Pinkboard's
gay & lesbian mardi gras 2004
graffiti wall 1

The Mardi Gras season is when our community shines. It is the celebration of our progress and the protest that we have not yet progressed far enough. It is our demonstration to the world that we are proud and that we have lots of things to be proud of.
A dash of glitter,
A touch of glam,
A splash of colour,
A twist of camp!
We only have a few traditions around Mardi Gras: Launch, Fair Day, Shop Yourself Stupid, The Great Debate, Parade, Party, Laneway Recovery, and these traditions come and go. Its time to start some new Mardi Gras traditions. The rhyme above borrows from an older tradition, but transforms it into one of our own. Let's embrace this tradition for this season and into the future.

The Launch is on 6th February in Hyde Park North from 6pm.
The Festival runs from 6th February to 6th March with over 100 events.
The Fair Day is on 22nd February in Victoria Park from 10am.
The Parade is on 6th March following the usual route. Entries are now open.
The Party is on 6th March from 10pm. Tickets are $99/$89/$60 till 13th February, then $120/$110/$75 and $140 on the door. Available from Ticketek


New Mardi Gras
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2003 Graffiti Wall #1 and #2
gay & lesbian mardi gras 2004 graffiti wall 2
Copyright (C) Pinkboard, 1995-2004. Not to be reproduced without permission.

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54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!! 54 Days to Go !!!
countdownboy - Tue 13 Jan 2004 08:36:17
any news on DJ's yet???
- Tue 13 Jan 2004 09:26:00
Yah nice looking wall.... I think this Mardi Gras is going to be Huge... NIce impressive flyers, simple but very effective. I have not attended Mardi gars for the last 3 years, I feel it started to blend into every other night out, and didn't become special... With the new committee I think they have the right attitude and for that I cannot wait.

Well done New Mardi Gras, you definately have my support, let's hope the rest of the community is there as well.

A DJ list would be great!!!

May make more punters buy tickets...
Actually looking forward to Mardi Gras this year!! - Tue 13 Jan 2004 11:18:47


I just found out through a friend that Im not getting a dj gig at the party
:O(.
Goodluck to the other hopefulls out there!
guess I can party now - Tue 13 Jan 2004 11:32:00
"guess I can party now", that is not a bad thing. DJ or no DJ, do you really want to work that night anyway?! I know I wouldn't. Surely DJ'ing at the party is a sacrifice of sorts.

Will the Dome be available?
other side of the fence - Tue 13 Jan 2004 12:44:05


Please tell me they are not looking at combining Hordern and Dome styles
together in the Hordern ? as City Live did not workout as a substitute to
Dome.
Hordern people will be happy for only half the night and Dome people will only be happy for half the night.
Say it isn't so - Tue 13 Jan 2004 18:00:49
Say it isn't so - Tue 13 Jan 2004 18:00:49

It is so.
- Tue 13 Jan 2004 21:05:16
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.


53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!!
53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!!
53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!!
53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!! 53 Days to Go !!!
countdownboy - Wed 14 Jan 2004 08:39:04
I really like the way NMG have set up the ticket pricing to the party this year. All the earlybirds will get a great deal...and us members an even better one!!!.
I'm thinking it could be a sell out year!!
soooo excited! - Wed 14 Jan 2004 12:58:03
There are many examples the world over where a village or tribe are discovered by the rest of the world. Then they become a tourist destination. Then the tourist change the village or tribe and it's environment by their interaction with that community. The tourist feel that they have a right to be there and a right not to respect the customs of that village. They did after all buy the ticket. They take photos of people who don't wish their photos taken, they stare at the ways that the people of the village carry out their day to day lives. They don't take time to find out the customs to avoid insulting the people of the village. The villages react by not doing the things that made them unique. They adopt was that are more like the rest of the world. The unique nature of their communities is lost...We have a unique community which is celebrated at festivals, fair days and in everyday life. Our parties are an important part of these celebrations but they are also an important part of who we are. When our parties lose their identity we lose another time and space where we can be that community. I want a space where I can be that community without the tourist watching me. At the parties we can't stop straights/tourist from being in a mixed hall without stopping them from coming to the party. But by experience they are less inclined to come into gender targeted spaces. I want a Men nad Women Only Space.
Evil Twin (3) - Wed 14 Jan 2004 15:25:28
- Wed 14 Jan 2004 16:40:19
Sorry Evil Twin , I disagree.

My personal feelings are its only 1 night of the year ( or 2 if you count Sleaze ) and its great to all party together. We can be in gay only , male only or female only bars anytime of the year.

Your way will stop the boys from entering the girls only area but it wont stop a pack of straight girls going into the girls only area for maybe a laugh and take photos of lesbians ! and vv for the boys area.

But my main reason for disagreeing is if we start with male and female only areas it will open up other "sexualities" to demand their own space.
Celebrate together(ness) - Wed 14 Jan 2004 18:46:08


re: Ticketek pricing

Aust Post Registered Post cost - $2.80
Ticketek registered post $9.90

how do they get away with it? It costs $7.50 even if you go and collect it from their city office.
kerr-ching! - Wed 14 Jan 2004 21:30:55


"Your way will stop the boys from entering the girls only area but it wont stop a pack of straight girls going into the girls only area for maybe a laugh and take photos of lesbians ! and vv for the boys area."

Don't necessarily disagree with the rest of your post but - please. Straight boys would go into a gay guys' space at a major queer dance party? That'll be the day! Likewise straight girls with the dyke space. Have you felt the sexual vibe in those places in the past? Our straight comrades have, honey, and they were staying right outside them :)
- Wed 14 Jan 2004 21:55:30


Does anyone know whatever happened to 25th Anniversary documentary they filmed at last year's Mardi Gras? Has it been screened? Can you buy it? Or did it just float away into the ether?
Courtney's Boy Toy - Wed 14 Jan 2004 21:55:50
It seems obvious that sex specific spaces are a plus for these large party venues. Im not sure who they actually offend. I wouldnt want a whole venue seperated on these lines. But thats not what we are talking about. I probably wouldnt even want to access the spaces (much) But I am happy for the people that feel more comfortable within them. God, there is so much room for everyone. My main concern is that there is diversity in music, because in my experience the diversity of people stays fairly consistant, but that may not keep on happenning if we dont get a little musically kooky in a few spaces.
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 00:14:52
52 Days to Go !!! 52 Days to Go !!! 52 Days to Go !!!
countdownboy - Thu 15 Jan 2004 09:11:33
I just LOOOOOOOVE the colours of this new wall but dont they say that purple is the colour of sexual frustration ??

Whats going on at Panther Headquarters I wonder :)
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 09:42:49


I want Chip, Sista P and Feisty at Mardi Gras Party!! please!
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 10:16:58
Hey Coutneys Boy Toy, the doco has turned into a series, with quite a few epsiodes to it. I t has been bought by some distribution company in Canada....not sure when we will get to see it though.
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 13:57:20
show rumour mill: more than one Aust Idol contestant belting out a tune
idle thought - Thu 15 Jan 2004 14:38:53
please, not the final ten doing "rise up". I'll scream extremely loudly just before my head explodes.
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 15:37:13
show rumour mill: more than one Aust Idol contestant belting out a tune
idle thought - Thu 15 Jan 2004 14:38:53

Just so long as it is Paulini....I'm all Courtney'd and Guy'd out !
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 16:02:57


kerr-ching! - Wed 14 Jan 2004 21:30:55

This fee covers (actually it doesn't they currently subsidise it) the internal process of doing it all...thats what i heard. $7.50 doesn't cover the admin costs to do this form of ticketing.

It's a lot more involved than one thinks.
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 17:05:05


If there is an 'IDOL'performing, It BETTER be PAULINI!!!!!!!!!!
Especially after she was INCREDIBLY ripped off on the show!!!!!!
Even if you didn't like her, you have to admit that she has a DIVA-like quality to her voice!
I recently met her and she is an amazing lovely and kind natured young lady. Showing lots of class. Unlike the other supposed Idolites who are constantly fighting for their 15mins of fame.
- Thu 15 Jan 2004 18:11:28
Surely Surely SURELY New Mardi Gras must be close to announcing the DJ's for Mardi Gras party this year.

How can they possibly expect people to want to take advantage of the "early bird special" on ticket sales when they havent let people know the DJ line up yet ?

For me , I am very hopeful that Mardi Gras will have the retro space that everybody seemed so keen on in recent discussion on previous graffitti walls. I think it would add a GREAT variety to the party and also attract alot of people to it that wouldnt normally want to go.

I look forward to some good news real soon.

Ps - I wrote an email to Mardi gras today on this topic , If i hear anything I'll let you all know :)
Brian J - Thu 15 Jan 2004 21:24:09


Sorry to go back to a few mails but..!!!! Evil twin...yes you've been around for a long time but come on...do you want segregation in our world. thought we were all looking for equality or did i miss something? I think the spectator days that used to be there are over for the`most part'. Mardi Gras finally realised that it's the community..not gender that keeps 'the society' going. So yes can prob have a female space but dont block out the 'newbies' or people that belong because they dont fit your mould!?! And think again about why these people are there `perhaps they need to discover themselves'.

1Oc...x
10c - Thu 15 Jan 2004 23:46:48


I think a small girls / boy's only space is a great idea gives everyone options to feel secure and safe and enjoy. Possibly they could just open these areas for a shorter time I.E 12- 5 so as not to detract from the party as a whole, and not waste security / dj talents and funds playing to empty spaces.
kc and the sunshine band - Fri 16 Jan 2004 00:06:50
There are 50 Days to mardi gras !
(sorry about the miscount the last fews) !

There are 50 Days to mardi gras !
(sorry about the miscount the last fews) !

There are 50 Days to mardi gras !
(sorry about the miscount the last fews) !

There are 50 Days to mardi gras !
(sorry about the miscount the last fews) !
countdownboy - Fri 16 Jan 2004 09:10:27


6 friends and I are wearing T shirts with a letter on each spelling out Paulini's name.

I'm the first 'I'

So if she doesn't perform, we'll look like idiots.
- Fri 16 Jan 2004 09:10:47


This is really annoying, but the opinions of the "evil twin(3)" above are NOT MINE! Please do not confuse us. There's not much I can do about someone else using my name to post things, like how countdownboy got imitated.

So just asking nicely, can you please choose a new nic?
Evil Twin (the original one) - Fri 16 Jan 2004 10:00:22


Maybe NMG won't announce the DJ's until *after* the ticket price goes up? It wouldn't surprise me if they did that....
- Fri 16 Jan 2004 10:54:32
TO THE FIRST 'I "

Well I do hope you dont look like idiots, Coz yr heart is in the right place!

Good ONYA Buddy!!!!!!!!!!!
LM - Fri 16 Jan 2004 11:57:02


PAULINI Performing "Don't Leave Me This Way"

YEAH BABY YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

With her hair OUT and FRIZZY!!!!!!!!!!!!
LM - Fri 16 Jan 2004 12:01:54


Paulini and Cosima - No More Tears
in my dreams - Fri 16 Jan 2004 12:18:19
Paulini and Cosima - No More Tears
in my dreams - Fri 16 Jan 2004 12:18:19

That would be worth even the 'Late Buyers' ticket price !!!
- Fri 16 Jan 2004 12:48:57


21:55:30, I wouldn't bet on that; about the only place resonably safe from straight infiltration is the leathery Manacle
gambler - Fri 16 Jan 2004 13:50:28
I have to agree that this wall's colour scheme is vibrant and soothing.
Ahhhh... - Fri 16 Jan 2004 13:54:48
Excuse me, but why Paulini? And cosima? EEEK! Two losers from reality TV show. Straight girls at that! (Just ask Mark Holden about Cosima....! And Paulini's regular gig - hymns for born again xstains!) Doing cover versions! BOOOOOO! Isnt this meant to be NEW mardi Gras?? What about Stella one Eleven // 16dd // spod // presets // peaches // anything half original & sexual will do. Please Mardi Gras - Save yourselves!!!!!!!!!
Its a dance party - not a shopping mall.......... (hmmmmn...) - Fri 16 Jan 2004 14:27:02
I love the purple colour and the graphics for this year rock - thank you - new mardi gras.
can't wait - Sat 17 Jan 2004 09:30:56
"Excuse me, but why Paulini? And cosima? EEEK! Two losers from reality TV show. Straight girls at that! (Just ask Mark Holden about Cosima....! And Paulini's regular gig - hymns for born again xstains!) Doing cover versions! BOOOOOO! Isnt this meant to be NEW mardi Gras?? What about Stella one Eleven // 16dd // spod // presets // peaches // anything half original & sexual will do. Please Mardi Gras - Save yourselves!!!!!!!!! Its a dance party - not a shopping mall.......... (hmmmmn...) - Fri 16 Jan 2004 14:27:02"

Yes. There's something deeply horrifying about this gay enthusiasm for bland, formulaic marketing-manufactured 'celebs', "entertaining" us.....It's reality TV imitating life, imitating 'art,' imitating Reality TV...and so on. Mardi Gras's role isn't to celebrate this sort of brain-numbing, drooling crap; it's to wucking lacerate it - with glamour, wit and o-r-g-i-n-a-l-i-t-y. .
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 10:47:55


Why do we all love the "tall poppy syndrome" so much ?

All we ever do is knock local talent. I remember Kylie in 1988 mode - we hated her !

For Gods sake , they might be TV Pop Stars - But they are the best LOCAL talent in the country. They deserve our support.
Support Australian Talent. - Sat 17 Jan 2004 10:53:36


"For Gods sake , they might be TV Pop Stars - But they are the best LOCAL talent in the country. They deserve our support.Support Australian Talent. - Sat 17 Jan

Love, Australian Idol is a deeply unoriginal marketing promotion designed to push product to an overwhelmingly straight, teenaged purchasing demographic. It has about as much to do with Mardi Gras as The Footy Show does. Probably less, in fact......
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 11:44:56


As I have a life of my own I don't need to watch that much TV so I have never seen Australian Idol. Of course I have heard Guy Sebastion (Can't seem to avoid it really) but I don't have a clue who any of the others are. If one of them is the surprise act at MG I will be very disappointed. I would much rather some over the hill pop star of the past than one of these new manufactured made for TV types. If they do use one of them hopefully it will be a big production like the 1.00am show at Sleaze. At least there will be lots of other stuff going on to keep me entertained.
GT - Sat 17 Jan 2004 11:56:01
For Gods sake , they might be TV Pop Stars - But they are the best LOCAL talent in the country. They deserve our support.
Support Australian Talent. - Sat 17 Jan 2004 10:53:36

You really should get out a bit more honey.
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 15:05:22


I have to agree I think its insulting to our own Intelligence and goes against everything in the spirit of Mardi Gras to get some throw back performers from banal reality tv shows who most Likely wouldnt even have a clue about who and why they are performing to the crowd...Either we get someone really amazing or not at all....apart from Chrissie Amphlett who was very much worthy of being up there! all of my most memorable party shows have not involved names...Ive been going to the MG and Sleaze since WEIRD 97 so no offence To big names that have performed Previous to that.
Nick - Sat 17 Jan 2004 19:23:24
cher, the pet shop boys, kylie, ....even elton...gay icons
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 20:25:33
oh dear - a mardi gras wall and all anyone can talk about is the party - what about the rest of the festival?? maybe MG shouldn't waste their time on all of that considering people aren't even remotely interested.
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 20:49:20
"oh dear - a mardi gras wall and all anyone can talk about is the party - what about the rest of the festival?? maybe MG shouldn't waste their time on all of that considering people aren't even remotely interested"

well....talk about it girl! You never know who might be interested.
- Sat 17 Jan 2004 22:11:44


I agree there is far too much mention of "party", how about gay pride and what it stands for, or have you all forgotten what all the celebration is about. It is a complete festival for the GLBTQ community not just the minority who wish to party. Maybe you should broaden your outlook and take a look a some of the gay pride merchandise available and display a rainbow sticker or wave a rainbow flag to show what YOU stand for. Take a look at www.gaypride.com.au and you might learn a little about the complete community that includes the Bear, Leather, Bisexual and Transgender divisions. From a proud lesbian living in Sydney. Have a Happy Mardi Gras season from Judy xxx
Judy - Sat 17 Jan 2004 23:53:45
"take a look a some of the gay pride merchandise available......." as it really come to this?? Im gay everyday! Rainbows are for rainy days!
- Sun 18 Jan 2004 02:36:45
Dear Judy - doesn't it seem obvious to you that the people who post here are
mainly interested in the party ? its their choice. Should any Pinkboarders decide to post about the Festival or Fair Day or any other event, they can but
they haven't yet.

So you go broaden your outlook. We are happy discussing the party. Different
strokes for different folks . What interests you may not interest us and
vice versa.

And laslty, dont think we are not out and proud or that we dont care about our
community. You like a lot of other people have " assumed " without ever
knowing us.

Feel free to post about anything you like - it is allowed ( mostly ) but....
Just leave us to have our fun - Sun 18 Jan 2004 09:06:41


Oh and Judy -

We are going to Pam Am, probably the Greek Dance party, a movie or 2 , Fair Day
and finally the Party.

I discuss the Festival events with my friends as that is who I will be going with.

I come here for the party talk for all the juicy gossip but dont get into
the cat fighting.
Just me - Sun 18 Jan 2004 09:11:00


"I agree there is far too much mention of "party", how about gay pride and what it stands for"

And you can't be full of gay pride at a dance party specifically held to celebrate that fact? Let's avoid this tedious "the festival is for REAL GLBTIQ
people, the party is for shallow himbos" stuff. You can do it all - many people do - and none of it would happen if people didn't buy the party tix that fund it. I agree with Sun 18 Jan 2004 02:36:45. Being gay is way more fulltime than "displaying a rainbow sticker" in February. If people want to hear more about the Festival, then start talking about it: events you think look great etc. You won't get constructive discussion going by just complaining about the lack of it.
- Sun 18 Jan 2004 09:42:51


A complex metaphore Evil Twin... I think I get your drift, I didn't understand the last bit on male/female spaces. But it seemed to stir up a few on such spaces. I grumbled and moaned about the womens space at Sleaze and I accept all that has flowed on from that. I've struggled since the change from a gay/lesbian event to a more open event (ie with straight people) The down side is the loss of freedom to be 'gay' at these events. The old freedoms were felt again at the Men Only black party at the games. It's hard to say exactly what the freedom is/was but it was damn powerful knowing you were with you own kind, and not being judged for what comes natural to gay guys... as is the case these days. Have to go with the flow though. Your post/metaphore Evil Twin struck a note.

Xane
- Sun 18 Jan 2004 17:51:38


So if she doesn't perform, we'll look like idiots.

Hmmm... you haven't been to too many MG parties have you Luv, I mean everyone looks fabulous no matter what they're wearing has been my experience.
- Sun 18 Jan 2004 17:55:46


The festival isn't as general as the party. Individually only parts of the festival are of interest. I think the opening, Fair Day, and the Party are the events that cross the general population. Go ahead and post something about your interests, generate some discussion, get into the feel of it but for heavens sake stop whining about what other people are not doing...
Xane - Sun 18 Jan 2004 18:02:25
I received a call from Mardi Gras this evening picking me as a DJ for March 6.

Cant tell anymore just yet but the names will be released to the public via a press release later in the week.
- Sun 18 Jan 2004 21:59:02


CONFIRMED !!!

Ive just heard on my gossip grapevine that Mardi Gras WILL be having a retro classics space this year and its going to be in Stage 11 (old City Live).

This is VERY good news, now who are the DJ's playing this space and how can I get my requests to them :o)
Brian J - Mon 19 Jan 2004 10:33:12
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.


I got picked too!
- Mon 19 Jan 2004 13:27:18
Is Wayne G going to be the pary as well as the Azure Party?
- Mon 19 Jan 2004 14:38:47
There are many examples the world over where a village or tribe are discovered by the rest of the world. Then they become a tourist destination. Then the tourist change the village or tribe and it's environment by their interaction with that community. The tourist feel that they have a right to be there and a right not to respect the customs of that village. They did after all buy the ticket. They take photos of people who don't wish their photos taken, they stare at the ways that the people of the village carry out their day to day lives. They don't take time to find out the customs to avoid insulting the people of the village. The villages react by not doing the things that made them unique. They adopt was that are more like the rest of the world. The unique nature of their communities is lost...We have a unique community which is celebrated at festivals, fair days and in everyday life. Our parties are an important part of these celebrations but they are also an important part of who we are. When our parties lose their identity we lose another time and space where we can be that community. I want a space where I can be that community without the tourist watching me. At the parties we can't stop straights/tourist from being in a mixed hall without stopping them from coming to the party. But by experience they are less inclined to come into gender targeted spaces. I want a Men nad Women Only Space.
Evil Twin (3) - Wed 14 Jan 2004 15:25:28


Xane - please understand this post does not represent the view of Evil Twin
- Mon 19 Jan 2004 15:50:03


So the B'52's are in Sydney doing a concert at the Hordern at the beginning of March and they have been Known to do their fair share of Surprise Party Performances at Circuit Party's in the states over the past few years....
- Mon 19 Jan 2004 17:22:21
B52's what a spinout that would be !

Rock Lobster , Planet ? ,
Getting goosebumps - feel free to post Jane - Mon 19 Jan 2004 19:25:44


Three Evil Twins? Triplets surely.
Paul Diamondo - Mon 19 Jan 2004 19:34:06
Dome is back kids!~ yay for mardi gras!
- Mon 19 Jan 2004 21:23:27
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.
Hi guys, can anyone tell me if tina c is really playing bent in space on valentines night? i have only heard and not seen any advertising for it? please helppppp?
adelaide tripper - Tue 20 Jan 2004 05:50:45
oh, and where do i get these tickets to bent in space , he tells me they are selling fast !!
adelaide tripper - Tue 20 Jan 2004 06:01:34
Lordy - about 20% of the audience wasn't born when Planet Claire was released, but what a hoot that would be. Unfortuneately I reckon we'll be stuck with Love Shack
What's that on your head? - Tue 20 Jan 2004 08:04:31
Dear adelaide tripper - Tue 20 Jan 2004 05:50:45

I am DJ'ing at Bent In Space and I can confirm that Tina C will be playing there too.... check out the details on http://www.spraci.net/events/28407/

ticketing information is there too.
Ryan Murphy - Tue 20 Jan 2004 11:37:46


Evl Twin may not have a patent on the name but like Countdown Boy she has iconic status on Pinkboard, beware of cheap imitations!
Zeta - Tue 20 Jan 2004 12:25:13
The Dome....??? You foolin with our heads?????
- Tue 20 Jan 2004 18:01:01
My first event for Mardi Gras after the launch will be Club Arak. This time it will be at The Manning Bar at Sydney Uni. Has anyone been to a party at this venue before? Can you tell me what it's like. The only thing I miss at Club Arak is a place to chill out and cool down for a bit. I hope this space has somewhere away from the dance floor for a bit of a rest!
GT - Tue 20 Jan 2004 18:15:45
Please Please be correct that Dome is back. Otherwise there will be one
Pinkboarder on my hit list :)

Someone posted that City Live did not work out as substitute for Dome so they
were thinking about making Hordern with 1/2 Hordern music, then 1/2 Dome.

Personally I think that would be a big mistake. Nothing worse than a complete
music change in the middle of the night.
Please be telling the truth - Tue 20 Jan 2004 19:32:57


If you want the Dome to be open, make sure you get your tickets early so that NMG know they will need it......
- Wed 21 Jan 2004 11:24:56
"If you want the Dome to be open, make sure you get your tickets early so that NMG know they will need it......- Wed 21 Jan 2004 11:24:56"

I think the questions that need to be answered first, are:

Is the Dome (potentially) available to Mardi Gras in 2004?
If yes: is it available as a dance space, or is dancing out of the question?

If people are going to run out and get their tix on the basis of Dome availability they would be well-advised to have these question answered first.
- Wed 21 Jan 2004 13:00:59


Dome not scheduled to be open thus far. this is for sure
ps - isn't it still damaged?????
- Wed 21 Jan 2004 13:14:31
Please no music changes in halls part way through the night... Mardi Gras has to have the comfort factor, by changing styles half way through would create a lot of dissapointment...


Lets hope the dome is availble... It's the original vibe of Mardi Gras I most remembered...
Dome love it.... - Wed 21 Jan 2004 15:46:30


The Dome is not available as a dance space. Let it go!
- Wed 21 Jan 2004 18:26:29
The Dome renovation is complete. It has been refurbished to a very high standard for corporate events, receptions and the like. You can see pics on the Fox studios website. To the best of my knowledge, it is not available to the likes of us and never will be again. I grieve for it deeply.
Paul Diamondo - Wed 21 Jan 2004 18:38:17
Ok no Dome

but I ( personally ) think trying to put the 2 styles into Hordern wont work.

Where will the hardhouse/trance people go after the switch or where will Dome
people hang out to warm up ? or v.v.
I hope its not true - Wed 21 Jan 2004 18:56:43


So the Dome is never to be danced in agaibn.

the Dome was once used as a straight nightclub called "the BASE" in the late 80's
reminiscing - Wed 21 Jan 2004 19:07:57


Can you imagine the sin that has gone on in the Dome?!!!! I love it! and companys are hiring it for events probably with no idea of whats gone on in there! HA!
- Wed 21 Jan 2004 19:20:37
dear GT - Tue 20 Jan 2004 18:15:45 re. Club Arak. The Manning Bar is a really good venue. Big Sound. Heaps of room, and a large outdoor balcony! The fact it is on Sydney Uni, during the holidays, on a Saturday means parking is easy and gawkers are nowhere. See you there!
gemma fan! - Wed 21 Jan 2004 19:42:52
I say to the party organisers.....forget the 'international acts'. Keep the music pumping, put an end to the overcrowding due to the anticipation of the upcoming 'big show'and have drag queens on the hour, every hour, lip synching their high heels off on stages around the halls, swinging from hoops ( loved that year) standing on top of speaker towers, put a spotlight on them and let them go.
bigjace - Wed 21 Jan 2004 20:31:24
Dancing on concrete at Sleaze in the hordern felt SO WEIRD. I know a dancefloor costs a bomb, but after all, this is a dance party!!

Hope DJ JOSH will be playing (yehar)

xx
Adamx - Thu 22 Jan 2004 00:10:28


don't think the hordern will be HARDHOUSE which has trance connotations, think it will be more like hard house... ie house that is tough, tribal, funky etc
- Thu 22 Jan 2004 01:05:49
"and have drag queens on the hour, every hour, lip synching their high heels off on stages around the halls, swinging from hoops ( loved that year) standing on top of speaker towers, put a spotlight on them and let them go.
bigjace - Wed 21 Jan 2004 20:31:24"

LOL! Darlin! That sounds pretty much like your standard Sydney gay party for the last 20 years or so.
- Thu 22 Jan 2004 10:44:15


DJS ANNOUNCED TO TODAY IN SSO. A RETRO AREA AT STAGE 11.........SOUNDS VERY GAY
- Thu 22 Jan 2004 10:53:09
Agree about the need for a dance floor in the Hordern. Owie feet and back without it. The girlfriend bought our tickets this week (I was slightly surprised as I didn't recall the conversation where we decided to go!)But I'm already anticipating a great night and retro in city live sounds like a fine idea! Nice that the committee listened to people.
Evil Twin - Thu 22 Jan 2004 11:56:44
Dear - Thu 22 Jan 2004 10:53:09 .........SOUNDS VERY GAY.. could you pleeeease help me out... whats the sound of "very gay"?? is that Gay singers singing about gay sex??? Sounds grrrrreat!
cant wait! - Thu 22 Jan 2004 12:18:00
And the DJ's are...........

RHI - Alex Taylor, Luke Leal, Ryan Murphy, Shigeki
Hordon - Lisa German (UK,) Kylie Rose, (Brissy) Mike Kelly, Sveta
Stage 11 - Stephen Blomfield, Jake Kilby, Justin Scott
In the papers - Thu 22 Jan 2004 13:27:56


Agree with my siter Evil Twin, proper dance floor in Horden is a must.
Anyway with Alex Taylor and Luke Leale, the RHI will rock!!!!
Evil Triplet - Thu 22 Jan 2004 13:33:36
Re Mardi Gras DJs - who would've known that pinkboard could have that much influence. Too, too, frightening.
lovin' it - Thu 22 Jan 2004 15:22:58
Remember the blue curtain in the Dome - and what went on behind it? Wish I'd taken a piece as a souvenir! What happy times! It started life as the branch of a department store for country people visiting the easter show. Read more here: http://www.foxstudios.com.au/venues/byron.asp
Paul Diamondo - Thu 22 Jan 2004 15:54:36
we need more picture of the dykes that are there
melsta - Thu 22 Jan 2004 16:35:49
that dj line up is ... ummmm ......

yeah, next
Chiclet - Thu 22 Jan 2004 18:11:41


Hey BigJace -

remember the drag queens in the hoops but do you remember the one that kept
passing out and just hanging upside down during most of the show and then would wake up , do some miming then pass out again. What a scream that was.
I bet her fellow performers gave her such a big slap after wards !

All the DJ's sound great, bit disappointed that Hordern will change styles.
Have listened to some Lisa German and she is hot for hardhouse but were to go
after the switch ? oh well suppose cant be 100% pleased :)
Yes please to a dance floor in the Hordern NMG - my feet and back ached for days after Sleaze - Thu 22 Jan 2004 19:10:46


So excited that Sveta and Lisa German are djing - they rock! Go the dykes!
- Thu 22 Jan 2004 20:07:20
Now whilst I am delighted that MG has decided on a retro area, and even more delighted that JK is playing in that area, doesn't it kind of defeat the purpose of trying something new to put it in a venue that has been universally criticised as not appropriate, non-user friendly, and the one certainty to get slammed after every party that has been held there.

Oh well - I will certainly be there on MG night!

This is our test in a way...we lobbied for it on pinkboard...now we have to show the numbers to make it work and perhaps secure a larger pavillion next year.

See you all there (with big hair, undercuts, samurai bands, mesh singlets and far too much mascara for a spring evening)
Ms Golightly - Thu 22 Jan 2004 20:16:34


To the DJ selection team:

Retro? Sounds like fun, good idea

Thanks for choosing Mike Kelly [I always said that boy will go far]
Andrew - Thu 22 Jan 2004 20:50:12


that dj line up is ... ummmm ......
yeah, next
Chiclet - Thu 22 Jan 2004 18:11:41

Thanks for your support, sweets.

Ms Golightly, did I see a piture of you in the photo gallery of the XTC website? I'll be looking forward to seeing you strutin' around in City Live/Stage 11 at MG.
JK - Thu 22 Jan 2004 21:37:06


to Ms Golightly - Thu 22 Jan 2004 20:16:34

Hi there Ms G. I'm glad you like the idea of a retro space at Mardi Gras. I know I speak for Justin & Jake when I say we are all EXTREMELY excited about the concept. Its been something I've been wanting Mardi Gras to do for a few years now.

I'd like to address your comment about City Live (or Stage 11) being "universally criticised as not appropriate & non-user friendly". I'd like to say that I dont agree with your comment.

City Live was used for the Dome crowd at Sleaze and the venue was very dimmly lit and thats what caused all the problems. Now we have a theme that is what I call "bright and breezy" and I am sure given the right sort of lighting the venue will be just fine.

I can't wait to get together with Jake & Justin in the next week or so to discuss music tracks. As I am playing the middle part of the night (1-4am) my stuff will be very camp and Hi NRG. Most of my stuff will be 90's (think the Flinders Hotel heyday) but I will be throwing in just a couple of 80's tracks too.

I'm looking forward to the night soooo much, its my first Mardi Gras DJ gig since 1997 ! To be part of this new concept in supplying old hits and classics in this way is something quite unique. It's going to be great great evening !!
Stephen Blomfield - Thu 22 Jan 2004 21:39:52


There are many comments on Pinkboard about Stage 11 not working as a dance space. Every time I've been there for the last few parties, the place has been full of people having a fabulous time! It may not be the perfect dance floor but it's better than not having it at all. I'm sure it will work as a retro space.

What was the year that Jake Kilby played there at a MG party and it was the most talked about set of the night?
GT - Thu 22 Jan 2004 22:13:25


Yes JK - i actually think I featured on the XTC website three times...the photographer obviously misheard me when i said "i don't do close-ups" and there is a rather fetching shot of me trying to squeeze out of a singlet 2 sizes too small (note to self...renew gym membership)

Now Stephen Blomfield, i really hope the venue is fine. Look, it could of been in the Fox and Lion and I would still be there struttin' around in my authentic 80s mesh singlet, cause I'm excited about the concept and clearly, this is my best chance ever of hearing kids in america at a MG party :-)

Sounds like the three of you are really passionate about the concept so i am sure it will be shimmery, glittery, sparkling fun.

till then, yours always!
Ms Golightly - Thu 22 Jan 2004 22:22:12


Can anyone tell me what's the order of DJ's is at the RHI...
My personal wish is for Shigeki to start with (because he can get proceedings going), then Ryan Murphy, then Alex Taylor (note to Alex: your middle set at Mobile Home was brilliant!) and then the ever popular Luke Leal for the great finish.
Congratulations NMG -- you've chosen well. Good luck DJ's. It will be huge!!!
Zorro - Thu 22 Jan 2004 23:08:27
Burdekin Hotel, LAVA BAR it seems is returning for 2 special MG dates - FRIDAY 6th Febuary, to coincide with the opening of MG in Hyde Park..the first pub you get to when you leave the park..come and have a cocktail..1 Oxford Street Darlo, 3rd floor...with DJ's Renae & Mandy Rollins..for the girls & boys of course..

Then the night before the MG party LAVA will hold a special warm up event..always a good night to TASTE TEST..with DJ Kate Monroe..$5 at door & rooftop will be open for cool tunes & ocktails...

for more info - bumpherbar@bigpond.com
meg2000 - Thu 22 Jan 2004 23:54:16


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Breaking Away" - Kim Wilde (1995)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox joins the Retro Space at Mardi Gras ! - Fri 23 Jan 2004 00:15:32


22 Jan 2004 19:10:46

don't be too worried, i think the hard house and cross crowd thing is not necessarily going to be so evident. i gather the order is kylie rose, lisa german, sveta, mike kelly... knowing the last three whose sounds are more like tough sexy tribal/progressive with a bit of a harder/deeper funky twist (say that five times fast), the styles should be well in sync. hordern will rock! hope there is a dancefloor, guess we all need to buy our tickets early enough for them to make the decision
- Fri 23 Jan 2004 00:15:35


What was the year that Jake Kilby played there at a MG party and it was the most talked about set of the night?
GT - Thu 22 Jan 2004 22:13:25

Thanks, but I think you are being too kind in saying it was the most talked about set of the night. It was loads of fun though! It was "Beast", Sleaze 2001 when I played in City Live. I did a mixture of current pop stuff and some handbag classics. Very gay. Not too dissimilar to the concept for this year's MG, but with the focus being more on the classics than the current, obviously.

I have to agree with Stephen B in saying that I don't think Stage 11 (City Live) is a bad venue. I just think it is only suitable for certain concepts. I don't think it has been overly successful in recent times as an alternative for the Dome style, but for this I think it should be fine.
JK - Fri 23 Jan 2004 08:29:05


Zorro - Thu 22 Jan 2004 23:08:27

It's Alex, Ryan, Luke, Shigeki. in that order. ( last time i checked) but you never know!

I also have to agree with Jake. City live is a great venue for an intimate crowd. It works well for the “boutique concept” among the greater party. The Retro concept under the direction of three musical geniuses will be sure to win over many party goers who might find they might be staying the night in Stage 11 without actually having planned to go there at all. It’s great to see diversity in The Party – to match the diversity in The Community.
Ryan Murphy - Fri 23 Jan 2004 10:33:08


Have heard from a very reliable source that Luke will be closing the party
Evil Triplet - Fri 23 Jan 2004 11:25:45
we have to but our tickets early in the hope that "new" mardi gras might be generous enough to put in a dancefloor in the hordern ?

I dont think so

congratulations to justin scott. after years of a very vocal campaign to get himself a gig with mardi gras, it finally happens. uhhh go juzzy !
Weiss Bar - Fri 23 Jan 2004 11:32:36


The Retro space will work well in City Live, it would be inappropiate to have it in one of the larger halls, and probably wouldnt work.
- Fri 23 Jan 2004 12:08:56
Weiss Bar (Richard), there has to be wood based dance floor throughout. We need something a bit bouncy, something to work with talc, something to dance ON

Did you hear about the talc liberally distributed during Paul Goodyear's set at Resolution? That was such a good idea.
wood - Fri 23 Jan 2004 12:30:58


12:08:56, I agree. It is the newest building and it hasn't heard the music before (unlike the Hordern and RHI). Could be just what it needs.

Considering playing retro dance music means that dance music has finally come of age. We have pinkboarders to thank for that
- Fri 23 Jan 2004 12:37:36


congratulations to justin scott. after years of a very vocal campaign to get himself a gig with mardi gras, it finally happens. uhhh go juzzy !
Weiss Bar - Fri 23 Jan 2004 11:32:36

Thanks mate... Greatly appreciate it!
I'm looking forward to working together with Stephen & Jake to bring you the ultimate in Retro Dance Classics. I have known both of these guys for a few years now, and feel priveliged to be working on such a project as this.

Stephen was an extremely talented and popular DJ in the late 80's and early 90's, who played a very important role in the direction dance music was heading in gay Sydney. Long before I became a professional DJ, Stephen also played a major role as my mentor.

Like Stephen, Jake also had alot to do with the whole dance scene, and the tunes that dominated gay clubbing. In an almost rebel kind of way, and going against the grain, Jake took what most DJ's would consider as a risk to their profession and credibility, by continuing to play these dance classics during his regular set, long after they were forgotten.

On a different note and without sounding like I'm giving myself a shameless plug, you can check out some of the tunes you can expect to hear at Mardi Gras Retro, on my website at www.djjustinscott.com, and click onto the Pinkboard logo on the homepage.

Thankyou once again to everyone for all your support.
Justin - Fri 23 Jan 2004 15:26:24


I think City Live will be purrrfect for Retro. Retro is more "bright and breezy" as someone mentioned and I think would go over much better as City Live
is a Club whereas if it was in RHI or Hordern I just dont think you could get
that feeling.

Attention NMG - please please please have a dance floor down in the Hordern.

Is the order for DJ's in the Hordern correct ? would be great with Lisa German 2nd on. Hope Sveta continues it on with music with some kind of beat and not the way to manic beatless style she sometimes has - but thats my opinion. I love Sveta when there is a fairly constant beat to the music.
Just hope the Hordern will have a woorden dance floor - Fri 23 Jan 2004 19:10:25


Are we talking about the same CityLive here? My recollection is of a confusing, claustrophobic space with strange steps that made me feel giddy? Whatever was the architect thinking of? Mmmm... still, it's all we got ...
Paul Diamondo - Fri 23 Jan 2004 19:30:32
Taken from "Pinkboard Party Wall 9": "The Three DJ's in the main arena where great ... Plus Stephen Blomfield did get the most arms in the air"

I've never met the guy but the above reference is worththy of mention.

Something tells me we are in for a treat this Mardi Gras party
deep cover - Fri 23 Jan 2004 21:03:42


Direct from Luke Leal's website:

***MARDI GRAS PARTY*** RHI / Saturday 6th March 4:00am-7:00am

http://users.tpg.com.au/adslko0l/index.htm
nathan - Fri 23 Jan 2004 21:04:42


deep cover - Fri 23 Jan 2004 21:03:42

My My , You have been doing your research. The event from party wall 9 was one of my favourites.

I just hope I can re-created that same sort of energy from that event back in 2000

Thanks for your kind words deep cover. I hope you have a great night at Mardi Gras. Gimme a wave !! (I wont have a clue who you are but hey, its all in good fun) :P
Stephen Blomfield - Fri 23 Jan 2004 21:53:31


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"I Say A Little Prayer" - DM Johnson (1993)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Sat 24 Jan 2004 00:26:40


Thanks, Ryan Murphy, for the info re DJ order in the RHI. Çongratulations on scoring the gig. You've earned it, mate. I think it's great you scored the middle set too (1-4am?) -- you'll set us flying. I'm not sure about Alex doing an opening set (waste of talent?)...He just seems better (my opinion) in the early morning hours (4-7am), say, after a set of vocal, euphoric trance a la Mobile Home where he basically RULED for the entire set --it was unbelievable! Not sure either about Shigeki doing the very KEY final set (7-10am)..... But my preference would have been for Luke who does a really excellent early morning shift. Ah well... No criticism intended here. But I hope the line-up is adjusted, slightly! Have fun everyone!
Zorro - Sat 24 Jan 2004 07:50:17
Zorro - Sat 24 Jan 2004 07:50:17

I dont necessarily agree with you. As much as I dont really care for Shigeki as a DJ and as much as I totally admire Luke Leal for what he does I must say in my opinion Shigeki is better suited to last RHI spot rather than Luke. If Luke were to play closing it would be too franetic. We dont want a trance DJ closing.

It would be great the trance heads but theres too many others who dont like trance who would be lost in the RHI at that hour of the morning if Luke was banging away.

Lets also remember at the exact time that Luke hands over to Shigeki (7am) Stahe 11 closes and there will be another 1500 or so people walking out of the retro venue looking for somewhere else to dance. Walking from a 90's retro set into a trance filled RHI makes me shudder.

At least Shigeki is a middle of the road DJ and would have a broader appeal to all music genres than Lukes Trance style.

I do agree Alex is wasted playing first. He should be playing last.
Peter K - Sat 24 Jan 2004 08:17:31


That’s about the best RHI line-up I think I’ve ever seen, and (in my humble opinion) in EXACTLY the right order. Let me explain why.
It seems to me that very few DJ’s know what to play in an opening set. Most play too slow and lumpy, and seem to think it’s an opportunity to try out new material. My theory is that this is what they think the crowd needs before things get ramped up in the second set.
Alex Taylor is the best opening set DJ I’ve ever heard. He knows exactly what to play to get things moving, he knows exactly when to start ramping it up (many DJ’s seem to miss the cues as to when the crowd is ready to move on) and he always picks the absolutely perfect tracks to finish his set and hand the crowd over to the next DJ on a platter. He’s absolutely brilliant, and completely without peer in the opening set.
That’s not to say that he’s not also great in other positions – I know he has a big following as a final set DJ. But he’s perfect for the opening set at MG, because he’s mastered it like no other.
Ryan Murphy and Luke Leal will be fantastic in the second and third sets. The RHI is set to thunder, with what I reckon is a dream-team line-up.
Shigeki is a great choice for the closing set too. He’ll be better here than he was in the opening set at Sleaze, because he’ll be able to play the music that he loves himself. I feel confident that he’ll manage the transition from Luke brilliantly, then bring everyone in for a British Airways style landing (anyone who’s travelled a bit will know what I mean.) Smooth as silk.
My one disappointment – no DJ Josh. She is, in my opinion, the best DJ in Australia. I said in an earlier post on the party wall that if she was playing in the car park, I’d be there for the whole set, and I meant it. But hopefully, we’ll be able to see her at ARQ for the recovery the following night.
That small disappointment aside, it’s hard not to be very, very happy with the RHI DJ line-up. Well done NMG, and thank you! You just watch those party tickets fly out the door now!
jeffgg - Sat 24 Jan 2004 17:35:20
After the AC/DC, Wiggles, and Bowie rumours last year, I *refuse* to believe that Marcel Marceau will be appearing!
boys make the best pets - Sat 24 Jan 2004 17:51:02
He knows exactly what to play to get things moving, he knows exactly when to start ramping it up (many DJ’s seem to miss the cues as to when the crowd is ready to move on) and he always picks the absolutely perfect tracks to finish his set and hand the crowd over to the next DJ on a platter.

So true. Alex could write the book on professional etiquette and putting him on first is smart
Alex fan club - Sat 24 Jan 2004 19:19:42


Memories of the Dome... there is bound to be much genetic material still in the cracks of the floor, some of it mine <G>
- Sat 24 Jan 2004 20:00:31
OMG i think its so FAB that Stephen Blomfield is playing in the retro space he is my all time fave DJ EVER!!! its going to be sooo camp :)))
Christina Dior - Sat 24 Jan 2004 21:20:44
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"A Brighter Day" - Kelly Llorenna (1995)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Sun 25 Jan 2004 02:18:22


Peter K -- point taken. Then maybe Alex instead of Shigeki for the final spot. My problem with that is, from recent memory, Alex's final set at last year's Sleaze was quite lame and disappointing. And I actually liked Shigeki's opening set better on the whole -- patchy, but solid enough for a newie DJ playing at the Holy of Holies, which must be extremely daunting...Also two trance DJ's back to back in Ryan and Luke can get a bit too much for those who take their trance in smaller doses; hence my point about Alex being sandwiched by Ryan and Luke to give us some respite, something Alex, I repeat, did brilliantly on NYE.

Jeffgg -- I still think Alex is wasted on the no.1 spot as most people don't even get there before midnight. Perhaps the usefulness of him opening the party might be to encourage people to get there early.
Zorro - Sun 25 Jan 2004 08:54:57


Wow! Great DJ line-up!!
Great to see that Stephen Blomfield and Ryan Murphy are playing - definitely my two favourite DJs on the scene!

I'm looking forward to a fantastic night of camp (Blomfield) and uplifting (Murphy) choons.

Party hard!
marshall - Sun 25 Jan 2004 11:05:39


.
.
Please put down a dance floor in the Hordern.....................
.
.
Please NMG - Sun 25 Jan 2004 11:44:32
I think this will be my first non attendence at a mardi gras party since 1989. for me, the dj line up is just way too cheesy & commercial. there's only 1 dj in that whole line up that I can imagine myself dancing to. (to the dj's reading this, no it aint you. she's playing in the hordern)

would it be rude to take my iPod to the party ?
Dr Bellows - Sun 25 Jan 2004 15:17:02


De Bellows - everyone is entitled to their opinion but only 1 DJ to your
liking ? I seriously doubt the Hordern will be cheesy or commercial. Only one
I dont know is the DJ from Brisbane and have only heard Lisa German from P2P
and she can be good. If she is anything like Rachel Auburn was a few years back
she will be awesome.
But suppose its best you dont go so you cant grumble :)
And yes your Ipod would be sooooooooooo tacky - Sun 25 Jan 2004 16:35:41
would it be rude to take my iPod to the party?
Not rude just very very sad.

But if you go online and report every 30 minutrs to Pinkboard then it may not be so tragic, after all
Dr Maddox - Sun 25 Jan 2004 16:53:42


YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Stephen and Jake for 6 hours at the party!!!! YIPPEEEEE!!

I cannot wait for this, this will be the good old days when you could enjoy being out and about and dancing all night!!!

Shame I'll miss RyanM's set but RETRO is the only way to GO!!!!!

MM xxx
miss margeaux - Sun 25 Jan 2004 18:14:43


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Show Me Heaven" - Chimira (1997)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Mon 26 Jan 2004 00:09:01


boo hoo hoo

Not complaining about a Retro Hall but one of the posters/DJ's said they would
be playing music from the 80/90's !!! Retro ?
Am I that old ? Too me Retro would be 70/80's but suppose that would make someone else sad :)

Still would like to meet Evil Twin ( the original ) and Ms Golightly but maybe they wont want to talk to such an old one !

But agree the others posters - NMG - please have a dance floor in the Hordern, my aching old feet and old back will thank you.
Just to buy them a drink - Mon 26 Jan 2004 09:55:33


Mon 26 Jan 2004 09:55:33

I think these days the broader definition of "retro" is music from the past that DJ's have stopped playing in the clubs in the present.

Using this definition even stuff as recent as about 1999 / 2000 fall into that category.

The concept for a "Retro" space was designed specifically for people who dont go out clubbing regularly and want to dance to stuff from their regular clubbing days. If this means the DJ's in Stage 11 only play stuff from the mid 90's then thats good in my opinion as it will appeal to some of the older ones but also wont shut out the 18-30 demographic which surely would be the case if it was a 70's and 80's only space using your interpretation of the word "retro"

I believe this space will be "THE" success story of this years Mardi Gras party.
Brian J - Mon 26 Jan 2004 10:09:22


I am so excited about Stage 11 and CAN'T WAIT to hear some of my old favourites from the mid 90's! (I also didn't know that 'Retro' included the 90's I thought it referred to the 80's but am SOOOO looking forward to hearing some of my favourite mid 90's HI NRG party tunes!)
Bring it on! - Mon 26 Jan 2004 11:12:49
The Djs are playing in the order listed in the announcement -as for Luke closing (which of course we agree he is not).
He closed Mardi Gras a few years ago and was brilliant - he did not play trance up to the end. he is actually a very
versatile DJ.
- Mon 26 Jan 2004 13:03:11
It would make my night to hear any of these tracks at the party!

1. D’Ream Things Can Only Get Better
2. Three is Family
3. We are Family –Sister Sledge
14. 18 Strings -Tin Man
15. Forever Young -Interactive
16. I say a Little Prayer –David Michael Johnson version
17. Power of Love –Beverly
18. Sex Drive –Dead or Alive
19. White Lines –Grandmaster Flash & Melle Mel
20. More and More –Captain Hollywood Project
21. Dance With Me (“I’ve got this feeling, somebody Dance with me”)
22. I’m Gonna Get You –Bizarre Inc Featuring Angie Brown
23. (Take me Up) To the Top
24. Elephant Paw
25. Let Me Show You –K Klass
26. Total Eclipse of the Heart
27 In the Evening –Sheryl Lee Ralph
28. We are Easy to Love –Secci Featuring Taleesa
29. Waterfall –Felix
30. Insanity –Oceanic
31. Rockin’ for Myself –Motiv8
34. Everybody Dance – Evolution
35. Baby Don’t Cha Leave Me this Way –Royal T
36. You lift Me Up –Rebekah Ryan
37. Bitchin’ in My Kitchen –Fantabulous
38. I Imagine –Mary Kiani
39. Son of a Gun –JX
39. Try Me Out –Lee Morrow
40. I’m here to chill -Absurd
41. Stars on 54: If you could Read my Mind –Ultra Nate etc
42. Don’t Call me Baby –Madison Avenue
43. Broken Bones –Love Inc
44. The Ultimate –Nik Skitz

How many people does Stage 11 hold?
Waiting for the night - Mon 26 Jan 2004 15:14:38


Pinkboard Jukebox Update:
www.djjustinscott.com

New requests now uploaded.

Chimira - Show Me Heaven
Dina King - I Say A Little prayer


Enjoy!
Justin Scott - Mon 26 Jan 2004 15:34:20


that's funny. it would make my night to NOT hear any of those songs at a party
2004 - Mon 26 Jan 2004 19:37:29
Thankfully at Stage 11 one or two of those tracks might be heard.
- Mon 26 Jan 2004 19:48:45
Thankfully at Stage 11 one or two of those tracks might be heard.
- Mon 26 Jan 2004 19:48:45

I actually think that *ALOT* of those songs listed above will be played on the night. I can spot at least 6 or 7 that are Stephen Blomfield "signature" tunes from the Flinders Hotel era. Most of the songs listed are all pretty cheesy anthems but thats whats going to make this retro space such a fun place to be in this year. I cant wait.
Brian J - Mon 26 Jan 2004 20:02:41


r.e Dance floor Hordern:

I believe NMG sensibly cancelled the Dance floor for budgetary considerations during the lead up to the party. The decision wouldn't have been taken lightly as the dance floor is very necessary but at a pinch can be lived without.

I personally would prefer a bit of last minute cost cutting to ensure a party at least breaks even. Would you prefer something like the Gay Games where heads appeared to be stuck in the sand for months before they admitted there may possibly be a loss in the works!

I recon that with the pricing policy they will have a better idea of numbers sooner & will be able to juggle the budgets if necessary before it becomes necessary to cancel dance floors/lights/etc.

solution? get everyone you know to join, & buy tickets asap so they can afford everything we want.

one more thought - I think most of the non-core festival events will be "umbrella" events...not funded directly by Mardi Gras, just given advertising assistance & permission to be official events. This was one of the big ways to trim down "Old" Mardi Gras expenses.

See you at the festival & dancing on the nice springy Hordern floor!

p.s. I thought the (gay) UK Idol winner may be singing at MG, but a source said most likely not :(
iceboy - Tue 27 Jan 2004 00:57:34


Just to buy them a drink - Mon 26 Jan 2004 09:55:33

You never know who you'll meet in the Retro hall
I thought retro was 70s disco and 80s pop but maybe I'm 'old' too
:)
I vote for a dancefloor plus real seating in the Hordern, sore feet plus a dusty bum is not fun.
The Girlfriend - Tue 27 Jan 2004 01:06:33


Good to hear that people are looking forward to partying in the retro space at this year's MG party. I hope it doesn't disappoint, since so many people seem to have very high expectations for it already....

As for me, I'm very glad to hear that Ryan Murphy and Luke Leal are playing 1am-7am in the RHI. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be going this year. Am a bit disappointed that DJ Josh didn't get another go. I agree that she is an excellent DJ (she ranked much higher than Alex Taylor and Kate Monroe in last year's National DJ Poll, somewhere in the middle of the top 10 I think) and I hope to be hearing her again at a major party sometime this year. As for Alex Taylor and Shigeki, I don't know what the fuss is all about. Although they are both good club DJ's (one a little better than the other), I've never found either of them to be particularly good big room DJ's. Quite a few people I know agreed that their sets at Sleaze were lame and predictable. That sort of music works well for me in a club like Arq, but not in a big room (where I'd prefer music that is more upbeat and more uplifting). Would be interested to hear what other people think about this....
- Tue 27 Jan 2004 01:22:48


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Make It On My Own '96" - Alison Limerick (1996)

.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Tue 27 Jan 2004 01:43:54
Surely comments about Party should be on the Party Wall?
- Tue 27 Jan 2004 11:23:58
It would make my night to hear any of these tracks at the party!
Waiting for the night - Mon 26 Jan 2004 15:14:38

- I'm sure you won't be dissapointed!

that's funny. it would make my night to NOT hear any of those songs at a party
2004 - Mon 26 Jan 2004 19:37:29

- That's cool, don't come to City Live as that is the kind of music that will be played. There are some of Sydney's best DJ's in the other halls and I'm sure they will make your night fantastic should you choose to go. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy!

Surely comments about Party should be on the Party Wall?
Tue 27 Jan 2004 11:23:58

- If they relate to the Mardi Gras party, surely they can be on either the Party or the Mardi Gras wall?

Regarding the definition of the term "retro" - I too would also be inclined to define retro as 70's and 80's and before. However, as others have stated, that is my generation and many of the other poster's generation as well. For some of the younger folk, retro can be 80's and 90's.

My understanding of Stage 11 at MG is that it is a retro/classics hall. I know that I intend to play a big mixture of classic club tunes from the 80's into the 90's era, as well as some of the great commercial pop and disco releases from the 80's. I'm planning to throw the odd 70's track in there too, but focus for me will be more on the 80's and 90's. I might even throw in one or two tracks from very early 2000 that people may not have heard in a few years, but will hopefully be excited to hear.

As someone said earlier, with a good mix of 80's and 90's, we will be able to cater for the more mature crowd as well as the young'uns without excluding anyone.

If anyone has any ideas of tracks they would love to hear, Stephen, Justin and myself are meeting shortly to go through track ideas and we would be happy to consider anything you have to suggest.
JK - Tue 27 Jan 2004 14:33:12


"If you could read my mind" and "Free" by Ultra Nate. Play those, and you will turn the Evil Twin and the girlfriend into big piles of teary romantic goo, then we'll bounce around dancing our tits off, followed by our rapid disappearance into a dark corner.

(It's so disconcerting when they play this while shopping at IGA)
Evil Twin - Tue 27 Jan 2004 14:58:36


Evil Twin, I LOVE those songs, as well.

The 2003 Mardi Gras CD from last year, for my tastes, yielded two standout tracks: "If you could read my mind" and "Drop that funk on me".

NMG:
How is the 2004 CD coming along? Is NMG still going to uphold that tradition? I promise to buy one if you put wooden flooring in.
floored - Tue 27 Jan 2004 16:51:36


Jake, maybe at least one track from EACH MG or Sleaze?, if you need more of a pool to work with. Starting from the first one - could be fascinating but them I excite easily.

But can you locate the playlist from those days? It's time to hit the archives, I would
old fart - Tue 27 Jan 2004 18:07:55


Even though we can't use the Dome, could we please have seats in that lovely area outside under the trees and also access to the grassy hill nearby. The one depressing thing about last Sleaze was having nowhere comfortable to sit outside. Sitting in a gutter surrounded by empty plastic bottles is not pleasant.
Paul Diamondo - Tue 27 Jan 2004 18:13:56
Surely comments about Party should be on the Party Wall?

There are at least 10,000 of us that like the icing on THIS cake
- Tue 27 Jan 2004 18:19:20


Hi I want to do a plug for my photographic exhibition for mardi gras ..
: gym boys' fantasies stripped bare : if you want to know more click onto
http://www.4rensic.com/gymboys

cheers
edmund - Tue 27 Jan 2004 19:10:31


Hi guys and gals, I'm very thrilled with the positive responses I've been
reading on this wall about the Retro Space at Mardi Gras.

The more I read the more I get excited about the night as it draws closer
and closer.

Jake touched on where he was going to be musically on the night. As for
myself playing the middle set means that the music is going to be very "up"
probably right through my three hours. Expect to hear mostly hits of the
90's from me. There will also be a few current tunes that are cover versions
of huge anthems from the 80's and 90's. As well as this expect to hear three or four original 80's tracks I would also consider to be huge anthems and there WILL be hands in the air for days guaranteed !!

To the poster that wrote down that lengthy list a few days ago let me say
this.... I am sure you will be very happy indeed. To be honest I cant
believe how many tracks on that list that I used to play on heavy rotation
in the 90's - I like your style :P

I look forward to my set on March 6 just as much as I look forward to joining you all on the Stage 11 dancefloor after I finish at 4am.

Due to the great response about this space I would recommend that people
wanting to party in Stage 11 get there early. We anticipate that there might
be lengthy queues to get in - Remember Stage 11 is a smallish hall only
holding 1,500 or so... its no RHI pavilion !!

My only concern is that the place will still be packed at closing time at
7am. I know Mardi Gras has the option of (possibly) extending to 8am but
this is all up to you guys being in the venue in force right up to 7am.

Keep up the great feedback everyone , its very much appreciated.
Stephen Blomfield - Tue 27 Jan 2004 19:36:13


I think the odd 70s track would be more than appropriate...in particular "baby its you" by promises. I also think that from a dance perspective, KISS are seriously underrated.

And, in the absence of any scheduled entertainment in Stage 11...when i was in year 5 at school, i performed leif garrett's "surfin' USA" at our speech night in a funky little denim outfit with a tight body shirt and a dance routine straight out of my mum's jazzercise class...and i will happily recreate that simple, yet visually stunning routine, if any of the DJ's play anything by either Leif Garrett or Shaun Cassidy (my first crush!)

In the alternative - early 90s deconstruction was the best!
Ms Golightly - Tue 27 Jan 2004 19:47:47


hope mardi gras does not keep stage 11 open past 6 or 7... does so little for the vibe in the other halls, which are obviously the focus.
- Tue 27 Jan 2004 22:34:04
Tue 27 Jan 2004 22:34:04

I strongly disagree. Why should a potential full house in Stage 11 be shunted out into another hall at 6am just to make the big halls look bigger and fuller ? If City Live is still full at 7am which is the advertised finishing time of Jake Kilby then why shouldnt they be allowed to party on in the venue and music style of their choice ? If its full at 7am let them go on

I say .Your ticket does afterall say 10pm to 10am !!
- Tue 27 Jan 2004 23:32:02


Well guys, my turn I guess!

First, Jake gives you an insight as to what to expect on the night, and then Stephen.

Being first cab off the rank (10pm to 1am), I have decided to play tracks that will basically warm the room up a little, before I hand the reigns over to Sir Stephen Blomfield and Lord Jake Kilby.

I am happy to say, that at this point in time, Evil Twin and Ms Golightly along with Brian J, will most certainly NOT be disappointed on the night. If You Could Read My Mind and Free by Ultra Nate, are just some of what I call, Classic Club Retro tracks, which you can expect to hear on the night. Add to these, a handful of Pinkboards Jukebox Requests that have appeared on my site, and voila!...There you have the best in Retro Classics - Similar to Time Life's offer of a 10 Volume CD pack, however, without the steak knives, and bonus sunglasses.

Most of you know me for playing Commercial Hi NRG uplifting vocal tracks, which I have always loved playing. I find these tracks can sometimes bring out the "girl" in us . They also add the "feel good" factor. Most Retro tracks have had a similar effect on us at the peak of Gay 90's clubbing. I have found these tracks to have had an influence on the music we hear today.

For those of you that were around when Stephen was at his peak, and Jake had just mastered the art of beat mixing, and pubs such as The Flinders, The Albury, The Oxford, Patch's and The Exchange were booming businesses, most tracks that were around then, are now being re-released as remixes by either the same artists, or a generic group ie Gerri Halliwell - It's Raining Men and Steps - Chain Reaction, just to name a few.

To me, this is proof that tracks, such as these, still dominate the music industry, and they are also a reflection of the quality of dance music that was around then, and still is now.

Once again, I am excited to be working together with Stephen & Jake, and look forward to bring you the ultimate in Retro Dance in Stage 11 at The Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2004 Dance Party.
Justin Scott - Tue 27 Jan 2004 23:40:04


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Party" - The Weather Girls" (1996)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Wed 28 Jan 2004 00:41:38


Panther's Trip Down Memory Lane

It's Raining Men - The Weather Girls (1983)

This always filled the floor at Flo's Palace
Panther - Wed 28 Jan 2004 08:15:11


Hi Guys,


Please, Please, PLease we need a dance floor and sitting..... The hard floor kill your feet by the end of the night, and then we would like to sit down??? And the gutter or floor is not a good look...


Please consider!!
What a happy, comfortable party!! - Wed 28 Jan 2004 08:59:49


Ms Golightly - re Promises: that track gives me nightmares, mostly because of the singers ginormous bosom (imagine those in 3D!) however, it is a good track, but find a DJ who dare's to play it. Even better, how about "Everytime I Think Of You" by the Baby's! Now that's really taking a risk. No beats to mix into for either of them. And re Panther's post - isn't that Homer Simpson's trip down memory lane?
lovin' it - Wed 28 Jan 2004 09:25:20
oh and apologies for the apostrophe abuse above
lovin' it (singular) - Wed 28 Jan 2004 10:22:28
I hear that Smooch are running a MG Recovery (in the fresh air) on the rooftop of East Village from midday. My favourite DJ, Mike Kelly, is on the bill, along with Junior B. Count me in!
- Wed 28 Jan 2004 12:06:13
Can we please have "Love Love Love" and "Dreamer" remixed by Rollo during the mid 90's (just to hint at my age bracket)
request virgin - Wed 28 Jan 2004 13:45:36
So should MG just cancel the Festival? because it doesn't seem like anyone here is interested in anything else but the party!
Practical downsiding - Wed 28 Jan 2004 16:00:02
One day Girlfriend and Evil Twin I'll buy you that drink.

For me it will be Hordern and if Sveta gets too manic and there's no beat, then
off to RHI for Luke Leal.

Of course will check out City Live but I dont like being reminded of my
past :) or how old I am as I could start mouthing the words to the music and my young twink friends would be aghast !

Iceboy - I'd rather cut back on a laser or two and have a dance floor but I know others may disagree.
Dance floor pretty please ( Hordern that is ) - Wed 28 Jan 2004 19:10:25


For me it will be Hordern and if Sveta gets too manic and there's no beat, then off to RHI for Luke Leal
Dance floor pretty please ( Hordern that is ) - Wed 28 Jan 2004 19:10:25

ummm....... me thinks there's more beat in svetas music than luke leals
beatful - Wed 28 Jan 2004 21:07:28


Hello lovin' it...oh dear, i'd completely forgotten about that aspect of the song, but agree the lead singer was talented in more than just the vocal department. I still cant stop laughing at the lyrics...

"You're here with me now but you're saying
you don't want me any more
you're holding me now but you're saying
you can't see me no no more
you whisper good-bye then cling tighter to me
I can't take no more."

- if only i had a dollar for every dance party i had to end with those lines!

Hello just to buy them a drink...i normally don't drink at the parties (though i may have something cheeky & bubbly on arrival) so keep an eye out for me in retro heaven (ie stage 11)

ta ta for now
Ms Golightly - Wed 28 Jan 2004 22:16:53


So should MG just cancel the Festival? because it doesn't seem like anyone here is interested in anything else but the party!
Practical downsiding - Wed 28 Jan 2004 16:00:02

On second thoughts, maybe they should cancel everything but the retro hall at the party.... :)
- Wed 28 Jan 2004 23:43:21


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Young Hearts Run Free" - Hannah Jones (1995)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Thu 29 Jan 2004 03:19:16


i know the retro hall fans are VERY vocal on this board, but everyone i have actually spoken to about this room cannot believe mardi gras has even put it on, and are quite unimpressed by it.....
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:23:13
Ms Golightly - you have to forgive Promises. They were Dutch and maybe their command of the English language was lacking somewhat (just like my command of apostophes)
lovin' it - Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:37:34
i know the retro hall fans are VERY vocal on this board, but everyone i have actually spoken to about this room cannot believe mardi gras has even put it on, and are quite unimpressed by it.....
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:23:13

Oh get a grip! There are two other halls and the up an coming area for anybody who isn't interested in the retro hall. Everyone has different tastes and it is just plain stupid for someone to be "unimpressed" that NMG has organised a hall that is obviously of interest to many people. If someone wasn't into high energy, trance and commercial dance music, would it be fair to say that they were unimpressed that NMG had decided to put on the RHI? What rot. If they don't like the concept of Stage 11, no one is forcing them to go there.
JK - Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:41:02


So should MG just cancel the Festival? because it doesn't seem like anyone here is interested in anything else but the party!
Practical downsiding - Wed 28 Jan 2004 16:00:02

Not at all.... For a large majority of us the festival brings what we are all about to light. It shows the world who we are, and what we do, and thats exciting. People may not comment on the wall about the festival, but it's all fresh in our minds.

The party will always have the main focus of all walls, because after all it's the music that truely unites us together...

Brings on the festival I cannot wait.... it's a fantastic time I think of it like 'Christmas for us gay people'.... Let's get together everyone and support the New Mardi Gras, and give them the backing they require. We should remember and be lucky in the fact that somebody cares and has taken it over, as we could have ended up with nothing.....

Thankyou New Mardi Gras.....
Ready for Mardi Gras..Give them your support - Thu 29 Jan 2004 09:14:27


JK - Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:41:02

I'm glad you said what you did cause I was gonna say the same thing (but maybe in not so nice a way) !
SB - Thu 29 Jan 2004 09:59:26


JK - Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:41:02 - LOL

Love your work.... love your life..... love the way it's heading.

Expect me to "shake my groove thing" in your hall after my set for sure...

Only if you boys play :- Lets hear it for the boys.

I will return the favour with Madagascar's "Your Beautiful" - much better than that cheep rip off - "i like love" by Solitaire.
Ryan Murphy - Thu 29 Jan 2004 11:34:49


Dear "i know the retro hall fans are VERY vocal on this board, but everyone i have actually spoken to about this room cannot believe mardi gras has even put it on, and are quite unimpressed by it.....
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:23:13,"

The best thing of all is that with 3 halls playing 3 different music styles you have a choice as to which music style you'd most enjoy hearing. I for one am totally excited about Stage 11 (as are my friends) but at the same time completely respect the fact that it may not be everybody's idea of a fantastic Mardi Gras. I can't wait to be there and plan on spending time in all halls, but particularly the RHI and Stage 11.
Happy Camper - Thu 29 Jan 2004 12:34:52


Is there a reason that only the retro DJs are taking requests? Ryan Murphy now that I know you're reading, please drag out El Nino, which will never die.
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 13:58:45
Thank you Ryan M for putting me out of that misery... for months now I've been trying to work out why the hell "I Like Love" sounded so familiar. I guess I shoulda just asked.
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:11:09
Picked up the official Mardi Gras 2004 season Guide today to find 'the only all girl party on the Mardi Gras calendar',page 62.'7 Deadly Sins' at Gas Night Club 20th February.
Went to the acon website to find out more info.The DJ lineup is not of the standard i would expect for such an event.Becker,Kate Munroe and Sveta are great,but shouldn't you exhibit more of Sydney's top female Lesbian DJs at this time of year?
What about Kelly Lynch,Mandy Rollins (two of the most popular),Junior B and Feisty.Look what you have missed out on.
'This is a community fundraising event for ACON'S Lesbian Health Project'. Iam sure it will do well, but it could have done so much better!
not a happy camper - Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:17:54
It's Raining Men - The Weather Girls (1983)

This always filled the floor at Flo's Palace
Panther - Wed 28 Jan 2004 08:15:11

Love, you remember Flo's? Are we really that old?
From some of the comments of the twinks, it may be best to stay at home.
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:39:10


Jake, I wouldn't even bother replying to some of the comments regarding whether there should be a 'retro' hall or not. You, Stephen, Justin and Hilda wouldn't be working in this format if there wasn't a following.
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:40:55
Ah it looks like I will be free to go to the party after all now so I will be heading to Stage 11 as soon as the party opens to make sure I don't miss a single track. Just wish it was going till 10am!
shanobear - Thu 29 Jan 2004 15:06:27
not a happy camper - Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:17:54

surely Sista P must be one of the biggest lesbian djs left out of the festival. she works 4/5 sets a weekend at some of the best spots in sydney
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 15:31:56


Dear "unnamed"- Thu 29 Jan 2004 13:58:45

Yes it's true that popular (No1) House track.... is infact a rip off of an old Trance Anthem. I do like the new house version and i have played both of them; however when i played the original at the salvation recovery last weekend at the shift ..... people lost their minds...."what is this version" "its not on my cd".....and to those people i say " no it's not - it's The Original" Why is this so exciting to me i hear you all ask....? well maybe some of these tracks you all love now...might be played in their orginal form in the Retro Space! It was only last night i played "On a Night like this" only - Kylie was not singing - !!!!

The Retro Hall will rock....

Oh and I am sure that most of the DJ's would welcome requests too. To the person that asked me for El Nino... I am sure we can drag it out of the bag....what version? .... I think Original is best!
Ryan Murphy - Thu 29 Jan 2004 16:24:33


not a happy camper - Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:17:54

mandy rollins & feisty are soooo over rated. you can hear them at the phoenix every weekend or at queer nation. i rather have someone like sveta play.... besides i would class her as having a bigger name than mandy rollins.
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 17:04:54


Dear shanobear - Thu 29 Jan 2004 15:06:27 . Come on lad! Spend the whole night at city live? As an aspiring new kid on the dj block, I suggest you take a little walk around the party and find out what else is happenning in the world. Looking back is nostalgic, but no one has ever gone blind looking into the present & future. Just wait for dome....
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 18:07:22
Dear "i know the retro hall fans are VERY vocal on this board, but everyone i have actually spoken to about this room cannot believe mardi gras has even put it on, and are quite unimpressed by it.....
- Thu 29 Jan 2004 08:23:13,"

And the lesson would be, if you are "unimpressed" by the direction your parties are going, you get VOCAL about it. Those vocal proponents (including me) of a retro space have been doing so for the past year, not only on this board, but e-mailing NMG directly for that space. A number of DJ's picked up on that community under-current and submitted demo's of a retro nature...hence, the retro hall came about.

Correct me if i'm wrong, but it is not at the expense of any of the traditional spaces at a mardi gras party, and I for one would like to thank the party committee for taking the risk with this new concept. They took some risks and delivered an awesome sleaze party. I can't wait to see what they deliver at MG!
Ms Golightly - Thu 29 Jan 2004 20:21:28


Hello again lovin' it [let me just remove my community advocate cap and put on my light and flippant demeanour]

moreover, the lead singer and guitarist were brother and sister (i think), which makes all those lyrics a bit iffy!
Ms Golightly - Thu 29 Jan 2004 20:24:55


- Thu 29 Jan 2004 18:07:22

thanks for the suggestion but I think if I leave city live during the night, it's going to be hard to get back in. I'm taking this chance to let my hair down (a bit of a joke for anyone who knows me) and indulge myself.

I'm an unashamed big fan of two of the 3 dj's playing in city live and look forward to partying to the music these guys are going to play. It also gives me the chance to hear someone I have not heard play before, so I'm looking forward to that too!

MG party is going to be my time to relax and have fun, a chance to switch off DJ mode for the evening and be a punter. Can't wait!
shanobear - Thu 29 Jan 2004 20:25:53


Thu 29 Jan 2004 17:04:54

Why are people so unkind!
DJ Kamal - Thu 29 Jan 2004 21:18:35


Thu 29 Jan 2004 14:39:10

And miss Mardi Gras? No way!
Panther - Thu 29 Jan 2004 22:21:44


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Atomic '94" - Blondie (1994)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Fri 30 Jan 2004 00:24:08


sorry but the Dome is missing (musically) at the expense of a Retro space which could have done REALLY well if in a tent like the fashion parade tent used to be. agreed stage 11 is no space for a dome replacement but sorry, there is a space lost to accomodate another space of utter cheese and it IS discouraging to many people who don't actually like to live the gay stereotype.

the djs are good whom they have chosen for this space, and it is with no disrespect to them that i made the comments about city live and people i know being unimpressed, but it is quite true that many people i know will skip the party this year in favour of better music elsewhere. i estimate 10K people at best with this line up.

to the contrary, and in search of positivity, the hordern line up is fantastic. lisa german is sensational and the locals are all excellent.

agreed about sveta being twice the dj mandy rollins is. she is adventurous, takes risks and really has fun when she is playing... however feisty is excellent and she will be missed

can i make a request to the city live djs? um, kylie or something good (that is a joke), best of luck to all the djs in all the halls, don't listen to me as i am just 1 opinion and you will find you make a lot of people VERY happy on the night

best mardi gras wishes
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 01:28:44


To the person at Fri 30 Jan 2004 01:28:44

How wrong you are.

"i estimate 10K people at best with this line up." - This comment is going to come back at bite you in the bum BIGTIME. Your estimate is going to be so way off the mark its not funny. I have logged this comment in my diary and will be back on this board after March 6 to say "I Told You SO"

Your other statement about there not being a Dome space is also just ridiculous. Havent you even noticed that the Hordern and its DJ's are the perfect replacement for not having the Dome. How can you POSSIBLY complain when the Dome is being reinvented in a space 4 times bigger than Dome ever was. The DJ's chosen for the Hordern would have been the Dome DJ's if the Hordern wasnt available and they are all VERY "Dome sounding"

Don't be so mean spirited re the retro space. Its something fresh & new for Mardi Gras and it shows initiative and also shows that Mardi Gras are willing to try new things in an effort to attract more people to its event. Mardi Gras should be roundly applauded for its efforts in this respect. Dome music and the Dome crowd were proven not to work in Stage 11 and now they have the Hordern - WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT ??

Everyone is being catered to at this event.

* Commercial club and trance music is in the RHI

* Harder and darker Dome Music is in the Hordern

* Hi NRG Girly Camp and Retro is in City Live.

All angels are covered - Stating that "There is a space lost to accomodate another space" is of course in the wise words of Jake Kilby "JUST ROT" !
Aiden - Fri 30 Jan 2004 07:07:25


Ryan Murphy - Thu 29 Jan 2004 16:24:33

Hey Ryan (or Luke L), now that I hear you are happy to take requests, here are a couple of tracks I would love to hear on MG night (sorry to be a pest, but I rarely ask DJs for requests and it would make my night to hear one or both of these):

- 'Seven Cities' by Solar Stone (AvB Remix or Solar Stone's Atlantis Mix)
- 'Nothing' by Holden and Thompson (93 Returning Mix)

And a couple of old (albeit cheesy) favourites:

- 'Embrace' by Agnelli and Nelson
- 'Everywhere I Go' by Space Brothers

Thanks and happy MG everyone! :)
M - Fri 30 Jan 2004 07:17:43


Aiden,

Sveta is the only DJ of Dome'esque quality in that whole line up. bad scratching is not suited to Dome so that rules mike kelly out & I've never heard of the other 2 girls. so I guess I disagree with your statement that the hordern is an apt replacement for Dome. it's chalk and cheese (the dome is chalk)
Dr Bellows - Fri 30 Jan 2004 09:15:58


"sorry but the Dome is missing (musically) at the expense of a Retro space which could have done REALLY well if in a tent like the fashion parade tent used to be. agreed stage 11 is no space for a dome replacement but sorry, there is a space lost to accomodate another space of utter cheese and it IS discouraging to many people who don't actually like to live the gay stereotype."

I'm just trying to get my head around 20,000 punters at the party all determinedly avoiding "living the gay stereotype." What would that look like? And why would you be worried about a bit of gay stereotyping at the faggiest night of the year anyway?
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 09:43:51


I'd like to exprees my disappointment at a recent post on this wall."best mardi gras wishes' fr 30 Jan 2004 01:22:44.

Yes, you said 'just 1 opinion'now let me add mine.

I find it a disgrace that you could say that one of the djs is only half as good as the other.I wonder what would happen if you said that about some of the trace djs working in this town?

I hardly think that your comment is sending "best wishes" to anyone.Least of all one very hard working Dj that has played at best nine or ten, Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parties in her career, thus far.

I for one will be attending this years party with bells on, and would have loved to hear all three Djs playing at this years party together.

However, lets be thankfull we have one out of the three.

I would like to wish everyone a VERY happy and safe Mardi Gras season and hope that negative comments are left at home.
:) - Fri 30 Jan 2004 11:05:43


best mardi gras wishes
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 01:28:44

I thought the dome was never going to be available anyway. At least that is the impression I got from reading previous posts on this board and the party board. Your entire argument holds no water if indeed the Dome was never going to be available in the first place!

I think everyone wants to have the Dome back up and running but if it's not made available, then no amount of complaining about City Live is going to change that.


Looking at the lineup of talent in all the halls I wish your friends luck trying to find better music in Sydney that night. Also without wanting to sound unkind, perhaps it's better that these people find other things to do that night and let those who want to enjoy the huge variety of music on offer, have a good night out.

No one is forcing anyone to go to City live that night or indeed the party at all. Judging from the comments on the walls here there is an huge support for such a space and I thnk NMG should be congratulated on listening to the people who are taking the time to make suggestions.

"it IS discouraging to many people who don't actually like to live the gay stereotype." I did get a chuckle out of this, I would have thought going to the mardi gras party was one of the major sydney gay stereotypes! If you don't want to live the gay stereotype then I suggest staying home with a good book. :)
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 11:13:48


Dr Bellows, Mike has stopped itching so now please ~show some respect for the lad~ he's a dedicated, versatile and talented DJ who may be the next Alex Taylor
MK fan - Fri 30 Jan 2004 12:16:49
"No one is forcing anyone to go to City live that night or indeed the party at all. Judging from the comments on the walls here there is an huge support for such a space and I thnk NMG should be congratulated on listening to the people who are taking the time to make suggestions. "

I think it was mentioned on this wall earlier, but it does seem that it's only a very vocal (on pinkboard) minority whom are happy with the so called 'retro' space. all other (non pinkboard) people I've mentioned it to arent keen on it in the slightest. many are disapointed that it'll be nothing more then a mini RHI (but much queenier - if that's possible).

I hope I'm wrong, but this mardi gras looks to be the whitest & blandest yet
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 13:05:58


I hope I'm wrong, but this mardi gras looks to be the whitest & blandest yet
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 13:05:58

Mardi Gras, like life, is what you want to make of it.
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 13:43:06


"I hope I'm wrong, but this mardi gras looks to be the whitest & blandest yet
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 13:05:58"

Yep. Pretty much, I think you're wrong. The Retro Space at the party represents about 0.01% of what's on during the season. It's hard to accept how anyone's MG could be totally blighted by 0.01% of what is on offer. If I was you bride I'd consider going totally crazy and just getting out there to try what's on offer.
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 14:06:24


I think it was mentioned on this wall earlier, but it does seem that it's only a very vocal (on pinkboard) minority whom are happy with the so called 'retro' space. all other (non pinkboard) people I've mentioned it to arent keen on it in the slightest. many are disapointed that it'll be nothing more then a mini RHI (but much queenier - if that's possible).

I hope I'm wrong, but this mardi gras looks to be the whitest & blandest yet
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 13:05:58

Let's revisit this comment after the party. If there are only a few people in Stage 11 all night, then I guess you were right. I think, though, after the party I will be able to say "you were so wrong it ain't funny". I'm big enough to eat those words if you turn out be right, but I guess we will all be able to see for ourselves at the party. Either way, I'll be having a good time, as I'm sure everyone else who goes will too.
JK - Fri 30 Jan 2004 15:34:40


you seem confused.

I was talking about the party, not the festival or parade
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 15:36:26


I'll try to make it into Stage 11... it sounds like a good idea for something different and I'd imagine it'll be a big success. I don't think I'll be there for a huge amount of time because I prefer other styles of music while I'm out...

but I hope that all those fantastic singles from Real McCoy's "Another Night" album get played, if I hear them I will have an orgasm on the dance floor! Definitely the best of 90's dance IMO..... "Another Night", "Run Away", "Come & Get Your Love", "Love And Devotion".
MC Sar - Fri 30 Jan 2004 16:23:56


"you seem confused.

I was talking about the party, not the festival or parade
Bride Of Funkenstein - Fri 30 Jan 2004 15:36:26"

My advice still stands. Go and experience it. You might be pleasantly surprised.
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 16:40:34


Retro space is grrrreat. It will leave the other halls RHI, horden AND dome to be truly progressive and new. The old timers will love city live, and be able to save the already written letter of complaint to the gay rags about the party for Leather Pride. New mardi gras! embrace the future, plus and old folks home. Nice!
bEATKID!! - Fri 30 Jan 2004 16:47:22
ok, so apologies to the retro fans for raining on their parade. i tried to make it clear that the space was earnt but also tried to make it clear that such spaces had existed previously as a tent where fashion parades etc had taken place previously.

to jake and the djs, YOU WILL fill the joint, no two ways about it, and best of luck to you

to the comment that the dome is now the hordern in a much bigger space. i think you missed the point. the hordern was a great space as it was with funky house and a bit of tribal and tougher music. it would have been great left as that. the dome was a great space as a dirty sess pit of grungy darker beats and people. it is not a massive section of the party community and the dome was an appropriate smaller space.

re all the other comments, your points are valid and well taken

to the person who said there is nowhere else to go as good as this, check out the lineup for space that night.... um wow!

hoping the up and coming space will include some funky house from established pros as well as some newbies
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:07:17


"Retro space is grrrreat. It will leave the other halls RHI, horden AND dome to be truly progressive and new. The old timers will love city live, and be able to save the already written letter of complaint to the gay rags about the party for Leather Pride. New mardi gras! embrace the future, plus and old folks home. Nice! bEATKID!! - Fri 30 Jan 2004 16:47:22"

LOL! Sweetheart! You'd be shocked to discover how 'old" the average age MG member might be, I'd be thinking..... :)
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:21:35


what is beatkid trying to say ?
F4 spellcheck - Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:23:01
Aiden - disagree re Dome taking over Hordern. They are being blended together but only Sveta is a real "Dome DJ " ( and this is my opinion ). Otherwise you'd have the Hordern regulars screaming. I'm also unsure if the 2 styles being mixed will work . While some would think its all the same , a Hordern
regualar and a Dome regular can easily tell the differences in style. But not
bitching, gotta give it a go first.

Dont bother with the moron who reckons 10k aren't gonna turn up or whatever. I
know we are not supposed to call people names but those posts are just moronic.
There is something for virtually every music taste there unless your into line dancing or jazz or similar :)

Like you say Aiden, I reckon the numbers will prove this "person" so very wrong. All of us are getting in for the early bird special !
Just bring it on - Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:29:39


I truly believe that what made The Dome special was the space itself. Of course the dark and dirty music was a part of it but I just don't think you could get that same feeling at any other space at Fox. I truly miss the old Dome but it looks like it will never return. Those old memeories are to be cherished. Lets give MG a chance and see what type of space they create in the Hordern. I'm sure the DJ's can make it a journey from tribal to dark and dirty! (I don't know, I'm not really a music expert)
GT - Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:44:03
I've just finished booking our MG events. Tina C, Duckie, Out In The Open, Pam Ann, What The Butler Saw (Nearly sold out) And Le Concerte with Peretta Anggerek. Will also be going to Club Arak as well as the Launch and Parade and Party. Will probably get to some of the visual art. Now can I fit in any films?
GT - Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:48:16
hoping the up and coming space will include some funky house from established pros as well as some newbies
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 18:07:17

which established pros?
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 19:31:19


which established pros?
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 19:31:19

suggest djs kate monroe, renae, sista p, chip, peter fam, babybear, mark alsop, garry t, scott pullen.... just none of the super cheese variety, that is covered

is that enough? but really think sista p should be back after last year's monster set, and renae
- Fri 30 Jan 2004 22:36:08


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"You Found Out" - Handbaggers (1997)

.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Sat 31 Jan 2004 02:06:17
Anyone else looking forward to Fair Day?

Fair day was my first introduction to the Mardi Gras festival and is always a highlight for me.I can't wait for this years.
Shanobear (not going to be bullied into silence!) - Sat 31 Jan 2004 08:30:59


Retro a gay stereotype? I wasn't aware that most of the Sydney radio stations are gay. Come on, liking retro is nothing to do with being gay. Some people like to hear familiar tunes, other like things that are new.
Arti - Sat 31 Jan 2004 10:23:10
is that enough?

NEVER! more, more, more
- Sat 31 Jan 2004 16:10:57


Anyone else looking forward to Fair Day?
Fair day was my first introduction to the Mardi Gras festival and is always a highlight for me.I can't wait for this years.
Shanobear (not going to be bullied into silence!) - Sat 31 Jan 2004 08:30:59

I am! My dog Max loves it and it's a great opportunity to get him out in a crowd with other dogs that are up for a good day. Centennial Park is usually full of eastern suburbs snoots who don't like their dogs socialising with other dogs, especially one as big as mine.

I'll be heading down there for a few hours with Max to let him run amok.
JK - Sat 31 Jan 2004 16:49:24


If anybody hasnt witnessed the size of Jake Kilbys dog called Max let me tell you something...

Be afraid. Be very afraid :o)
SB - Sat 31 Jan 2004 19:16:55


Mardi Gras Marching Groups!

You don’t have to have experience, you just need enthusiasm, commitment to rehearsals (over 2 weeks prior to parade), and the ability to shimmy glamorously for an hour or two (all body types welcome)

Registration Day is on next Saturday (7 Feb) at the Stonewall Hotel cocktail bar from 2-3:30pm (or email parade@mardigras.org.au)
David N - Sat 31 Jan 2004 23:14:23


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Fingers and Thumbs" - Erasure (1995)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Sun 1 Feb 2004 00:08:21


apart from his dog, it seems he has a different kind of (feral) animal trying to latch itself on to him

grrrrr
park ranger - Sun 1 Feb 2004 10:56:00


Any Park Ranger with half a brain would know animals only turn feral when provoked. Maybe a few less abusive messages on gaydar and email would stop that. Also SB is not who you think it is.....
- Sun 1 Feb 2004 13:13:05
Will the number of floats this year be increased or reduced?

I would like to see a couple of well timed 'DJ floats' - am I crazy?
- Sun 1 Feb 2004 14:54:26


You're not crazy, I too, would like to see some well timed 'DJ floats' - say a couple of ice cubes, a strawberry and a blue umbrella floating round my vodka cointreau would be tres carnivale me thinks. (tounge = cheek)
Luke (Lush) Leal - Sun 1 Feb 2004 15:58:30
I would like to see a couple of well timed 'DJ floats' - am I crazy?
- Sun 1 Feb 2004 14:54:26

No love. Just caught up in Gay Sydney's Cult of DJ Veneration :)
- Sun 1 Feb 2004 17:22:16


Welcome Mr Leal, co-founder of the elite "GOOL". How's your lawn lookin'?
JK - Sun 1 Feb 2004 20:53:26
would like to see a couple of well timed 'DJ floats' - am I crazy?
- Sun 1 Feb 2004 14:54:26


I wrekon a DJ float would be a great entry for the MG Parade in 2005!

How does this sound...
Jake can drive,
Kate can navigate,
Alex can be the token back seat driver,
Neal could call out.. "are we there yet, are we there yet, are we there yet"
Gemma can belly dance,
Luke can sip on his Vodka Cointreau's,
Jimmy can do the lighting,
Ryan can fight off people wanting to make requests,
and I'll ensure the on-board Esky is fully stocked at all times.

Hold on... We need a DJ! Any volunteers?
:)
Justin Scott - Sun 1 Feb 2004 21:51:19


Pinkboard Jukebox Update:
www.djjustinscott.com
New requests now uploaded.

Handbaggers - You Found Out
Blondie - Atomic '94
Erasure - Fingers & Thumbs

PLUS
Preview of Kylie's latest track "Red Blooded Woman" (Dance Mix)

Enjoy!
Justin Scott - Sun 1 Feb 2004 23:15:45


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Hells Party" - Glam (1992)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Mon 2 Feb 2004 00:02:05


... and Sandy Hotrod could provide the vehicle
floating DJ's - Mon 2 Feb 2004 08:39:43
Hey Jukebox, I have been playing Young Hearts Run Free" - Hannah Jones (1995)
over and over and over and ....
Old Heart - Mon 2 Feb 2004 18:57:23
As of a few weeks ago, there is now a Youth Working Committee at New Mardi Gras. We are looking to do some pretty exciting things, but for the short term we are looking to have a float for those people under the age of 25 who would like to march in this year's Parade but either are not affiliated with a particular group, or don't know how to get in contact with anyone marching. We are simply looking for numbers at this stage (and yes, I know the parade is only a few weeks away!). If you, or anyone you know, would like to get involved, please contact Youth@mardigras.org.au.
David S: Co-Chair Youth Working Committee - Mon 2 Feb 2004 21:51:58

Just a quick update for the people wanting to know ...

Jake Kilby , Justin Scott & myself met this evening and spent quite a few hours going through a long list of about 600 songs from the 90's and 80's trying to shortlist our music selections for Stage 11 on Mardi Gras night.

I think each of us is very happy with what we have and each of us now has a short list of about 50 or so songs each to work from on the night (Although we only need about 33 each for a three hour set).

Its been a pretty ruthless exercise cutting down a list of over 600 songs down to only 50 or so each but we're pretty sure we've got all the anthems covered and that there wont be any filler tracks at all during the night... the way it should be !

We're open to suggestions too , so if there's anything in the mainstream dance genre from the 90's or latter 80's that takes your fancy - let us know !!

Mardi Gras is now only 4 and a bit weeks away - It cant come quick enough for us ... Its all very exciting !
Stephen Blomfield (on behalf of the Stage 11 DJ's at MG2004) - Mon 2 Feb 2004 22:53:23


more snaps for Stephen Blomfield and his liaison skills!

(outlaw by olive made the shortlist, no?)
Ms Golightly - Mon 2 Feb 2004 23:48:31


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Heaven" - Sarah Washington (1996)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Tue 3 Feb 2004 00:54:29


Ms Golightly - Mon 2 Feb 2004 23:48:31

ummmmm.... possibly it just might have :o)
SB - Tue 3 Feb 2004 07:26:40


Couldn't you have told me before
I would have loved you
So much more
Couldn't you have told me before
Feeling like an Outlaw...

*dances*
marshall - Tue 3 Feb 2004 09:48:42


Dear Stephen,

Thank you (and Jake and Justin) so much for keeping us up to date with the planning for Stage 11. I can’t wait! My absolute top requests for the night would be:

David Michael Johnson: ‘I say a Little Prayer’

D’Ream: ‘Things Can Only Get Better’

Dead or Alive: ‘Sex Drive’

Lee Marrow: ‘Try Me Out’

Ultra Nate: ‘If you could Read my Mind’

Grandmaster Flash & Melle Mel: ‘White Lines’
Very excited about the Retro space - Tue 3 Feb 2004 11:56:27


Just received my MG ticket in the mail (yay for early bird discounts) and am very excited. I am planning to take around 4 days off work to ensure I can totally make the most of it all this year. I think it's going to be a good one. Thanks New Mardi Gras!
Johnny - Tue 3 Feb 2004 16:27:20
Stage 11 is not my kind of venue -- my preference being for RHI for big dance parties -- but I have to say I'm all excited for the punter just reading about the on-line discussions between the three tres charming, eager to please dj's and their retro devotees.

Can I call on the RHI dj's to generate the same excitement for this hallowed space? I know you're following discussions on this board... Come'on guys titillate us, get our party juices going.... What do you have planned for the night? Are requests in order? Alex, Luke, Ryan and Shigeki -- each fabulous dj's in your own right -- have you had your little meeting?
Zorro - Tue 3 Feb 2004 17:27:37


Fair enough Zorro - come on Hordern DJ's - how are you gonna treat us ?
but treat us gently ! - Tue 3 Feb 2004 19:55:19
Very excited about the Retro space - Tue 3 Feb 2004 11:56:27

I think you might just get all of those requests at some stage during the night. Just maybe :o)
SB - Tue 3 Feb 2004 21:19:17


If you are a girl...or boy who likes hanging out with girlfriends then where can we go the night before Mardi Gras Party....LAVA BAR, Burdekin Hotel...Kate Monroe & guest......I hear!
- Tue 3 Feb 2004 22:56:40
love the dj's for RHI but i wish it was the space for RETRO-MANY of us really dig retro and stage 11 is sooo tiny.-How can i listen to retro in stage 11 and Luke Leal and Shigeki in RHI at the same time-my brain might be in 2 places at once but not my body -music in RHI at sleaze was GREAT-is the same to be expected this time? thanx NMG for the retro space
RETRO BOY - Tue 3 Feb 2004 23:07:03
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"California Dreaming" - Midnight Shift (1990)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Wed 4 Feb 2004 00:03:02


YES BABY ITS YOU BY PROMISES-PLEEEZE
RETRO BOY - Wed 4 Feb 2004 00:07:13
I'd like to learn more about the message written - Sun 1 Feb 2004 13:13:05

has someone got a cyberstalker ?
- Wed 4 Feb 2004 01:59:03


There are many examples the world over where a village or tribe are discovered by the rest of the world. Then they become a tourist destination. Then the tourist change the village or tribe and it's environment by their interaction with that community. The tourist feel that they have a right to be there and a right not to respect the customs of that village. They did after all buy the ticket. They take photos of people who don't wish their photos taken, they stare at the ways that the people of the village carry out their day to day lives. They don't take time to find out the customs to avoid insulting the people of the village. The villages react by not doing the things that made them unique. They adopt was that are more like the rest of the world. The unique nature of their communities is lost...We have a unique community which is celebrated at festivals, fair days and in everyday life. Our parties are an important part of these celebrations but they are also an important part of who we are. When our parties lose their identity we lose another time and space where we can be that community. I want a space where I can be that community without the tourist watching me. At the parties we can't stop straights/tourist from being in a mixed hall without stopping them from coming to the party. But by experience they are less inclined to come into gender targeted spaces. I want a Men nad Women Only Space.
Evil Twin (3) - Wed 14 Jan 2004 15:25:28

Responding to the post above: stop blaming the straight community for the demise of Mardi Gras. We should take responsibility for the success or failure of Mardi Gras ourselves. I was at last year's Mardi Gras Party and it was FULL of queers. Where were these hordes of straight people? Reality check, scene queens - straight people are NOT dying to invade our parties - they couldn't care less!!!
Morgan Fairchild - Wed 4 Feb 2004 12:12:23


with reference to m'organ, this one does but most don't. This information is 100% reliable, in my opinion. But then I'm just bright enought to know fun when I see it. hear it. feel it.
- Wed 4 Feb 2004 15:08:12
I just decided to give a rating to the various messages of support in this years Mardi Gras guide. Here are my ratings:
Sandra Nori ***1/2
Bob Carr ***
John Brogden ***
Mark Latham *** + 1/2 for short notice
Andrew Bartlett ***1/2
Tony Pooley ***1/2
Clover Moore ****
Lucy Turnbull ***
John Howard #####
David Luff (Howard's Media Advisor) *
Bob Brown ****
Joe Hockey **1/2
Tanya Plibersek ***1/2

I tried to keep my political leanings out of this evaluation, but strangely it reflects them fairly accurately.
Arti - Wed 4 Feb 2004 17:42:15


will any of the 'retro' dj's be playing any real classic dance music (ie: marshall jefferson, baby ford, joey beltram, s express, kraftwerk, lolleata holloway etc ..) or will it only be cheesy handbag stuff ?
man_ache - Wed 4 Feb 2004 18:37:43
Only 2 more days till the MG Launch. I'm really looking forward to dancing in the park. Last year was great fun and this year should be better with the later license. The forecast is for fine weather for the next few days and after the recent rain the grass should be green and lush for us to sit on. I'm getting there early with a blanket, picnic food and bottle of wine and will be inviting my friends to join me.

Happy Mardi Gras!
GT - Wed 4 Feb 2004 18:48:31


Just wait and see Retro Boy if City Live is successfull. I doubt it could fill
the RHI or Hordern as those styles are *currently* more popular and these Halls are already quite full.
Just be happy you have your Hall.

And Morgan you can blame ( in parts ) straights for the demise of old Mardi
Gras because way back in the 80's they were THE only parties to go to , then they got their own and moaners like Evil Twin(3) probably made them feel very
un welcome so old MG could no longer count on over 20,000 people attending and of course the rest of the blame goes to some of the old Boards but thats my
opinion :) ( tongue in cheek ).
Is it 06 March yet ? - Wed 4 Feb 2004 19:15:30


Now for something serious please!!

I have been left to arrange a cocktail party in the afternoon of the parade and going through all those magazines and possible menus is a bit much for someone who others suspect thinks a Vegatiran pie is "gourmet" Now seriously is Finger Food OK at a CockTail Party??? Do I have to Julienne all the carrotts [it seems such a waste].... should I provide those common jatz crackers as an alternative for the imported wafers I usually serve with caviar?? Is proper Asparagus still OK for canapes or do trendies expect that awful tinned or bottled stuff??? Is smoked salmon OK or do Lesbians find this offensive nowadays??? Is ready made Pavlova acceptable nowadays or do I have take off the leather underwear and start beating all those eggs?? Are ice sculptures and imported champagne out now in favour of all those tastless mixers [anti-freeze with rasperry reisling disgusts me ....]Am I still OK having a door prize for the best undressed sailor?? and for the worst looking shoes?

Serious help please.....
hairytrucker - Wed 4 Feb 2004 22:26:53


can I have an invite to your party please hairytrucker?
I can help toothpick the cheese cubes to the pickled onions, and put cucumber slices on crackers, spread with salmon dip and top off with a caper.
who is the DJ?
high-heeled femme - Thu 5 Feb 2004 02:14:53
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"The Rhythm Of The Night" - Corona (1994)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Thu 5 Feb 2004 02:29:37


PS if anyone is getting into the Mardi Gras festive type spirit
Priceline store in Pitt St mall (Brashes side) has heaps of rainbow hair/ wrist scrunchie things very inexpensive.
While you all go there I'm off to Lincraft for all the sequinned fabric!
high-heeled femme - Thu 5 Feb 2004 03:01:25
'do I have take off the leather underwear and start beating all those eggs??"

hairytrucker - Wed 4 Feb 2004 22:26:53

YES !!!
Ciao - Thu 5 Feb 2004 03:19:28


OMG - So so Excited by 80s & 90s Retro....
NMG is right on the money... great selection with this one...
Well Done to NMG, and congrats to the DJS selected to play
If 80s and 90s Retro is not your thing - thats kewl ....
Aussieboy (1) - Thu 5 Feb 2004 06:47:32
quick reminder to Launch organisers... please get in LOTS of beer! It was annoying last year to wait for ages in the bar queue and then have irate punters pushing past you, cranky because the beer had run out. And normal chips please, preferably salt and vinegar. I really like them better than the designer chips with weird flavours.

Oh bugger it. Get what you like, I'll bring a picnic.

Just starting to get people at work asking about "Mardi Gras". There's still a perception that it's only the parade and party. Launch and Fair Day get only vague reactions, let alone the film festival or other events. Where are the street banners up Oxford St? Where are the Avant cards? At least a film crew at the launch? Perhaps we need a gay controversy... Can someone please rip Lou-Anne Lind's top off on stage? All we need now is a Justin Timberlake look alike to do it.
Evil Twin - Thu 5 Feb 2004 09:03:16


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are many examples the world over where a village or tribe are discovered by the rest of the world. Then they become a tourist destination. Then the tourist change the village or tribe and it's environment by their interaction with that community. The tourist feel that they have a right to be there and a right not to respect the customs of that village. They did after all buy the ticket. They take photos of people who don't wish their photos taken, they stare at the ways that the people of the village carry out their day to day lives. They don't take time to find out the customs to avoid insulting the people of the village. The villages react by not doing the things that made them unique. They adopt was that are more like the rest of the world. The unique nature of their communities is lost...We have a unique community which is celebrated at festivals, fair days and in everyday life. Our parties are an important part of these celebrations but they are also an important part of who we are. When our parties lose their identity we lose another time and space where we can be that community. I want a space where I can be that community without the tourist watching me. At the parties we can't stop straights/tourist from being in a mixed hall without stopping them from coming to the party. But by experience they are less inclined to come into gender targeted spaces. I want a Men nad Women Only Space.
Evil Twin (3) - Wed 14 Jan 2004 15:25:28
Responding to the post above: stop blaming the straight community for the demise of Mardi Gras. We should take responsibility for the success or failure of Mardi Gras ourselves. I was at last year's Mardi Gras Party and it was FULL of queers. Where were these hordes of straight people? Reality check, scene queens - straight people are NOT dying to invade our parties - they couldn't care less!!!
Morgan Fairchild - Wed 4 Feb 2004 12:12:23

Please let's noth have this futile discussin again.
Evil Twin, Evil Twin (2), Evil Twin (3) and Evil Triplet - Thu 5 Feb 2004 11:22:04


Anymore info on whether it's Paulini or not?
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 11:35:03
I'd really like to her Reanae DJ @ Mardis Gras. That grrl really knows how to work the mix...& a dancefloor!
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 11:55:14
Anymore info on whether it's Paulini or not?
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 11:35:03

Goooooood grief.
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 12:23:36


- Thu 5 Feb 2004 11:55:14

Uh... they've already announced the DJ's.
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 13:26:28


will any of the 'retro' dj's be playing any real classic dance music (ie: marshall jefferson, baby ford, joey beltram, s express, kraftwerk, lolleata holloway etc ..) or will it only be cheesy handbag stuff ?
man_ache - Wed 4 Feb 2004 18:37:43
respect! man_ache... i think i love you
bEATKID!!! - Thu 5 Feb 2004 14:22:13
Ex porn star & current butch disco queen Colton Ford. Signed Sealed Delivered, he's ours. Now just who will he duet with?
slyfox - Thu 5 Feb 2004 16:14:12
Hey Hairytucker -

finger food is fine. Fresh asaparagas is especially fine. Smoked Salmon wont offend lesbians , thats an old folks tale ! Champagne tends to be out and replaced with Champagne cocktails. Dont put out the jatz but go with some other
crackers. Little boys are also back in again ! Pavlova is definately back in.
Vegetables with dips like hommous, guacomale etc still good back up.
Ice sculptures definately out but what a great idea to have door prizes.
What will the door prize be ? hmmmmmmmmm

Can I also have an invite ?
Just little ol me - Thu 5 Feb 2004 18:41:29


In one of the papers I read about the DJ spin-off at Stonewall, Feb 8. We vote for the "up and coming" DJ's to play at MG.
Very democratic. Isn't our duty to go along and check them out?
- Thu 5 Feb 2004 20:47:37
Just looked at the NMG web site and saw this listing re the party.....

Stage 11 (Retro)
10pm - 1am : Justin Scott
1am - 4am : Stephen Blomfield
4am - close (approx. 7am) : Jake Kilby


The fact that NMG are now listing the closing time at Stage 11 to be "APPROXIMATELY 7am" is a VERY VERY VERY VERY good thing.

This now means that when that venue is packed at 7am (which it will be) that theres a great chance that we will get an extension to 8 or 9am.

Again another example of this "new" Mardi Gras listening to and then delivering what the punters want.

Congratulations NMG. You're the best !!!
Brian J - Thu 5 Feb 2004 21:14:45


Is there any drag shows touring with the festival this year? I have not seen many posters around.Does anyone have any info?
drag lover - Thu 5 Feb 2004 23:30:45
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"If I Can't Have You" - Kim Wilde (1993)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Fri 6 Feb 2004 00:08:14
umm yeah cheers, but I wont hold my breath waiting for a response from any of those dj's. I suspect the artists I mentioned arent to be found in their collections.
man_ache - Fri 6 Feb 2004 00:19:28
If you are looking for new friends to hang out with during Mardi Gras why not join us at Syd Guys Social Group. we will be attending many of the events over the coming weekends & are always ready to welcome newcomers. We usually have ut a movie & dinner night once or twice a month, a daytrip somewhere around sydney once a month & a pizza & video night twice a month at a member's home. Of course, this month is a little diferent due to mardi Gras & we will be out & about each day every weekend until the Parade joining in on a variety of Mardi Gras & Queer Screen events. there are no joining fees & we are looking for guys between 25 & 40 years (approx.) as the purpose of our group is to fill the gap between the youth groups & MAGS. Call Greg for more info on 9501 3636
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 00:44:36
"will any of the 'retro' dj's be playing any real classic dance music (ie: marshall jefferson, baby ford, joey beltram, s express, kraftwerk, lolleata holloway etc ..) or will it only be cheesy handbag stuff ?
man_ache - Wed 4 Feb 2004 18:37:43"

S-Express yes. The rest.. no.

Will it be "cheesy handbag stuff' - YES , Unashamedly YES.

You have been warned :o)
Stephen Blomfield - Fri 6 Feb 2004 01:00:56


sydney morning herald article, direct from pinkboarders

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/02/05/1075853988027.html
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 01:26:23


Pinkboard Jukebox Update:
www.djjustinscott.com
New requests now uploaded.

Kim Wilde - If I Can't Have You
Corona - Rhythm Of The Night
Midnight Shift - California Dreaming

Also:
Top 10 updated with 3 new entries
Preview Of George Michael's new track, "Amazing"
Gigs for February and March updated

PLUS:
A sneak preview of what you may expect to hear in the Retro Space at Mardi Gras


Enjoy!
Justin Scott - Fri 6 Feb 2004 01:28:42


Enjoy, the Party, as I will enjoy being 500kms away from the whole "so last century" thing!
Col Richardson - Fri 6 Feb 2004 07:13:58
I agree. Retro is so last century!
Arti - Fri 6 Feb 2004 08:23:33
will any of the 'retro' dj's be playing any real classic dance music (ie: marshall jefferson, baby ford, joey beltram, s express, kraftwerk, lolleata holloway etc ..) or will it only be cheesy handbag stuff ?
man_ache - Wed 4 Feb 2004 18:37:43

umm yeah cheers, but I wont hold my breath waiting for a response from any of those dj's. I suspect the artists I mentioned arent to be found in their collections.
man_ache - Fri 6 Feb 2004 00:19:28

Stephen should have held out longer in replying so you could pass out from lack of air...

Seriously though, it will be predominantly handbag stuff. That is what we have been employed for. If that isn't your thing, sorry. However, there will be some S-Express and Loleatta Holloway. Our sets are no where near final, so there may be some Kraftwerk in mine too.

As for those artists not being in my collection, unless you know me, who are you to comment? In actual fact, I have albums and singles by all those artists plus a lot more that would probably surprise you.

I understand that you might be disheartened by the fact you think the style of music you like isn't going to be what we are playing, but both your posts come off as sarcastic and a little rude. Try being a bit more diplomatic and you'll find that we are all willing to try and give everyone a bit of what they love. If you ask nicely for something chances are I'll try and squeeze it in for you.
JK - Fri 6 Feb 2004 08:32:59


Love that Cheesy Handbag! Thanks Stephen I can't wait! :)
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 09:08:03
I know the party is open to anyone nowadays....but do we really need Mardi Gras telling ALL the readers of the SMH so??
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 09:34:56
I was hoping that Pinkboard would remain underground but looks like the mainstream media found out ~~ then i had a scary thought -what if 30,000 people wanted to attend the party-?

Is there an upper limit set? This year's party could be huge now that most ages and tastes will be catered for [retro filled in the gaps].

Where else can you have a party, visit a zoo and be in the circus? My ticket will be purchased this weekend because I am dreming of bouncy floor and lots of talc
floorless - Fri 6 Feb 2004 10:15:09


I know the Festival doesn't get much of a guernsey on this wall, but here's a shameless plug for two great shows that are part of it:

Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2004 is almost upon us, so The Studio at Sydney Opera House is breaking out the sequins and mounting the mirrorball for two shows that really are the queerest of the queer. As featured shows of the New Mardi Gras Festival, we’re out and proud to present two very different takes on cabaret … from in-your-lap burlesque to absolutely fabulous torch n’ twang:

1. dUCKiE’s C’est Vauxhall!
Direct from a sell-out hit season at the Barbican in London, the dUCKiE collective make their Australian debut with an extravagant show of money, taste and sex … where you decide what you see!
1. Book a table for up to 9 people (or share with strangers and make new friends!)
collect your table’s dUCKiE dollar$ from your waiter, they’re included in the ticket price!
2. Peruse the performance menu
choose from a selection of over 30 live acts
3. Order a variety of custom made shows
direct to your table in this swanky showbiz spectacular
Menu specials include Live Sex Change, Granny High Leg Kick, Natcho Snatcho, James Joyce's Ulysses and over 30 other kunst cabaret turns from vaudeville to ventriloquism, balloon modelling to burlesque. Only 8 tables per show, so don’t miss out!

Nomination for an Olivier Award 2004 (Results: 22 Feb 2004)
Time Out London Theatre Award Best Show 2003
Edinburgh Festival Total Theatre Award 2003
Edinburgh Festival Herald Angels Oscars 2003
Season dates Feb 18-28 $30/$25 Showtimes 7pm & special late night shows at 10pm

2. Tina C. Doin’ It For The Love
After adverse criticism of her first ever album release It Ain't Easy Being Easy, Tina C. drew inspiration from early feminist role model Tammy Wynette and went on to record her 1996 number one smash album No Dick’s As Hard As My Life. Thanks to the record-breaking sales of her anthemic single - Course I Want You For Your Body (I Got A Mind Of My Own), Tina is now hailed as a role model for ballsy women everywhere, “We ladies in Nashville today are a whole new breed. “We only wear short skirts and sing songs about being mistreated by men because we want to.” Tina has enjoyed a glittering career but not without the darker moments that this height of fame often brings. Recent album releases have reflected a new emotional maturity, particularly her quadruple platinum selling Complete and Utter Country.

Many glamorous film roles, and mini-series later, the woman the press call 'Miss Megalomania from Middle America' is now a household name - due to the success of her hit shows Tina C's Twin Towers Tribute and Lifestyle Guru. Tina C. is the creation of UK comic writer and performer, Chris Green.
Season dates Mar 2-5 $30/$24 Showtimes 915pm & special Friday late show at 11pm

Book on (02) 9250 7777 or sydneyoperahouse.com/thestudio

Thanks and looking forward to a great launch tonight!
Craig D from The Studio - Fri 6 Feb 2004 12:30:26


Is it here yet. can we go out know. Oops to late Its already happened.Now I'm really excited.
TT - Fri 6 Feb 2004 12:52:47
"Mardi Gras has failed to deliver on an innovative musical dircection this party" true or false?
PLEASE DISCUSS! - Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:11:40
Is there any drag shows touring with the festival this year? I have not seen many posters around.Does anyone have any info?
drag lover - Thu 5 Feb 2004 23:30:45

Sherry Vine is the ultimate drag diva - I've seen her perform several times and she's not to be missed. Check the festival guide.
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:44:14


oh,and drag lover there is also Tina C of course
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:45:17
"Mardi Gras has failed to deliver on an innovative musical dircection this party" true or false? PLEASE DISCUSS! - Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:11:40"

I'll let you know around March 8 or 9.
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 14:09:42


- Fri 6 Feb 2004 09:34:56 and floorless - Fri 6 Feb 2004 10:15:09

Forget about 30000 "mainstream" people at the party... what about 30000 "mainstream" people logging into Pinkboard and complaining that the site is too gay???
:) - Fri 6 Feb 2004 14:24:43


"Mardi Gras has failed to deliver on an innovative musical dircection this party" true or false? PLEASE DISCUSS! - Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:11:40"

There seems to be something for everyone so false.
Im gay and im mainstream - Fri 6 Feb 2004 15:28:29


Nearly home time, yay! Must fetch picnic basket, rug, drinks, and adjourn to Hyde Park. Come say hi if you want. I'm in my white QUEER shirt from last years Queerdoc. It's kind of exciting now. Just got my roster for queerscreen volunteer shifts, so much planning on when to work and what we'll be seeing and what tickets left to buy.

HAPPY MARDI GRAS!
Evil Twin - Fri 6 Feb 2004 16:09:31


ah JK, you're right on the money as usual.
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 16:31:06
I thought it was great to see the Bears get a mention in the SMH article today. New Mardi Gras is certainly more successful at intergrating all the facets of the gay community than the old organisation ever was and should be congratulated on that.

Even the Underbear party got a mention! Getting all excited about all the Bear Essentials events, HC Bears have really outdone themselves this year.
Shanobear - Fri 6 Feb 2004 16:34:11


29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!! 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!!!
Countdownboy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Fri 6 Feb 2004 18:02:01
PLEASE DISCUSS! - Fri 6 Feb 2004 13:11:40

FALSE , Very False.
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 18:25:03


If anybody from NMG is tuning in to this wall, could we get an indication whether there will be a proper dancefloor in the Hordern at the party? My legs nearly had to be amputated after dancing on that concrete, so I need to know if I should wear shock absorbers.
Knees up - Fri 6 Feb 2004 19:49:09
It angers me that some people can put such a negative angle on what has surely been one of the most positive and upbeat discussions on this website about a dance space at an up coming party in respect of the retro space at MG this year.

We have 3 keen, eagar and willing to please DJ's who are all engaging us in conversation and not hiding behind anonymous names which has been so prevalent in recent years.

Everything about this retro space should be applauded from MG's decision to put it on to the very friendly and easy to read dialog on this wall (except for a few). March 6 cant come quick enough for me, Im gonna be in the retro space from open to close :)
Katie - Fri 6 Feb 2004 20:08:22


I'm so excited about the Retro space that I barely noticed anything other than positive feedback about it on this wall, I CAN'T WAIT!
- Fri 6 Feb 2004 21:56:51
I agree Katie! The Retro hall isn't my style (I'm gonna be in heaven in the RHI, with the best DJ line-up EVER!), but 10 out of 10 to NMG for listening to its members, and giving the retro concept a run.
It won't surprise me one bit if Stage 11 is packed to the rafters for the whole night.
And I love the way the DJ's are revving it up and engaging their audience. It's got a real "buzz" happening, and I reckon it's fantastic! Congratulations guys!
jeffgg - Fri 6 Feb 2004 23:21:14
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"We're Easy To Love" - Secchi (1992)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Sat 7 Feb 2004 00:08:02


Is there any drag shows touring with the festival this year? I have not seen many posters around.Does anyone have any info?
drag lover - Thu 5 Feb 2004 23:30:45

It would seem that apart from visiting drags (Sherry Vine - Gorgeous and Tina C - hilarious), the 'drag' element of Mardi Gras seems to be very thin on the ground for this festival - no Frocks at Fox/or Rocks, the costume pagaent (which seemed to be mostly drag) is now not part of the Mardi Gras Party. Even Miss Fairday has been done away with - and I wish they had with some of them !

I was only just discussing this with a friend (very well known DQ) yesterday - who was a little miffed about it - not because he didn't get a gig, but because there was very little for the drags unless you had been approached for something particular. So, you can bet that the drags will run amok for Fair Day and Shop Yourself Stupid later in the month.

Some people may argue that Drag is dead in Sydney - and it really isn't. There just ain't much of it on Oxford St anymore. The Venus Room have great shows, as does the Imperial, ARQ on Thursdays, @Newtown and The Midnight Shift Club, to name a few. You can tell it's still popular by the number of people going along and having a good time.

If people want drag to be part of NMG for next season - support it throughout the year. If you're a member of NMG - ask for the costume pagaent to return, ask for Frocks at Fox - get Miss Fairday back. If you don't ask - you don't get - use your voice !
- Sat 7 Feb 2004 09:39:55


God the mardi gras is a joke
Don't you guys realise it just reinforces horrible gay stereotypes ??
Taska - Sat 7 Feb 2004 09:51:01
Aaarrrgghhhhhhhh.............

Just opened the Sydney Morning Herald and who do they choose to photograph for
the Mardi Gras Launch ? the Sisters of blah blah blah........
Sorry , I know everyone has a right to express themselves but its not only the
Church thats hypocritical and besides if you dont agree with their teachings, I
personally would go elsewhere. Personally I do not like them.
Why oh why when the media prints a photo its of a drag queen or the Sisters or
something similiar ( no offence drag queen honeys ). The crowd was 99% made up of happy couples/happy families/beatiful girls and boys but no , there is a photo of them..............
I know I'll get bagged for this post but am I the only one ?
and if I am , I'll shut up - Sat 7 Feb 2004 10:21:10


Hello to Panther.

I was curious to know what your impressions of this years party are going to be. Which of the three halls takes your musical fancy ? Will you be going at all ? Are you a big retro queen or a trance head ? Lets have some insight into our fearless leader !!

Wishing everyone a happy Mardi Gras whether your banging away to trance in the RHI or getting down and dirty in the Hordern or camping it up in Stage 11. Whatever you choose its going to be a big night !!
Luke - Sat 7 Feb 2004 11:03:37


I apologize in advance for all the eccy farts I will do at the MG Party.
- Sat 7 Feb 2004 12:22:14
If people want drag to be part of NMG for next season... use your voice !
- Sat 7 Feb 2004 09:39:55
Umm... perhaps more importantly, if you're a drag queen (or any other kind of perfromer) and want to be part of next year's festival, VOLUNTEER! I'ts an umbrella festival - channel Judy, find your own Mickey and put on a show in a barn (as long as it's insured...)! The performers in the festival aren't there because they waited to be asked. And in the meantime, make sure you're out in force for Fair Day's Most Fabulous - I would think that's an open invitation for drag queens!
PS What did everyone think of Launch?
CeeJay - Sat 7 Feb 2004 12:59:46
"If people want drag to be part of NMG for next season - support it throughout the year. If you're a member of NMG - ask for the costume pagaent to return, ask for Frocks at Fox - get Miss Fairday back. If you don't ask - you don't get - use your voice ! - Sat 7 Feb 2004 09:39:55'

Oh please. If drag is in imminent danger of extinction, it's news to me. You can't open a jar of Vegemite in Sydney without 3 DQ's, 4 fey dancing 'boys' and a scratched remix, turning up to show you how fabulously talented they are. And what about that hilarious annual orgy of self-congratulatory excess, the DIVA Awards?

The only thing drag suffers from is a tendency to take itself WAY too seriously. And take heart! I guarantee that you'll see more of it at Mardi Gras than you ever dreamed possible.
- Sat 7 Feb 2004 13:38:30


Nice launch, lots of people, good weather. Queues for toilets that moved quickly enough, about one ciggie waiting time. Plenty of cuties still in their office/work drag, and lots of catching up with friends. The co-chairs talking about their first Mardi Gras prompted a lot of recollection on our picnic rug. It was nice remembering those First Times again. Also nice to have the volunteers stand up in the crowd and to see just how many people have helped MG in the past and now. "Bette Midler" was a hoot, although there was disappointment in our camp that "Wind Beneath My Wings" wasn't featured (no doubt there were many people who though that a plus). G&L Choir did their thing and the DJs played suitably dancable music. I got a ticket from the Fashion Police (a merit certificate!), and emptied the contents of my pocket into various collector's tins.

Good start to the festival. Thumbs up.
Evil Twin - Sat 7 Feb 2004 14:25:38


Great turnout for the launch in Hyde Park last night. The atmosphere is much more relaxed and enjoyable than sitting on the steps of the Opera House ... as great as those nights were.

It was a shame about the sound though. We were sitting about half-way back and couldn't hear the speeches at all. Lots of people chatting away like they were at home in front of the telly ... but not much choice given that we couldn't hear what was being said on stage. I remember being incredibly moved by speeches at previous launches and it is a shame that unless you are near the front of the stage you cannot hear them.

Otherwise, a great night and it's great to have such a presence right in the city centre! Thanks to all.
GD - Sat 7 Feb 2004 18:06:42


"It was a shame about the sound though. We were sitting about half-way back and couldn't hear the speeches at all. Lots of people chatting away like they were at home in front of the telly ... but not much choice given that we couldn't hear what was being said on stage. I remember being incredibly moved by speeches at previous launches and it is a shame that unless you are near the front of the stage you cannot hear them."

s'OK Evil Twin, you didn't miss much in the speech department. The relentlessly self-promoting Bridget Haire - "we're a lesbian parent!" - and dear old David Menadue spruiking his book. The Co-chairs were way more entertaining.

It's heaps better in Hyde Park - more laidback, more Fairday than RHI and that's
cool by me.
- Sat 7 Feb 2004 18:37:10


Hi Luke,

I tend to wander around the party a lot, chatting with people, dancing a bit, cooling down, just wandering. I try to dance around most of the party, but I do prefer the RHI generally.

I haven't missed a Mardi Gras since 1983, and only missed one Sleaze. I will definitely be there, though I haven't decided yet what I'll be wearing. Probably
A dash of glitter,
A touch of glam,
A splash of colour,
A twist of camp!

Panther - Sat 7 Feb 2004 19:13:10


did lee jenkins (he came up with the sleaze ball disaster poster) have anything to do with this years poster ?
petrea - Sat 7 Feb 2004 23:04:17
This message is unnecessarily abusive.
I was at the launch last year while a lot of bitter queens couldn't be bothered with the new Mardi Gras, 'it's not the same not being at the Opera House' these glamour pusses would lament, but I'm a supporter so I went, it was great. Typically, everyone told these bitter queens how good it was last year and low and behold a packed park this year! yes! So well done New Mardi Gras for having faith, I would like to see more men on stage next year, every act included a lesbian except Enda, this is a little one sided don't you think? Now I don't know if you asked any men to perform and they couldn't get thier shit together, in which case thankyou girls for a stunning night of entertainment, it was terrific, but if you didn't....then wake up! This is a gay and Lesbian launch not a Lesbian launch; more equality please.
John - Sat 7 Feb 2004 23:17:58
27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !! 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy !!! - Sun 8 Feb 2004 00:08:29
Just home from Club Arak (It was a Mardi Gras event so I hope I can talk about it here) Fantastic crowd, diverse and friendly. There was everything from bears to twinks, lots of women as well as men and plenty of great outfits. Arabic music is so infectious you just can't help but dance. There were two shows, first was a diva in a beautiful beaded dress who sang "I Will Survive" in Arabic. Later there was a group of beautiful men in fab costumes who performed a great routine. Gemma got a big cheer at the end.

A great night out!
GT - Sun 8 Feb 2004 03:56:10


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Love Come Rescue Me" - Lovestation (1994)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Sun 8 Feb 2004 06:27:35


***** Gym Boys' Fantasies Stripped Bare (venue changed) *****

Due to unforseen circumstances, the venue has changed for my exhibition.
The gallery has decided to pull out from this show, because of the explicit images as portrayed in the photographs..

please go to http://www.4rensic.com/gymboys for more details

P.S. say no to censorship
the photographer - Sun 8 Feb 2004 10:58:57


did lee jenkins (he came up with the sleaze ball disaster poster) have anything to do with this years poster ?
petrea - Sat 7 Feb 2004 23:04:17

You are very missinformed. Lee Jenkins was not responsible for the Sleaze Ball poster. There was a Marketing Working Group (made up of volunteers, mind you) who put in their efforts to do the best they could with very little money. Lee was on this working group, but was not actually the mind behind the poster. He, and others, had some input though.

As far as I know, for the MG festival artwork (including the Party poster) there was a group of 3 or 4 members of the Marketing Working Group who were responsible for organising tenders for the artwork and then making the selection on which tender would be used (probably with the help of the Board as well). The artwork was done by a separate entity and those wonderful volunteers at MG chose the artwork you see as the most visually descriptive for this year's festival.
JK - Sun 8 Feb 2004 11:21:06


I believe Claire de Lune as well as a number of other drag shows will be incorporated into the Bent in Space event next Saturday. The hilarious Tina C is also hosting the event... so no... I dont think drag is dead in Sydney.

So there is a great drag show and a great dj line up (two of the most noted complaints from previous postings).

For me personally the attraction lies in the sexy Saxophonist and the intrigue of live digeridoo and percussion supporting a great line up. And the promoters are being charitable and donating money to Gay Pride to support the Mardi Gras...

Cant wait for it... whose joining me?
JT - Sun 8 Feb 2004 15:25:16


lube your throat and get ready to sing it along at the retro space. all the songs all night. way to go!
- Sun 8 Feb 2004 15:35:12
John - I count the same number of females as males at the launch apart from the drag king show. And the 2 DJs were male.
Arti - Sun 8 Feb 2004 21:36:49
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Hold That Sucker Down" - OT Quartet (1993)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Mon 9 Feb 2004 07:01:27


Dome as a chill-out... reported by SMH. Cool! Something for the blokes!
- Mon 9 Feb 2004 11:55:45
Dome as a chill-out... reported by SMH. Cool! Something for the blokes!
- Mon 9 Feb 2004 11:55:45

Dont get too excited !!!!!!!!!!

The critical word here is "Chill-out". My source advises me it will probably be pre recorded **ambient** music (ie no dj) and that there will be next to nothing in the way of nightclub style lighting (ie house lights only dimmed by mayber a third).

So dont get your hopes up that its going to be a place "for the blokes" if what you mean by that is the traditional antics in Dome in previous years (ie dancing and naughty behaviour) - its just going to be allowed nor tolerated by Fox.

On the flip side, if you're looking for a place to rest your feet, sit on some comfy chairs , be inside from the night air without having your ears blasted by loud dance music and have a natter with some friends or strangers then Dome at this years event will be just perfect for you.

Congratulations to NMG for supplying another space that is something totally different. A fourth dance space would have been considered a little over the top (not that Fox would allow that to happen in the first place)
The old Dome traditions are gone - Mon 9 Feb 2004 15:05:25


Dear petrea - Sat 7 Feb 2004 23:04:17

No he didnt - and no he didnt!
How rude you are - Mon 9 Feb 2004 17:09:36


So whats the diff between using a Dome as a chill-out as opposed to another
dance area ? if it could be used as another dance area then maybe NMG when advertising the wonderful early bird deal could have advertised that depending
on numbers Dome could be opened as its old self ?
I mean lots of people will still be walking all over the floor as opposed to dancing on it ? and if dancing cause too much damage/scuffing then surely a taup down first then a dance floor over the taup would have fixed it ?
Just curious ( so dont slag me for being nieve ) - Mon 9 Feb 2004 19:43:23
Just curious ( so dont slag me for being nieve ) - Mon 9 Feb 2004 19:43:23

The answer to your question is simple.

Whilst i agree that having it as a dance space would be possible the fact is that Fox Studio simply wont allow it regardless of how much NMG ask. Call it stupid , call it dumb but thats just the way it is so lets accept it and move on.
- Mon 9 Feb 2004 20:38:18


The launch of the 2004 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras season at Hyde Park, 6th February

Click to see them larger.
Photos by Greg - Mon 9 Feb 2004 23:17:54

Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"You Make The World Go Around" - Sandy B (1996)
.

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Pinkboard Jukebox - Tue 10 Feb 2004 00:09:43


Just curious ( so dont slag me for being nieve ) - Mon 9 Feb 2004 19:43:23
The answer to your question is simple.
Whilst i agree that having it as a dance space would be possible the fact is that Fox Studio simply wont allow it regardless of how much NMG ask. Call it stupid , call it dumb but thats just the way it is so lets accept it and move on. - Mon 9 Feb 2004 20:38:18

It's not just about the difference between walking, or sitting and dancing.
The Byron Kennedy Hall, (prev known as The Anthony Hordern building) "The Dome" building itself cannot withstand the rigours of continous loud music. Fox have restored it to Heritage requirements and are required to keep as such.

as per the Fox website: http://www.foxstudios.com.au/info/history.asp
>Conserved heritage items include:
The Byron Kennedy Hall: Built in 1924, this building was originally the Anthony Hordern department store. At showtime, it housed an enormous range, and visitors from the country would place orders for items to be sent to them. Later, it was used as a function centre, for meat displays and for events including the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras party. Its central dome, leadlights and jarrah flooring has been restored and upgraded and it is now regularly used as a function centre. <
>All buildings of exceptional heritage significance have been retained in whole or part, as have major roads and landscape areas.
A number of heritage items, previously identified for removal, have also been conserved.
Wherever possible, historic features have been kept and adapted for a new role. Retention of heritage elements is a recurrent theme across the Fox Studios Australia site. <
Nice to have the Dome at all, unfortunately not for dance parties - Tue 10 Feb 2004 00:12:46


Yeah I just went and saw the Sherry Vine Show tonight. I have to say it was very funny and entertaining. I think having the show at the Burdekin hotel on oxford street was much better than the seymour centre.But Sherry was very funny and entertaining and best of all, SHE DIDN't MIME! If only sydney drag queens would learn to grow a voice.
drag girl racer - Tue 10 Feb 2004 00:46:57
Hey,

Just went to the Sherry Vine Show the way of love and it is realy diferent to what she has done in past years. I loved it and I cant believe how good her voice is now.

I saw Sherry at the Launch walking around does anybody know why she did not go on stage?
Jacky - Tue 10 Feb 2004 01:07:39


I understand that NMG got told off, right & royally last year for having Gary T in the Dome - definitley no dancing in there this year.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 08:49:55
Without wishing to initiate any kind of extended debate, Is a sex space completely out of the question this year?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 10:49:37
yeah they got told off cause his music was so pedestrian
Mr Panties - Tue 10 Feb 2004 11:19:40
A friend in the States who monitors the crazy "Rev" Fred Phelps and his GodHatesFags website has just emailed me this:

I just got a News Release from Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church
Cult. They will be picketing THE LARAMIE PROJECT, at the "fag infested
University of Sydney -- Cellar Theatre, Holme Bldg., Science Rd., Sydney,
Australia, 8 p.m. Feb. 28 -- in religious protest & warning: 'God is not
mocked!' God Hates Fags! & Fag-Enablers! God hates THE
LARAMIE PROJECT and all associated with it, University of Sydney,&
Australia, Sodom in the Pacific!"

"The Laramie Project" is a play about the murder of Matthew Shepard and is running as part of the MG Festival. Fred Phelps is a homo-obsessed nutter based in Kansas. If he actually is turning up, we should too I think.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 11:59:45


Who is this Sherry vine perso everyone is talking about?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:02:56
Without wishing to initiate any kind of extended debate, Is a sex space completely out of the question this year?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 10:49:37

The answer is a resounding YES. It IS completely out of the question. Fox have said to NMG that if they want this sort of space then they can look for another place to have the party. Its as blunt as that. PERIOD.
This topic is now over. - Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:25:19


Who is this Sherry vine perso everyone is talking about?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:02:56

An incredibly talented cabaret performer who used to be based in New York, now lives in Berlin. She's performed at previous MG festivals, but always with her long-time stage partner Joey Arias so if I'm not mistaken this is her first solo show here. Sherry is not only an outragoues and hilarious artiste, but her alter ego, Keith, is also an incredibly friendly, down-to-earth young man who also happens to be very cute!

PS: I'm not her agent, I promise :0)
Sally Tomato - Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:34:39


A friend of mine saw Paulini walk into MG offices at Petersham yesterday.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:48:43
Mr Panties, for once I find myself disagreeing. He played the Patrick Cowley mix of I Feel Love while I was in there, and I actually forgave him for being pedestrian.
lovin' it - Tue 10 Feb 2004 13:24:24
The B52s are in town soon. Wouldn't that be a fabbo show in the Retro Hall? And today I can't get rid of an earworm of Stevie Wonder singing "Lately". Argh!

The Dome as chill out sounds like a great idea (lounges? comfy lounges?). I guess that means the picnic tables under the big tree and the veranda will be available too? Such a gorgeous place to sit and socialise.
Evil Twin - Tue 10 Feb 2004 13:59:28


yes - Fred Phelps and his God Hates Fags crew are trying to plan a picket of the SUDS production of the Laramie Project (part of the Mardi Gras festival):
http://www.godhatesfags.com/fliers/feb2004/Laramie_Australia_2-6-2004.pdf

I doubt if he'll be turning up in person, but you never know... don't know if they have any 'supportes' locally
CeeJay - Tue 10 Feb 2004 14:53:01


If only sydney drag queens would learn to grow a voice.
drag girl racer - Tue 10 Feb 2004 00:46:57

Cleopatra Coupe, Doreen Manganini, Courtney Act... we actually have several of them, equally as good/bad as Sherry, depending on your opinion of her.
I know my girls. - Tue 10 Feb 2004 14:53:15


yes I know & you fell off the table whilst trying to dance on it. perhaps you damaged the floor in Dome when you fell ? perhaps we should start pointing the finger at you for having it taken away from us ? perhaps perhaps perhaps
Mr Panties "tables are not made for dancing on !" - Tue 10 Feb 2004 14:59:56
Could it be William Hung (the She Bangs guy from American Idol 3) for MG?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 16:05:21
yes - Fred Phelps and his God Hates Fags crew are trying to plan a picket of the SUDS production of the Laramie Project (part of the Mardi Gras festival):
http://www.godhatesfags.com/fliers/feb2004/Laramie_Australia_2-6-2004.pdf
I doubt if he'll be turning up in person, but you never know... don't know if they have any 'supportes' locally
CeeJay - Tue 10 Feb 2004 14:53:01

= = = = = = = = = =

Would someone be kind enough to post the steps of “The Australian Waltzing Matilda Sodomite Death Dance!”

My dance-partner and I have been performing: step 2 3 4, jump-step 2 3 4, step ball-change, step ball-change, dip & spin, triple-toe-tap then big-finish jazz-hands – which I’ve found to be a quite a complicated yet seductive routine.

Fred has generously included a diagram of the routine for his follower(s) to identify. However, it clearly depicts two participants embraced in a unusual variation on a movement which looks like it’s been stolen from the Radio City Rockettes. His dancers are not wearing the correct costumes and are also waving accessories which I know for a fact are banned from professional competition.

I think it’s important that Fred is aware of the correct steps so we can be quickly & easily identified for future picketing.
.
Dan Murphy - Tue 10 Feb 2004 16:08:08


Several years ago the Dome was used as a chill-out space (needless to say I can't remember which actual party it was) and instead of the dance floor in the centre there was a huge, slowly revolving platform with sofas and armchairs on it...it was completely bizarre but kinda fun sitting there watching the Dome go round and round, well, that is until a combination of water bottles and beer cans on the floor jammed the mechanism. Anybody else remember that? (I'm positive it happened and I wasn't just tripping!!)
Captn Snooze - Tue 10 Feb 2004 16:59:43
Heard a rumour that the rush on early bird tickets means that there may be a sell out situation in the making ! Yipee NMG !
Winky - Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:01:08
Cleopatra Coupe, Doreen Manganini, Courtney Act... we actually have several of them, equally as good/bad as Sherry, depending on your opinion of her.
I know my girls. - Tue 10 Feb 2004 14:53:15

you're so right. and whatever happened to the Black Eena? That cabaret space she ran a few years back at MG was totally insane.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:01:12


For more info on Sherry Vine or any of the other events in this years festival go to the Mardi Gras website.
Jacky - Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:07:14
Heard a rumour that the rush on early bird tickets means that there may be a sell out situation in the making ! Yipee NMG !
Winky - Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:01:08

Was this posted by some NMG droid trying to get more people to buy tickets early? Or is this really the case and should we all be rushing out to buy our tickets ASAP? Is there someone in the know who can enlighten us???
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:53:48


Would someone be kind enough to post the steps of ?The Australian Waltzing Matilda Sodomite Death Dance!?

I suspect that Fred thinks that Waltzing Matilda is a lesbian line dance.

I'd love it if these freakazoids turn up to a festival event to advise us that "Matthew Shepard is burning in hell." It would be the last time that they do.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 17:59:39


The answer is a resounding YES. It IS completely out of the question. Fox have said to NMG that if they want this sort of space then they can look for another place to have the party. Its as blunt as that. PERIOD.
This topic is now over. - Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:25:19

This topic is NEVER over. We might just create a space ourselves of course - whereever we happen to be. Good news about the Dome chillout though, especially if there are tables and chairs outside. And even wonderfuller if wecan sit on the grass slope nearby. Please dear NMG!
Paul Diamondo - Tue 10 Feb 2004 18:48:31


Paul Diamondo - Tue 10 Feb 2004 18:48:31

If you think that Fox will allow a sex space to mysteriously start up somewhere during the night then you can totally expect Fox security to break it up and disperse any form of gathering. Its just NOT going to be allowed to happen.
This topic is now definitely over. - Tue 10 Feb 2004 19:52:50


Just a reminder to those who are still debating when to get their tickets. They are $99 until Friday.
Arti - Tue 10 Feb 2004 20:50:14
Who is this Sherry vine perso everyone is talking about?
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:02:56

An incredibly talented cabaret performer who used to be based in New York, now lives in Berlin. She's performed at previous MG festivals, but always with her long-time stage partner Joey Arias so if I'm not mistaken this is her first solo show here. Sherry is not only an outragoues and hilarious artiste, but her alter ego, Keith, is also an incredibly friendly, down-to-earth young man who also happens to be very cute!

PS: I'm not her agent, I promise :0)
Sally Tomato - Tue 10 Feb 2004 12:34:39

I saw her a couple of years ago at the Seymour Centre. It was only about a 3rd full and most of the people there seemed to be on comps from SGLMG. It was a very very ordinary performance - and made me wonder why it was in a big theatre like that. Perhaps this is one of the financially disasterous festival events that caused the demise of the SGLMG?

Glad she wasn't at launch! Would have been the same tired old stuff methinks. It's that old style drag with little original or up to date content.
Go Local - Tue 10 Feb 2004 23:24:38


I think it was a Hand in Hand you are referring to with the revolving floor in Dome. They usually used the space as a chillout.
- Tue 10 Feb 2004 23:59:22
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Sex" - Vicky Shepherd featuring Sleaze Sisters (1995)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Wed 11 Feb 2004 00:32:23


Pride NYE 1999 or 2000 did the Dome as a chillout and had all these white vinyl-covered highbed/lounges - it was such a fantastic use of the space

please NMG
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 01:01:59


Hand in Hand used to use the Carousel Bar as the party chillout
they used to construct a tunnel from the Hordern (or was it the RHI) to get you there without freezing your spandex arse off.
(gosh I'm old)

PS Sherry Vine was sweet, it's a nice cabaret show and a different taste to Sydney drag. The Burdekin 'theatre' is just right.
nice night out - Wed 11 Feb 2004 01:37:34


Does anybody know of any Gay Sydney Harbour Cruises between 4-9 March. We had one booked but our travel arrangements we had, and payed for, are now gone due to the company going bankrupt.
Paul - Wed 11 Feb 2004 02:32:15
Paul,
Pity you're not in town a couple of weeks earlier for the Mardi Gras Festival 'Cruising @ Sea':
http://www.mardigras.org.au/MardiGras2004/Events/Social.htm#CruisingSea
CeeJay - Wed 11 Feb 2004 11:03:50
It was Hand in Hand, not Pride, that had that vinyl lounges too.
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 11:49:48
William Hung for Mardi Gras.

http://www.williamhung.net
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 13:45:33


Paul Diamondo - thanks for a dose of sanity and perspective on this ongoing argument. It certainly ain't over and autocratic comments from those claiming that this issue has been resolved call for an appropriate response. Rememmber Buck Naked once setting up in the Horden toilets??? Maybe its time for a similar gesture
Sex Fiend - Wed 11 Feb 2004 13:55:49
Sex Fiend - Wed 11 Feb 2004 13:55:49

Are you just a little bit slow or just plain silly.

No means No.

Fox Studios own the space we rent out for Mardi Gras & Sleaze ball. We operate exclusively under their rules. If we break those rules future parties at this venue are put into serious jeopardy. If Fox Studios Say No to a sex space thats the **END** of the issue. Period.

Stop trying to flog a dead horse. Its a pointless exercise.

If you want a sex space at these parties please feel free to go out and explore this city for another suitable venue because it aint happening at Fox whilst Fox are in charge.
Is that blunt enough for you ?? - Wed 11 Feb 2004 14:32:45


"If you want a sex space at these parties please feel free to go out and explore this city for another suitable venue because it aint happening at Fox whilst Fox are in charge. Is that blunt enough for you ?? - Wed 11 Feb 2004 14:32:45"

ACON and MG have been engaged in ongoing discussions with Fox/Playbill about a sex space. I guess we'll have to wait for the outcome. Whatever, I think it's a bit early to rule the concept dead forever - and definitely a bit on the nose to have some queen screeching about the "stupidity" of people daring to discuss it here.
WatchThisSpace - Wed 11 Feb 2004 15:48:19


I've bought my tics & will be going but Gawd knows where i can find somewhere good to dance at present. Does anyone know whether Dome or City Live will be used as dance venues? Only i much prefer these spaces to the music policy and massive halls of the RHI & Hordern whoch are so impersonal and lacking in atmosphere.

Can we have an RnB/Soulful House room by any chance?!
Global x - Wed 11 Feb 2004 16:38:50


Hey global x, City Live (stage 11) will be the pinkboard hall! Heaps of late 80s and mid 90s retro all night long!! Check justin scott's definition of retro. All up! All fun! All gay gay gay! Dome will be a chillout, and will have a smaller sound system so people cant go too crazy. No you cant have a soulful house room!! Its mardi gras sweetie!
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 16:49:31
Mardi Gras may well have been and continue to be in discussions with Fox Studios over the possibility of a sex space. The sheer fact of the matter is that these so called "discussions" have been "allegedly" going on for nearly 18 months and Mardi Gras have gotten absolutely nowhere on this topic.

To me that sounds like this is a lost cause.

We keep getting our hopes up and keep getting let down. Its high time we all woke up to ourselves and realized that Fox will not relent on this topic and sex spaces on this particular site are now most definitely a thing of the past.

Things change. People change. Lets show a bit of maturity on this issue and realize that if we want to have our parties survive at Fox then we must accept the decision of the umpire who (unfortunately) has told us that this sort of space on the site that they own is now simply not allowed.

Arguing that its "our right" to choose to perform public sex acts on somebody elses property is one of the most laughable arguments I have ever heard.
Some people just cant let go - Wed 11 Feb 2004 17:04:26


Relief: The Australian Idol tour will be playing sat, 7 Feb 2004 at the Rod Laver Stadium, Melbourne the night of Mardi Gras. No Paulini, No Guy, No Shannon and No Courtney. Phew... That was close!!!
bEATKID!! - Wed 11 Feb 2004 17:51:20
Does anybody know of any Gay Sydney Harbour Cruises between 4-9 March. We had one booked but our travel arrangements we had, and payed for, are now gone due to the company going bankrupt.
Paul - Wed 11 Feb 2004 02:32:15

Hey Paul... You're in luck! From the Sydney Leather Pride Association's (SLPA)Web Site:

2004 SLPA Mardi Gras Harbour Cruise!

Vessel - PROCLAIM
Date - Thursday, 04 March
Wharf Times - Man O'War E. 7.00 pm departure
Man O'War E. 11.30 pm Setdown

Come and have fun with lots of sexy men and women on our 2004 SLPA Mardi Gras Harbour Cruise!

Alchohol sold on board, Fist finger food served

DJ: Justin Scott
Cost
Members:$45
Non Members $60
Members can purchase 1 member price ticket and 3 non-member price tickets
DSP Concession $45

Busses will be waiting to take party guests back to Oxford Street following the event.

More info at: http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/harbourcruise.html
JS - Wed 11 Feb 2004 18:42:20


Does anyone know whether Dome or City Live will be used as dance venues? Only i much prefer these spaces to the music policy and massive halls of the RHI & Hordern whoch are so impersonal and lacking in atmosphere.
Can we have an RnB/Soulful House room by any chance?!

+++++++++++++++++++++++

I hope you are just being cheeky, because these questions have been discussed ad nauseum on this board for ages (excepting the RnB/soulful house bit). I think you might find that the Dome might feature music like this at some point but don't try to dance to it because you will get a big wrist slap from security.

after hearing the up and coming djs the other dj, one can only hope that Nicole Phillips (is that her last name) gets picked, and someone gets Sista P back for the outdoor space lest every dj in that space bombards us with arq handbag / ruby trance, or people like this poster go insane for lack of house and more relaxed/intimate club beats. since the RHI has that sound covered, city live is ghettro, the hordern is the dome, would be great to hear something funky outdoor like this person wanted
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 18:57:29


bEATKID!! - Wed 11 Feb 2004 17:51:20

bEATKID I luv you. You've made my night :o)
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 19:22:00


You truly can forget about the sex space. Its all tied up with the licencing laws and doubtless would now be tied up with Public Liability laws.
Dont blame Fox , Done blame NMG - its......the.......law.

Now sexfiend , if you are new to the scene , there as been enough sex going if you want it without demanding a dedicted space. Only when the dedicated space
showed itself did all these problems arise ( appropriate word ). You can always find a cubicle, dark corner , even a little group in the middle of the floor.

So please people dont scream/demand/whinge/moan as you simply wont get it. Just
be discreet about it and you wont have a problem and you'll have a great time.
They are only following the law - Wed 11 Feb 2004 20:27:29


bEATKID!! - Wed 11 Feb 2004 17:51:20
wouldn't those Idol concert shows finish nice and early for the youngsters attending? plenty of time to jump a flight for a 3am show methinks.
- Wed 11 Feb 2004 21:30:24
We want you!

The official 2004 Mardi Gras Marching Group

You don't have to have experience, you just need enthusiasm, commitment to rehearsals (over two weeks prior to Parade) and the ability to shimmy glamorously for an hour or two. Everyone is welcome. This is your chance to be part of one of the world's truly wonderful street parades and experience the elation of 300,000 people cheering you on!

Contact parade@mardigras.org.au
David N - Wed 11 Feb 2004 22:32:16


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"A Redletter Day" - PetShop Boys (1996)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Thu 12 Feb 2004 02:47:11


"plenty of time to jump a flight for a 3am show methinks."
thankfully not with sydney airports curfew.
ground control to ranger stacey - Thu 12 Feb 2004 08:46:31
Sherry Vine's cabaret is great.
You go girlfriend!!!
- Thu 12 Feb 2004 09:01:39
Dear bEATKID,

ummm, sorry to disappoint you however Mardi Gras is March not February and the Idol concerts have been and gone. Seriously though, Paulini et al have been flogged aroung this town and country for long enough, why oh why do do we receive mostly second or sorry third rat acts at our parties, quite frankly i'd rather have no-one that some has been before they even were. If there is going to be a guest performer lets hope its someone who actually has a career and a good one at that, to be honest i dont think we will ever see Paulinni (sorry darl) become a star, so why should we get her at Mardi Gras, please we can see her in five years time performing two bit cabaret songs at Rooty Hill RSL with free entry so dont be so tacky and have her at Mardi Gras. Lets see, she's done ARQ, Divastated NYE,and probably the Rock Eistedford.And what the hell would she sing, a cover of Dont Leave Me this Way, You make me feel mighty real, cause if she does I"m gonna throw up, hopefully over her.
me - Thu 12 Feb 2004 09:50:00


Those wanting a backroom at mardi gras should cab it to Kens sauna. A short trip to kensington from FOX, youll be back in time to find your friends before they get suspect. Special guest djs from baddog are booked to play over the Mardi Gras week.
security will pull up your pants - Thu 12 Feb 2004 10:49:39
The RHI 3am show has absolutely NOTHING to do with ANY of the pop Idol entrants.

Its an all gay affair.
- Thu 12 Feb 2004 16:47:11


Actually some of those security guys are really hot.
Paul D - Thu 12 Feb 2004 17:47:59
Sex Fiend, I keep on saying this and everyone agrees. It's a crazy thing to discuss in the public domain
the better part of valour - Thu 12 Feb 2004 19:38:34
Sex spaces are not all they are cracked up to be anyway. From memory at MG/Sleaze they are pretty dark, the sex space at BEYOND (Melb) last week was pitch black... groaping hands and tripping over guys on their knees aint my idea of sex, but then again I'm a visual sort of guy. God knows the horrors that lurk in the darkness. Best let it be so as the party doesn't attract the attention of the sex natzies from the LLB. I'm sure like minds on the night will attract and some level of descretion will prevail... cruising and brief encounters in corners and cubicles are the stuff of sexual excitement... good enough for me.
Xane - Thu 12 Feb 2004 19:42:44
>>>Rememmber Buck Naked once setting up in the Horden toilets???

God yeah...! Oh what a night. That would be fab-oh...
- Thu 12 Feb 2004 19:45:30


>>>>> Does anybody know of any Gay Sydney Harbour Cruises between 4-9 March. We had one booked but our travel arrangements we had, and payed for, are now gone due to the company going bankrupt.
Paul - Wed 11 Feb 2004 02:32:15

Paul.. The Bears have one as part of the BE8 celebrations with separate tix available. Go to the bears tent at Fair Day or www.hcbears.com if Bears don't scare you too much. Leather Pride has one as well.
Xane - Thu 12 Feb 2004 19:48:58


A little bird sat upon my shoulder at the launch and told me of what the shows were at the party (please skip the rest of this message if you dont like spoilers). First show - Courtney Act - Rub Me Wrong - credible to me considering the upcoming release of her new song and amazing video clip! Second show Crystal Waters - My Time - credible as she is also 'attending' an outdoor party (!) the weekend prior. Finally our new diva Paulina (Oz Idol)... not sure what the song was mentioned, though can you imagine?!? The little bird said no more and was gone leaving me to ponder!

Even if this is all not true the spirit of the shows is upon us again!

Happy Mardi Gras!

Blue Bird.
BBx - Thu 12 Feb 2004 20:11:06


I was and still am excited about the RETRO space but the RHI appeals also -it always has a great atmosphere for me when its PACKED(ooh yeah!) i just cant decide -but u know what-i dont care where i end up coz im gunna have the best time ever!!!i cant wait-all the whiners can blow it out their a#*$e-but can some one tell me showtimes when and where plz
RETRO BOY - Thu 12 Feb 2004 20:12:00
I'm sure like minds on the night will attract and some level of descretion will prevail... cruising and brief encounters in corners and cubicles are the stuff of sexual excitement... good enough for me.
Xane - Thu 12 Feb 2004 19:42:44
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
spot on Xane-its the way to go-now stop whinging and concentrate on the fun u will have and not moaning about whats not there.
RETRO BOY - Thu 12 Feb 2004 20:18:35
RETRO BOY,

I'm very glad that there are people like you who are ramping up the excitement in regards to Stage 11 on mardi gras night. Jake , Justin & myself are getting very close to working out what fabby tunes from the 90's and 80's to play for you all. Its getting very hard culling our lists down to only about 35 tunes each (based on about 11 songs per hour).

Just remember we need your support on the night right to the very end. If at 7am the place is still full theres a fair chance that Stage 11 could be extended past 7am - but thats up to you and its a decision that will be made on the night depending on numbers.

Its still not too late to nominate your requests for the night. If you feel a bit sheepish about posting it here feel free to email me direct - stephens_inbox@hotmail.com

Only 3 and a bit weeks to go , its getting very exciting.
Stephen Blomfield (on behalf of the Stage 11 DJ's at MG2004) - Thu 12 Feb 2004 20:30:03


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Gonna Catch You" - Lonnie Gordon (1991)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Fri 13 Feb 2004 03:15:53
Went to my first local Mardi Gras production of the season (after Dionne and the SSO) - Falsettos at New Theatre. I'll admit my bias and say this was already one of my favourite shows, and the 1994 STC production was the first Mardi Gras event I ever went to. But having said that, this cast and production is fantastic (as you would expect from the New Theatre's Mardi Gras offering). Great music well sung.

It's a wonderful show about not just sexuality but the importance of family - the ones we're born into and the ones we form for ourselves with our friends and lovers. It's running Wed-Sunday the entire length of the festival.

http://www.mardigras.org.au/MardiGras2004/Events/Theatre.htm#Falsettos
CeeJay - Fri 13 Feb 2004 10:06:42


Sai Baba visited me last night in my sleep and said to expect a Paulini-Marcia duet.

On another matter, does anyone else reckon that Justin Scott looks like Justin Timberlake?
How many more pills to Mardi Gras - Fri 13 Feb 2004 13:20:19


FREE TICKETS: Sherry Vine in “The Way of Love”

Aussie Boys at 102 Oxford St Darlinghurst Have an extra 20 tickets for Tonight's(13th Feb) and tomorrows (14th Feb) Shows.

We are giving these extra tickets away but they are on a first in first served basis only and so please don’t call ahead to reserve any.

So if you and your friends want to see the show the time to get your tickets is now! This is a great Mardi Gras Event not to be missed
Aussie Boys - Fri 13 Feb 2004 13:27:44


>>>>>> does anyone else reckon that Justin Scott looks like Justin Timberlake?
How many more pills to Mardi Gras - Fri 13 Feb 2004 13:20:19
Now thats just nasty! Justins ok, so stop having a go at him. Sarcasm is soooo 2001/02
- Fri 13 Feb 2004 15:24:28
No B52s at Mardi Gras. Awwwwww.
Hear Kate Pierson squash the rumours herself!
http://www.maynard.com.au/index2.htm
- Fri 13 Feb 2004 15:54:21
i'm almost beside myself (could be interesting) about the retro stage 11..... how bout 'make it on my own' - alison limerick? 'joy' staxx of joy or 'slice me nice' - fancy
oh boy oh boy oh boy
xxxxx
canardlywait - Fri 13 Feb 2004 16:56:16
**** Went to see Out in the Open last night at the Darlinghurst Theatre and really enjoyed it. It is about a man who's lover has died and who finds a new love. There is a twist, or two. The play was was written by Jonothan Harvey, who also wrote Beautiful Thing. It is a great story that is well acted. Go and see it.
Arti - Fri 13 Feb 2004 17:52:50
Stephen Blomfield,
Thanx for your kind words.I find it so unreal that you guys are happy to take requests-without blabbing on it really gives a community feel to everything knowing that you are really trying to give us punters what we want.As for my requests nothing in particular(away from parties i dont get into dance music too much)but I do feel the early 80's was the golden age for me-Can u do anything with The Smiths-The Housemartins or that ilk-otherwise im sure you could feature Depeche Mode(i feel loved)OMD(enola gay)ABC-JOY DIVISION-HUMAN LEAGUE-GARY NUMAN-SPANDAU BALLET-ETC ETC
Will the music be along those lines or will it be more bubble gum type stuff.
Would appreciate your thoughts,
cheers
RETRO BOY - Fri 13 Feb 2004 17:59:14
Stephen Blomfield,
Thanx for your kind words.I find it so unreal that you guys are happy to take requests-without blabbing on it really gives a community feel to everything knowing that you are really trying to give us punters what we want.As for my requests nothing in particular(away from parties i dont get into dance music too much)but I do feel the early 80's was the golden age for me-Can u do anything with The Smiths-The Housemartins or that ilk-otherwise im sure you could feature Depeche Mode(i feel loved)OMD(enola gay)ABC-JOY DIVISION-HUMAN LEAGUE-GARY NUMAN-SPANDAU BALLET-ETC ETC
Will the music be along those lines or will it be more bubble gum type stuff.
Would appreciate your thoughts,
cheers
RETRO BOY - Fri 13 Feb 2004 18:00:53
no way !

richard weiss and luke leal are the best looking dj's in sydney. I wanna watch them go at it like poodles in season
dr bellows - Fri 13 Feb 2004 18:25:22


Xane - your a breath of fresh and your post same as mine.

D-i-s-c-r-e-t-i-o-n is the word...........it was never a problem till the dedicated sex space showed itself.
We've been having sex without the space for the last 20 years.
Why people of today need a sign pointing it out to them is beyond me.

Thanks for the "possible" shows . Can we have times ? I hate the crush so want to cut down on the time I have to stand around waiting wasting my time . You cant even dance for at least 30 mins prior to a show because of the crush.
Just not my cup of tea - Fri 13 Feb 2004 19:13:01


Just listened to the B52 interview. Pity they aren't going to be at the party. They would have been great. I will make a request however. Please play something from the B52s. Love Shack is great. So is Rock Lobster. But my fave is always Planet Claire, where all the trees are red.
Arti - Fri 13 Feb 2004 20:40:16
i'm almost beside myself (could be interesting) about the retro stage 11..... how bout 'make it on my own' - alison limerick? 'joy' staxx of joy or 'slice me nice' - fancy
oh boy oh boy oh boy
xxxxx
canardlywait - Fri 13 Feb 2004 16:56:16

2 out those 3 will definitely be played.
JK - Fri 13 Feb 2004 22:18:14


Will the music be along those lines or will it be more bubble gum type stuff.
Would appreciate your thoughts,
cheers
RETRO BOY - Fri 13 Feb 2004 17:59:14

Stage 11 should be a mixture of all styles of commercial tracks from the 80's and 90's and classic club tunes from the same era. I don't think there is too much in the way of neuromantic stuff on our lists so far (eg: Smiths, Joy Division etc), but there will probably be plenty of music to your liking.
JK - Fri 13 Feb 2004 22:22:14


Just not my cup of tea...

Don't ya reckon that advertising the show times just might cause the crush you're talking about?
- Fri 13 Feb 2004 22:24:48


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Rescue Me" - Madonna (1990)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Sat 14 Feb 2004 00:06:18


What does the Mardi gras poster mean, rings and butterflies?
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 02:37:27
It looks like Stage 11 is going to be VERY popular.....I hope you all don't have to queue to get in....
Sardine - Sat 14 Feb 2004 09:12:23
Sardine - Sat 14 Feb 2004 09:12:23

Stage 11 only holds about 2,000 people at the most. The popularity of this venue on Mardi Gras night very may well result in large queues throughout the evening.

Best result is to get to the party very early, explore the other venues early but then get into Stage 11 early to avoid any line ups. I know an awful lot of people that are going to stay in Stage 11 all night. That sort of attitude if spread across the entire attendance on the night means those queues to get into Stage 11 may not move very quickly.

If you enjoy that sort of music then its definitely gonna be a case of arrive early to avoid disappointment.
I hate queues - Sat 14 Feb 2004 09:36:41


- Fri 13 Feb 2004 22:24:48 - yes true but at least I can time myself by getting
in just before the doors close. Tried too many times dancing in RHI around midnight which then becomes impossible to dance so you just shuffle for another 30-45 mins to show time. If show is at 12:30 then would much rather bolt from the Hordern around 12:20 only waste 10mins standing to watch the show.
Times would help cut down on the waiting time - Sat 14 Feb 2004 10:44:07
Glad to hear that so many people are planning to dance in Stage 11. Maybe there will be more room to dance in the RHI for the rest of us for once....
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 13:07:35
>>>>>>richard weiss and luke leal are the best looking dj's in sydney. I wanna watch them go at it like poodles in season
Now thats really nasty, calling Richard and Luke poodles...
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 13:25:05
"What does the Mardi gras poster mean, rings and butterflies?
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 02:37:27"

I think it means that NMG has decided to avoid The Great Poster War of Sleaze 03 by going for something bland, generic, innocuous, and inoffensive. Even the pickiest queen would be hard-pressed to get worked-up about Pride rings and butterflies.... ;-)
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 15:29:39


The Blue dj article was a winner. Peter Fam looks hot, pitty he looks like such a tosser playing turntables with NO needles (doh!) and no leads comming out of the mixer. Mike Kelly looks a leather boii, almost drag king. Buck Naked looks a little unwell, and what's with the hair extensions... dj drag?. Seymour Butz looks sleazy - too much furr! Mr Flynn looks like a mean mother. Shekeki is a cutie. Great to see a few of them headed Mardi Gras way.
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 18:39:13
JK
thanx for general direction of the sounds that will be available in Stage 11 Jake
RETRO BOY - Sat 14 Feb 2004 19:30:47
What does the Mardi gras poster mean, rings and butterflies?
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 02:37:27

I think I read this somewhere...correct me if I'm wrong..

The rings are Freedom Rings (originally designed by David Spada with the Rainbow Flag in mind, they are six coloured aluminum rings. They have come to symbolize independence and tolerance of others).
The butterflies are meant to represent the metamorphosis of old mardi gras into new mardi gras.
chris - Sat 14 Feb 2004 21:11:32


aren't the shows normally staged at the end of a DJ's set?
chris - Sat 14 Feb 2004 21:19:30
chris - Sat 14 Feb 2004 21:19:30

Shows in the norm traditionally have been at the point where two DJ's changeover and its definitely the preferred option for most DJ's however this is not always the case and in recent years its been quite common for a show to be placed right in the middle of a DJ's set. Sorry, i know that doesnt answer your question exactly but Mardi Gras in recent years has been very keen not to be "predictable" with its show times :)
a dj - Sat 14 Feb 2004 23:23:53


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Show Me" - Dana Dawson (1996)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Sun 15 Feb 2004 08:50:52


Perhaps NMG should consider putting some speakers outside of Stage 11 so that the people stuck in the queue still have a chance to hear the music.

Or is that just plain mean?
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 08:57:54


Sun 15 Feb 2004 08:57:54

Thats actually a very very good idea.
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 10:33:51


I like the idea of speakers outside of Stage 11, would reduce any queuing induced anxiety and also may encourage more flow from inside and outside of the space (when people get too hot in Stage 11 they may be more likely to head outside to cool down for a while if they can still hear the music outside. This would of course allow more people to go in).
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 11:37:31
Lets hope Stage 11 proves to be that popular :)

and I aint being mean. Actually from memory , no matter what has been in
Stage 11 , there has always been a queue at some stage of the night as I remember doing the e walk checking out all the halls and usually bypass Stage
11 due to its queues.
Right or wrong ? - Sun 15 Feb 2004 12:04:22


Well it looks like this years festival is a flop. Due to lack of support a number of festival events are not going to break even. I just herd that the Seymour Centre and the opera House are on shocking and low numbers along with some Oxford street venues.

People without your support next year there will be no festival. That will be the end of an era. How can we have this festival each year with lack of support?

Why do you think many of the events are failing this year? Only the Saunas and Nightclubs seem to be having any luck.
Festival onlooker - Sun 15 Feb 2004 13:19:29
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.


Saw Kooky Tunes @ Kabarett Voltaire on Friday night. Very silly collection of songs (as the name suggests) - great fun, with a fantastic cast - Sharon Millerchip, Eddie Perfect, Kaye Tuckerman and Andrew Benson, with Musical Director Greg Crease. The audience loved it.
http://www.mardigras.org.au/MardiGras2004/Events/Cabaret.htm#KookyTunes
CeeJay - Sun 15 Feb 2004 13:27:45
chris - Sat 14 Feb 2004 21:19:30

Was it last year that the thank you for Paul Goodyear and the announcemnet of the next dj occurred after the show but Paul Goodyear was only half way through his set.
chant - Sun 15 Feb 2004 14:02:49


"Well it looks like this years festival is a flop. Due to lack of support a number of festival events are not going to break even. I just herd that the Seymour Centre and the opera House are on shocking and low numbers along with some Oxford street venues. Festival onlooker - Sun 15 Feb 2004 13:19:29"

The Festival has been running for a week. There's 3 weeks to go, so naming it a "flop" (financial? artistic?)at this point might be a bit premature. I think it's important to remember that MG Festivals don't make money, they spend it. Which is why we have those two big fundraising dance parties........
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 14:43:53


Festival onlooker,
I don't think it's a problem exclusive to the festival (as the cancellation of a very heavily promoted, big budget production of The Full Monty would indicate). I don't think it's across the board either: Belinda Lemon's Bette Midler show sold out and another date was added (and at $99 it's certainly not the cheapest event in the festival). I believe Kooky Tunes is very well booked (it was totally packed when I saw it on Friday night). I don't know anything about the venues you mentioned, so I can't comment.

I think part of it is the increasing trend for people not to book ahead and either turn up at the door or use lastminute, halftix etc (which btw has has some great festival fare on offer, such as Out in the Open and Sherry Vine). Also, this festival has over 100 events: that's more than double both last year's festival as well as the much more heavily hyped Festival of Sydney. Also, being an umbrella festival, there's no centralised booking for festival events. I'm sure some of the negative press about the festival launch hasn't helped (I'm not sure how the event that gets called 'great', 'stunnning', 'enjoyable', and 'thumbs up' by pinkboarders got the reaction it did in SX in particular). I don't think that was particularly helpful... That's just a couple of thoughts - my opinion only!

But I agree: if you want a viable festival, get out there and get your bums on seats! And tell your friends ( or even better, take them with you)!
CeeJay - Sun 15 Feb 2004 14:46:50


re
- Sat 14 Feb 2004 18:39:13

pinkboard request:
buck naked and mike kelly at my place... just saw blue - woof!
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 14:59:19


Festival Onlooker - give it a chance, this is only the first week.

You cannot deem it a flop because some events are not selling. Same thing is happening in straight theatre as well. As someone mentioned one show is not even making it to Sydney.
For the first time we are really giving Queer Screen a good go. I'm seeing 3 movies and friends are seeing 4,5,6 movies. I would love to see Belinda Lemon but I dont like having to pay for dinner as well so we passed on her. Pity they could not have given us some show only nights ( hint, hint ).
Besides not all the events make a profit anyway. Its people like you who slag
the dance party only crowd but its the profit from these events that help you
get your festival.
Its called different strokes for different folks baby. What you enjoy is not
necessarily what others enjoy.
So wait for the end of the Festival before you stick the knife in.
Just be nice - Sun 15 Feb 2004 15:36:27


I must agree with a previous comment that it would be an excellent idea to have speakers outside the door near the queue at Stage 11 during the night. Ive even written to Mardi Gras myself to suggest this.
Brian J - Sun 15 Feb 2004 17:00:13
Umm.. one point: the festival *isn't* subsidised by the party anymore. It's an umbrella festival: every performer/promoter takes all the financial risk with putting on their event. There are no million dollar budgets for the festival anymore, it's financed purely by bums on seats and whatever sponsorhip the individual event promoters can drum up. Even Launch has to pay its own way.

Given the financial risk the event organisers have to take (not to mention the hassles with public liability insurance!) I think it's amazing we've got a festival as diverse as we have. Make the most of it everyone and *please* support the people who are supporting our community.

Oh, and I agree, a show-only Belinda Lemon/Bette concert would be fantastic - maybe with the choir!

...and I hear Kooky Tunes got a standing ovation (two, including the second curtain call) at its opening night last night, and some performances are already sold out.
CeeJay - Sun 15 Feb 2004 17:40:16


Does anybody know of any Gay Sydney Harbour Cruises between 4-9 March. We had one booked but our travel arrangements we had, and payed for, are now gone due to the company going bankrupt. Paul - Wed 11 Feb 2004 02:32:15

SLPA Harbour Cruise is on Thursday 4 March 7pm
tix are available from the SLPA Stall at Fair Day
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/harbourcruise.html
- Sun 15 Feb 2004 23:22:42


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Jump To The Beat" - Dannii Minogue (1991)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Mon 16 Feb 2004 00:05:42


It's amazing after all the backlash about the sleaze ball poster.
New Mardi Gras needs to be congratulated on handling the poster for this years campaign, clearly someone has shown them what they were doing wrong.
well done.
JR - Mon 16 Feb 2004 00:34:10
"Umm.. one point: the festival *isn't* subsidised by the party anymore"

If you include the Parade/Fair Day and other infrastructure-heavy umbrella events as Festival events, I think that "non-subsidisation" looks like accountancy theory rather than reality-based practice. Still, I agree that NMG has done some hard and effective yards in ensuring a new financial integrity in event management.

Realistically however NMG couldn't do it without the parties. No-one could mount a major arts and cultural festival without significant external funding support be it government grant, corporate funding or dance parties - in our case.
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 08:47:35


re: B'52's at MG Party, It would not be the first time a Performer has stated that they are not performing at the Party and then have done...It is meant to be a surprise and Obviously MG would have told them not to advertise the fact that they are performing
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 09:48:16
i sincerely hope that any rumour about courtney act doing a show (her new single) is unfounded. it kind of makes sense to have her - but i think it is essential for a show only to include a well known song, otherwise you have no connection at all. It was like last year when those four singers who had recorded a Mardi Gras single did their show - they were ok, but nobody knew the song (i can't EVER remember it being played on a mainstream radio station and there was probably not a video clip ever made for Channel V or MTV or whatever)
I'm kind of looking forward to the party, but must say that this year's MG seems to be a bit of a dud. The launch set the tone for me - somehow MG succeeded in making being gay seem dreary and depressing and BORING as all hell!
Mon Avis - Mon 16 Feb 2004 10:34:31
Mon Avis - Mon 16 Feb 2004 10:34:31

You must be right about it being boring: there hasn't been a single post from Countdownboy since before the launch!
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 11:17:54


I'm off to QLD for Mardi Gras with all of our friends..... Over the last few months oxford street has turned into a Feral circus, with all of our clubs/pubs being taken over by these creatures... It is looking very dreary and always looks dirty. And as for the Taylor Square improvement, what an absolute flop and waste of money that was....

God knows what the crowd at the party will look like...


EEK!! Best you take some tranquilizers...
Hope everyone enjoys the Mardi gras circus!! - Mon 16 Feb 2004 13:52:56


It amuses me in the utmost that just because I haven't reminded you all that there is 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! 19 days to mardi Gras !! that somebody can claim this years event to be "boring".

Why does everyone always rely on me :P
countdownboy - Mon 16 Feb 2004 15:07:49


Wayne G's website lists the Malcolm Stewart party as an upcoming gig.

Of course Twisted Queen at MS and Azure are listed.

He's also listed as playing at Heaven in London on MG night - so guess his cute face and even better arse won't be spotted at recoveries.

Also read in DNA how he helped Michal Nicolas with his career.
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 15:11:56


Just noticed that the up and coming DJ's have been announced on the MG website.

10pm - Dan Murphy (House Anthems)
12am - Guy Hornsey (Trance)
2am - William Silva (Trance)
4am - Daniel Hannan (Funky)
6am to Close - Nicole Phillips and Paul Lillie (UK) Back 2 Back (Funky House)

Looks like we have another regular Pinkboarder playing at the party! Cangratulations to you all especially Dan Murphy!
GT - Mon 16 Feb 2004 18:17:16


Congrats Dan Murphy - Welcome to "The Club" :P

Enjoy the experience - it'll be one of the best nights of your life !
Stephen Blomfield - Mon 16 Feb 2004 18:21:27


The song was something like
Don't forget your water
FiremanSam - Mon 16 Feb 2004 19:36:10
(I'm not sure how the event that gets alled 'great', 'stunnning', 'enjoyable', and 'thumbs up' by pinkboarders got the reaction it did in SX in particular). I don't think that was particularly helpful... That's just a couple of thoughts - my opinion only! ...CeeJay - Sun 15 Feb 2004 14:46:50

I agree - the coverage by SX seems to have been quite unhelpful repeatedly. The dissed MG about female DJs - I think it was about 1 female sydney dj or something - and seemed to have ignored the stuff you would expect em to cover like the up and coming dj spinoff etc. And the letters column this week was a bit one sided. Do they have an axe to grind as it seems very tainted editorial, does anyone know why this is happening?
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 22:28:48


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Hold On" - Happy Clappers (1995)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Tue 17 Feb 2004 00:05:55


My suggestions for Retro setlists (SOOO can't wait):

Mel 'n' Kim 'Respectable'
Grace Jones 'Pull up to the Bumper'
Chaka Khan 'I'm every Woman' (of course!)
Donna & Barbara 'Enough is Enough - No More Tears'
Jestofunk 'Say it Again'
Man Parrish Man to Man 'Male Stripper'
New Order 'Bizzare Love Triangle'

It's a shame that it's at Stage 11 - while it's a cute venue, Retro demands that we Dance! not Pose - and that dance floor is just toooo small. Speakers outside would help, but better to move it to the Hordern - I really wouldn't be surprised if it paid off!

Of course, it would be risky to do that, but my mail is that Stage 11 is all anyone's talking about this year. (Pity Dome's not available - that would've been perfect!)

I could go on and on...but I won't!

Have a FANTASTIC Mardi Gras everybody - and remember, you only get out what you put in!!
chalky - Tue 17 Feb 2004 00:28:59


SPEAKERS OUTSIDE STAGE 11 AT MARDI GRAS....

YES PLEASE !!!!!
something to bop to when Im in a queue - Tue 17 Feb 2004 00:49:05


Mon 16 Feb 2004 15:11:56 =
michael nikolas's career as what ?
- Tue 17 Feb 2004 08:05:22
- Mon 16 Feb 2004 22:28:48
Maybe they papers don’t have an axe to grind; maybe they were just representing opinions as passed on to them. I think a lot of people did find the launch a bit dull. And remember, having an unfavourable opinion is not necessarily the same as being negative. I think that some people tend to jump down someone else’s throat just because they express an opinion they don't like.
Mon Avis - Tue 17 Feb 2004 08:58:09
"I'm off to QLD for Mardi Gras with all of our friends..... Over the last few months oxford street has turned into a Feral circus, with all of our clubs/pubs being taken over by these creatures... It is looking very dreary and always looks dirty. And as for the Taylor Square improvement, what an absolute flop and waste of money that was.... God knows what the crowd at the party will look like...EEK!! Best you take some tranquilizers...
Hope everyone enjoys the Mardi gras circus!! - Mon 16 Feb 2004 13:52:56"


I'm sure that your departure for Queensland will provide significant mutual benefits.
- Tue 17 Feb 2004 09:58:14


- Mon 16 Feb 2004 22:28:48

probably because the SSO is a sponsor and SX is feeling a bit like the poor cousin so can't resist having a gripe
- Tue 17 Feb 2004 10:55:57


"God knows what the crowd at the party will look like...
Hope everyone enjoys the Mardi gras circus!! - Mon 16 Feb 2004 13:52:56"

You obviously haven't been to Fortitude Valley recently!
- Tue 17 Feb 2004 11:04:12


Looks like we have another regular Pinkboarder playing at the party! Congratulations to you all especially Dan Murphy!
GT - Mon 16 Feb 2004 18:17:16
Congrats Dan Murphy - Welcome to "The Club" :P
Enjoy the experience - it'll be one of the best nights of your life !
Stephen Blomfield - Mon 16 Feb 2004 18:21:27

= = = = = = = = = =

Thank you guys, I was so happy to get the news and I’m absolutely busting at the seams - can’t wait for the big night!

Plus being on first means I can have the rest of the night off to play.
.
Dan Murphy - Tue 17 Feb 2004 11:18:37


I have it on good authority that the Hordern this year will not have a DJ booth in the middle, which is great news for those who like the doof-doof space to be packed with lots of guys and crowded. Last year with the centre stage the crowd was only 20 people deep on all sides and not very sexy at all. This year we should be able to get into the thick of things - in many senses of the phrase. I can't wait, and would encourage all dirty dudes to get in deep.
just a suggestion - Tue 17 Feb 2004 11:22:31
"Just a suggestion" - this has been just about the first interesting comment that I've read on this board this year. I had been despairing that somehow I would get lost and find myself listening to non-stop Motiv8 mixes - or god forbid, Almighty mixes. I do plan on getting very lost in the Hordern. Now if only Mike Kelly would discover progressive house.
lovin' it - Tue 17 Feb 2004 11:40:05
Mon Avis, where have you been? Never Miss The Water is an old Chaka Khan song? You sound a little too Top 40 for a Mardi Gras party. The song was sung by Gerry DeVaux (HOTTY), Robyn Loau, Shauna Jensen and Michal Nicholas. I would be surprised if you did not know who these guys were!! The song was also actually the official anthem of the 2003 Mardi Gras and mixed by the likes of Wayne G & Kate Munroe. Courtney has a video and has been heard on commercial radio so that may make you a little happier!!

I think it is disappointing that some people think that for a show to work the song needs to 'mainstream' or played on a commercial radio station. My suggestion is you grab a copy of Smash Hits, throw on a copy of Video Hits and stay in for the night!

I support all the shows that Mardi Gras throws. In fact it doesn't matter who is on stage or what song is sung... it is the surprise element that does it for me!

Never Miss The Water - Waste not, want not!!

Blue Bird
BBx - Tue 17 Feb 2004 11:47:31


SO excited about Stage 11 and hoping to hear any of these;
Dead or Alive: Sex Drive
David Michael Johnson: I say a Little Prayer
D’Ream: Things Can Only Get Better
Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel:White Lines

28. We are Easy to Love –Secci Featuring Taleesa
31. Rockin’ for Myself –Motiv8
Baby Don’t Cha Leave Me this Way –Royal T
Thanks for putting in a rero space Mardi Gras - Tue 17 Feb 2004 12:01:26


It surprises me that someone wants to pay between $99 - $140 a ticket to go to a party and have sex?!? It also surprises me that there are huge discussions about why there isn't going to be one. Surely a sauna would work out a cheaper option?! Surely if you want something that bad you can meet someone (in the light) and take them home?

Just a thought!

:-)
Kim - Tue 17 Feb 2004 13:33:36


Hey Dan, I'll be sure to catch you there. My night will start with you, then it's retro-then-Hordern-then-retro-then back again for Mike Kelly to finish.

I forgot the RHI, never mind
deep cover - Tue 17 Feb 2004 13:46:16


I just had lunch with a Friend who works for a Channel 10 and he happend to drop into the conversation that a promotional trip and tickets had been issued for a certain fab 5 TV Celebs to come to Sydney for the Mardi Gras....

This would also be timley with the commercial release of All things ....

God Knows while the Fab 5 are here, the could take some time out to make over all of the Sydney Straight Boys!!!
C10 Insider - Tue 17 Feb 2004 14:29:57


Thanks for the congrats GT!

I can't wait!!

...And how cool is it of New Mardi Gras to come up with initiatives like this. They are doing a great job as a community organisation - you guys rock! :)
Guy Hornsey - Tue 17 Feb 2004 14:45:50


There is no expected commercial release of All Things (much to my disappointment). The only place you will buy the song is on the release of the Queer Eye CD out in OZ on March 1st. There is an accompanying video, though it is to plug the CD. The only place you will find it is on a promo vinyl released in the US.
Alex - Tue 17 Feb 2004 15:33:34
I have a vinyl copy of all things (sealed!) Personally I prefer the south park version (with 'crab people/crab people' chant through it). Im willing to part with it too! Ill never play it - ok, maybe ironically @ kooky, but It's getting a local release. Come an hassle me for it sometime, and you can take it.
seymour butz - Tue 17 Feb 2004 16:07:45
Hey Dan, I'll be sure to catch you there. My night will start with you, then it's retro-then-Hordern-then-retro-then back again for Mike Kelly to finish.
deep cover - Tue 17 Feb 2004 13:46:16

= = = = = = = = = =

I think I’m falling in love with you deep!

What’s everyone wearing to the party? My flatmates and I have decided to forego the usual jeans-with-t-shirt-removed-&-tucked-into-the-back this year. I find the pressure to choose the perfect moment to remove my top it is just too much.

They’re whipping us up something stunning as I type. Bearing in mind the party’s such a marathon effort we’ve opted for stylishly chic couture (is anyone else addicted to that word because of Carson?) Not sure whether to do any make-up though.

Tips? Hints? Suggestions? Thoughts? Ideas?
.
Dan Murphy - Tue 17 Feb 2004 17:01:04


re: lovin it

my cd submission for MG (as per usual) isn't one style of music, but you will be happy to know that there is lots of progressive house on it, so i think you will be happy with the sounds. if you have ever been to indulgence you will know i play a mashup of deep sexy beats and pieces with progressive and tribal being the more featured sounds. also expect some wicked tech house, breaks and a touch of funky slammers.

i play lots of different styles for different rooms so i guess i would see why you'd think i don't play that stuff, but unfortunately you must have been missing out on the sets you would obviously love. recommend you check out indulgence as that is fantastic, and one of the rare chances i get to pull out the prog stuff which i LOVE LOVE LOVE

see you there, and likewise mr deep cover
x
mike kelly - Tue 17 Feb 2004 18:02:57


Welcome to Pinkboard Guy Hornsey! We love having you guys contribute to the discussion. Can we ask what to expect from your set? If the weather stays as hot as it has been you can be sure to expect a lot of people outside to cool off and I'm sure they'll end up dancing!
GT - Tue 17 Feb 2004 18:45:08
Absolutely agree about not having DJs in the middle of the floor. The middle should be deep, crowded and mysterious.
Paul Sleaze-Bag Diamondo - Tue 17 Feb 2004 19:21:39
but having the DJ booth in the middle of the floor does automatically create four dark, mysterious corners (and where did you have to go and stand when you were naughty?)

oh wait - there is a bar in one and the entrance to the toilets in the other. Strike that...two dark, mysterious corners.
Ms Golightly - Tue 17 Feb 2004 21:05:11


did anyone see today's SMH - fleetwood mac managed to negotiate individual limousines, private 737 and their own antique furniture flown in from Bel Air for their Australian tour...

wouldn't a performance of "Tusk" just be too much to wish for at the party?!?!?!?
Ms Golightly - Tue 17 Feb 2004 21:10:34


Hey MG party people-of-influence, please consider my suggestions for the party:

~~Wooden floors where else there would be concrete, budget permitting
~~Talcum powder, because If I bring my own I can see myself in police custody trying explain that HUGE bag of powder
~~DJ introduction and/or acknowlegdement
~~Greater visibility of the DJ's but not in the middle, as suggested earlier
~~A few water bubblers
~~Sell sports drinks; the electrolyte replacement stuff
deep cover - Tue 17 Feb 2004 22:03:49


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Move It To The Rhythm" - Bass Bumpers (1992)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Wed 18 Feb 2004 00:10:05


Xanadu please.
- Wed 18 Feb 2004 01:16:14
There is no expected commercial release of All Things (much to my disappointment). The only place you will buy the song is on the release of the Queer Eye CD out in OZ on March 1st. There is an accompanying video, though it is to plug the CD. The only place you will find it is on a promo vinyl released in the US.
Alex - Tue 17 Feb 2004 15:33:34

this one just came on local promo, so you will hear plenty of it no doubt over the coming month
- Wed 18 Feb 2004 02:12:28


Thanks for your comments Mike - I've only heard you play with Chip and couldn't work out which was which (music wise!) I will listen to your set with anticipation at both Mardi Gras & Indulgence. PS - if you've got a copy of Alex Dolby's Hazy Way, you'll make me the happiest man at the party.
lovin' it - Wed 18 Feb 2004 09:17:04
Tips? Hints? Suggestions? Thoughts? Ideas?
.
Dan Murphy - Tue 17 Feb 2004 17:01:04

Mike Kelly suggested that I go naked, since it's my first time to play at Mardi Gras. Perhaps we should all do the same. Then there's no need to search for the perfect moment.
Kylie Rose - Wed 18 Feb 2004 11:25:30


Dan Murphy - Tue 17 Feb 2004 17:01:04

Dan, you are absolutely right: I'm also leaning towards "stylishly chic couture" for the party as a refreshing change from denim dross. I know the rumour about the Fab 5 attending MG is probably utter nonsense, but I'm just not prepared to take even the tiniest risk of going to the party looking like a dirty trollope (regardless of the fact that I happen to be one) only to bump into Carson dressed head to foot in Jil Sander. Oh, the shame of it.

PS: How DOES one spell "zhoosh"???

Does anyone know how to spell "zhoosh"?
Sally Tomato - Wed 18 Feb 2004 11:26:13


hi lovin it

unfortunately don't know 'hazy way'... feel free to let me know what label it is on, on where you heard it (ie a compilation or whatever) and i will try to get my hands on a copy to check it out

but don't worry, soooo much good proggy stuff comin out at the moment, will do my best to make you a happy man at the party (and hopefully a few others).

btw congrats dan and nicole phillips, glad you guys are on:) congrats to the other djs whom i haven't heard but obviously play it well too
mk - Wed 18 Feb 2004 15:50:16


For those of you who like to have a bitch, rant and rave come to the Boxing Club tonight. 7.30pm at the Imperial - Gold coin donation to the GLRL. Come and support equality!!
- Wed 18 Feb 2004 15:57:13
The Age reports "... [channel] Ten ... and helped usher into the popular lexicon the words "metrosexual" and "zhooshing" with its popular import, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy..."
- Wed 18 Feb 2004 16:06:38
I hear the same audio company is doing Fair Day that did the Launch. Let's hope you can actually hear it this time? Who is the company? Is it Norwest?
We actually want to be able to hear it guys - Wed 18 Feb 2004 16:22:15
Sally - I thought it was spelt with a j? as in jhoosh?
- Wed 18 Feb 2004 16:39:45
Re: Can we ask what to expect from your set?

With my set being quite early and if Dan is playing house, I will most likely start out with a few big vocal housey tracks and then steer it towards uplifting vocal trance. I don't want to get too heavy with it... at that time of the night a lot of poeple will still be arriving and we are pretty much just inside the gate, so I'm thinking tracks that will get people pumped up for the big night ahead will hit the spot nicely.
Guy Hornsey - Wed 18 Feb 2004 16:42:40


Kylie Rose - Wed 18 Feb 2004 11:25:30
Sally Tomato - Wed 18 Feb 2004 11:26:13

Oh Kylie I like your style, v minimalist! I may need to get some nude practice time in to ensure any protruding parts do not interfere with the equipment - or vice versa ;)

And Sally, I hear you on the Carson alert. I was considering donning a Ken Done/Jenny Kee inspired creation, but I fear the irony may be overlooked on the night.

As for ‘that word’ well it’s a tricky one. In my research into the matter I made some interesting discoveries:

Who Weekly spells it as ‘shoosh’ while an American publication uses ‘zhoozh’ – neither of which are approved of by Microsoft Word’s spellchecker. My fluorescent-orange Heineman dictionary which I’ve had since primary school phonetically spells ‘treasure’ and ‘pleasure’ as ‘trezha’ and ‘plezha’ respectively. They are the only words with a similar ‘s’ sound that I can think of. There is no mention of ‘the word’ on the official website and the unofficial fan sites are just too unreliable to take heed of.

I quite liked your interpretation ‘zhoosh’ and have decided to adopt it as my preferred spelling until the dilemma is finalised.
.
Dan Murphy - Wed 18 Feb 2004 17:31:09


Dear Ms Gilightly, can't quite agree on this one. The centre is so much juicier and more alluring than dingey corners. DJs at the front please! Yours ever,
Paul Diamondo - Wed 18 Feb 2004 18:52:29
Dan Murphy - Wed 18 Feb 2004 17:31:09

Dan, whatever the spelling, I forgot to say I will DEFINITELY be zhooshing wildly around during your set - congrats and I'm v much looking forward to it (as I know many others are).
Sally Tomato - Wed 18 Feb 2004 19:39:39


Dan, you are a vat of (useless) information. At least you are doing your research! Thanks for the poolside propaganda on Sunday. I had a travestational time in spite of Matty's wardrobe malfunction.
JK - Wed 18 Feb 2004 21:58:59
Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Professional Widow" - Tori Amos (1996)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Thu 19 Feb 2004 00:58:10


Can someone please explain this to me.....Straight from the MG website is the DJ line up as folows:

RHI (House/Trance)
10pm - 1am : Alex Taylor
1am - 4am : Ryan Murphy
4am - 7am : Luke Leal
7am - 10am : Shigeki

Hordern (Hard/Tribal)
10pm - 12:30am : Kylie Rose (Brisbane)
12:30am - 4am : Lisa German (UK)
4am - 7am : Sveta
7am - 10am : Mike Kelly

Stage 11 (Retro)
10pm - 1am : Justin Scott
1am - 4am : Stephen Blomfield
4am - close (approx. 7am) : Jake Kilby

So can I ask, where can I see the up and coming DJ's???
Confused! - Thu 19 Feb 2004 02:22:51


What’s everyone wearing to the party? My flatmates and I have decided to forego the usual jeans-with-t-shirt-removed-&-tucked-into-the-back this year. I find the pressure to choose the perfect moment to remove my top it is just too much.
_____________________________________
Considering the theme for the party is film/cinema with some specific movie references you may want to go with that?
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 03:06:55
Confused! - Thu 19 Feb 2004 02:22:51

Up and coming DJ's to play at Mardi Gras are -

10pm - Dan Murphy (House Anthems)
12am - Guy Hornsey (Trance)
2am - William Silva (Trance)
4am - Daniel Hannan (Funky)
6am to Close - Nicole Phillips and Paul Lillie (UK) Back 2 Back (Funky House)

They are playing outside in the forecourt between the RHI & the Hordern.
Hope this helps. - Thu 19 Feb 2004 08:48:56


Considering the theme for the party is film/cinema with some specific movie references you may want to go with that?
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 03:06:55

This is the first time I've seen or read anything about the theme for the party. People have been asking me for a while. What are the specific movie references? (I hope it's not Indiana Jones).
~kr - Thu 19 Feb 2004 10:22:43


The specific movie references for this years party are: Barbarella, Spartacus and Austin Powers, also dont forget there will also be a costume pageant with some awesome prizes (check out this weeks SSO for these exact details)to make it worth your while.
das - Thu 19 Feb 2004 11:00:19
Will there be a CD produced this year?
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 11:58:15
Sally Tomato - Wed 18 Feb 2004 19:39:39
Yay Sally, you’re a gem! I’ll be sure to play some seriously zhooshy tunes to allow you to make a spectacular entrance to the party.

JK - Wed 18 Feb 2004 21:58:59
I’m assuming the definition of travestational is best time in the world ever, ever? I’m helping out with Doggywood at Fair Day and it would be such a shame if your entry was disqualified ;)

Considering the theme for the party is film/cinema with some specific movie references you may want to go with that?
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 03:06:55
I hadn’t heard there was a theme either. Where can we find the details please?
.
Dan "zhooshing" Murphy - Thu 19 Feb 2004 12:38:57


Anyone going to Funny Farm tonight????
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 13:02:24
I dont think the theme is 'movies / film'

it appears the theme is 'dairy goods'
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 15:30:53


It's official - the Dome will be used as a chill out space.

The Hordern has a Spartacus theme... now I shall have to choose something suitably Roman! Will it be as a slave or as a gladiator or as a vestal virgin? Oh, to hell with it. Throw me to the lions!

http://www.ssonet.com.au/showarticle.asp?ArticleID=2910
~kr - Thu 19 Feb 2004 17:25:06


SSO says "The line-up: ....Seymour Butz and Richard Weiss are late inclusions"

Where will Seymour Butz and Richard Weiss play, please?
late news - Thu 19 Feb 2004 17:45:15


Dan, travestational is a good, good thing. And by the way, Max won't be entering in Doggywood. He likes to be appreciated, but simply will not follow instructions.
JK - Thu 19 Feb 2004 18:50:09
Agree re Party wishes -

-wooden dance floors all around (prefer to dip out on the odd laser or two )
-sports drinks please ( they are actually better for you than water )
-no DJ Box or anything else in the middle of the dance floors
-plenty of bleaches and if you cant afford them , scatter lots of chairs around
-to meet Evil Twin and girlf and Ms Golightly to buy them a drink
Just busting - Thu 19 Feb 2004 19:00:32


Please stay away dogs!!!

Has anyone else heard the rumor going around that the police are planning a major operation the MG weekend. There are also a few other big dance parties on that weekend, and we all know most people at these places are on stuff. I know that say they are after the 'big fish' but the sight of police dogs at a dance party is enough to unsettle any punter there.
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 19:18:18


No more paranoia please re police checks. They don't have the time or personpower to check 17,000 people. We get this "rumour" every year. It's really tiresome.

Re wish list: (1) seats outside the Dome as per usual, (2) lovely smiling people who sell us water (they get more and more beautiful as the night goes on), (3) densely crowded dancefloors so that I can feel on my back the hairy chest of the man dancing behind me whom I've never met but soon will ... that's enough.
Paul D - Thu 19 Feb 2004 20:39:20


any STAGE 11 or maybe even RHI DJ'S i have a request even though u probably have too many songs already-what about i'm horny.horny horny horny :>
RETRO BOY is horny! - Thu 19 Feb 2004 20:47:51
Sally Tomato dahling....though carson is a doll in jill sander, without the benefit of good lighting, i'm not really sure he'd do anything for me - i just don't like his silhouette!

Jai on the other hand...now find me that dark corner and he can zhoosh me to the cows come home.

i think "miami bling-bling" is the way to go for this party...kinda, i've metamorphed from audrey into a crack ho!

ta ta for now
MS Golightly - Thu 19 Feb 2004 20:53:35


lots and lots of cheap plastic chairs around the edges of the halls please!! I don't want to sit on the floor. We need seating.. thank you!
precious princess - Thu 19 Feb 2004 21:16:55
Where will Seymour Butz and Richard Weiss play, please?
late news - Thu 19 Feb 2004 17:45:15

Seymour Butz will be playing with me - with any luck ;-)
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 23:24:40


Where will Seymour Butz and Richard Weiss play, please?
late news - Thu 19 Feb 2004 17:45:15

The Dome of course. Playing chilling (non dance) music.
Was it that hard to work it out ?? - Thu 19 Feb 2004 23:34:14


Todays Trip down memory Lane -

"Seven Days and One Week" - BBE (1996)
.

Pinkboard Jukebox - Fri 20 Feb 2004 00:01:28


Please stay away dogs!!!
Has anyone else heard the rumor going around that the police are planning a major operation the MG weekend. There are also a few other big dance parties on that weekend, and we all know most people at these places are on stuff. I know that say they are after the 'big fish' but the sight of police dogs at a dance party is enough to unsettle any punter there.
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 19:18:18

I wouldn't worry about dogs at the party. I went to BDO and there were sniffer dogs everywhere. The only people that were getting picked up were those carrying dope. I walked past 3 dogs and they did not even look in my direction.
- Fri 20 Feb 2004 10:01:10


Due to the massive amount of confusion on here - here is the rundown of everything you need to know about the party.

There is indeed a 'Gay Cinema' theming to the party, which is to tie in with the 'Metamorphosis' theme of the season and how cinema has influenced and changed the gay community. New Mardi Gras is encouraging people to dress up as characters from your favourite film.

Party is being held at Fox studios from 10pm to 10am on Saturday the 6th of March. Tickets at present at $120.00 or $110.00 for members, with no concessions as they are sold out.

Theme's of the halls and DJ times are:

RHI - Vocal House and Trance - General Cinemorphosis theme
10pm - 1am : Alex Taylor
1am - 4am : Ryan Murphy
4am - 7am : Luke Leal
7am - 10am : Shigeki

Hordern (Hard/Tribal) - Spartacus Theme
10pm - 12:30am : Kylie Rose (Brisbane)
12:30am - 4am : Lisa German (UK)
4am - 7am : Sveta
7am - 10am : Mike Kelly

Stage 11 (Retro) - Austin Powers Theme
10pm - 1am : Justin Scott
1am - 4am : Stephen Blomfield
4am - close (approx. 7am) : Jake Kilby

Dome (chill/cabaret/cinema space) - Barbarella theme
10 - 12am - Richard Weiss
12 - 1.30am: Costume Pagent
1.30 - 3am - Richard Weiss
3 - 6am - Seymour Butz
6 - 8am - Screening of the film Barbarella

Up and Coming Space - (Outside dance space - back of the dome)
10pm - Dan Murphy (House Anthems)
12am - Guy Hornsey (Trance)
2am - William Silva (Trance)
4am - Daniel Hannan (Funky)
6am to Close - Nicole Phillips and Paul Lillie (UK) Back 2 Back (Funky House)

The week before the party there will be a map printed in the Sydney Star Observer with all the spaces mapped out, what DJ's are playing, the theme's of each hall and also the times the DJ's are playing.

If you would like to get the message of the party theming to your friends, please cut and paste this message into an email and send to as many friends of yours as possible.

Many thanks.

Mystery New Mardi Gras Person
- Fri 20 Feb 2004 11:07:31


I realise that most of this wall is devoted to the party - but there are other events that are a part of the festival!

A group of my friends went along to the speed dating event that was on last night and we had a great time. We would like to thank the organisers for putting it on and for being so down to earth and relaxed - i think that really influenced the atmosphere of the whole night - everyone had a fun time - and the women were much sleazier than the men it seems!

Didn't get any "matches" but met along of really interesting people and actually TALKED to people, which seems very rare at may events.

Well done organisers.
- Fri 20 Feb 2004 11:12:15


Was it that hard to work it out ?? sort of...
Richard, NO because that's the last place I saw him play at a previous party.
Seymour, YES because I have never heard him
- Fri 20 Feb 2004 12:30:39
Will there be a CD produced this year?
- Thu 19 Feb 2004 11:58:15
I saw an add for "sauna sessions (a gay make out album)" in the festival guide. Dunno if its a Mardi Gras cd though.
- Fri 20 Feb 2004 16:36:51
Dearest Ms Golightly: AHA! I suspected there might be some saucy, bad-ass latino blood swirling through those otherwise Fifth Avenue-chic veins!!!
Sally Tomato - Fri 20 Feb 2004 17:13:33
Dan Murphy...if you are wanting some information on the Malcolm Stewart (i can't be bothered to scroll back and spell check that one) party...that new drag emporium on oxford st...team i believe it is called...has an enormous picture of the 2002 pre-mardi gras party at Stage 11 in the window.

From what I could tell...it seemed there was a bunch of very similar looking men groping each other!

Even Dearer Sally...the odd latino has been known to thaw me out!
Ms Golightly - Fri 20 Feb 2004 23:11:42


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