK at the moment?

http://media.smh.com.au/entertainment/red-carpet/mardi-gras-party-delayed-by-a-week-1194368.html

...with KM back on board, you can bet the party will be back to it's mg golden years style. It's about time they used the trapdoors and tunnels in the RHI.

ooooh George at 5am! Adam Lambert! Kelly Rowland! David Guetta! Bimbo Jones! and MOOOOORE! Well done MG, I've had the best night already!

That's odd programming in the Dome - all the energy at the start of the night? From Leomeo to Ben Drayton in one foul swoop - it would be like falling off a cliff.

Got an email from NMG yesterday saying "last year was the year we got the music right", and they are "doing the same thing this year with the music". Yet, there is no mention of the specific Retro Space they had last year for this year's party (although the Carnival did have retro & was fab). The Retro Space last year had great music, drag shows, & male dancers. What's the go???

Apparently Gaga is in fact in the UK, just how she'd do concerts tonight and Sunday night and be at MG in between (unless on some video link) beats me.

http://www.ladygaga.com/famemonster/

She is flying here especially to close the party. Sssssshhhh!! Don't tell anyone but my bestie in Ist Class on Qantas served her.

Was wondering how they were going to get the performers onto a stage thats in the middle of the dance floor... secret tunnels... how very apt.

According to her website Gaga has a show in the UK on Friday night then nothing until she starts in NZ in a couple of weeks time.

So we know there are 5 shows and 4 international guests.

Does Amanda Lapore count as in international?

If so I think it will be Adam Lambert, Kelly Rowland and Amanda Lapore as definates.

George could just be a decoy for someone equally as big.

...George M, Kelly R, Adam L and Black B is 4 internationals

Will last minute leaks on who is performing help sell the party out?
I hope so. I'm looking forward to a packed and sweaty night!!

Peter Richard Woolnough (1944–1992) was born in Tenterfield. Judy Garland's husband, Mark Herron, discovered Peter while he was performing in Hong Kong and invited him to return with them to the United States where he performed with Judy and eventually married her daughter.

Peter left Liza with a Z for Gregory Connell who sang with Peter on "I Go To Rio". Both Peter and Gregory died of AIDS related conditions in 1992.

There are so many wonderful Peter Allen songs: "Tenterfield Saddler", "The More I See You", "Fly Away", "Don't Wish Too Hard" and "I Still Call Australia Home". He co-wrote a number of other amazing songs including "I Honestly Love You", "I'd Rather Leave While I'm in Love" and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)".

Wikipedia

Donno if i like the idea of a centre stage it will break up the dance floor into two sides. Anyway that aside... i'm so excite... and i just can't hide it.... see you all there.

Definitely excited!!! Really, really, really hope George is playing - love George.

But also sooooooo looking forward to seeing lasers in the RHI again. I have so missed the lasers in recent years!

In less than 24 hours...in fact, only 15 and a half hours to Mardi Gras!!!

I really should go to bed

"With KM back on board...", whatEVER do you mean my friend? A name DOES come to mind, could it be!?!? Inquiring minds want to know. BTW, MG 1998 can never be beat...or can it? =)

It was on last weekend at the Carnival. You missed it.

Have set times been announced yet I can't find them anywhere?

Oh no, it's not Tom Jones is it? For all the nanna's........

New Mardi Gras General Meeting Sunday 28 March 2pm to discuss Season 2010 and the IP Trust.

From MG newsletter

DJ set times

Now in previous years we have been able to share the set times for the party with you, however we have been advised this year not to provide these for the RHI and Hordern to avoid crush points. This should minimise the amount of time any particular venue has to be shut down and hopefully allow as many people as possible to come and go freely between the venues.

However we can confirm the order in which the DJs will be playing:

RHI

Bimbo Jones
Dan Murphy
David Guetta
Jake Kilby

HORDERN

GI Jode
Feisty
Carl Cox
Alan Thompson
Dusty Kid


Feisty is in the Horden now?...awesome!

go to www.swnews.com.au for all halls details and most set times


EXCITEMENT +++++++

From email to NMG members at 10am ...

"Now in previous years we have been able to share the set times for the party with you, however we have been advised this year not to provide these for the RHI and Hordern to avoid crush points. This should minimise the amount of time any particular venue has to be shut down and hopefully allow as many people as possible to come and go freely between the venues.

However we can confirm the order in which the DJs will be playing:
RHI

Bimbo Jones
Dan Murphy
David Guetta
Jake Kilby

HORDERN
GI Jode
Feisty
Carl Cox
Alan Thompson
Dusty Kid

We're pleased to announce a new name in that Hordern line-up with Feisty joining the team, replacing Scott Pullen who is unable to perform.

Meanwhile in the Dome...

Mandy Rollins from 10pm till midnight
Leomeo from midnight till 2am
Ben Drayton from 2am till 4am
Steve Sonius from 4am till 6am
Then it's a packed program in the Forum and an eclectic mix of electro, nu disco and live music that will be pumping all night.
Male DJ spin-off winner from 10pm - 10.30pm
Female DJ spin-off winner 10.30pm - 11pm
Gemma 11pm - midnight
Chaingang (live) midnight - 12.30am
Lovertits 12.30am - 1.30am
The Swiss (live) 1.30am - 2.15am
Sveta 2.15am - 3.15am
Nervo (live) 3.15am - 4am
Avra Cybele 4am - 5am
Itch-e and Scratch-e 5am - 5.45am
Mark Murphy 5.45am - 7am"

This is going to be FAB!

Well he's not gettin my undies....if I wear any

From MardiGras email:


DJ set times

Now in previous years we have been able to share the set times for the party with you, however we have been advised this year not to provide these for the RHI and Hordern to avoid crush points. This should minimise the amount of time any particular venue has to be shut down and hopefully allow as many people as possible to come and go freely between the venues.

However we can confirm the order in which the DJs will be playing:

RHI

Bimbo Jones
Dan Murphy
David Guetta
Jake Kilby

HORDERN

GI Jode
Feisty
Carl Cox
Alan Thompson
Dusty Kid

KM is not of the Kylie kind, sorry if that's what you were thinking...any of you. KM has been responsible for many tightly produced parties prior to the MG collapse. Knows her shit, knows party and knows how to get the best out of the old girl (the RHI, as we fondly used to call her and maybe still do) A creative director is something that's been missing for years, or party director. Maybe this year, the party will be reminiscent of the parties of old with attention to production values and scenic the way it used to be.

What's wrong with the white bed sheets they used one year?

They are the worst kept secret in town, Mitzi Mcintosh farewell, Amanda Lepore, Kelly Rowland, Adam Lambert and George Michael in no specific order!

Have a great 2010 Mardi Gras Party!

It's Tom Jones first and then Kelly at 4am. You heard it from me first.

Tom Jones.

Oh yeah, I remember the uproar over the sheet incident!!

It's not too hard to work out. 10 hour party. 5 dj's in the hordern so 2 hours each. Rhi a little more tricky with 4 dj's but likely 2 hour sets for the first two and 3 hour sets for the last two.

Happy Mardi Gras everyone. Enjoy what's set to be a fabulous party!

Interesting that there are plenty of Toybox tickets for sale in the classifieds...unheard of in recent years....what exactly does that say....hmmmmm....

If David Guetta is third to play in the RHI then Kelly Rowlands is more likely the opener for his set than the closer. The big production show has always been the traditional 4am spot. If George Michael is performing maybe it's drag at 1am, Kelly at 4am, George at 6am and Adam Lambert to close.
Happy Mardi Gras everyone.

That says quite a few people bought both sets of tickets early and now that they've annouced quite a stunning line up and stage design in the RHI, these guys/gals are sensibly only choosing one party to go to.

There are always tickets on eBay and whatnot before the party - always has been plenty in recent years. Hardly a sign of anything.

Get a grip - stop trying to stir crap.

Was trying to get one from PINKBOARD classifieds last year but there weren't any, and lots asking for them.....oh...and Happy Mardi Gras to you too!

Tom Jones is playing in Clare Valley SA tonight - so try again!!

Maybe it's a case of greedy opportunists buying multiple tickets knowing the party would sell out then putting them up for sale a couple of days before hand and selling them at an inflated price to make a profit.

Or maybe people just learnt their lesson from last year and bought early, rather than miss out. I often buy 2 or 3 tickets to things in order to get good seats, if it's an event I know will be popular. Doesn't mean I'm in it to make a profit. Sure, some people are opportunistic, but my instinct is that most people just want to make sure they're with their mates at the party.

A bit of both. Some are scalpers, others know they can offload tix if they change their minds.

Either way I never feel sorry for people who "miss out" on tickets, because they are usually the ones who procrastinate.

I don't actually know what you're trying to imply because there are Toybox tickets for sale on Pinkboard. What is the point you're trying to make? That the party will be crap? How could you possibly come to that conclusion? Or that the party will be empty? 2950 people and a handful are selling their tickets.... oh yeah the venue is gonna be REALLLL empty.

Foolish post, I think.

Oh geez, it was just an observation! Methinks think you protest too much. I'm sure the party will be great and full......just have a fun night wherever you are will ya.

The dj lineup is great, the performers right up there, the weather steamy. All set and let's remember it's a party for a reason - so share the love, be friendly, smile at the guy/ gal next to you - 'cos whoever plays, however you look, let your hair down and have FUN!
Real life can start again next week...

did somebody just have a double lemon lime & BITTERS?

Sorry you're not here James, quite a number of your friends from SF are here and ready to get dirty.Met a few guys all the way from Miami Florida!!...

YAY PARTY ON in less than 2 hours!!! And although this is an anonymous post it is being made by someone who knows - the talent and the production will be the best since the 90s. WELL DONE NMG. And for those of you who don't go - SUCK EGGS!! - see you on here tomorrow afternoon to hear you whinge about missing out... X X X X

whatever happens tonight, the board and staff and volunteers of nmg deserve a massive back-pat for producing a fantastic season in new and challenging circumstances. Steph, Nick, Board and Michael and staff have risen high above the murk to give the SG&L "Community" a beautiful, exciting, provocative, inclusive, progressive and welcoming Mardi Gras for those from home and abroad. All that with a nod and a smile. The party is about to launch and whether you leave it thinking it was the best ever or the worst ever, give them all th e praise they've earned for giving everything they can to make your life as a gay/lesbian/whatever in Sydney the best it can be. Happy Mardi Gras

puppy dogs everywhere ???

Luckily was there at Carnival & got fantastic Retro Space for only $50 entry & had a great night. With the Party though- no mention of Retro Space, so a no-show from me & my friends (all in our 30's).

Carl Cox you rocked in the Hordern - what great music and fantasstic lighting show. You lighting guys deserve an award.

No it was very well patrolled, but not heavy handed

Wow what a pleasant surprise for those of us braving the rather sad and sorry retro in the RHI, to find Mr George Michael pop onstage at 1am to entertain us.

Now if we can just get Sir Elton....

Overall the party was very good, characterised by good shows, costumes, good crowd and generally good music in the Hordern and RHI.
However, having said that it was a big shame that the Forum did not have retro music (the music there was poor). It would have also been good to have a dress up theme to add to the feel....given that Sleeze was successful in this regard.

OMG! I totally forgot about the party - old age, I guess.

So how was it?

Great party. Scenic in hordern was great and loved the central stage in the RHI which gave everyone a good view.

George was great. Kelly Rowland was fantastic.

But then at 4.30 the party started emptying something chronic. I have never seen so much space on the rhi or hordern dancefloor before.

I think NMG did a great job this season to overcome a stuff up. But the party just didn't attract enough people sooooo pleaseeeee reunite the parade and party next year!

Just wanted to be the first to appraise the party. Thought Carl Cox was brilliant he really played to the gay crowd with a huge mix of old and new jackin beats.

As I spent most of the night in the Hordern I must say walking around throughout the night, the other venues looked great, I did not get a chance to listen to too much of the music in the other areas but from what I did hear it sounded like NMG stuck to their policy.

The crowd was really up for it and friendly, the Hordern lighting was great and the sound system was clear and loud and not to mention the dance floor was bigger than previous years, which for once went all the way to the back of the room. For me though, Carl Cox just blew the roof off and he is worth every penny.

I can't say the new format of splitting the parade and party was a failure, not so many people looked so trashed because they did not have to go in the parade beforehand, which must have been good for the medics.

Well done NMG, the parties are getting better and I hope it can keep on going from strength to strength and not go down the same path a few years ago.

Keep it community and grass roots focused with the aid of the big corporate dollars and use them wisely.

Great party! It was an RHI night for us. Nothing else came close. (we could forgive the occasional handbag track.) Saw George (he was so pumped. We were so close & he was lovin' it. Don't let anyone tell he didn't sing. He sure did.) David Guetta played lots of fav tracks, spent a while during Carl Cox in the Horden blown away by the lasers on the central scenic rig, Dome Garden was't full of our friends so we didn't stay long, (more chairs please) didn't bother with the Forum after the initial venue-check. There was a gue crowd crush partying between RHI & Horden. Everyone was there & checking out outfits & chatting. A great oldfashioned, friendly, up vibe. Seemed to thin out significantly towards 5am. How was it for you?

I vote for a new new Mardi gras urgently. From start to finish this was the most embarrsing experience as a host of foreigners o had encouraged to come share in the festivities. They will never return and vthey will most likely influence others towards the same conclusion. I feel massively let down. George Michael was A joke. Carl Cox playing cheesy old house was like making my heart be hit with a mallet.

I couldn't find any retro at all and I really looked about. Tbh I thought the music was too fringe for a big party, and I had to leave the Horden because I was getting ear damage. Luckily it was a clear night and there was lots of decebt people watching to be done outside. RHI seemed to be danceable with a good vibe either side of the 3am show.

The party was monumental in its scope and complexity.
A big thankyou to NMG, volunteers and NMG members who have kept the faith. The huge crowd was diverse on all levels and in general was in a good head space.

What happened after 2am?
Both the RHI and Hordon fell into songs that went for 10 minutes in a boom de boom loop sequence followed by another song with a near like for like boom de boom. There was nothing to put your hands up in the air to and the monotony became so boring I felt like I was at an 18 year olds rave party and so left at 5.30am still amped but bored to death.
Like the previous comment no retro space and I couldn't find anthems after 2am to sing along to. Oh well I think I'll go back to youtube and dance in the back room watching the guy from the website ijoseph.tv for the songs and dancing I was hoping to find.

Well done NMG for delivering another excellent party.

Highlight for me was DUSTY KID at the Hordern. OMG, this kid can create sonicscapes like no one can -- so danceable and beautiful at the same time. Awesome!

Shows were good, though I didn't see them all. It's great to see this party once again investing in putting together artists and production numbers that have a wow factor. Missed George, but saw Kelly with that big voice even at the time of the morning. Fabulass!

Apart from the shows where you can see artists up close, I must say the RHI as a space really didn't work for me. That stage plonked in the middle has the effect of segregating punters and taking away some of the great vibe when everyone's together on the dancefloor, wet body to wet body. Please leave the dancefloor to the punters!

Many dressed up but not nearly enough I thought. This is where I missed the Parade/Party nexus. There's something really great when people dress up to party. It adds to the buzz and atmosphere.

Please NMG restore the Parade/Party nexus next year.

"the party just didn't attract enough people ".
Mmmm. With no incling whatsoever in any of the annoucements about a retro space, we didn't even bother buying tickets. Last year's retro space was a late afterthought in a tent, but at least it was there & was announced- and had drag shows. So, now the posts from people who did go, are complaining about the lack of retro/pop space.
The Forum used to be a retro space successfully year after year, then came the 30th Anniversary when we were told the whole RHI was going to be a retro Discotorium with Oliva Newton John, & the Forum was given to live bands. Many many people complained about wasting money buying tickets when the Disctotorium ended up a Trancetorium. Then the year after (last year), the Forum had the live bands again, but the retro was back after a one year gap- but now in a tent. The tent was fine & had shows etc as well. But where was the tent this year??? Retro space deleted again & more angry people either didn't buy tickets at all, or back to complaining again. People just won't bother going to the Party. At least if there is a clear cut annoucment each year about a retro space, or lack of one, then people can make an informed choice as to whether they bother buying a ticket.

Overall I had a great time and I think Mardi Gras did a great job. But the RHI was like an oven all night. I have never known it to be so hot but then again it was good to get sweaty with sexy boys and borrow their fans - a great chat up line "can i borrow your fan please". The crowd was cute and sexy and very friendly. First show was OK. George Michael and Kelly Rowlands were f#@kin fantastic. We walked out of the 5 am show and the close was a waste of time. My major gripe, well there are 2, I think David Guetta was very disappointing and as always it's great to have big international DJs but the sydney DJ's know what to play at Mardi Gras the international ones don't. The first 2 DJs were awesome... song after song, and I hated the stage in the centre it reduced the size of the dance floor considerably I think and it reduced the full visual impact of the shows as the artists had to divide their time to both sides. That said I am depressed it's all over and it was a great party. Well done MG but can we please have the MG party close at 10am like in the old days.

People did not dress up because there was not a clear cut theme, like was done with the last Sleaze (a sports theme). Yes there was "History of the World", but what the hell does that mean?
Splitting the Parade and Party is a great move, as it extents the celebrations across 2 weekends.

Huh? "History of the World" not a broad enough theme for you?!

I support the parade/party split as it allows us to celebrate longer than just one weekend bang!
I would suggest that we put it to the vote for all NMG members.

Just home from Toybox Once again it was awesome.

History of the World such as Napoleon, Alexander the Great, Albert Einstein etc, etc.

"celebrate longer than just one weekend".
That's what the MONTH LONG Festival is for- but this year even the festival iteself was reduced to 2 weeks!

the split was great. Its nice having the party on a normal Saturday night where you can relax and get a cab to the gates.

And yes it meant 2 weekends of parties rather than one.

But without the parade participants in costume at the MG Party it was VERY flat. Most people just didn't bother dressing up at all, and it lacked the post-parade buzz.

The music was stunning. Well done to Matt and Steven - best music at a Toybox in ages.

I can't believe people are complaining about the party, if you could not find something positive about the night to enjoy yourself, then go to a straight dance party and you will notice the difference in production and organisation. Or dont bother going out at all.

It was too broad hence why only a very small number of people dressed up.

had a ball, the headline acts were too short, george michael was hardly on for 5mins, lighting was fantastic.

I hope it goes back to the old format, it lost so much excitement and fun last night, it was like just another big dance party. More Fans please next year and portaloos, the toilet situation was shocking considering it cost $130 to go.....

Well done to all involved and everyone thats dressed up the costumes were fab.

I hated the split...put parade and party back together NMG!

toyboa was a spectacular end to an amazing week! Fun crowd great people - very sexy

Firstly I had a great time at Toybox and commend them on their fantastic production values... other than the little blip when the sound went out for a couple of minutes (was rather funny actually) and when they turned the sound up to deafening levels for the finale song (my ears are still ringing badly).

Steven Hales was great as ever. Thank god for him.

Matt Bachl on the other hand was just aweful... and the music he played was an embarassment to trance. Old cheesy track after old cheesy track... I felt like I was in the worst part of the 1990's. Don't get me wrong, I love the odd quirky track dropped in as a bit of fun but when its constant shite like "16 Going on 17" (from The Sound of Music) followed by "Nutbush City Limits" followed by the next cheesy song... it just becomes boring and stale.

There is so much new trance out there that would perfectly suit Toybox and not sure why its not able to shift itself out its 2SM Classic Hits mentality.

But to finish on a positive, lighting, lasers and the usual toybox magic was brilliant. Well done.

How can you possibly say that? Aztec by Aly and Fila, Lost Language, If Yo SHould Go, Calibro ... To just name a few that I can remember. You must really not like Matt because while his set was a bit camp it was certainly not "track after track" of cheese. Ridiculous for you to say that.

Absolutely agreed. Were you at the same party? As a longtime fan of Matt - I have to say his set was up there with the best. There was plenty of good trance tracks I had not heard before and it wasn't "boring and stale".

Steven Hales was mindblowing.

Keep it up Matt - don't let the naysayers get you down after a brilliant set.

I loved Mitzi Macintosh's performance and the stunning costume. Kelly Rowland was fabulous. who's the hell that skinny guy pretended as George. Stupid fake artist on the beginning of George Michael's performance ? The real George Michael came on later and only sang less than 5 minutes. I couldn't wait any longer to see Adam Lambert, it just too long to wait at 7:45 am. i left at 6 am. The vibe , the excitement and the spirit of the biggest party in the world was no longer there. The split of the parade and the party should be stopped and ba, banned. Bring back the old good times, put it all together. I still remembered few years back when my friends and I were walking from oxford st to Fox Studio going to the party after the parade, being in the middle of the crazy crowds, the loud noise of people, seeing their costumes on the street after the parade, those spirit give us a big boost to start the dance party,but this year I felt nothing. It just like another normal saturday night dance party

Wiki
Anyone know the songs from Kelly or Adam or who else performed in the shows?

I had a stunning Mardi Gras Party. Thank you to all involved. I would prefer to put the parade and party back on the same night too. It does help with the vibe.

Lighting was excellent and the music I heard was incredible. Just loved Carl Cox, what an awsome talent. Any DJ that has to follow a legend like Carl Cox has got his work cut out for him but Alan Thompson did a brilliant job, showing us why he was once one of the worlds greatest DJs.

The Dome was sexy and the Forum busy but the highlight for me was Dusty Kid. I have never heard music like this as a Mardi Gras Party. It was truly inspiring. I was glued to the dancefloor for the two short hours that he played. It was such a well thought out set and beautifully presented. This guy is on the way up and could become the first gay/queer Superstar DJ since Tony DiVit.

So thank you Dusty Kid for making a wonderful Mardi Gras Party even more fantastic!

Kelly Rowland = When Love Takes Over
George Michael = Outside
Adam Lambert = wasnt't here and (dare I say it) didn't care... not that I'm sure he wasn't good, I just don't know who he is!

Amazing!

Thank you Mardi Gras for bringing this talent to our country

Wow!

Thankyou for your kind words

Paul Marin
Lighting - Hordern - MG2010

One of my favourite Mardi Gras parties ever.

Sure, there were some negatives: stage in middle of RHI split the crowd into separate groups, few people in costume, where were the portaloos?

But these were outweighed by the highlights of the night:

3. The cute guy who took my breath away in my local supermarket a few weeks ago turning out to be a great kisser

2. Adam Lambert. I hope George Michael was at the party long enough to see Adam's show and learn how to work the Mardi Gras party stage

1. The chubby Daffyd look-a-like who danced in the opening show. You put a huge smile on all of my friends' faces and you, whoever you are, were the highlight of the night by a long way!

This will probably be my last big party.
It all looked good with the Hordern having the best sound and lighting ever, but the DJ's have a lot to answer for, soundscapes devoid of rhythm that keep stopping and starting, with the occasional "tune" as for that popcorn sound thats they love so much. Centre stage in RHI didn't work, split up the dance floor too much, compered to last year with the freemasons and the joyful vibe they created this was pathetic(no wonder everyone left). Dome had some good music but once again all sound effects but with a little more rhythm.
For the first time in years I left before the end of the party

The lighting at Toybox just blew us away!
Simple idea to use the silk curtains but what an incredible effect when the lasers fired through them!
Also when the lasers were turned down and the back lighting came up - it looked like they were moving in slow motion - totally surreal.
Anyone know who designed it?

The party was brilliant and at the end of the day its what you make of it yourself.Its impossible with such a huge crowd to please everyone.I preferred the music from the post parade party, which was simply brilliant. The music on Saturday was rather repetitive with minimal high and lows.
Thankyou NMG for a great event...

I couldn't agree more, bring back the funk and rhythm, DJ's are too experimental and relying on sound effects with a stop, start mentality, deprive the punters of anything to move to for 15 seconds then bring back a beat and everyone goes wild, this encourages them to do it again and again, DJ's are not musicians. I guess I'm living in the past, think I'll just stick to bad dog's

I concur, the best the hordern's ever looked, congratulations

Just downloaded his first album A Raver's Diary (2009)on itunes. Beautiful.Beautiful. Beautiful. Can't stop listening to it. Can't stop raving about it to my friends!!!

And at the same time, reliving every minute of those 2 hours (3? who cares)I danced to him at the Hordern. Most memorable!

I agree with the previous post, this twink (i say that in the most loving way)is going to be superstar huge in the dance world.

Thanks New Mardi Gras for the pleasure of meeting this wonderful DJ. And not a word from him on the PA either. Just his work. I like that!

(Carl Cox, David Guetta there is something in this for you! -- who gave them microphones!)

It's a collaboration of Andy and the LD, Toby Harding, with input, of course, from Oracle Lasers as to best positioning to achieve the desired result. Team effort.

We had a great party, the crowd was friendly as usual. There didn't seem to be many people there this time though, by 4am the venues had emptied somewhat.

It was a probably a good idea to put the stage in the middle of the RHI as it gave the illusion that the venue was full. I guess separating the parties did affect the crowd numbers. Shame as it was the best lineup of DJs and performers they ever had. I wish they didn't put Adam Lambert on so late at 8am, by that stage the RHI was pretty empty and people are not at their "best" at that stage, so the excitement was missing. He was great though!

And the party didn't seem to have that Mardi Gras vibe and excitement, more like a sleaze ball perhaps.

"that popcorn sound" you refer to is called techno and there were thousands of us in the Hordern that loved it!

Thank you NMG for giving us fantastic music in the Hordern.

Carl Cox was so smooth and brilliant.

Dusty Kid was absolutely awesome. He played some of the best music I have ever heard. His album "A Raver's Diary" is a masterpiece. I have been playing this non stop since hearing him at party along with a radio one Essential Mix that I found on the internet. Bravo Dusty Kid! Please come back next year.

Very good job on the lighting in the Hordern, Paul. Loved watching the show from the bleaches. Since 2008 the lighting in the Hordern has been just brilliant. You guys deserve more credit cause you bring the whole exeperience together. Well done.

am i seriously the only person who thought this was the worst excuse for a mardi gras event ever, and left by 3.30?

i am crushed to hear carl cox playing mainstream house from long ago, instead of sharp future kickin beats... really i feel like i can't wash that music off my ear drum... 2 decks, controlled by computer, almost no mixing, and average music... w.t.f.?

I think 2010 would have to be my worst Mardi Gras ever and my first was in 1989. After a return to form in 2008 and 2009 this year's party was a huge letdown. Blasphemy of blasphemies. Stage in the middle of the RHI which completely destroyed the vibe and energy this wonderful venue usually has. The music was ordinary and all over the place and the sound seemed really muffled, or more muffled than usual for the RHI, with little or no bass and a lighting rig like something from a school disco. We left the party at 2am so maybe it came could with David Guetta. You only had to see the crowd between the RHI and the Hordern and along the sides to know alot of people were avoiding the music until hopefully something better was on. Deep house in the Hordern with a full crowd for those into deep house. As for the Forum - no 2 hour queues to get in when it's used for retro - so the less said the better. And Dome was Dome. Thank God for Toybox.

or go to Toybox were they really do put in the attention to detail.

I had a great time over the two weekends. To those who feel that the split was a way to enjoy everything over two weekends...haven't you done that previously by going to Harbour one week and then the parade/party as the big climax the following week? I don't want NMG to interpret my enjoying myself this year as supporting that I think the split should continue...I had a good time but the split is not a good idea to me. I'm looking forward to the consultation process to follow soon

Adam Lambert sang "for your entertainment". If you have foxtel you may have seen him at the american idol

Went to both MG & Toybox. Had a fantastic time at each.

MG definitely delivered on some great stars with George Michael & Kelly Rowland.
I know that the centre stage at the RHI wasn't everyone's cup of tea but it did mean that everyone had a great view of the shows - not just those down one end of the room.
Also, the centre stage was something different and I'd welcome it again in the future.
(But hey, can we get some more powerful aircon in there please!!!)

Toybox was just incredible (definitely my favourite for the weekend).
Very happy smiling crowd, great mix of music (from both DJ's), huge sound system, comfortable aircon, theming (loved the toys hanging from the ceiling and the children's play pen!).
Agree with earlier post that lighting was just out of this world (trumped the Hordern).

I also liked this weekend because for the first time in many years I did it drug free - I wish I'd done so many more parties like that in the past too

Very uplifting, love it

A great time at MG, but the night ended a bit early.
Good vibe, friendly crowd, and seemed a decent crowd despite the split party/parade. RHI was going off early in the night, great fun, then George Michael came on with all those sexy dancing boys and the crowd went wild. I still can't believe he was actually there. Congratulations NMG on a great lineup. Kelly Rowland was fantastic, crowd went wild again.

Then the music died. Disappointing, slow, set from David Guetta. Went to the Hordern, lighting was brilliant, Carl Cox was fantastic, and it was about ten degrees cooler than the RHI (which was like an oven!).
Unfortunately the music dropped off in both halls after 4am, and everyone was heading outside for some fresh air, or starting to leave. We stayed a bit longer, and had a great time, but it was time to go by 6am.
I agree with the other comments on here... stage in the middle of RHI not a good idea, fragmented the crowd. Party would be better on the same night as parade.
btw...Medical seemed very busy every time I went passed it.

Dusty Kid was (as Carl cox says) Amazing Amazing Amazing. I'd like to know who found him and had the balls to book him? Shame he wasn't on earlier.
Best music in the Hordern for yeeeeears.
Carl Cox was fantastic. Yes some oldies thrown in but it's a party and the crowd lapped it up.
But the Kid was the highlight.

Consultation? Bahahahaha. I think history, even very recent history, has shown that NMG doesn't "consult" they make unilateral decisions to suit themselves and their sponsors.

I think after the net profits for the party, that are supposed to finance the organisation for the next 7 months, are evaluated there will be a rather urgent desire to consult with a view to getting things back to 'normal' next year.

Saturday night did not sell out, was well short of hoped expectations according to sources, and the entertainment budget must have been large to attract the punters that did go.

Also, Carnivale, being a primarily 'free' event, must have been a negative on the P&L sheet. Will those losses be disclosed or hidden in the overall Parade costs?

Transparency in the financial records this year is imperative so the membership can effectively assess and then advise their elected Board, and through them, their employed community servants accordingly.

Otherwise, 2002 is just a year of two away again. True consultation is imperative after an experiment like this year.

"Were you at the same party"

Abolutely and I loved the party. I have never hear Matt play before but I have heard a podcast of his which I thought was quite good.

The cheesyness comment comes from what my friends and I heard of his set on the day. Maybe he could release the playlist and we could count the amount of pre 2000 songs together.

"As for the Forum - no 2 hour queues to get in like when it's used for retro"
Yes- have to agree 100%. The Forum was a fantastic retro space year after year- then last year it went to a tent (which was still fine), then this year it disappeared????? It was clear in all the advertising a retro space was not going to be part of this years Party & so no need to bother buying tickets.
The Carnival though was great - it had two music spaces - one that played constant retro & was really popular, and the other played periodic retro & was also packed.
Was nice how they also had the third space- the oval & stage with drag shows. Glad went to Carnival & not Party.

Consultation between the NMG and its members is essential.
I would strongly suggest that all NMG members provide that feedback directly to NMG and not just via the Pinkboard.Stipulating clearly what the issues are that you concern you most.Although the NMG festival is brilliant I personally believe that the closing party has become too large to satisfy everyones expectations. I personally would favour a smaller party for members and their guests.
This years post parade party was brilliant with the great music and the wonderful chilled out atmosphere.
I would still offer my thanks to NMG and its volunteers for a magnificent festival and a great party season.

I'd actually like to congratulate Matt and Steven on fantastic music choices. The party was fantastic. Thanks for the rush, Toybox team.

Every year there are good and bad things that come out of the parties, which you would expect. For me, Carl Cox made it, he played his set to perfectly to a gay crowd, with his remixes and progressive track selection and he has a unique ability to put energy into his set and from behind the decks. well done Carl, I hope you enjoyed the party and come back again soon.

The air conditioning in the Hordern seemed a little hotter this year, which was a little disappointing, because the dance floor and grandstands seemed very empty at times throughout the night, where it could have been packed to the rafters.

If NMG have to get one thing right, it has to be the comfort of it's patrons and especially in the RHI which is like a steam room.

Still, I have to thank NMG and its volunteers for a wonderful festival.

MG - this was a huge disappointment. 4 DJ's in the RHI who were all far from enjoyable. Bimbo, not bad, but not fantastic. David Guetta - just woeful. And the local talent didn't live up to the hype either.

The shows - fantastic. Adam Lambert is great!

the 2nd or 3rd last song (i think...) was Destination Paradise by nebulus

Mardi Gras party is not a themed party for dress up purposes & it never is. On the other hand Sleazeball is, hence the Sports theme last year or in previous years: Zircus, Atlantis.

Wonderful music by Steven Hales and Matt Bachl - please get them back.

I just about DIED when Matt played by favourite track:



And another beautiful track:

If Mardi Gras can not sell out the party with both George Michael and Kelly Rowlands performing, one thing is very clear, the party going public have voted with their feet and the future does not look good for Mardi Gras. Yes we like a headline act to perform but more importantly we demand good production, good music, good lighting and a comfortable space. All this was sadly lacking last Saturday night in the RHI and I regret that this is the last time I will spend $100 plus on a Mardi Gras party or Sleazeball. George Michael was great, all 3 mins and 40 seconds that he appeared on stage but the lighting in the RHI was pathetic, the stage took up half the dance floor, it was dangerously hot which is why the dance floor had huge empty spaces, the music disappointed and if after 32 years Mardi Gras can't get it right then put this dinousaur of a production team out of it's misery and wind the whole thing up. No international performer at Toybox but they didn't need to provide one 'cos they got everything else so right which is why Toybox sells out year after year and Mardi Gras is in sad and sorry state of managed decline.

True. Sleazeball has always been a themed/fancy dress party. While officially the Mardi Gras party is not themed, in previous years people always took inspriration for outfits from the design of the Mardi Gras poster, the colours and objects used. It was part of the tradition and history of the party in the late 80's and 90's that Mardi Gras had this unofficial theme based on the poster though it was never stated as such.

Are you sure? I thought the party was rather full indeed! Not for a long time have I seen the RHI locked down for every show other than the 8am....

Having the stage in the middle of RHI has worked in the past. It was a spectacular success for Homosutra (a Sleaze Ball several years ago). It was worth trying again as it brings the show close to everyone. Pity the 5 foot tall girls (and some boys) at the back of the RHI when the stage is at the front! Any comments on the Dome this time round? What size would people guess the crowd was?

while I don't agree wtih "the beginning of the end" assessment, I wholeheartedly agree with your comments on the production. The RHI was lacklustre this year and the shows appeard un-rehearsed and shabby. It's always worth trying a change but I think the stage in the middle failed and should be chalked up as a lesson learned. The lighting was, (I'll not be as harsh as "pathetic")less than spectacular when only spectacular will do. I do agree, the Toybox production is always solid, and you are correct, consistantly sells out without a big name act. If I'm not mistaken so did Mardi Gras in years gone by, for the same reason. For the record, I've been attending the Party since 1990 and have only missed 3.

Ok I think you need to get real.

Toybox tickets are $150 ($30 more than Mardi Gras) and they dont need to make a profit so they have alot more to spend on party production. Try going to a straight dance party where you dont even get a dance floor or lighting!

The reason why Mardi Gras Party didn't sell out what due to the parade and party split. They still would have had at least 7 times more people then Toybox so the comparisons are hardly fair. Toybox tried to make thier party bigger by taking over Luna Park and failed spectacularly.

The music at Mardi Gras was fantastic up until 4am, after which I agree it lost momentum. The music at Toybox was re-hashed and cheesy so is far from cutting edge... nutbush and 16 going on 17.... please!

The sound system at Toybox crashed and the whole dancefloor went silent for at least 3 minutes or more... I cant ever recall this happening at Mardi Gras.

I am getting sick of the comparisons as they are 2 very different parties, with different music styles and different funding needs.

Mardi Gras party was great... they just need to put the party back on parade weekend. Toybox was great too... they just need to move on from playing cheesy old music.

Paul D if you think the centre stage at Homosutra was a "spectacular success" we have a completely different understanding of the meaning of success a distorted opinion of spectacular. Were you on Party Committee that year? That explains it.

Maybe it's time to bring in the producers of Toybox, Dirty and Say Cheese (or other good House concept) and divide up the venues for the benefit of the community, say at Sleaze? Then everyone would be happy, the rooms would be unique, and the bitching would stop.

Comparing a Toybox sellout (3000 tix) to a Mardi Gras sellout (17500) is wrong. Mardi Gras did well to sell 13000 tix this year given the parade party split. I had a great time.

Long Live Mardi Gras! And long live Dusty Kid!

Party.

My gang thought it was a good party , not one of the better and certainly not one of the worst.

Numbers were down.

I like Feisty but having her as 2nd DJ in Hordern then followed by Carl Cox ...different music styles. Friends thought David Guetta was too hard ??? and went looking for something fluffier. I thought he was fine but the air and the sound in RHI was crap.

Walked into Leomeo ? in Dome and it sounded jazzy/tribal and did not like the sound so went back to Hordern which looked great all night. Carl Cox was great.
Alan Thompson got into that drug fucked type music but it was only 5am not 7am so that did me and sat for awhile and left.

There was a great vibe at the party with lots of people there before midnight. The RHI was packed for the midnight show.

The centre stage allowed you to get close to the performers, but it did not allow those spectacular shows that fill the stage at the end of the RHI. I didn't mind the change to the layout of the dance floor.

The lighting rig in the RHI did not move. There was moving sails above the stage. I didn't notice anything great in the lighting.

I loved Carl Cox. I wasn't expecting to, but I really got into his groove. He kept the dance floor full.

I also loved listening to Dusty Kid. I was too tired to dance by that stage.

Went to RHI for the last half hour expecting the anthems to get my feet moving again. There were no anthems. The last show was good, but not worth the wait.

I think the party and parade have to go back together. Otherwise the party is just another party.

Toybox "don't need to make a profit"? What planet are you living on? It constantly amazes me that ill informed rubbish like this still gets posted. I'm searching everywhere to try and find where the Toybox organizers are listed as a charitable foundation.

I agree with Mark, Toy Box is only quite a new concept and it will run it's course one day, just like everything does eg: sleaze ball, festivals, night clubs, Fashion, music, food, entertainers..... Maybe if NMG attempted one year to fit one of the halls out with the same concept as Toy Box, there would be no complaints?

May Mardi Gras live on forever, this was my 15th Mardi Gras party in a row and even though there is always something to bitch about, I have always had a fantastic night. Sleaze ball and Mardi Gras play an integral part of the community for us to come together and celebrate, and it shows by the enduring support given year in year out by it's queer population. And I for one will always be there regardless...

BUT PLEASE, could NMG do something about the heat problems we have faced in the RHI over the years, and the Hordern for that matter too (which was a suprise).

That is a fantastic Idea, have Dirty in one room, then Toy Box in another, then Say Cheese in another and Mardi Gras or Sleaze in another room. They already have this kind of concept at the straight festivals.
It would take all the pressure off the NMG committee and give it to each individual organiser and everyone would have nothing to complain about, or would they.....

"Toybox tickets are $150 ($30 more than Mardi Gras) and they dont need to make a profit so they have alot more to spend on party production. Try going to a straight dance party where you dont even get a dance floor or lighting!"

LOL. I don't think the Toybox guys do it for the good of their health, I'm pretty sure they do it for a profit.

Regarding the "re-hashed and cheesy" music at Toybox; well, if it aint broke, don't fix it. The party sells out every single year, so why would they change the formula?

I would argue that they need to change the formula as what they currently have builds an unrealistic expectation in people. That's why the party scene is dying (in my opinion anyway) - because event promoters are too keen to promote "all your favourite tracks" and "all the best anthems"... It's a really easy way out. It seems as if it doesn't always work either, with a supposedly major party this mardi gras having to be postponed due to lack of ticket sales.

Educate me with new music instead please.

If I'm going to be completely honest though, I actually don't think its the music that draws people to events unfortunately. I think the public are willing to support Mardi Gras Party cause its a community event. Other than that, people go where the hot men are. Look at the rising events - packed all the time. And the crowd is generally pretty damn gorgeous. Look at Toybox - beautiful party. And it sells out.

Just a thought.

I can understand that the RHI gets hot because it wouldn't have good air-conditioning, but putting in a few fans around the dance floor wouldn't go astray. Perhaps next time MG can think about doing this.

Well its not the music that attracts me so much either, or the headline acts... They are just bonuses!
I go because it is so huge that i know most of my friends will be there, there is always something different and new to see, and new people to meet and because i love a big party! The music does make the night, and the lasers help but all in all i will pretty much go to a MG party because they are so much fun!

Re: Mardi Gras - The beginning of the end. 7 times more people at Mardi Gras than Toybox? Toybox sold close to 3000 tickets so that would be 21000 tickets for Mardi Gras. I'm sorry, but Mardi Gras hasn't had those numbers since the halcyon days of the 1990's. Remember when we had lasers in the RHI and got house anthems and deep trancy vocal house around 4am then handbag to finish. The RHI was always packed and went off but this must have been because people weren't enjoying themselves and really hated the music.
Toybox tried to make their party bigger by taking over Luna Park and failed spectacularly? The party was a sellout! The main dance floor was packed right up to the end of the party. There were very few people on the mezzanine level or walking around at any stage of the afternoon. Nearly everyone was on the dance floor. At Mardi Gras you couldn't move for the crowd between the Horden and the RHI and there was an endless stream of people walking between the venues all night trying to find music they liked and could dance to.

I am from New Zealand and cant believe what whingers you lot are!

You have some of the most amazing gay and lesbian parties found anywhere in the world yet you find the most inane details to bitch about in order to feel better about the ticket decision you made.

The fact is that Mardi Gras Party is legendary. Its a fundraiser for all the free things you guys get to enjoy during the festival including Fair Day and Parade. Without the party there would be no Mardi Gras and (gay) Sydney would be relegated to a backwater. Is that what you really want?

Toybox was this years official after party event for the Mardi Gras season. Yes, some of your Toybox ticket money went to help fund Mardi Gras!

The DJ choices, music styles, performances, costs, funding/profit requirements, footprint sizes, capacity, venue requirements of each party is vastly DIFFERENT.

Not better. Not worse. But different.

Go to both. Choose your prefered one. But don't sit and bitch because you guys have actually got choice. Many of us dont have that luxury!

He He He, I agree, I think we forget how lucky we really are sometimes to have a Mardi Gras parade, festival, party and sleaze ball. We all behave like spoilt children the way we complain.
But on the flip side, if people didn't voice their negative opinions then perhaps these events would not be as good as they are.

It probably is awesome to someone from NZ. LOL.

I arrived early and the room was feeling fresh, I have heard Matt play before, and his style of music was fantastic, everybody was jumping and smiles all round.

As for the light show OMG! just AMAZING! The sound system is so nice, loud and clear.

Steven played so well, every track kept us there till the end, we wish it didn't end, and I was able to meet Matt on the dancefloor, having fun, he's just a lovely guy who will have a dance with you as he gets to enjoy the party as well.

I can't say enough great things about Toybox, We went to both partys, and had a great weekend and to finish at Toybox will keep me smilling till next time.

To everyone involved, Thankyou so much ! My friends and I will be back, we had the time of our lives.

CC was crap...clunkclunk stop start up down around.. ...no flow no excitment.shabby

Sorry did you stay for more than just the start of his set?

His was brillant and played the GAY party perfectly, his mixing and atmosphere is brillant!

He catered his set directly towards us and had perfect song choices!

You seem to be the minority, as majority loved him!

Correct. the Horden was packed out for the whole of Carl Cox's set.

He was the best DJ on the night imo - loved his music selection and kept me dancing for three hours. His music and the lighting in the Hordern seemed to compliment each other very well.

Seeing he lives here 6 months of the year, I am sure MG could make him a regular.

Yes only 12,000 tickets sold (source: this week's SSO quotes NMG). The usual attendance is around 15,000 and 17,500 is a sellout. This was in spite of an all out effort to promote the party, a stellar lineup of high profile international DJs and confirmation before the party that George Michael and Kelly Rowland would perform. It seems that without being on Parade night Mardi Gras Party is a whole lot less popular.

NMG CEO Michael Rolic was quoted in the SSO saying : "The separation of Parade and Party always meant that we would struggle, but we are satisfied with the result. It was enough to ensure the party still retained its big party feel."

The SMH reported on Saturday "organisers of Mardi Gras are now considering making the split a permanent fixture on the calendar". It reported Events NSW saying that "the split together with the visit of the Atlantis gay cruise ship will add another $3 million to $5 million to the $30 million Mardi Gras was expected to inject into the economy" (so Events NSW cann't tell how much is the split and how much the Atlantis cruise ship's presence). Isn't it a worry when the SMH gets behind something in the G & L community? Spooky really. Like some of it's coverage on the Stay in Touch page to which a lot of G& L community coverage has been relegated ever since they were so unceremoniously exposed by the SSO for the notorious beat-up all those years ago about Franca Arena's sons being outed.

Apparently we are supposed to be so glad about the small number of big spending longer staying visitors and what they can do for the wider economy that we'll be happy to sacrifice the larger number of interstate visitors who can only manage one weekend. Some of these visitors were so cheap they were even staying on friend's couches rather than taking out a hotel room! Cheap! Cheap!

In my view what's right for the community and the health of the lighthouse events: Parade and Party, should be the main considerations not a potential few million more for tourism in NSW. In any case can't the number of people staying longer for a festival held before the Parade/Party on the same Saturday be built up over time by increasing the quality of the festival?

Oh, you're a member and still haven't heard of the EGM? You probably aren't alone there. I still haven't received an email about it from Mardi Gras and only know these details because I noticed a formal legal notice in the pages of SX. It was in their March 4 edition, Page 18, to quote it :

"Notice is hereby given of a general meeting of New Mardi Gras Limited to be held Sunday, 28th March 2010, commencing at 2pm at the NIDA Playhouse theatre, 215 Anzac Parade Kensington.....The following business will be transacted :
1. Season 2010
2. Board recommendation on IP Trust.
In relation to item 2 the board will move the following motion:
That the issue of transferring the intellectual property rights New Mardi Gras Limited to another entity be resolved by keeping the intellectual property rights within the ownership of New Mardi Gras Limited and that this matter be closed."

So NMG is still leaving it's options open for which format will be used for the 2011 season and if you don't like the Parade /Party split it's best to get in contact with them and say so and if you are a member to attend the upcoming EGM.

As others have asked did you stay for all the set or bad drugs ???????????????????????

I was not looking forward to Carl Cox as I heard him 10 years ago at one of the parties and was not impressed as too commercial for me but overall he was great ! I did sit down during Crystal Waters ugh but others were loving it. I actually went home and checked the Itunes store to see what was there ! and I like Dome usually but the 2 middle DJ's just didnt do it for me in Dome so stuck to Hordern.

Carl was great.

It was obvious numbers were going to be low. Some countries only get 2 weeks annual leave and its the Parade thats the main attraction so why waste a week of your holidays hanging out in Sydney ? or like the inter staters paying for another airfare to come back ?
Wasnt going to happen.

The only chance was that the Parade participants saying it was a good thing so they can do both would mean their extra numbers would match the loss of those who could not afford to stay/come back and it hasnt worked.

Which means NMG raked in approx $400,000 less this year.

I seriously doubt the 2 will be separated again.

It might be great for NSW to earn an extra 5 million from the parade and party spilt but its death for NMG if ticket sales are not enough to sustain the organisation unless Events NSW wants to hand over even more cash.

Please put the parade and party back together.

As for the debate about Carl Cox. He was outstanding. The only DJ better imo was Dusty Kid. Please bring them both back.

I was wondering...is it possible to get the same sound and same air con that The Big Top has and put it in the RHI?? Or does these things come with the building when you rent it? Reason being...I think my house would have better sound and air con than RHI.

agreed

I remarked to several friends throughout the night that numbers were light on this year. A couple tried to claim that since it was nice weather many people were outside. But empty halls are empty halls...

I totally agree. We were so uncomfortable in the RHI - it was a sauna. And the sound was really flat.
Hordern was so much better.
The RHI has this trouble nearly every year so I can only put it down to the size, shape and age of that venue - it just must be bloody hard to make it comfortable.
It's a tough call to try and compare it directly to the Big Top - that's a new building with custom built permanent air-con and acoustic design.
But at the end of the day comfort makes a difference when you're dancing for 8hrs or more...

I think you will find The Big Top's air con is permanently fixed and as for the lighting and sound system Toybox always hires the best.

Having done every MG party since the early 90s, I figure I have a few under my belt to compare against.

A few observations/comments....

The halls were empty as the music after 4pm was woeful. Half my crew left around 4-30 in disappointment with the music. No melody, no vocals, no rythm = a half empty dance floor ! Carl Cox rocked, but Im sorry, that beep beep/"minimal" music later on was not fun. Okay, getting old I guess. Dusty Kid, while many raved about, was not my thing. Even the RHI went feral later on... what the ?? I have never seen both main rooms so deserted so early and SO many people outside, instead of getting into in inside. Wonder why ?!

Big name international DJs....stick to remixing/producing please.

The RHI stage in the middle didnt work last time, no surprises the same impact this party. Splits the room into segments and kills the "big room" energy.

The insane heat has ALWAYS been an issue. Not something new this year. Long overdue that NMG spent some of the production budget on punter comfort and erected some large commercial fans around the perimeter. Insanely sweating after just 5 minutes of dancing is not right (and yet I return eanch year, knowing this)

No parade night = no vibe. There were no "happy mardi gras!!". It was just another party. Lacked the special night energy.

I had a fab time, but struggled after 4pm musically.

Still, wouldnt have missed it.

Have to agree with you Johnny, I left the Party by 6am but was over it around 3.00am ish. Normally I would be there till the end and then itching no kick on afterwards, not this one. It looked great and had the music been great it had great potential!

Did hear good reports about Dusty Kid, good on you Mardi Gras for trying something a little left field, although he may not have been for everyone alot of people liked it.

We were discussing as a group and thought a better format as I think was mentioned in hear earlier having different rooms to current popular nights, and having them create the space. All the big popular straight parties are doing it with huge success.

RHI = Toybox, Ruby and Frisky Parties (FRISKY BOX (TRANCE ARENA)DJ's could be JOJO, Ruby, Matt Bachl, Steven Hales etc)

HORDERN = DTPM, Love Gaze, Nevermind, Parties(DELIRIUM GAZE - PROGRESIVE/HOUSE) DJ's could be Alan T, Alex Taylor, Jason Barry, Murray Hood etc

DOME = Dirty, Indulgence, Inquisition Chunky Parties(DIRTY INQUISITION = TRIBAL/HARDER) DJ's could be Sveat, Mark Aslop, Chip, Mandy Rollins

FORUM = Palms, Stonewall, Shift (downstairs) nights (RETRO SHIFT = RETRO) DJ's could be Justin Scott, Greg Boladian, Jake Kilby, Bruce Dixon.

GIRLS SPACE = Bitch, Tongue Twister etc (BITCH TWISTER = GIRL'S TENT) Not a shabby Tent but a proper tent like they used at Future Music, etc

CHILL OUT SPACE = FUSE

MEMBERS SPACE = FOX AND LION

By using this format the people getting the space would also help pay towards the party and make it also there on.

It works so well currently at the major parties using this formulae and it seems crazy why they would share cost to make the party back to a WOW factor that it is!

Maybe only dreaming, but I think it would be a huge success - then a handful of International mixed throughout the venues and shows through all different venues - would be a prty to remember?

What ya think!

Even though this might sound like a good idea, you are in effect 'franchising' the spaces for the benefit of the promoters involved. This means some djs and promoters get locked out and will never get a look-in and introduces a set of politics that should simply not exist in a community event. In fact implementing this idea will further erode the party - especially when most of these parties/promoters run events/recoveries based on the existence of the MG party.
Simply choose djs (both local and international) that have reputations for being good djs (some of who also produce) and not for being currently popular producers who also happen to dj in order to promote their songs.
Avoid booking too many djs who will be playing at competing private events over the weekend. Make some of them exclusive to the party and pay them a decent fee so that they are not compelled to take up other jobs on that weekend.
Employ someone who truly understands how to put together a GREAT line-up without fear or favour for the benefit of the party and NOT for the benefit of other people's agenda's.
Branch out, take some chances, be bold!! (Dusty Kid is a great example) there is so much local Australian talent (I wont even mentions internationals) that is not being tapped into. We are being served up too much sameness from year to year. Sometimes it's good and required but we CAN do much better.
It's not that hard to do this. With the resources that NMG has they are able to pull in just about anyone to create a seriously world class line-up that will deliver on the night. They have done it in the past and can do it in the future. Get back to basics people and deliver the BEST.

Turn the hordern into a trance hall like that time at sleaze ball - that was without a doubt the best fun i have ever had there! I am not a huge trance buff, but the lasers all around the dance floor and the fire cannons that year were just awesome!!

The idea of having different promotors operate a venue each completely misses the point of what these promotors achieve wtih their own parties. This post implies that all of teh parties names are just about the DJs. They are not. Each of them has their own aesthetic and production design - and each of them has their own budget. Take each of these out of their own context and they would fail miserably.

But there is a need for something different. We talk about Mardi Gras like we talk about Liza Minelli - "isn't it great she can still stand up". (Actually that's unfair, I feel i got much better value for the $150 I sepnt on Liza) Why do we cut them this type of slack? We wouldn't stand for this type of mediocrity with any other type of party, but we forgive Mardi Gras for all sorts of things.

I suspect this year that the party committee was a little out of touch with their audience. There was a very heavy underground focus on the music policy / DJ selection for many venues. Some worked (Dusty Kid). Others didn't so much.

Whilst David Guetta sounds great in concept - how did his music style fit with the music policy of the RHI. In short it didn't - so either he wasn't breifed (and why would you brief someone who is so successful to change thier style?) or there was a lack of regard, or understanding, to what works in the RHI. David Guetta is a great DJ (I have heard him elsewhere) but completely wrong for the RHI - a quick listen to any of his sets would reveal that. The decision to program David at 4am also showed a lack of consideration as to what was going on in the other venues. At that point it was David, Alan Thompson, Ben Drayton or something really underground in the Forum. Of course many people would not be happy with this.

A positive: Carl Cox was a no-brainer. He's one of the world's most successful DJs, because he's a great DJ and he entertains. If Mardi Gras wants to run a great party, that's the type of decision that they should be making. Aim to attrack Dave Seaman, Sasha, John Digweed, or whoever in the next generation of DJs. Black & Blue in Montreal does it (all were on last years' line up) for a party of about 10,000.


As for Dusty Kid - last slot in the Hordern is the type of slot that you can take a chance on, so well done. But something safe in the RHI and that's what you can do.
There should be lots of questions asked about this party committee and just how in touch they are, or what their level of experience is in programming a party of this nature.

I actually love that sort of line up that you suggested, but agree that the party shouldn't be sold out to external promoters. It would definitely create a closed shop for DJs only used by those particular promoters. Having said that, you've just proposed a line-up that is very attractive across the board. Why don't you volunteer to be part of the DJ selection committee for future MG/Sleaze parties? It seems like they need people like you as you obviously have your finger on the pulse.

All this griping about the air-conditioning is ridiculous; as if MG is responsible for the venue. Get a grip guys. MG hires the venue from Playbill. Maybe you should send your gripes to Playbill.

Well done MG. We had a great time. Pity the punters didn't come.

Trance Arena would only be suited to the Hordern it's the home of trance parties. Keep the house music in the RHI as it has always been.

I was rapt to see a world class DJ on the card for Mardi Gras but was anyone else a little disappointed that Carl Cox seemed to soften his usual delivery of music?

I was really hoping he would bang out some cool techno music but he seemed like he was playing music that would keep the average gay man happy.

Still happy that he played but I hope if he does come back he stays off the valium next time

"The insane heat has ALWAYS been an issue. Not something new this year. Long overdue that NMG spent some of the production budget on punter comfort and erected some large commercial fans around the perimeter."

Agree, the RHI has always been hot and sweaty. I remember one humid night years ago when it was actually lightly raining outside and the RHI was a hot steamy sweatbox... was so sexy!

But I also remember a NYE party in the Hordern before it was airconditioned where to the sounds of Everything But The Girl they turned on giant fans and blew fake snow through the venue. It was an awesome snowstorm plus cooled down the venue... the Toybox finale today is amateurish by comparison.

Bring back creativity to all parties!!!!!

Hey guys, I suggested concept of different promoters with diferent venues meaning they are responsible for the entire venue. I can unbderstand your points regarding it's a little bit of a sell out etc

I would love the opportunity to work with Mardi Gras, how does one get involved with working in the committee?

This years party looked amazing on pa[aer, but as people have mentioned again didn't deliver! Well let's get our party back!!

I think in the last few years it has been getting better and better, but still doesn't have that WOW factor like it used too!

Go the the Mardi Gras website ( www.mardigras.org.au ) and click on Volunteer. Someone should get in touch with you, and then you can explain the sort of assistance you would like to provide, and what areas you are interested in.

Now if they had booked Above & Beyond for the Hordern the party would have come close to selling out me thinks........missed opportunity.

There is a solution to all this bitching: Don't go.

NMG owes you nothing. It's an event management company owned by its 3000-odd members. Nothing more, nothing less. If you don't like the events, don't go to them. If you want to contribute then stop bitching and volunteer.

How ironic that gay used to mean "happy". Now it seems to mean nasty bitter opinionated loser...