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gay & lesbian mardi gras 2004
graffiti wall 2

Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!!

Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!! Theres Only 5 days to go - OMG what WILL I wear !!!
countdownboy - Mon 1 Mar 2004 08:11:11

Its now officially Autumn, but to finish the summer season off with a ****BANG**** we always have Mardi Gras party.

What a way to go - cant wait. Especially Stage 11 ! Go those retro anthems !!
lil boi - Mon 1 Mar 2004 09:44:56

Good question. I've asked but received no reply as yet. The time I finish is at 12.30am - a prime time to fit a show or two in. I'll keep you posted if you want.
Kylie Rose - Mon 1 Mar 2004 12:09:00

Bless your heart for wanting to help Kylie, but these naughty queens know that MG NEVER publicises showtimes. They're just trying to utilise your good nature to get you to inadvertently spill the beans :)
- Mon 1 Mar 2004 14:28:57

Yeah, I realised that as soon as I read the post. Thanks for saying I'm good natured. Gullible is more like it! And it does make me wonder why someone would say that they're looking forward to "starting the party to your sound" and asking about the show (almost in the same sentence)? Sounds like sucking up to me. Unless that person is willing to give their name - which they're not. Nice one.
~kr - Mon 1 Mar 2004 15:53:04

Which kind of raises an interesting question round why you're asking, luv :)
- Mon 1 Mar 2004 16:27:02

it's exceptionally sweet of you to take time out from your busy gloom and despondency-provoking schedule to wish us all the best, Stephen. All the best!
- Mon 1 Mar 2004 16:34:41

God! How does one comment to a post such as this?
Sad... This guy is truly sad.
Either that, or he had a financial interest in Azure.

Yes, Azure was great... So I have been told by many. But it wasn't put on to be compared with the likes of MG.

By calling people "suckers" who have already purchased a ticket for the event, is that supposed to make us all feel like losers? Think again buddy!

Many MG ticket holders that I have spoken to, have absolutely no regrets about having purchased their ticket/s. An interesting observation, was that in the week leading up to Azure, many ticket holders were posting messages on internet chat rooms and forums, wishing to sell their tickets, and some even, expressing a little regret.

Furthermore, you might be right, when you claim that this years party is paying for and subsidising previous MG events that were at a loss, and if this were true, I give NMG a big pat on the back for not allowing these losses to put the organisation to rest forever.

In the last 2 to 3 years, many organisations, including big corporations, have gone bust and shut shop... Yet MG have continued to soldier through all of this. I think you have to agree, when I say that this says something, about the organisation, and their presistance to throw us all a party and parade that we can enjoy and celebrate and have MG continue.
JS - Mon 1 Mar 2004 17:24:06

Don't mind her, she just needs to get some sleep.
Maxx - Mon 1 Mar 2004 20:48:26

LOL! Troughman should be awarded the Order of Australia in my view.
- Mon 1 Mar 2004 20:53:12

Spare a thought for Stephen. There he'll be on MG night - alone. Alone, in his abode, lip-synching "A Woman Left Lonely", into his bedroom mirror whilst clutching - microphonally - his natural fibre hairbrush.

A vigil of solitude broken only by frantic mobile calls to his partying friends to find out how truly awful it really is. The phones will ring incessantly (before switching to message ) in their coatcheck storage, while the boys on the 2-4 coatcheck shift say to each other: "it must be that Kidman queen again! Why doesn't she just get her dying-of-curiosity arse down here!
- Mon 1 Mar 2004 21:11:22

"Step By Step" - Whitney Houston (1996)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Tue 2 Mar 2004 00:02:12

Stephen, the party 2 years ago was operated by First Fleet Productions, not associated with Azure in any way whatsoever. To compare the Harbour Parties to Azure is a dangerous concept indeed. The complaints about the production, let alone the 10 ambulances from near deaths will be echoing around the community for quite a while.
Please get your facts right in future - Tue 2 Mar 2004 02:15:12

He used to be pretty much constantly in the old underground Hordern toilets in the days before they were redeveloped and Fox took over. And "the" legendary Troughman was generally accompanied in his endeavours by other Troughmen as well. Since Fox's site sanitation it's become more of a challenge for him but he still pops up - or down maybe - though security tends to take a dim view these days. I think guys seriously into watersports tend to check a change or two of clothes in with coatcheck on arrival.
- Tue 2 Mar 2004 10:10:35

Sunrise on 7 are running a competition to put a "blokey bloke" on the Sunrise float in the parade on Saturday.

http://www.seven.com.au/sunrise/form_blokes
- Tue 2 Mar 2004 13:21:43

What a pack of whingers we have on here! There is no way that I am looking for any post-party reviews. What a come down that would be.

Azure was a great party! Of course there were a few sound issues, though what do you expect with having an outdoor party like that? There were fireworks, Ultra Nate, Courtney Act and who could forget the amazing Crystal Waters medley?

I am near busting with excitement for the Mardi Gras party! I am going with all of my friends, yes some are straight, to party the night out. To celebrate the end of the MG season. To celebrate the fact that MG still stands. To be with friends and to meet new ones.

What great spaces all round music wise! I just hope that all those people that have shown negativity to the party, the DJ's, the festival and the parade all have an active part in Mardi Gras. First of all I hope they are all members and active ones at that! Yeah, there are some great ideas here but why not get involved and make the party what you want as the community. It seems that there is a HUGE expectation with Mardi Gras and if it does not meet standard then there are those to cast stones!

I was actively involved in MG 2004 and will be in 2005! If you want to do something more than posting negativity - get involved!

:-)
CJ - Tue 2 Mar 2004 13:46:47

On the other hand, they're probably going for the "ha ha look at the uncomfortable straight guy in the parade!" angle. In which case I go "Sheesh! Typical. Tossers." and remind myself I only watch 7 for Buffy and Angel.

In more exciting news, my gorgeous girlfriend solved my party outfit crisis. Yay! The weather looks good for thursday's SLPA harbour cruise, and saturday says fine and sunny. Now, if only this work thingy wasn't so tedious...
Evil Twin - Tue 2 Mar 2004 13:52:04

Perhaps now all those twee inclusionists can finally understand us nasty queens and scary dykes wanting our exclusionary party back!!! The parade has been diminished to meaningless commercial shit. It used to be an exillerating rite of passage into a culture. Now it is a programming competition and promotion for a major network (of which I might add defamed John Marsden him through courts only two years ago).

This year's very publicised open ticketing to the party seals the fate of the party similar to the parade.

And for the record I don't care how "NIIIIIICCE" straight people or how much the looooourve us. That is not the issue!!

We have lost something truly remarkable and special.

It truly is over isn't it?
Imitation is the highest form of flattery? - Tue 2 Mar 2004 14:07:14

What happened to the days when only the members could purchase tickets and the responsibility of who got tickets relied on the members? I am going to put some ideas forward to Mardi Gras on this. I am proud to be a member though I seriously think that all the events that are part of the Mardi Gras festival (including Sleaze Ball); we as members should get a discount or other offers.

Wouldn't this then encourage more members?
JF - Tue 2 Mar 2004 14:09:43

Blame Queer Eye :) BTW the website doesn't say anything about a Sunrise float - I'd be very surprised if there was one (unless Seven were doing it as an apology to John Marsden for the infamous homophobic smear campaign they ran against him). the website just says that "the winner will be required to experience Sydney's gay culture and play a part in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras on Saturday March 6." Maybe they're chucking him in a sling on the leather float and dropping him off at Headquarters?

There was a piss-take "Straight Blokes Float" in the parade a few years back. They staggered up Oxford St behind a beaten up old ute in "eats, roots and leaves" T shirts, clutching cans of xxxx, while Cold Chisel blared out scratchily from a speaker. They kind of danced awkwardly with no sense of rhythm. It was hilarious.

Actually...God! It sounds like Azure! ;)
- Tue 2 Mar 2004 14:27:43

Quick precis JF. Old MG was bedevilled by shit fights over the membership criteria for years. Too exclusionary, too inclusionary, etc, etc. Then for a variety of reasons MG went belly-up. NMG took over, did away with exclusionary membership - anyone can join now providing they commit to the objectives of MG - and is now in it's second year of rebuilding. I suspect that the membership is not yet at the point to totally sustain the funding base that the organisation needs to survive - hence open ticketing. I think we need to see what it looks and feels like on Saturday before we cast judgment.
- Tue 2 Mar 2004 14:46:33

Oh please enough of the rose coloured view and the mythical uptopia..... In fact do you really, really want that????

Here is a littel article from today's Herald to digest (Feel loved!!)

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/03/01/1078117369686.html
Get a grip! - Tue 2 Mar 2004 16:22:09

Would be interested in peoples thoughts about Azure party - I went and had a great time.

A couple of things for next time

Music was not loud enough...
Not Enough Loos
Some cover incase it rains...

Also what happens to all the $$ from azure.

If there are 5000 tickets @ 99.00 each thats a lot of money !!!
DirtyBoi - Tue 2 Mar 2004 16:22:13

It was back in the late 80's. It was Bill Morley but wasn't it "The Blue Danube" waltz? Whatever, it caused a ruckus, though from memory, lots of people started waltzing - kinda sweet :) It was kooky. A bit like Kate Monroe playing "Nine to Five" at Inquisition......
- Tue 2 Mar 2004 16:47:47

So if you see a gorgeous Thai guy in the bars on Friday, give him a big kiss and wish him "Happy Makha Bucha".
Doing my bit for international relations - Tue 2 Mar 2004 16:48:00

Still think the standard of the party was quite impressive. As for shelter... I do think there was a plan B for shelter if it was to have rained. Why close in such a beautiful view on such a fantastic night?
BB - Tue 2 Mar 2004 17:05:59

How about a meeting time ? along the lines of 11pm ( better its first thing
otherwise minds wonder and forget time ) say the bar inside the Hordern ( the one inside the dance area not that hideous bright one ) or maybe the bottom
bar of RHI near the toilets exit ? both ones on Driver Ave side of the halls ?
you too Ms Golightly ? have you still got the flat top hair do ? Evil Twin ?
or describe the outfits.
I'll buy you that beer ( or cocktail Ms Golightly ? ) - Tue 2 Mar 2004 20:32:13

At this stage we're considering a drop in at Manicure, er, Manacle, after the party(it will be nice to be welcomed this time instead of the usual "sorry ladies, private party"), but that will depend on headache, tired feet, and level of general "lets get home quick!"
Evil Twin - Tue 2 Mar 2004 22:49:27

Gone are the days of "a friend flew Madonna into Sydney", "Cher has checked into a Sydney hotel", "Whitney was seen in Double Bay"... but I will say if these are the acts for Mardi Gras I will be making sure I have a good view of the stage come show time!

Have been to many of a dance party OS and have to say by the organisations releasing details of the acts has pushed ticket sales. I wonder if Mardi Gras would see this as an option? I recall the original Mardi Gras releasing details of Deborah Cox.

Anyway just a thought! Can't wait for this weekend! Save us a dance!
RHI Boyz - Wed 3 Mar 2004 07:17:09

Wow, MG attracts an interesting bunch of visitors that seem to *really* like our town. I'm a kiwi but that didn't matter to them...

Did you know:
One NY'er said they pay 5 dollars for an e and in the UK - 1 pound a piece each! When they asked me why we get so ripped off, all I could think of was that we were at the arse-end of the planet [thanks Mr. Keating for that line]

DJ's:
Doug James@stonewall was thoroughly enjoyable, Chip@columbian set a classy mood, ?@Manacle made me want to dance but that's not de-riguer there. The shift video bar DJ did very well.

I felt like I had been around the world all in 7 hours.

The best part was when the Americans likened Sydney to Ibiza, saying that in some clubs in NY you have to wear so much expensive gear just to gain entry and there is so much violence there. They also said that when in the US, head for Miami, South Beach for the most fun.

We are very fortunate (except maybe on the party food prices
dc - Wed 3 Mar 2004 08:47:08

Peruvians @ Stonewall ???? Now thats a missing flag on my my of world shags ... doncha luv MG for allowing international relations to flourish ... one question tho.. shouldn't they have been at the Columbian.
Ms Intercontinental. - Wed 3 Mar 2004 13:18:11

Is this true??
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 15:13:53

Here's Stephen on MG Graffiti Wall 2 in 2003

"Harbour Party was a blast - really liked the Chill area even though I was only there for an hour. This kind of innovation is sadly missing from the Mardi Gras Party. The success of the Harbour Party and the fact is a totally commercial event is such a contrast to Mardi Gras with its bleeding heart comunity members and all their political and personal agendas. I'm considering missing Mardi Gras completely as I'm already hearing excuses that it will be second rate because they don't have any money - will the gay "community" be mugs as usual and pay through the nose because they feel they must be supportive because its the 25th year? Stephen Kidman - Tue 25 Feb 2003 10:32:59"

But a few days later, on 2nd March 2003 - having (you guessed it) actually attended the MG party - Stephen told the same Grafitti Wall that it had been a "fun party."

I love a consistent queen... :)
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 15:23:02

See you all in Stage 11 during my set. Its gonna be fab !!
Stephen Blomfield - Wed 3 Mar 2004 15:41:31

Did you also know that it is tradition to tip the DJ if you ask for a request? I think we could learn a lot from the US!
JK - Wed 3 Mar 2004 16:04:31

won't be far to go til it does - wouldn't wait til saturday
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 16:19:32

I will not be responsible for what I get up to this weekend.

I'm going to blame it all on the full moon.
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 16:43:28

It's pretty much compulsory to tip for EVERYTHING in the US, JK. I kind of prefer our tradition: you tip if you want to show your appreciation, not because it's expected.
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 17:01:41

http://www.mardigras.org.au/Media/MediaReleases/media_release_16_feb_2004_party.htm

Quick message to the 'doomer and gloomers' out there: Don't listen to rumour!
CJ - Wed 3 Mar 2004 18:23:15

With 75,000 people at Fair Day and an enormous amount of support for the parade and party, I do hope we see the continuation of what we have come to know as Mardi Gras. Here's also hoping that New Mardi Gras can bring back the major sponsors that are lacking for 2003. Here's also hoping that the membership base will grow too as many of you who are unsure of NMG's direction, get back your beliefs in what they can do for our community.

Happy Mardi Gras to you all! Here's to a safe parade, party and recovery!!
JW - Wed 3 Mar 2004 18:31:14

Keep it coming Stephen. I reckon every one of your posts generates at least 500 more MG ticket purchases!
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 19:19:07

not sure what I will be wearing yet - but will probably get into the retro theme at the last minute.

ta ta for now
Ms Golightly - Wed 3 Mar 2004 20:03:13

Are Cameras allowed at the Mardi Gras party????

$120 is alott to pay, I would like to have some photographic memory as I sure wont remember a thing the next day.

My first time to the party, very excitied but going crazy thinking about what to wear!

See you all there!
- Wed 3 Mar 2004 22:57:06

"Is This Love" - Bass X (1993)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Thu 4 Mar 2004 00:05:29

see you then. the 8am rendevous will be fun (bit of a natter and chill with other pinkboarders i have never met)

btw - daylight isn't terribly kind to me! i'll be lurching in the shadows!
Ms Golightly - Thu 4 Mar 2004 00:24:02

Now what to wear!? Only 3 shopping days until Mardi Gras!

Is there a girls only recovery?
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 07:52:28

Category & Prices
No of Tickets

Category Availability:
GA
ALLOCATION SOLD

I think they were talking about holding some tickets for door sales on the night though?
CeeJay - Thu 4 Mar 2004 13:14:42

Congratulations to Stephen (Wanker) Kidman. For the second year in a row you have AGAIN got it soooo wrong.

You are such a fool.
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 13:22:53

Yes, specially for Stephen Kidman and his swag of American visitors ;)
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 13:31:59

New Mardi Gras always keeps some held back on the door at Fox Studios for its volunteers (parade marshalls etc) and there is a small possibility that all the volunteer tickets will not be bought. Any tickets that are not bought by midnight on Saturday will be released to the general public at the rate of $140.00. Again the number of tickets released is only due to the number of volunteers that don't get their tickets, so it wouldn't be any more than around 150.

If you haven't got a ticket - get to Fox Studios early and queue.

Good luck to all of those that haven't got a ticket and to the rest of you - see you on the dancefloor!
NMG Volunteer - Thu 4 Mar 2004 14:03:47

Can't wait for an amazing party. Hope everyonemakesan effort and gets creative with their getup for the night and brings smiling faces:)

See you there:)
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 14:08:12

Well done for selling the party out - 17,000 people !!! WOOHOO!!
HappyQueen - Thu 4 Mar 2004 14:24:01

that would just be the icing on my mardi Gras Cake!!
I loveSK (Not) - Thu 4 Mar 2004 14:25:48

I responded to the above dated post by signing my name Aiden - Fri 30 Jan 2004 07:07:25

Now that Mardi Gras has sold out (and you foolishy predicted an attendance of less than 10,000) I now officially get my chance to fulfil my promise and say "I TOLD YOU SO"

So here goes....

I TOLD YOU SO !!! (NER NER NER) !!!
Aiden - Thu 4 Mar 2004 15:05:01

A bit of advice since your new don't keeping running around looking for shows - even when you think you have a sure time. - It just ruins your night.

Alternatively may I suggest the following strategy which I have been following the last few years and it works a treat.

The 1st show which is always the biggest falls somewhere between Midnight and as late as 1.30 (last year I think it was). So we tend to hang around in the RHI so we don't get locked out. It can be a little pensive in the wait but if you have a good costume/outfit there are plently of meet and greet opportunities with strangers to pass the time.

Then just enjoy the party and you if you happen to see a show enjoy it...an unexpected show is always a pleasure.

But finally get to the RHI during the final 1/2 hour and you will be guaranteed another fantatistic closing show plus the warm fuzzy feeling when the anouncement is made that the party is over and they say "see you at Sleaze 2004" and everyone roars with joy.
Lights, action ... - Thu 4 Mar 2004 16:41:01

Well you enjoy yourself baby! The major reason that MG doesn't announce the shows in advance is because of the obvious safety/crowd control/ considerations around all 17,000 attendees jamming into one space in anticipation. The RHI is licensed for about 10,000 people max, the Horden for 6,000 and MG is contractually obligated to maintain those limits. If you are present for the headline show you'll notice that the force of the crowd flow out of the pavilion on it's completion is such that you wouldn't want to trip over....

On the other hand, there's about 10,000 Sydney queens who'll be able to give you their "inside knowledge" of who and when as far as shows go - though you might find that much of the info conflicts!!
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 17:08:06

Part of the fun and build up that was so special over the years were the rumours of whos going to do a show.

Have these f\gone completely - why? Do you think that maybe there was too much disappointment? I dont know - but I want the rumours back - they help build up the excitment
J - Thu 4 Mar 2004 18:28:54

I'm sure the shows will still be fabulous with plenty of our own local talent!

Just read in The Star that there will be random pat downs looking for glass containing liquids and anyone found carrying will have them confiscated and destroyed. This is to stop G being brought into the party.

Thanks G users for spoiling my fun as now I can't enjoy my little friend amyl!!
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 19:05:11

J! Love! No-one is stopping show rumours from breaking out all over! You can even start some of your own. I'm picking Stephen Kidman - in uniquely bad drag - doing a scratchy, "Is that all there is," from a dramatically backlit, Azure bottom-of-the-line portaloo...........
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 19:14:49

Is it too late to organise a Stephen Kidman float ? and pass out rotten tomatoes for people to throw out !
Sorry Stephen I know we are not supposed to get too personal with posters but your truly are the Loser of 2004.
Hope the times work ( and remember they always run late ) - Thu 4 Mar 2004 19:21:53

Thanks G users for spoiling my fun as now I can't enjoy my little friend amyl!!

- Thu 4 Mar 2004 19:05:11

Not wanting to start a for/against argument about bottles of amyl at the party .. but would security have any right to confiscate an amyl or "video head cleaner" bottle off you, and once you're in the venue would they have any right to randomly pat you down anyway for anything unless it was a condition of entry printed on the ticket? i might be naive, but if it's legal to go into a sex shop and buy then surely it's legal to carry?
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 19:34:41

In a word, yes. They could confiscate after pat-down providing they've previously advertised that no liquid in a glass container will be permitted and - if found - will be confiscated. But, they haven't. There's simply a quote from Michael Woodhouse relating to MG's intention to conduct pat-downs relating to glass and G. Not all G is transported in glass and not every substance in glass is G. Around 3-4,000 people will probably have bottles of amyl.

In short, the quoted intention is unenforceable in it's present form unless it's MG's intention to confiscate each and every glass phial, regardless of contents - in which case they need to say so clearly - or they plan to do an onsite scientific analyssis on the contents of each glass container - which seems unlikely.

I'd personally prefer that G wasn't present at all - so would thousands of other partygoers. But silly, unenforceable "we'll search you" threats don't actually assist at the end of the day.
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 20:26:43

8-)
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 20:42:51

just a thought!!!
- Thu 4 Mar 2004 21:38:11

"It Only Takes A Minute" - Take That (1992)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Fri 5 Mar 2004 00:03:02

To show my MG -ahem- vintage my favourite shows were

'can you feel it' (accompanied by digeridoo: remember?)
Jimmy Somerville wearing nothing but a rainbow flag
Chaka Khan looking a little surprised with the drag back ups for im every woman
kylie: the little devil
D:ream's microphone breaking down and the crowd taking over singing "things can only get better"
ian roberts on a motorbike on the rhi stage
boy george bowing down
bardot actually being quite bloody good
lazers bouncing off vanessa amorossi's silver wig
Thelma and Sheena closing shows in their own classy way
BUT, being locked out of the rhi, hearing Jimmy Barnes screaming You Make Me Feel. ggrrrr

Id love to hear your favourites, im sure there's heaps ive forgotten about.

As for this Saturday, Im sure they'll serve up a couple of more memorable shows.

What a show queen one is!!
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 05:23:13

I know there are alot of people out there who missed out this year but they can blame nobody but themselves for their own slackness. Party tickets have been on sale for many months now, people leaving it to the last few days really in my opinion dont deserve to get a ticket for being so unorganised.

Now that the party is s ell out my question is Mardi Gras going to extend Stage 11 to at least 8am ? Given the party selling out I think that would be a very sensible idea. Any goss ??
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 07:44:16

New requests now uploaded:

Whitney Houston - Step By Step
Snap! - Rhythm Is A Dancer

PLUS

Mardi Gras DJ Shigeki Interview!
Justin Scott - Fri 5 Mar 2004 08:03:07

Happy Mardi Gras - getting excited now!!!

DirtyBoi
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 08:20:47

The Village People dressed in their normal attire - except all in pink - closing MG 97 with "You Can't Stop The Music." I remember seeing them being shepherded by Security therough a brilliantly sunlit Sydney morning, into the RHI. A slightly tired queen behind us said. "Darl! Take me home I'm totally out of it! I'm seeing flying pink Village People!"

Jimmy Somerville in the Pride Flag was great. Particularly when he shared his pre-performance throat warm-up technique.

The Twenty Years of Drag salute at MG 98 when wave after wave of showgirls cascaded over the stage.

I saw Jimmy Barnes - clad in leather - but I remember thinking that Sylvester must have been turning in her grave at the thought of the musical hero of Oz straight boy culture doing "Mighty Real."
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 09:01:18

Impossible - I'll take my chances!
See you in the ether - Fri 5 Mar 2004 09:07:53

I don't disagree with the sentiment, but where did this idea come from that G and "glass bottles" are mutually interdependent? G can be carried in a variety of containers, not just glass.
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 09:44:37

The very first snowstorm in the old Government pavilion (so many years ago I can't remember when) when the whole dancefloor ended up knee deep in fake snow. Also in the same pavilion the 100 drag queens doing I Am What I Am. And Lonnie Gordon (I think it was a Sleaze not MG) only because she was carried onto the stage by a guy and a girl, both nude, the guy with a huge hard on. The look on Lonnie's face was priceless.
for everything else there's mastercard - Fri 5 Mar 2004 11:24:28

It was Sleaze - and it was great. Can you imagine what would happen these days if a naked guy with a huge hard-on appeared onstage? Cries of, "this is a party, it has nothing to do with sex! Get thee to Kensington!" would no doubt rend the air ;-)
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 11:53:17

please play N.E.R.D "She Wants To Move" during your set.

with warm regards,
Mr Panties - Fri 5 Mar 2004 11:55:05

Come on Honey! Improvise! It's a movie theme. Sling a clock around your neck and come as a Clockwork Orange. You'll be fabulous :)
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 11:57:20

Happy Mardi Gras - see you under the mirror ball
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 12:33:21

Hooray for that I say !
Bad people dont need to be heard !!! - Fri 5 Mar 2004 13:00:19

I don't know love. More importantly, why would he be at a suburban shopping mall in Marrickville?
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 13:37:37

A problem easily solved. The shows can be great but part of the attraction, for me anyway, is the spontaneity of just coincidentally being there when they happen. People who spend the night chasing the shows can end up missing the sheer bloody joy of just being at the party. The shows are an added fillip; they're not the main event. I've been to a couple of MG's when I didn't see a single show - on both occasions I had a wonderful time. Most times I've caught at least one or two and it's been great but I won't do the "waiting, jammed in the world's must disorderly bus queue"(on e) thing, in order to absolutely ensure that I do.
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 13:51:15

what makes you think sveta reads this board?
any sensbile dj would keep clear unless they're into reading bitter comments about themselves.
love hurts - Fri 5 Mar 2004 14:25:41

A guy climbed up into the scaffolding on the ceiling. The whole hall had to be cleared whilst security tried to coax him down. I believe he got up there and then just froze.

No other performer has stopped a party like.

Wonder what ever happened to him. I remember he had a bit of a punk skinhead look.
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 14:45:09

sinead o connor was to perform a few years ago, however...a certain network entertainment reporter let slip and well, record companies sometimes have more clout than a little old community organisation.

keep the rumours coming and allow the natural adrenalin and ant-ti-ci-pation let you enjoy a party that always was, is and will be about one thing....you.
jumptothebeat - Fri 5 Mar 2004 16:55:36

Come & join the smiling faces in the fresh air & sunshine at the EAST VILLAGE ROOFTOP. 11 hours of musical nirvana, 2 rooms (rooftop & fully airconditioned room) 5 DJs. $5 Voddies & $5 Coronas.

12 Midday - 11pm

DJs:

Mike Kelly (Manacle / Stonewall / Indulgence)
Junior B (Queer Nation / Colombian)
Scott Pullen (Queer Nation / Colombian)
Renae Stanton (Mardis Gras / Lord Roberts / Civic)
Peter Fam (Midnight Shift / Manacle)

$5 Entry bfore 3pm :: $10 after 3pm

***ALL WEATHER VENUE***

EAST VILLAGE ROOFTOP
234 Palmer St, Darlinghurst

********************************ALL WELCOME************************************
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 17:16:36

Male only sex space - best music in sydney
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 17:37:50

FLOATS TO WATCH OUT FOR

~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jenny & Craig - parody of make over shows with 'The ultimate two-hour Mardi Gras makeover reality renovation blitz experience." Is this the first Mardi Gras float with its own Gaydar profile? http://www.gaydar.com.au/jenny.and.craig
~~~~~~~~~~~~

ROFL!!!! I nearly wet myself. Check it out guys.
Queer Ass for the Straight Guy - Fri 5 Mar 2004 18:03:01

THERE ARE NOW ONLY 24 HOURS TO GO TO THE OPENING OF THE PARTY !!!!

THERE ARE NOW ONLY 24 HOURS TO GO TO THE OPENING OF THE PARTY !!!!

.
countdownboy - Fri 5 Mar 2004 22:13:07

I know someone posted a few days ago about bring cameras.
- Fri 5 Mar 2004 23:31:00

Terms and Conditions of entry Item Number 6 -

"It may be a condition of entry to individual events that a search of persons or possessions will be required at the time of entry to the venue.If concerned please contact the venue"

I think this more than adequately covers off any objections people have to being "patted down" in search of the dreaded G.

DONT BRING IT !!
G Is killing people and its killing our parties too !! - Fri 5 Mar 2004 23:46:50

After being blown away by the Sleaze Ball, i can't wait to see what is in store for me saturday night! I just know it is going to be fantastic!

After arrival, will probably do some circuits around the main pavillions before settling into Retro Heaven for the night - just have to polish myself up for the 8am ale with Evil Twin!

Wishing all pinkboarders an absolutely fantastic night - and if you walk past a guy whose diamante's are brighter than the mirror balls - well that's probably me.

best to everyone!
Ms Golightly - Sat 6 Mar 2004 00:05:26

check out Tit Bits board for girls events
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 00:21:38

Cant wait for Maxi to 'show us a diva' :)

Oh I can't sleep!
Xtoffa - Sat 6 Mar 2004 00:58:16

"Dont Leave Me This Way" - Thelma Houston (1994 Remix)
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - Sat 6 Mar 2004 03:16:08

I’m opening the outdoor area so do come and say hi. I’ll happily listen to all requests, so long as they’re accompanied by a shower of compliments.

See you there babes!
xo
Dan "Tina Sparkle" Murphy - Sat 6 Mar 2004 05:18:16

With all the talk at the moment I am putting money down to the B52's headlining the first show in the RHI. Certainly a great start to what the RHI will end up being... love shack baby!

Hope the weather holds up for the parade and all those people who have put countless hours into preparation!

Happy New Mardi Gras!!
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 08:40:32

ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!!

ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 13 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
countdownboy - The day has arrived !! - Sat 6 Mar 2004 09:03:01

Thanks NMG and congrats
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 09:45:35

ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!! ONLY 12 HOURS TO GO !!!!!
countdownboy - Sat 6 Mar 2004 10:14:43

I only hope Stevie doesn't get stuck in traffic between the Ent Centre and the party ... "Stand Back ... Stand Back ..." ... Please Santa ... I've been a nice boy!!

Have a fun and safe night everyone!
GD - Sat 6 Mar 2004 11:54:17

Well, all the music is packed and ready to go. I'm having a refreshing scotch and dry on the deck (yes, if you want to buy me a drink: scotch and dry, tall glass) and relaxing before the big night. Butterflies are beginning to flutter in my belly, but I'm hoping that the scotch will kill them.

Looking forward to seeing everybody there tonight. Party hard, but party safe!
JK - Sat 6 Mar 2004 13:05:29

I'd dearly love butteflies at the moment, but unfortunately I'm stuck with a couple of 10 tonne Mac Trucks that keep driving around and around my tummy and they just simply cannot find a place to park ;) For Gods sake can somebody let down their tyres !

Wasn't their a discussion a few weeks back on the party board about DJ's and nerves before a big event ?

HERE IS LIVING PROOF !!

See you all in Stage 11 tonight for whats going to be the ride of a lifetime !!
Stephen Blomfield - Sat 6 Mar 2004 13:38:57

Ha ha! Someone who knows me!
JK - Sat 6 Mar 2004 14:39:28

dc and et...8am outside dome...i will have a Ramones singlet on and serious bling bling
Ms Golightly - Sat 6 Mar 2004 16:09:05

worked a coupla years ago!
Happy mardi gras everyone, and don't forget: a little rain often keeps the less desirable element away (Fred? are you listening?)
Crystal Waters? really?
'til next post mardi graffiti board - c u tonite!
(and thankyou countdown boy!!)
canardlywait - Sat 6 Mar 2004 16:10:11

I am sure your set is going to rock. We are all very much looking forward to it... Will buy you a drink...

Chill relax its all good
DirtyBoi - Sat 6 Mar 2004 16:11:48

stephen kidman
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 16:19:01

Fred usually claims that he jacked it up with Jesus but to be frank, I think it's got more to do with that cyclonic low coming down the coast. One of the great enduring mysteries about Fred's so-called divine rainmaking abilities is the fact that he's never able to organise the slightest trickle in a drought..
Clearly Jesus thinks he's a tool as well.

The rain is a pissoff for everyone who has put their hearts and souls into floats etc but it's happened before, we always get through it and we'll soon be swapping stories of how bedraggled but smiling we all were - and you know, who gives a toss about a bit of rain?!. We're still going to party like happy little queer demons all night long...:) See you back here Monday....maybe
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 17:27:21

H A P P Y M A R D I G R A S to everyone ...

thank you for all your gossip, roumors and funny storys - this will have to go down as one of my best Mardi Gras Yet thank you all for making it so special
Slutboi - Sat 6 Mar 2004 17:48:34

Just came back from doing the sound check thingy with the boys...

We're looking forward to having a great night in Stage 11 - Should go off like a frog in a sock!

See you there people, and HAPPY MARDI GRAS!!!
Justin Scott - Sat 6 Mar 2004 18:21:51

actually no, we've only met for a brief moment in time when we were double booked one night at the civic a year back, but i am all for a little raking or unpotting all my plants in the garden and replanting them as a little zen relaxation (not so sure the plants love me for it though Lol)

will leave you to guess who. give you a hint, i am playing there tonight too
xx - Sat 6 Mar 2004 18:28:39

Why thanking you. For future reference, save yourself some typing: rather than wrire "chill relax", the word of the moment is "chillax".

actually no, we've only met for a brief moment in time when we were double booked one night at the civic a year back, but i am all for a little raking or unpotting all my plants in the garden and replanting them as a little zen relaxation (not so sure the plants love me for it though Lol)

will leave you to guess who. give you a hint, i am playing there tonight too
xx - Sat 6 Mar 2004 18:28:39

Ah, yes. Wonderful night that was, turning up for my first gig at the Civic only to find out we were double booked. It's funny that you said what you said though, as I have a little zen garden with a tiny wee wooden rake and you are supposed to rake the sand and receive good zen.

Now, I have a sh*thouse memory, and that night is a bit of a blur, but I am assuming that you are Daniel Hannan? Or is it Guy Hornsey? I may be wrong, but I'm inclined to think it's Daniel. Let me know! Either way, good luck for tonight! Enjoy it!
JK - Sat 6 Mar 2004 18:46:30

"Left To My Own Devices" - Petshop Boys (1989)
.

As i am now leaving for Mardi Gras I wanted to post this last ever trip down memory lane from the Pinkboard Jukebox.

With Mardi Gras on tonight I think this is an excellent time to wind it up after many monbths of pouring through some great (and not so great anthems from the past).

Thanks to those who have commented and made it all the more fun.

See you all at Mardi Gras !!
.
Pinkboard Jukebox - SIGNING OFF !!! - Sat 6 Mar 2004 20:57:55

great luck tonight
xx
mike
- Sat 6 Mar 2004 21:16:03

20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!!

20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!! 20 MINUTES TO GO !!!!
countdownboy - Sat 6 Mar 2004 21:39:35

SEE YOU ALL THERE !!!!!

.</b>
countdownboy - BYE BYE !!! - Sat 6 Mar 2004 21:59:44

Thank you NMG for making such a wonderful parade possible. Lots of love to Gail and her Plymouth Fury, the boys and girls from Wales and the Trade Union group. I think 2004 - the year of the 'big wet' - will be especially remembered in the years to come.
Nellie Noodle - Sun 7 Mar 2004 12:38:21

but I did make it to the parade

how was the party?
deep cover - Sun 7 Mar 2004 13:49:20

I didn't even know there was going to be a simulcast on JJJ. So annoyed.

Who wants to give us all the juicy goss for us poor souls who couldn't go ?
Cube - Sun 7 Mar 2004 15:27:08

right... im going back to bed.
marcus b - Sun 7 Mar 2004 18:17:33

RHI was the SHEEEEEEEEEAT! Lukester rocked it out, kept it pumpin until the wee hours and the crowd just didnt move as a result!

As for sound.. i found a solution! Dance on podium infront of speaker start to finish of lukes set, that sure did the trick :D

Looking forward to Queer Nation Master Leal u rock my box!

Gray
Gray - Sun 7 Mar 2004 18:40:13

The tent outside was a brilliant idea too, well done NMG.

Justin, Stephen and Jake need to be congratulated for all the hard work they put into the music. The effort was obvious and the constant cheers from the dancefloor just added more to the atmosphere. There was a group of Melbourne bears who also turned up to city live early and left only half an hour before it closed. All the guys were amazed at how much fun this space was and they're all hoping this becomes a permanent fixture.

Left the City Live briefly to tour around the other spaces before my partner dragged me back to line up again at Stage 11.

The dome was really cool. Enjoyed my dance there immensely before heading to the up & commers tent. A suggestion for NMG for next year, the surface in the tent is really not comfortable for dancing and these DJ's deserved better. Unfortunately I wasn't wearing a watch so I'm not sure who was playing on the 3 occasions I was in here throughout the night, but each time the performances were top quality.

Horden was pumping each time I cruised through and everyone was having a huge time. Good to see the raised dancefloor back again too.

RHI.....well the first time I was in there my partner and I loved the music but were drenched in sweat after only 1 song. We left pretty quickly to return to City Live but came back after City Live closed to find it a lot more comfortable.

Highlights for the evening for me were Gloria - Laura Brannigan(an all time favourite), Always On My Mind - PSB, and Kids In America - Kim Wilde.

But the moment that made me laugh the most was Shigeki and I serenading each other during Appreciate Me early morning in the RHI. Loved his set and watching him have a whale of a time playing it.

Overall one of the best parties my partner and I have been to.
Shanobear - Sun 7 Mar 2004 20:10:25

In my opinion, Stage 11 was a great success with the place being full from the time I arrived at around 11.30pm until my last track at 8am. The only problem I had was the rogue CD that decided to jump in the middle of a mix and a second mix that went completely wrong (through no fault other than my own)

Thanks to all the punters who made the night what it was.

Justin, Stephen and I will be compiling our full playlists shortly and will post them up on this board for anyone that is interested.
JK - Sun 7 Mar 2004 20:29:47

Thanks to NMG, the vollies, the DJ's, medical, our friends, and all the fabulous partygoers who helped make it a great night.
Evil Twin - Sun 7 Mar 2004 21:11:37

Now - to the important stuff - the retro space! 3 initial thoughts when i walked in!

1) the noise. everybody was singing along to the songs and cheering - amazing vibe
2) the crowd. nothing like i expected - very mixed but amazingly friendly and totally up for it
3) the smell. i forgot how popular amyl was!

Anyhow, arrived just as Justin Scott was finishing (i will make a special effort to catch you next year Justin rather than "melting" in the RHI). Have never heard Stephen Bloomfield play before and was mightily impressed - "tainted love" is always an inspired choice and i was dancing next to a group of melbourne bears who absolutely belted it out (coincidentally, has anybody else noticed that bears are the best lip-synchers?). I thought the roof was going to lift off Stage 11 when "Jump" by the pointer sisters came on. Not only did JK do a rather butch air-punch as Kim Wilde's "kids in america" started, he ALSO played a killer mix of baby its you by promises and one of my absolute all time fave songs - outlaw by olive - ensuring Ms Golightly was in camp heaven and a very contented punter.

The retro space was absolutely packed and jumping all night. Fave memory is perhaps the girl on stage (in cute puppy dog outfit) dancing to Madonna's "burning up" whilst security tried to usher her off as she sang "unlike the others i'll do anything, i'm not the same, i have no shame, i'm on fire!"

did a quick walk past the dome at 8 (ish) and ran into a lovely couple from London who I thought were Evil Twin and g/f but actually wasn't ?!?!? Anyhow, had a bit of a natter with them before heading down to the Shift. Not in the mood for dancing but played some absolutely inspired pool.

All in all - one of the best! Congrats and thanks to all involved.
Ms Golightly - Sun 7 Mar 2004 22:04:22

Steven Justin, and Jake - well done, your all truly gods of the dance floor !

What happend in the RHI - It was SOOOO hot, and well the music was all over the place. If i wanted to go to a Sauna, i would have gone to Kens... Luke Leals set rocked, he delievered nothing but the best as usual, Luke thank you for the music and the journey you took us all on...

The horden, very kewl, strong Tribal beats - cant pick a fav DJ just loved what i heard as I was in and out all night...

Well done to NMG, another good party - would not say one of my best ever parties, but sure did make the nightmare of Azure fade into a distant memory.

Peace Love & Dance!!!
DirtyBoi - Sun 7 Mar 2004 22:08:24

Luke - your set was Slamin...

what a DJ what a night....

How many more sleeps til Sleaze ????
Tired & Sore but had FUN! - Sun 7 Mar 2004 22:24:52

I want to thank Mardi Gras for putting on a truly wonderful event. I also want to thank the DJ's in Stage 11 who did an awesome job in making the Retro Space "THE" place to be at this party. In my opinion Stage 11 was the runaway success story of Mardi Gras 2004. I missed most of the first DJ's set but then Stephen Blomfield's set was a total slammer - totally brilliant. A flawless set !! And talk about a hit-a-thon WOW !!!

Jake Kilby was really good too but after Blomfields set he actually had a tough tough ask to match up.

Without a doubt Blomfield & Kilby should instantly be invited to be the DJ's in the retro space for Sleaze 04

I am totally convinced that Retro Anthems has now found a home at Mardi Gras run parties and should definitely be retained for future events.

Thanks to EVERYone who had a hand in the putting on of a great night out.
Brian J - Sun 7 Mar 2004 23:39:42

Everytime the DJ's cranked it up and got close to a hardhouse style the audience howled and cheered then 2 songs later back to tribal.

Great crowd and great fun but.........
At least one hardhouse set would have been fantastic - Mon 8 Mar 2004 09:23:55

and the party.. WOW..! NMG did good, had a fab time. Reading the posts above I also noticed the RHI being hot but hey that's part of the night, wouldn't think of complaining about it... although nearly passed out in the toilets... man that was extreme. I found a nice cool spot in the Horden vestibule in front of the shop though which was so lovely.

Thanks NMG
Xane
- Mon 8 Mar 2004 09:50:08

Would love to tell you about the names performing at the shows but I have no idea (and I was there!) The 1pm show was a community show which was great - 3pm show was 4 guys singing in sexy outfits but no idea who there were (neither did anyone else around me!) and unfortunately the old bod gave up on me before the 10am show and I was at home having a iced voddie !
- Mon 8 Mar 2004 10:20:44

Really enjoyed Luke Leal's set too. Lasers were the best I've seen at a recent big party (the display during Cafe Del Mar was mindblowing). Unfortunately, they disappeared for quite a while during the middle of the set, when the music was really going off (in a good sense). Also, as quite a few others have mentioned, the volume of the music in the RHI was too low and the heat was almost unbearable. Guess that neither of those problems could have been avoided, given the weather and the complaints from the local residents....
M - Mon 8 Mar 2004 11:37:38

it might have just been my impression but it did seem to me there weren't many people totally bombed out on G on Sat night at MG - I only went past medical once and there was one person being attended to but apparently he'd fainted from heat exhaustion in the RHI which I'm sure anyone who ventured in there can well understand! i wonder if there were fewer drops than usual throughout the night? (which, if so, is a very good thing)
- Mon 8 Mar 2004 12:35:25

Spent the first half of the night wandering around as the RHI was really too hot and unbearable. There was not one person in there that wasn't covered head to toe in sweat like they'd just done a 4 hour spinning class! But that's out of anyone's control. Glad the rain stopped just before the party and held off until we had time to make it home.

Stage 11 was obviously a huge success - the lines were enormous. I can't believe people would actually queue for what looked like over an hour to get inside - not that it wouldn't have been great... just that it's a bit of a waste of valuable party time! The tent outside was a great idea and this was also full the entire time so it worked well. Didn't spend that much time there but can't wait to see the setlist. The hordern was good but a little too tribal for me at times. Music in the RHI was great - more trancey and less diva anthems than normal, would love to see setlists for this too. The heat levels improved as the night went on and it became less crowded. The shows were nice but there was an obvious lack of a 'star'... I guess that's not really a terrible thing but it's a bit of an expectation that there'd be at least 1 'star' performing (was hoping for Paulini from Australian Idol - surely someone of her level wouldn't exactly break the bank yet still provide the excitement). I liked that they had who would be playing and when on display - it's always handy to know. Didn't notice the sound being too low - now that I think about it perhaps it was a little quieter than usual but really I'm sure most of the crowd didn't even notice. I liked the setup of the 2 big halls. RHI was the best I've seen except but wished the screens would've had more trippy/trancey images rather than what they did display.

Thanks everyone... til next time!
TJ - Mon 8 Mar 2004 13:00:16

All in all a very decent party, well worth the money!
BANDN - Mon 8 Mar 2004 14:26:06

I was told by a fellow punter these bois were apparently "Atlus" an 80s boy band...

Can someone else throw any light on who they were? Thanks!
- Mon 8 Mar 2004 14:48:17

Home now after a quiet sunday and monday. I'm sorry we missed Ms Golightly. Apparently you quizzed a mate of mine (also short butch dyke), who, on reading our name badges on our uniform shirts went "Oh!! so *that's* why someone asked if I was Evil Twin!" Jamie Dunbar took our photos at one point, and they go up on his site on thursday, and in the SSO. We caught up with a leatherman friend for coffee this arvo, and he had a great time at Indulgence too.

Nellie Noodle, I'm glad Gail took the Plymouth Fury out for a burn. That is one special car.
Evil Twin - Mon 8 Mar 2004 15:59:10

I hardly moved from the RHI except for a couple of walkies. Loved the lighting rig in the Hordern but only heard a cuppla choons there so can't comment.

First show in the RHI was Maxi Shields and Atlanta Georgia doing (something). Second was (someone) doing I'm a Queen. Final show was a bevvy of local drag celebs (I think) doing a Wizard of Oz tribute with what looked like Mitzi Macintosh as Dorothy. I was too far away to see very clearly, though. All of these show recollections subject to others' clearer memories - *winks*.

Only disappointment was that Academy Award winner Adam Elliot wasn't trotted out to receive the acclamation of his poofta peers. Given the party's cinematic theme and the fact his very first prize was from Queer Screen's Mardi Gras short film comp it would have been both appropriate and a really great moment for him to experience/remember.

Anyway the party was great. My tenth in a row.

And Indulgence last night was amazing too. So packed so early and just powered on through the night filled with an incredible array of hot leather boys and men. LOVE my new full harness - and so does everyone else it seems! hehe - Hmmmmm - that's another story.
Steve E - Mon 8 Mar 2004 16:28:19

Firstly I want to personally thank Shanobear, Evil Twin , Ms Golightly , Dirty Boi , Brain J , Davo , TJ , and Kogarah fan for your very kind responses above. You just dont know how much that means to me. I just wished you all could have come up to me in my set to introduce yourselves.

I was so pleased with the way the space worked. Packed from the time I got there at 11pm right through to the time it finished at 8am. And it was so nice having at least 8 or 9 people come up to me in my set saying how they felt they were living the glory days of the Flinders hotel circa 1992-1998... Argh the good old days when music was fun !!

NOTE - I can now reveal that when the party sold out last thursday that Mardi Gras party committee immediately decided to grant the wishes of some of you outspoken pinkboarders and granted your wish to extend the venue from 7am to 8am. Just goes to show you that if you lobby for something hard enough then you have a damn good chance of having your request granted. In hindside given how packed it was at 7am any decison to stop at 7am would have caused a riot !!

My next set of thanks goes to a bloke called Shaun who was the sound guy allocated to the venue for the night. Its widely known in the industry that sound guys can be unhelpful and pig headed and tend to begrudge any request from the DJ's to do things differently. Shaun was an angel. The sound check on the Saturday afternoon was a disaster. Jake , Justin and myself were absolutely in distress with another of items. Shaun bent over backwards to change EVERYTHING we wanted until we were completely happy. Thanks Shaun , your a real pro !

Of course I want to dearly thank my collegues Jake Kilby & Justin Scott. Ive never been involved before in a major gig like that where all 3 DJ's worked so closely and co-operatively with each other. Thanks guys you are both top notch in my opinion.

I'd like pinkboarders opinion about the 2am show featuring Paul Capsis and a live band. In my opinion (others may disagree) the show was COMPLETELY inappropriate. He did two really bad rock and roll numbers that had nothing to do with the theme of a retro space. At one point after he finished the first song he yelled out on the microphone "Hey there do you want to hear some more". I heard a large number of people standing behind the DJ box all yell out in unison "NO GET OFF". That summed it up for me. After I finished alot of people i spoke to echoed the same sentiments. Oh well , whats done is done !

My set as you know started at 1am and I went through to 4.15am (I decided to give Jake 45 minutes of the extra hour that the venue had been extended to).

I want to thank all of the attendees in the venue on the night you were truly awesome and inspiring. there were so many highlights for me and yes (as previous posters have mentioned) there was constant screams of delight when certain tracks came on particulary 'Jump' , 'Let me show you' , 'Say a little prayer' , 'Sex' , & 'Rockin for myself' (full track listing appears below).

One final thank you. To my dear friends and fellow DJ's Sean Manley and James Fraser (Melb) and David Hiscock. These guys helped me out for weeks leading up to the event helping me edit tracks down and juggle them about
out so that my set would flow better. Without your help my set WITHOUT A DOUBT would not have been that good. Guys, i owe you bigtime. You're the best xxxxx

i want to thank Mardi Gras Party Committee particulary Mark Orr and Jock McKeon for making my dream come true. I had been lobbying the old and then the new Mardi gras since 2000 for a retro space to accomodate the punters who dont go out week in week out and only wanna party to songs that they can sing along to. After 4 years it finally happened and I was proved right about how successful it would be. It would be nice to know that a Retro space has now found its way into the format of Mardi Gras and Sleaze parties from now on.

on a side note - To Luke Leal. I'm really sorry to hear about your RHI experience. Its just not right and these arse**holes who own their multi million dollar homes round in Lang Road who EVER YEAR complain about the sound should be told to **** off. Unfortunately they are highly influental people with connections to the local and state governments. I know for a fact (having known a person once who lived in lang Road) that the noise just doesnt travel that far. Draw from that the conclusion that these people are simply homophobes who just want to cause trouble for our event. Wankers !!!!

To conclude (and I REALLY apologise for the long post) I want to sign off by saying that I am cock a hoop about the whole night and am so proud that it went well for me and particulary for all of you. The strange thing is that i dont have a DJ residency anymore ( I have a Full Time 9-5 career job) and unless something comes up soon (and I have no interest in seeking club DJ work at this point in my life) Mardi Gras party on Saturday night is probably the last ever DJ job that I will ever do. Fittingly the title of my last song at 4.15am summed up that sentiment.

OK here goes - My playlist......

Stephen Blomfield’s DJ set
Stage 11 (City Live)
Sydney Gay & Lesbain Mardi Gras
Saturday March 6 , 2004

Start Time – 1am
Finish Time – 4.15am

The Music’s Got Me Spinning Around – Bass Bumpers (Original 1992)

I Love The Nightlife – Alicia Bridges (1993 Remix)

Ooh Argh Just A Little Bit - Gina G – Motiv 8 mix (1996)

Eternal Flame – Rochelle – Almighty mix (2001 Cover version of the Bangles 1989 hit)

We’re Easy To Love - Secchi - Direct Hit Mix (1993)

Like A Prayer - Madonna (1998 Bootleg Remix of Madonna’s 1989 hit)

A Red Letter Day - Pet Shop Boys – Motiv 8 mix (1996)

Let Me Show You - K-Klass - Original Club Mix (1993)

Hells Party - Glam – Club Mix (1992)

Strike It Up - Black Box – Ultimix Remix (1990)

Temptation - Heaven 17 (1992 Bros in Rhythm Mix) (Originally Recorded 1983)

"That" 2am show !!!

Light My Fire - Clubhouse – Sunshine Mix (1994)

Rocking For Myself - Motiv 8 - Motiv 8 mix (1994)

Say A Little Prayer - David Michael Johnson – Italo NRG Mix (1993)

Jump - Pointer Sisters – Original Mix (1985)

Reach - Judi Cheeks – Dancing Divas Mix (1995)

What Do I Have To Do - Kylie Minogue – Hot Tracks Mix (1991)

Jellyhead - Crush – Motiv 8 Mix (1996)

Son Of A Gun - JX - Red Jelly Mix (1994)

Tainted Love - Icon - Original Club Mix (1996)

This Time I Know Its For Real - Kelly Llorenna (2004 cover version of Donna Summers 1989 hit) – Riff n Rays Mix

Fingers and Thumbs - Erasure - Tin Tin Out Mix (1995)

I Imagine - Mary Kiani – Motiv 8 Mix (1995)

Skyhigh ’89 - Jigsaw – Stock Aitken Waterman Mix Remix(1989)

I’m Your Man - Shane Richie - Shanghai Surprise mix (2003 version of Whams 1984 hit)

Sex - Vicki Shepherd - Motiv 8 mix (1995)

Searching ’97 - Hazell Dean – Pumped up NRG 97 Mix (Originally recorded in 1983)

Feel It - Hi Lux - Hi Lux Remix (1994)

Just Cant Get Enough - Transformer 2 Ace Remix with full vocal (1995)

I Believe In Dreams ’96 - Jaki Rawe Almighty Definitive mix (Originally Recorded 1984)

Always On My Mind - Pet Shop Boys – Original Remix (1987)

Enough is Enough (No More Tears) – Jocelyn Brown & Kym Mazelle Westend Club Mix (1994)

And after all that Enough was definitely Enough !!

Hope you all enjoy. Roll on Sleaze ball !!
Stephen Blomfield - Mon 8 Mar 2004 16:47:02

The RHI was a sauna. The humidity already present in the air from all the rainfall just added to the problems. As we all know hot air rises. And the stale air up at DJ level was uncomfortable and resulted in me consuming 4 Litres of water without any toilet stops across the three hours.

The sound was very barely present in most parts of the dance floor not for lack of “power” in the system but due to the EPA poised on the road out the front of the RHI. It seems that they got “several” complaint’s from the neighbours in the surrounding areas. (Nile & Pell shacked up in south Dowling just to be closer to the action). There are many ways to avoid these problems - I won’t go into it here but technical people should take note: 20Hz-50Hz passes through walls with ease so why push this on the eq?

There was a wave of confusion that that swept the audience when I was “thanked” by the announcer before I had started playing. Then I was thanked again before I finished then Luke was thanked during my set and finally Luke and I were again thanked at the end of my set….. in reality we were both happy to be there once was enough. Technical fuckups like this sometimes occur and I am sure I speak on behalf of the production team at Jands when I offer an apology. My set for the record was from 1 - 4 and had a show at 3.30. Luke did not start his set with Ecuador.

Finally….

To the devout fans that braved the heat wave and partied hard I thank you so much. There was one moment (during Madonna’s For A Girl) that every one in the room was facing me with their hands in the air and the lights were up full…… totally breath taking - hope someone got a picture.

Thanxs for a great Mardi Gras. An a big Thank you to New Mardi Gras for a great event overall.
Ryan Murphy - Mon 8 Mar 2004 16:50:24

Paul Capsis saddled in between Heaven 17 and Clubhouse didn't really work. I thought he yelled out "do you want to hear some more ROCK?" ... err, no! ... and then proceeded to do what sounded like an aerosmith song. Paul is incredibly talented but the track selection just wasn't right. A repeat of his Gay Games opening ceremony performance of Bronski Beat's "why" on the other hand would have been much more suitable!

once again - many thanks! I was going to pop up and say hi but thought i read on one of your previous posts that you were going to join us all on the dancefloor after your set. Oh well! hopefully will get the opportunity again next year!
Ms Golightly - Mon 8 Mar 2004 17:44:29

just wanted to add my 2 cent's worth...i was working at the party for the first time and it's bizarre seeing it from the working side instead of the partying side... the work that goes into that party is fucking full-on - i was there from 7pm - 7am, and the people who need thanking in some ways more than the djs are the GREAT volunteers - the medics, stage managers, marshalls, crew, techies... all of them work constantly to ensure that you (we) have as good a time as possible. BIG HAND for all the vollies!!!!

thanks to the lovely ladies who helped push my golf-cart to the fenceline after an embarrassing flat battery. and although i was running around all night i HAD TO stop and dance for ten minutes at the up-and-coming tent - GREAT SOUND!!i handed the dj his drink, and the woman next to me and i started dancing - she said "isn't he great??" i said yeah - and he WAS great - and she said "he's my son!" . it was so cool to see a totally into it 40 something mum dancing to her 20 something son's beats! had a great time!

having seen the workings of the party has given me fresh enthusiasm for the cause - mardi gras as a festival, a parade, an ideal, rocks and needs our constant support.

have a good one!
riderboy - Mon 8 Mar 2004 17:46:54

Got to the Party just before 12 and headed straight ('cuse the pun) to the Retro room after checking for friends in the Hordern Foyor. Stage 11 rocked - so many friendly people from all over the world gettin' down to the great sounds. Lots of Poms and Europeans. THis girl did well on the magpie trail collecting two strands of glitter beads - from 3 cute rolly-polly Candadian lads, one pair of Dame Edna glasses and a black afro from a true blue Aussie fella dressed as Elvis in black sequins plus lots of kisses and hugs from appreciate gum & lollie recievers.
The only bummer was when I threw-up my second half and had to spend a little time in Medical - 11 years of glitch-free lollie taking finally caught up with me! OH well lucky I was with a mate and the lovely nurses and docs fixed me up well enough to get home in one peice by 8am....Congrats to everyone at NMG - you have done yourselves pround. PS: I disagree about Paul Capsis set being inappro' - from where I was on the third level the crowd loved it - and I swear that man is 8 feet tall!!
Queer-minded-chick - Mon 8 Mar 2004 18:04:22

I just read a posting that Stephen Blomfield may not ever DJ again...

As i wipe a tear from my eye, i hope and pray that this is not the case as if it is true... we are loosing one of the most talented DJs in Australia...

Please rethink if not for the people who where in the retro space - but for the music of life!!!

Loved your work @ the party and everything else u have done
RetroMan - Mon 8 Mar 2004 18:22:40

Jake Kilby DJ set
Stage 11 (City Live)
Sydney Gay & Lesbain Mardi Gras
Saturday March 6 , 2004

Start Time – 4:15am
Finish Time – 8:00am

Listen to the music - Doobie Brothers (Motiv 8 remix)

The key the secret - Urban Cookie Collective (Dancing Divaz remix)

Nothing in the world - Mozaic (Motiv 8 remix)

Touch me - Samantha Fox (J's bootleg)

Burning up - Madonna (12")

Kids in America - Kim Wilde (D-bop remix)

Baby it's you - Delicious (Ace mix)

Believe - Cher (Xenomania remix)

Outlaw - Olive (Space Brothers remix)

All I wanna do - Dannii Minogue (Direct Hit mix)

Break the chain - Motiv 8 (Ace mix)

Our lips are sealed - The Go Go's (12")

Rhythm of the night - Corona (J's cut up)

Dress you up - Madonna (Bootleg)

One more time - Jinny (Pro DJ mix)

Sex drive - Glam featuring Pete Burns (Direct Hit mix)

Good times - Dream Frequency (12")

What kind of fool (heard all that before) - Kylie (J's what kind of fever mix)

Wanna be startin' something - Michael Jackson (Brothers in Rhythm remix)

Joy - Staxx (Remix)

White lines - Grandmaster Flash (J's bootleg)

Things can only get better - D:ream (J's bootleg)

Such a good feeling - Brothers in Rhythm (12")

Hot shot - Barbara Tucker (Ace mix)

I want your sex - George Michael (J's bootleg)

Love will never do (without you) - Janet Jackson (J's bootleg)

Take me to your heart - Rick Astley (12")

When doves cry - Prince (Bootleg)

Billie Jean - Michael Jackson (Bootleg)

You should be dancing - The Bee Gee's (Remix)

Spice up your life - The Spice Girls (Direct Hit mix)

Relight my fire - Take That featuring Lulu (12")

Everybody dance - Evolution (Remix)

Big Fun - Inner City (2003 remix)

Funkatarium - Jump (J's bootleg)

Rock the casbah - The Clash (12" edit)

Venus - Shocking Blue (Remix)

Express yourself - Madonna (12" edit)

You lift me up - Rebekah Ryan (Hi-Lux vox mix)

Enjoy!
JK - Mon 8 Mar 2004 18:58:13

Good to see you thoroughly enjoying yourself in Stage 11 Ms Golightly and it was nice to finally meet you face to face Shanobear.
JK - Mon 8 Mar 2004 19:01:00

Speaking of ATLAS..that show was so camp! I loved it. Those boys are HOT! I have seen them on Foxtel a few times last year. Has that song been released? I’ve heard it when I've been out at the Shift and Arq.

As for “Over the rainbow”.. I’ve never seen so many wide eyed boys in the audience hold hands and sing along to a closing show. Fabulous way to end a brilliant night!

Sean, Alex, Stephen, Luke, Ryan, Shigeki...and all the other DJs who I didn't get time to hear..YOU ROCK!
G D - Mon 8 Mar 2004 19:57:39

Listed below is my playlist that kick started the evening. Like Jake, a little too tired to work out the year each track was released.

Alison Limerick – Make It On My Own

Abbacadabra – Dancing Queen (Almighty Mix)

Army Of Lovers – Crucified

Ace Of Base – Beautiful Life (Direct Hit Mix)

Laura Branigan – Gloria (Direct Hit Mix)

Madonna – Deeper & Deeper

Bamboo – Bamboogie

Bananarama – Venus

Beverley – Power Of Love

Dannii – Coconut

Dead Or Alive – You Spin Me Round (2003 Remix)

Sylvester – Do You Wanna Funk

Dolly Parton – Peace Train (Ace Mix)

Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Flip & Fill Mix)

Yazz – The Only Way Is Up

Madonna – Vogue (2002 SM Trax Remix)

Midnight Shift – California Dreaming

Mousse T – Horny

Tatjana – Santa Maria (Direct Hit Mix)

The Tamperer – Feel It (Jimmy Dee Re-Worked Mix)

Toni Di Bart – Do It

Nicki French – Total Eclipse Of The Heart (Direct Hit Mix)

Paradise People – Free Gay & Happy (Almighty Mix)

Q Feat Tracey Ackerman – Get Here (Direct Hit Mix)

Rozalla – Everybody’s Free

Deborah Harry – I Want That Man (Almighty Mix)

Spice Girls – Spice Up Your Life

Kelly Marie – Feels Like I’m In Love

Ken Doh – I Need A Lover

Jaki Graham – Ain’t Nobody

Johnna – Pride (Ace Remix)

Gisele Jackson – Love Commandments (Ace Remix)

The Jacksons – Blame It On The Boogie

Blondie – Atomic ’94 (Direct Hit Mix)

Ce Ce Peniston – Finally (NRG Mix)

Crystal Waters – 100% Pure Love

Dana Dawson – 3 Is Family (Direct Hit Mix)

Note: Tracks are not in order of play

The entire set was recorded live on the night and will be uploaded onto my site for streaming late tonight – No downloading necessary.
www.djjustinscott.com

Enjoy!
Justin Scott - Mon 8 Mar 2004 20:28:00

Firstly I would like to congratulation Harbour City Bears for organizing one of the best Bear Essential ever. And of course the climax was marching with the Bears Float. Thanks guys for putting together a very memorable Bear Essential and for all your effort.

The NMG must be congratulated for bring back the fun, good vibes and glamour to Mardi Gras. Rejuvenating the Spirit of Mardi Gras and Celebrating with pride our diversity. To all of you who have contributed to the success of this year Mardi Gras I will like to thanks everyone involved - NMG, Volunteers, Police Force, the floats and the cheering crowd lining the street and braving the rain.

The Party…. As soon as the gates opened, my partner dragged me straight to City Live. The music was absolutely fantastic. I knew every songs, every words. The dancefloor bloomed into cheers as every songs came up. The non-stop cheers was a constant reminder of how wonderful City Live was. Justin, Stephen and Jake need to be congratulated for their fantastic job! Well done Guys….. All my friends and everyone around were amazed at how much fun City Live was and we want it back next year.

My partner and I tour the other spaces, the RHI had very good music pumping but the heat and humidity was too much. I regret not spending more time there as we were really enjoying the music. But we came back in morning during Shigeki set and it was a bit more comfort as we danced on the stages with our fellow Bears. Woof! Shigeki, you were fantastic. Cheers DJ Shigeki. We enjoyed your set very much.

The Horden was pumping as we cruised through toward the Dome. Dome had very cool music and a nice space to chill out and relax.

It was an amazing night. Everyone needs to be congratulated for its success….

The best part of the night….. You guess it… City Live… It was fantastic. Please bring it back next year.
CMBear - Mon 8 Mar 2004 20:46:34

I spent most of the night in there and now that Ive had my memory refreshed with all three DJ's playlists I just want to say how good all three DJ's were but special mention to Stephen Blomfield who in my opinion is one of the most talented and switched on yet under rated DJ's that this city is fortunate enough to have. I cannot believe that he may not ever DJ again. Attention gay venue club managers - Offer this guy a job !!

Technically he was brilliant. Every mix was seemless unlike Justin and Jake who let a couple of clangers go in their sets. And as for that track listing of his well what can you say. Cheesy but extremely anthemic. I knew every song and sung along to each and every one. Thats what a dance party should be all about in my opinion.

My highlight was the mix of Skyhigh by Jigsaw. Every single persons arms were in the air at the point in the song where the line "Youve blown it all SKYHIIIIIIIIIIIIIGH". Thank you Stephen for playing that original Jigsaw version instead of that cheap version by Newton that came out a few years later.

Well done to New Mardi gras for allowing this space to happen - You're on a winner here for future events.
retro rules !! - Mon 8 Mar 2004 21:39:52

Thank you all very much for providing the details of your sets. Say it aint so Stephen, please play again! Do you think that after the success of Stage 11 that the Retro space may be provided again? If it is, then please, please, please play in it once more, your enthusiasm for the party and the retro space has been fantastic. I don't remember ever hearing so much from DJ's about a space and their plans for it before a party. It really added to the pre-party excitement. Bravo to all of you, and please play again Stephen.
Loved it - Mon 8 Mar 2004 22:39:44

In response to
"mike kelly's music is too predictable & old
breaks suck - Mon 8 Mar 2004 13:36:18"

respect your opinion. sorry you didn't like the tunes. agree that the music was obvious at times but for a 7am set i thought it was suitable and given the music played prior to me it was pretty necessary that i follow with an equally familiar style of cuts. i much prefer big room classics than current commercial faves so i went this way. had bought like $700 worth of new underground stuff just in the 2 weeks prior but didn't really get to play much of it it til Indulgence last night (which was a major treat) as it may have been a little too hard going for the crowd who had had a pretty deep tribal ride through the night. loved playing the set and had a great time and a v positive response.

as for the comments that breaks suck, mate you are missing out on a truly innovative and amazing style of music, truly your loss. check out hybrid, or anything on fingerlickin records if you want a good in road into the genre... if not, all good, but get used to it, cause it is getting more popular by the second. and hey in 3hrs i only played about 7mins (2 tracks) of breaks so surprised you'd even mention it. either way, thanks for your feedback (always good to get a bit of balance in my day) :)

big thanks to NMG, love to Lisa German (yes, previous poster I will tell her to post her track listing), Sveta and Kylie for being ACE cards

7-10am hordern Tracklist below xx mike

*Safe From Harm (dean coleman bootleg) – Narcotic Thrust – Yoshitoshi
*The Flying Song (markus schulz renaissance remix) – PQM feat Cica – Renaissance
*Finally (danny tanglia’s return to paradise mix) – Kings Of Tomorrow feat Julie McKnight – Defected
*No Man Can Tame Me (the afterlife vox) - Inda Matrix – Harlem
*We Want Your Soul (infusion remix) – Freeland – Maximise Profit
*7th Nation – Freeland – White Label
*Smells Like – Freeland – White Label
*Muzikizum (part two) – X-Press 2 – Skint
*Some Lovin’ (peter rauhofer reconstruction mix) – Murk vs Kristine W – Silver Label
*Get Me Off (superchumbo supergetoff remix) – Basement Jaxx – XL
*Down & Dirty (main vocal) – Richard F – Subliminal
*Slammin’ (original) – Eric Prydz – Credence
*Amazing (original mix) – DJ Flex – Subliminal
*Same Ol Thing (original mix) – Loverush – Credence
*At Night (kid crème mix) – Shakedown – White Label
*Good Luck (tim deluxe funked club mix)– Basement Jaxx – XL
*Get Yourself High (switches rely on rub) – The Chemical Brothers – EMI
*Addicted To Bass (different gear mix) – Puretone – Sony
*Hey Boy Hey Girl (extended version) – The Chemical Brothers – Virgin
*Inhale (original) – 16th Street – White Label
*Musak (steve lawler remix) – Trisco – White Label
*Hazy/Crazy (extended mix) – Da Hool – Kosmo
*S.L.U.T. (I Like To Be Naked) (filthy slut) – Big Noddy – Casa Nostra
*Insane (steve murano rmx) – Dark Monks – Pulsive
*Somnambulist (sander kleinenberg’s convertible mix) – BT – Nettwerk
*Silence (original) – Delirium – Northern Exposure
*Southern Sun (Gabriel & Dresden unplugged mix) – Paul Oakenfold – Perfecto
*Don’t Give Up (original mix) – Chicane feat Bryan Adams – Xtravaganza
*Blackwater (octave one strings vocal mix) – Octave One feat Saunderson – White Label
*Calabria (original) – Rune – Credence
*Chemical Sparkle (club mix) – Mushka – Raisin
*So High (main mix) – Static Revenger – SR
*Insomnia (monster mix) – Faithless – Cheeky
*Born Slippy (born slippy nuxx) – Underworld – TVT
*Casual Sex (dub pistols remix) – George Mike – Southern Fried
*Where’s Your Red Alert At? – White Label
*Just F**k (naughty but clean mix) – Tom Neville – Underground Music Movement
*Manila (ewan pearson mix) – Seelenluft feat “mike master” Michael Smith – Back Yard
*Gorecki – Lamb – White Label
*Get Busier – White Label
*Superstylin – Groove Armada – White Label
*Ticket To Ride (original mix) – Syke ‘N’ Sugarstarr – Casa Rosso
*Salt Shaker (original mix) – Boogie Pimps – Superstar
*It’s My Life – White Label
*Without – White Label
mike kelly - Mon 8 Mar 2004 22:50:13

First song I heard in City Live - Don't Go Breakin My Heart which was awesome and of course Rocket Man in RHI was sensational. Thanks Elton.
MC - Tue 9 Mar 2004 07:54:33

It seems we claimed our space collectively in a unorchestrated way. Beautiful. Also so within that so many Mardi Gras Virgins this year.

The magic of Mardi Gras has returned.

It is also very exciting to know we have money in the bank. The last few years have been so hard with the threat that these times in which we bond and find our deeper selves could disappear forever. A dreadful prosect.

On that note I met so many international visitors. Americans, Canadians and English mainly that were so completely amazed and astonished by the event in its uniqueness. Nowwhere else in the world creates such a space for gay people. It astounds me to here this kind of talk from so many visitors.

Onward fellow homosexuals!
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 10:26:47

Agree with the rest of the comments on this board that Lisa German rocked. It was the best set I have heard at MG in years. Also big ponts to Kylie Rose who warmed up the crowd nicely. Walked into the Hordern and heard Diamond Life and Matthew Dekay back to back. I couldn't want more - but Lisa took it even higher. Moving the DJ booth also worked - we had a filthy time in the centre of the floor (in fact filthier than any party in the Dome) I will say no more. That was almost my best Mardi Gras ever. Wow.
lovin' it - Tue 9 Mar 2004 11:12:36

I still don't understand how dangerous it must have been for some of the party goers being so over heated on the dance floor. Think Mardi Gras may need to consider that as a health and safety issue for upcoming parties.

A major plus for the drug rovers! We were approached by several who were wandering around during the night. We were just sitting around, though it was a nice thought that there were those who had the responsinbility of checking in to see that we were all ok!!

Great news it was a sellout. Now time to tweak it a little more and sell out Sleaze Ball.
Suzie - Tue 9 Mar 2004 11:48:21

Given the climatic conditions - about 90% humidity - and the pack-in phenomenon that always occurs early-on in the RHI as people anticipate shows, I wasn't that surprised. Once people/external humidity factors exceed critical aircon mass, it takes a long time for the ambient temp to get back down to something bearable. It was a sweatbox but it did cool down a bit later - probably due to people circulating more around the whole site rather than any aircon 'problem' being fixed.

I've been sweatier in the Dome. A few Sleazes ago similar humidity and crowd mass sent the temp through the roof. What did Security do? Closed the doors to try and prevent any further entry. Brilliant move! It sent the ambient temperature soaring well beyond any ability that the aircon may have had to cope
and gave thousands of partygoers a chance to find out what happens to leather if you wear it to go swimming :)
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:00:19

Me too lovin it'. And, interestingly, no-one said anything about stopping that at once and going to Kensington, but then again, speaking with one's mouth full is very bad manners ;)
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:05:33

Just a quickie - still pretty knackered from the day and night setting up the party.

Party was awesome and i'm so glad you all agree. Stage 11 totally rocked - we made the decision to put the outside tent as we had read a lot of feedback from Pinkboard and had heard the buzz around town about the space. Glad you enjoyed the extra space. I have to admit I spent the majority of the night in there - relived so many memories it wasn't funny.........

As for the heat in the RHI - even in the afternoon when we were setting it up, it was hot! Very sorry about the heat - the dodgy weather conditions worked against us and left us unprepared. We will have a look at what can be done about that for the next party....... But all four sets were amazing - you guys should be congratulated on making the RHI truely rock. as for the sound, there was nothing we could do. We did a letter drop to the area the Saturday before explaining about the party and where to complain to if the sound was too loud.... Again, the sound in the RHI will be reviewed for the next party.

The Horden rocked too - all the dj's were fantastic and Lisa German was great! great to hear an international of you calibre truely rocking the joint! Thanks so much for coming along!

Dome was a great space and loved the film at 6am - great place to chill out too - well done on teh DJ's in there too - the tunes were perfect for the atmosphere.

Up and comers - all I can say is WOW! You were all totally brilliant and I think you all of great careers in front of you. I was totally impressed with your professionalism and your djing ability! hope you all had a great time!

Saw about the 10 overdoses at Two Tribes in Melbourne - considering we had 17,000 party-goers, we only had two ambulances all night. I think this is an amazing feat for all the medical staff, so well done to them and thanks to all of you for partying safely.

The shows in order were:

1am - RHI - Fame/Flashdance staring Maxi Shields and Atlanta Georgia
1.30am - Horden - Chariot Race
2.30am - City Live - Paul Capsis
3am - RHI - Atlas - I am a queen
10am - RHI - Wizard of Oz tribute with Vanity Fair, Mitzi Macintosh and Pru Grimsure (who sung 'Over the Rainbow' live)

As for the lack of an international star - New Mardi Gras had a very strict budget in respect to that party as we wanted to make as much money as possible to secure the future of the organisation. I think the production value of the party was amazing considering the budget and yes, some things (like an international star) did have to be cut. I hope you all respect this decision.

All in all we are extremley happy with the night and the feedback we have been hearing. To be standing in the coat check at 10am and hearing people saying 'that was the most faultless party I have been to' made my hair stand on end and totally worth all the hard work all the volunteers put in to make the party a complete success. NMG knew the party would sell-out a couple of weeks ago, but when it actually happened, we were totally thrilled. The party took 6 months to plan and I hope you all agree that it was totally worth while.

To all the volunteers, board, party-goers, DJ's, medical staff and everyone involved - a massive thankyou for making the party so amazing and it has been a pleasure to work with you all. I look forward to working with you on Sleaze and Mardi Gras 05!

My best parts of the night?

1) the rain stopping at 9.45pm!
2) watching the gates open at 10pm and seeing a massive queue of people waiting to come in
3) dancing to 'What do I have to do' in City Live (Thanks Stephen!)
4) Watching the last show with the board, party group members and volunteers on the stage at the back of the RHI - it was totally breath taking and made me cry!

The planning for Sleaze has already begun - and it will rock!!!!
Lee J - New Mardi Gras Volunteer - Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:20:39

(and yeah the party was hot, but geez, what a fantastic time
Nick melbourne - Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:25:32

Seeing Crystal Waters live (I think not!) performance at Arq on Sunday night just showed how great our local shows really are.
la la de la la da - Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:50:43

Sorry Pru!
Lee J - New Mardi Gras Volunteer - Tue 9 Mar 2004 12:59:28

To be totally frank, the lack of an "international star" made not one jot of difference to the enjoyment factor and, in fact, had the added bonus of sending the poofdyke factor through the roof (along with the temperature). I'd much rather that Mardi Gras used the performances to emphasise the queer culture that we're there to celebrate. If an "international act" visit happens to coincide with Sleaze and MG - and he/she/them represent(s) the spirit of what we're there for, then terrific! Bring 'em on!

But if we've learned one thing from this experience it's surely that the party is about celebrating us and our lives and culture and it works best when it sticks to that formula. The party isn't ultimately about big-name headline acts
and NMG would definitely want to avoid the bigger, better, more fabulous, more famous ever-inflating expectations treadmill that contributed to the collapse of old MG.

I like the B52's but if it's a toss-up between them and a camp 4a.m. fagboyband act featuring naked blokes with big penises well - no contest really :)
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 13:28:16

Trance Music does have long breaks and the beat can get "lost" so to speak and leave people standing around wondering when the "music" is going to start again. This is avoided when the sound is of a suitable level that in the "beat drops & breaks” that occur - with decent sound you can still hear the "rhythm" of the music (trance never drops out of time). Sorry that we couldn’t get it louder. I was in the middle of the floor during Luke’s set and i could talk to the person next to me with ease... Most trance fans are used to thunderous sound aka (Toybox,Ruby,QN ect) - hopefully we will get it right next year. I personally like to feel it through the floor!

As for playing to many “Anthems” - My personal theory is that people don’t want to go to a pig party and hear all brand new material. Generally people want to go and sing along to the songs they know and love. The best audience responses during my set were from the “Anthems”. I included approx 40% new material in my set.
Ryan Murphy - Tue 9 Mar 2004 13:31:01

Aiden! Love! Never before I have experienced such a mass outpouring of thanks, joy and happiness on a post-MG Pinkboard grafitti wall, fullstop. Wave after wave of good vibes and happy memories - even a mass breakout of genuine understanding as to why things got a bit sweaty in the RHI - it's totally unprecedented. And, Christ!! It's Tuesday as well!!!

And ain't it good to feel :)
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 13:59:07

How about re-opening the Flinders? Theres never been a better time or more of a need for a gay friendly venue to open it's doors. There certainly no lack of DJ'ing talent waiting to find somewhere to work.

Last thing we need is another Eden debacle where one of the few gay clubs left on the strip got converted into a hair salon.
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 14:51:16

= = = = = = = = = =

This Beat Is by Superchumbo - and I know exactly what you mean about it Nick, awesome huh?!
.
Dan Murphy - Tue 9 Mar 2004 14:51:27

Maybe the shows could be put on outside - just a thought and let those who want to dance all night - do so without the disruption of the music stoping ...

Its just a thought

Also a very big thanks to NMG and the boys and girls who organised the event... one of the best i have ever been to... congratulations - lets hope that the community as a whole now gets behind NMG and joins the organisation...
DancinBoi - Tue 9 Mar 2004 15:00:19

WHAT A NIGHT

I will be back
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 15:19:13

On a negative note, shigeki's set in the RHI was appalling. Never before have I heard such an abysmal set at mardi gras. Whilst I'm normally a fan of shigeki's, his set at the party was awful. It lacked energy and his programming was all over the place. Someone needs to tell him that overlaying acappellas over instrumental tracks only works if the song is in key.

To the party committee: please choose a dj who can handle the last set in the RHI. It is probably one of the most important sets of the night. It's obvious shigeki cannot handle the responsibility of closing such an important event.
Not tone deaf! - Tue 9 Mar 2004 15:36:54

My low down.

Shows - Only saw two, the first and the last. Didn't really like the first one - a touch too Penthouse for me.

The last show however was great. Tolal gay weirdness (especially those munchins) - but it also very elating/touching with the message of belonging and being truthful to yourself. Nothing like The Wizard of Oz to get the queens going! Mitzi you are fantastic!

It's a shame I missed the big penis one!

Lights - My god the lighting was good!! Especially in the Hordern. But also the last 1/2 hour in the RHI lifted me up off the ground.

Dancing and sexiness - Hordern Hordern Hordern!! I've always loved the Hordern but for some years it has always lacked something. Not so this time totally went off and it didn't become a ghost town early. In fact the entire party held everyone stayed on which was great! Amazing atmosphere and dancing going on.

My favourite moments

1. Definitely agree with the poster above with regard to the Rain stopping at 9.45pm - I tell you pheasant feathers do not stand up in heavy rain!

2. The boy with sparkling purple hot pants and a gorgeous arse.

3. The munchins in the last show.

4. My boyfriend and I meeting two men from Melbourne at the end and each of us kissing them passionately at the end. Just beautiful...almost mystical in what we were communicating.

5.Dancing on at the back of the seating in the Hordern and reaching that moment/feeling when the sound, the lights, the vide culminate to the point that you really have moved onto other realm.

5. Dancing to Embrace by Agnelli and Nelson

6. As always meeting so many stangers for breif moments in time.

How long to Sleaze? - It will surely sell out!!
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 15:45:10

Cant wait to the next big dance parties bring on the DJ Ryan Murphy.
- Tue 9 Mar 2004 16:15:07

I believe Mardi Gras has really found a new theme for its parties that is here to stay for a very long time.

I want to thank all 3 DJ's in Stage 11 with a very special mention to Stephen B who was mind blowing ! That track listing of his is possibly one of the best set of classics and anthems covering the last decade. Its was well executed , it was well thought out and it was extremely well done. New Mardi Gras would do well to immediately offer him a gig at Sleaze Ball. Thanks Stephen, whilst you continue not to have a regular DJ residency anywhere is such a loss to the Gay & Lesbian community.
A Huge SB fan !! - Wed 10 Mar 2004 07:15:08

"This Beat Is" by Superchumbo
JK - Tue 9 Mar 2004 20:59:09

* excuse me but can you do it again, please? y;know, for the ones that missed
[damn, I didn't have a water-tight plan "B"] - Wed 10 Mar 2004 00:03:37

Ive always thought that Sydney has lacked something since the demise of venues that play really cheesy music (eg Flinders & Caesars).

What occurred in City Live on Saturday was a truly wonderful experience.

Could any club owner reading this give thought to a retro night (maybe once a month would be good). Of course the 3 boys from City Live on Saturday night should be given the opportunity to play this night given how f--king awesome they were on Saturday.
90's music rocks - Wed 10 Mar 2004 00:11:14

!!! those guys are H-e-r-o-e-s because at least one poor overdoer was alone.
blue nitro - Wed 10 Mar 2004 00:36:32

I can't tell you how long I've been waiting for you to say you wanted to double up on a stray like me Jake ;)
Dan Murphy - Wed 10 Mar 2004 01:11:24

You naughty little swine!
JK - Wed 10 Mar 2004 09:22:40

"Fabulon" at Arq on Thursdays is doing something similar. Alex Taylor, Richard Weiss, Roger Z and myself play one Thursday a month each on a rotating basis. There is a consistent underlying tone each week from all DJ's but with Alex focusing on "Funky", Richard focusing on "Disco", Roger focusing on "Girlie" and me focusing on "Pop".

There will be a mixture of new and old tunes for your listening pleasure and the campest, silliest show I've seen in ages. It's not exactly the same as Stage 11 at Mardi Gras, but it's not too far off the mark. Check it out one Thursday.
JK - Wed 10 Mar 2004 09:29:30

so when will you be on next JK? It does sound interesting and after the fun of saturday night I'm sure the next one will be packed.

Loved the set lists from you guys, bought back some great memeories of the night.

Mind you I lost a bet with my partner because of your set mate. I bet him you would play Rooms On Fire! Oh well guess I'll just have to pay up.

Enjoyed meeting you too mate. Was very shy about coming up and saying hi (that's why I didn't come up to say hi to Stephen)and almost didn't, but glad my partner pushed me up the stairs.
Shanobear - Wed 10 Mar 2004 09:59:10

No thanks - I'll pass.

Normal people dont go out on school nights !!

In my opinion to recapture the vibe of City Live on Saturday requires a club to go the whole hog and copy this theme on no less than a Saturday night.
- Wed 10 Mar 2004 10:44:19

They could take over @Newtown??
- Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:27:34

They could take over @Newtown??
- Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:27:34

DAMN RIGHT MARDI GRAS SHOULD TAKE OVER THE NEWTOWN HOTEL !!!!

God only knows the current owners have totally RUINED the Newtown as it currently exists.
Put back the dancefloor back at the Newtown ! - Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:33:08

DAMN RIGHT MARDI GRAS SHOULD TAKE OVER THE NEWTOWN HOTEL !!!!

God only knows the current owners have totally RUINED the Newtown as it currently exists.
Put back the dancefloor back at the Newtown ! - Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:33:08

To the person that said "DAMN RIGHT MARDI GRAS SHOULD TAKE OVER THE NEWTOWN HOTEL !!!! " read again??

@Newtown & Newtown hotel are 2 different venues...DERR

seriously guys what they have done with the Newtown has been beneficial to the business financially although I think they ruined it too!!
s.c. - Wed 10 Mar 2004 15:05:25

Hey Shanobear, I am on this Thursday if you want to come down for a boogie. Would be great to see you and be able to have a drink and chat rather than be caught up in what I was doing, like at Mardi Gras. 10pm - 6am.

Normal people dont go out on school nights !!
- Wed 10 Mar 2004 10:44:19

Please don't ram your concept of "normal" down our throats.

They could take over @Newtown??
- Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:27:34

DAMN RIGHT MARDI GRAS SHOULD TAKE OVER THE NEWTOWN HOTEL !!!!

God only knows the current owners have totally RUINED the Newtown as it currently exists.
Put back the dancefloor back at the Newtown ! - Wed 10 Mar 2004 14:33:08

I believe this poster was talking about @Newtown, not the Newtown Hotel. Can I ask what @Newtown is like? I haven't had a chance to get down there. Do they even have DJ's playing, or is it a juke box scenario? If they were up for it, I'd gladly do a Stage 11 style set there on the odd Saturday here and there. It'd be fun to get some of the old Caesar's crowd out again. Does anyone know who owns @Newtown?
JK - Wed 10 Mar 2004 15:12:52

Your Beautiful - Madagascar - 12”
Bring Me to Life - Rochelle
Let Me Love you - Da Buzz
Mysterious Times - Sash Feat. Tina Cousins
Ordinary World - Aurora
What will be will be - Divine Inspiration
For A Girl - Madonna
M - Ayumi Hamasaki
Time After Time - Distant Sounds
Dust Wav - Armin Van Burren
7 Cities - Solar Stone
Nothing But You - Paul Van Dyk
Deep Blue Sea - Aquanaughts
Fire - Sunlite
Between Two Fires - Armin Van Burren
La - Marc Et Claude
Final Emotion - Mirco de Govia
Burned With Desire - Armin Van Burren
Sky - Ditto
Dreams - Dimension D
I can Feel Your Love - Quadraphonic
Fiji - Atlantis Vs Avatar
I Believe - Lange
From The Past Into The Future - Dj LUKA

*the show*

Ecuador - Sash
Dreaming - Arrolla
The Forgotten Dream - I Ching
Embrace - Agnelli & Nelson

Remixes available by request
Ryan Murphy - Wed 10 Mar 2004 16:36:14

I only got back to Brisbane last night, hence late post. Thanks to everyone who caught my early set - I had an absolute ball playing to all you guys and girls. Couldn't believe the lights. The vibe was f'n fantastic! Has to be the best party I've ever been too. (I mean that) Well done NMG!

Thanks to Mike, Lisa and Sveta as well for totally rocking out the Hordern. It was pumping all night.
Kylie Rose - Wed 10 Mar 2004 17:36:07

I think you will find what you are looking for at PALMS
Timbo - Wed 10 Mar 2004 17:43:48

Tut Tut Jake that not very nice. Its also not true. I think the definition of normal is refering to the MAJORITY of punters. And its true to say that the MAJORITY of punters do have "NORMAL" Monday to Friday jobs.

As proof of this I for example havent been out on a "school night" for over 10 years, and I think I represent the "Normal" weekend punter !!

So you enjoy your Thursday nights at Arq, I'm happy to wait for a promoter to
show some imagination and initiative and run a regular retro night on the night of the week that REALLY counts - ie Saturdays !
Retro lover - Wed 10 Mar 2004 17:44:19

Great Party NMG but like someone else commented on and few people said , Hordern was tribal all night . Wasnt it supposed to be Hordern/Dome style
mix ? 1 set of hardhouse would have been great. I too remember the crowd
roaring when a faster/harder beat come on but would last only a coupla songs and then an hour or so later you could tell it was picking up and the crowd roared but again only 1 or 2 songs.

But still 10/10 and pats on the back for everyone.
Next time maybe please NMG ? - Wed 10 Mar 2004 18:40:01

2004 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade & Party
Hosted By Pandora Box, Alex Yeomans, Jo Smith & Sexy Galexy
Wednesday Nights at 11:30 PM
On Sydney Community TV Channel 31

For the second year running QueerTV is the only TV show to bring you the entire Mardi Gras Parade, plus all the things you don’t get to see on a commercial station. In association with New Mardi Gras for the fist time ever, QueerTV will take you inside 2004 Mardi Gras after Party. Again QueerTV makes history by being the only film crew allowed to film and broadcast this very exclusive party!

www.queertv.gayaustralia.com.au
(press release) - Wed 10 Mar 2004 20:05:52

To the party committee: please choose a dj who can handle the last set in the RHI. It is probably one of the most important sets of the night. It's obvious shigeki cannot handle the responsibility of closing such an important event.
Not tone deaf! - Tue 9 Mar 2004 15:36:54

I have to disagree "not tone deaf". Most of my friends and I loved his set. It was cruisy, happy and uplifting. Saw lots of smiling faces and hands in the air on the dance floor from the podium.

As for shigeki overlaying acappellas over instrumental tracks, you must referring to Mr Lonely over Guitarra G. Again I and more than half the dancefloor who had our hands in the air and screaming disagree with you. If you are truly not tone deaf, you would have noticed that Shigeki often mixes in key.

If you are really a fan of Shigeki, why don't you go up to him one night and tell him that his songs are off key. I am sure, Shigeki will be pleased with your advice.
Marcus C - Wed 10 Mar 2004 21:29:17

As proof of this I for example havent been out on a "school night" for over 10 years, and I think I represent the "Normal" weekend punter !!

So you enjoy your Thursday nights at Arq, I'm happy to wait for a promoter to
show some imagination and initiative and run a regular retro night on the night of the week that REALLY counts - ie Saturdays !
Retro lover - Wed 10 Mar 2004 17:44:19

Tut tut me all you like, but I wasn't being rude. I was simply saying everybody's definition of "normal" varies.

I have a Monday - Friday job as well but still enjoy the ocassional school night out and I manage to DJ one Thursday a month, even though I have to work the next day.

I'm sorry if you thought I was being rude, but I was actually a little offended by your comment, implying that people who do go out on a Thursday are not "normal". I think that is offensive. A little thought into your choice of words would have made all the difference. Either way, I am with you. I would like to see a classics/retro night on the weekend somewhere. In the meantime, those who can venture out on a Thursday can come to Arq if they wish.
JK - Wed 10 Mar 2004 21:31:29

I do agree that people did cheer during his set. You do need to take into account at that time of the morning most people will "go off" to almost anything played. You will have also noticed that several of the songs he played had lots of peaks and troughs. People definitely cheered when the beat kicked back in after a long absence.

Again, everything is relative. People did cheer during his set. But they didn't cheer like they have during the same set at previous parties. Lets cast our minds back to Alex Taylors closing set at Sleaze. People roared during most of his set. Or lets wander back to Mardi Gras when Paul Goodyear closed the RHI. The excitement was palpable and the cheers were deafening.

Again, I reiterate my comments. Normally I like Shegeki's style of music. However, this year he was definitely was out of his depth. A more sensible line up would have had Alex closing the party and Shigeki opening the RHI.
Not At All Tone Deaf! - Wed 10 Mar 2004 23:05:44

JK - why thankyou, indeed i was having a truly fabulous time.

Sally Tomatoe - where were you? You should of been in City Live with me - we could have made up interesting and creative dance moves whilst sharing amusing anecdotes about shoes!

Shanobear - if you were with some Melbourne bears, than we were probably dancing right next to each other - though i don't recall any of the bears i was next too being terribly excited when a certain Ms Wilde song came on.

ta ta for now
Ms Golightly - Thu 11 Mar 2004 00:09:20

As magic as the music and production was in the horden, it would have been totally awesome if there had been banks of speakers at the rear of the dancefloor instead of just the front, and if full colour lasers had been on all four corners of the dancefloor instead of just the 2 colour lasers on the two opposing corners. I heard the lasers in the RHI were to die for, but unfortunately if I had stayed in the RHI then perhaps I may have, because unfortunately I was having overheating problems of my own.

Well done to all involved on putting together a party that was so much to so many ... truly a job well done.
a very happy punter - Thu 11 Mar 2004 02:35:26

I was thinking we must have been close to each other too. Shame I didn't get to say hello!

My partner can attest to the fact that I was jumping up and down when I heard the first notes of Ms Wilde. I recognized the mix fairly early on as it's one I have myself. My partner had no idea why I was so excited until the vocals kicked in.

Maybe we were on opposite sides of the Melb bears...
Shanobear - Thu 11 Mar 2004 06:44:20

Maybe you can ask him through the site for the set lists you would like.

I thought his opening RHI set was fun and QN nite solid as always. Still my favourite.
Fan of Mr Taylor - Thu 11 Mar 2004 09:38:47

You are TOTALLY spot on. Off key overlays are really foul and Shigeki manages to do this on a regular basis. He should give the fancy tricks away until he can get the basics right.

Re those wanting Alex or Shigeki's set list might I suggest that neither of these guys are regular pinkboard contributors. It might be best to email them at their respective addresses -

Alex - alex@alextaylor.com.au

Shigeki - sheigeki@optusnet.com.au
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 10:15:59

Did the DJ's get announced?
floorless - Thu 11 Mar 2004 10:48:20

"As the rush comes" by Motorcycle (Armin van Buuren remix).
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 11:24:39

RHI generally sux all round...except for shows and the hot boys dancin .. dont see what the attraction is for everyone in there. Kept on sticking my head in to have a look ...later in night just saw lots of serious faces, really quiet music and it was stinking hot. Yet still full?!?! Dont get it.

I found the music was quiet all night at RHI....only spot that was ok were pockets in front of speakers. Hordern which only had stacks at the front had much better sound? Sound complaints is the excuse...then why was Hordern crankin?

City Live was awesome...my comment as I walked in at about 2am... "Oh my god! This is like the best nightclub in the world" and it was. Friendly, happy and rockin! Stayed for a while and had a great time. Air conditioning too...mmmmm. And what a layout....totally cool! Why cant we have that every week?

Ended up spending from 4am - 8am in the Hordern...it totally rocked. No-one has really commented on Sveta's DJing...thought she did a great job. Sveta is better. I was a sweater with Sveta and danced my ass off. Mike Kelly after was great too and mixed it up to keep the interest...i agree with him that at that hour...you gotta keep the interest. Thanks!

All in all a totally great night. Only comment would be to do something with the RHI...but maybe I am wrong and its just taste - as it seemed busy all night...just not for me.

Can the best nightclub in the world (city live) come back sometime? like every weekend?
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 12:03:29

did you record the DJs on Sat night?????

I would definately buy a cd of City Live and Hordern..... why dont NMG release CD's of the night afterwards????? Better than most CD avail.
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 12:04:53

Website has been updated for hours

http://www.jamiedunbar.com
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 15:27:01

To all the dj's the effort and planning that you all put in is greatly appreciated. To the 2 new dj's playing trance Guy Hornsey and William Silva you both played awesome sets and no doubt we will be seeing and hearing a lot more of you both. Just a shame that the weather and position of the tent didn't allow more people to hear you work your craft.

Congratulations to the organising committee you have now set a benchmark for other big dance parties.
GG - Thu 11 Mar 2004 16:28:42

Not a bad idea. I emailed Mr Kilby a little while ago and he gave me some very useful advice re places to find good tunes. So I might drop in to Arq tonite to say thanks for the advice Jake.

Look forward to seeing some friendly faces.
Andrew - Thu 11 Mar 2004 16:34:08

The shots in the RHI and Hordern make the lights look way pretty. After looking through them all I wish I was back in the party. So nice to see so many happy faces, and such gorgeous people.
Evil Twin - Thu 11 Mar 2004 16:35:55

I would definately buy a cd of City Live and Hordern..... why dont NMG release CD's of the night afterwards????? Better than most CD avail.
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 12:04:53

I am more than happy to send out demos to anyone wanting a copy of a mix that would reflect the opening set I played. Just send me an email with your details to kylierose_@hotmail.com There won't be any cover art (sorry), but the music will be in roughly the same vein as Sat 6 March 2004.
Kylie Rose - Thu 11 Mar 2004 18:14:05

Still no responce ? :(
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 18:26:51

The Hordern Pavilion has always been completly sound proofed. Thats why its been the prefered hall for dance parties and concerts for over 50 years.

The RHI has NEVER been sound proofed and there are many many documented events of sound complaints eminating from this pavilion going back to the late 1980's.
A History Lesson - Thu 11 Mar 2004 20:13:43

Maybe NMG should flex its hopefully strengthening financial muscles and begin negotiations with fox immediately to either provide fit for purpose venues for next year or they'll actively investigate alternative value elsewhere? I'm sure it would be feasible to have the parade start at the top of oxford st and finish at darling harbour where there's a plethora of modern venues.
think outside the fox - Thu 11 Mar 2004 20:32:48

Can't smoke anywhere in the Darling Harbour convention centre complex....but.... face facts. If you want to have a successful party for 17,000 poofs in Sydney then you're not, realistically, looking very much further than Moore Park. In those circumstances, "sound-proofing" is a bit academic. The noise generated by a party for 17,000 poofs is ....well....loud - if you're living within a kilometre or so.

Centennial Park residents have actively campaigned against the RAS and - latterly Fox - for 20 years over party noise and their local MLA, a Ms Clover Moore, has been their most ardent advocate.

This isn't a new problem. It's been ongoing for years. The only solution is to reach an accommodation with local residents such that they understand and anticipate that NMG will have two big parties per year - the dates of which are fixed 12 months in advance - and that NMG, (via the EPA), will guarantee constant monitoring of sound output levels during those parties aimed at keeping levels within the approved range.

If you want uncontrolled noise levels, then start looking at a property 100 kilometres west of Bathurst.
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 21:44:27

How much would it cost Fox Studios to sound proof the RHI to the level that the Hordern currently has ?
I cant hear you ..... - Thu 11 Mar 2004 21:51:21

I suggest that you direct your question to the owner of the RHI and the Hordern Pavilions: the Centennial and Moore Park Trust Board, on behalf of the people of NSW. Fox don't own either of the pavilions in question.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 01:03:53

Well done NMG though have to say who's decision was it to put Shigeki on as the last RHI DJ? Major GULP! Just when the other halls are closing and we all head to the one hall we end up with a DJ that was a little too experimental and inexperienced! Why of why did he think it was ok to overlay the tracks like he did? Is he tone and key deaf?

Alex Taylor would have been a far sensible pick for a closing DJ. Shigeki should have been left to maybe open the party? On hearing a few tracks we all decided it was time to call it a night and head home.

What such bitters sounds from Shigeki after such a sweet night!
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 09:01:14

As most of you are aware by now, the Retro Space at Mardi Gras (Stage 11) proved to be very popular and was also a huge success, and I was very proud to be one of 3 DJ's who had the privelage of being asked to play for the event.

This Retro space would not have been possible, had it not been for Jake Kilby's persistance, along with Pinkboard regulars lobbying to Mardi Gras, by way of posting track requests on Pinkboard - A fact mentioned in the Sydney Morning Herald a month beofe the event.

The Pinkbooard Juke Box web page was extremely popular, with over 50 000 hits, of which 40 000 hits came via Pinkboard.

Now that the event is over, I am asking you (the people who have made it popular), should we switch it off, leave it on, or just load it with fresher tracks? If anyone has any other ideas, just let me know. The future of the Jukebox is now in your hands!

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Panther for allowing me to use Pinkboard to promote the Jukebox, and for providing a link to my website. As a way of returning the favour to Panther, I dedicate the following track to Panther as I know this track has some special memories, and is very dear to Panthers heart: Petshop Boys - Left To My Own Devices. This track is now uploaded as the final upload to the Jukebox.

Finally, a special thank you to all Pinkboard regulars, for their posts congratulating Jake, Stephen & myself for our Stage 11 (City Live) gig, and also for providing some great feedback.

Whatever happens from here on, is now in the hands of Club & Dance Party promoters.

Speak to you all soon.
Justin Scott - Fri 12 Mar 2004 09:17:22

At 7am in the morning people want it simple and fun.

They dont need to have their heads screwed with by confusing overlays that are out of key , out of synch and out of time.

I also remember an overlay where the vocal from the overlay was still going when the vocal of the actual song playing came back in - Ooops !! Mish Mash !!

Keep it simple, play one tune at a time and stop trying confuse the punters !
Shigeki's out of key and he has a secret ! - Fri 12 Mar 2004 11:05:14

As for the debate a couple of days ago... I think they were actually referring to the Newtown Hotel...which of course always played retro and had a dance floor (tragic at times, pummping at others) but has been replaced with couches.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:03:15

Why does everything all of a sudden seem to make sense ? Yes my eyes are *rolling*
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:08:36

I believe that the NMG Board and Party organisers would not suffer the "he's someone important boyfriend - so lets give him the last set in the RHI"...

NMG have proved over and over that they are **WAY** more professional than that.
DirtyBoi - Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:22:15

Well no, it obviously wouldn't make "sense" in that context. We had this "he only got the gig because of his boyf" stuff last Sleaze and the committee process for DJ selection and time-slot allocation was fully discussed at that time. Any DJ's performance is legitimately open to criticism but I don't see any need to bring choice of partner into the equation.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:23:58

I think it was always going to be pretty obvious that people would link Shigeki's closing spot with his relationship with Jock. For NMG it was a bold move placing him last in the RHI but they obviously believed in him (and surely used a transparent selection process). There have been a lot of positive comments from us, so he hit the mark with many.

Personally, I still believe he needs more experience before being given the huge responsibility to play the closing set of Mardi Gras.

I believe NMG got it right for Sleaze 2003, with Shigeki first and Alex Taylor last, but I congratulate them on trying to do something different for MG.

Pinkboarders - who would YOU like to hear/think should close the RHI? try to keep it realistic and constructive!
chris - Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:27:45

The party has been a resounding success on all fronts for the first time in years....lets just celebarte that and eagerly await Sleaze (yeah!!!)
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:39:53

They got more points for restoring the dance floor to the Hordern ( which at Sleaze, was simply unforgivable)

They get low to mid points for shows. Someone should tell them that a good show starts with a great strong song that has good, strong muscial points in it.

Good shows also dont go on and on for ever, which is a trend that NMG seems to be sinking into.
And, who the hell are (or more importantly were) ATLAS?
Actually, I dont care. I'd much rather see Sydney boys and girls dancing up a storm to a hot track for us any time.
I'm sick of B grade ( had a hit years ago) nobodies who can not sing.( naked bodies or not)
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 12:41:05

The DJ selection process that New Mardi Gras undertakes is one of the fairest out there given that most parties the promoter selects entirely who they want to appear. NMG even have “blind” reviews of demo submissions with members of the public where people can hear and vote on what they like without knowing whose demo it is.

Fairer than Pride who invite submissions - don’t ask for a demo - then pick who they want to appear.

As for the Slanderous tones that most people hiding behind the veil of pinkboard adopt I will only comment by stating that Playing Mardi Gras is not an easy thing to do… no major event is. Shigeki has proven time and time again that he is up for the job…he continues to play regularly at The Midnightshift and other clubs as well as various parties including Queer Nation. Now a DJ does not get to play in any of these positions because of their boyfriend or any exception. The fact is that they are a “good DJ’ is the only reason that they have those gigs.

Its great that people have such a passion about their DJ’s and where they play. But think of the DJ’s reading pinkboard (they do) and if the comment your about to post you would feel comfortable saying to their face.
Ryan Murphy - Fri 12 Mar 2004 13:03:26

Apparently from what I was told Central Station Records made an approach to New Mardi Gras a few months before the party asking them whether they wanted to be involved in a Mardi Gras 2004 CD. That request apparently was declined.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 13:30:48

This is very true, and re. my offer to send out CDs to anyone requesting one... The track list WILL NOT be exactly the same as the set I played in the Hordern, nor is it intended as a representation of the NMG 2004 Party or any other activity of NMG. It is only intended as a work that I have produced myself - to reflect the track selection and mixing methods I currently employ as a DJ. This is well within rights of any DJ or other Artist to produce and distribute. Bearing in mind that all the credit of the original artist's and publisher's remains with them, and only the tracklisting is the credit of the DJ for this CD.

Since I didn't record my set on the night, it is impossible for me to distribute it to anyone else. Also, it would be improper and I think any sort of amicable relationship with NMG would be wiped! I'm not that silly.
Kylie Rose - Fri 12 Mar 2004 13:37:25

I know a few of the djs in the hordern recorded their sets - if you are really into the live cd thing then message mardi gras and get them to contact the djs.. y'never know your luck, but since any such recording is contractually their property, it is V inappropriate to offer them otherwise... good luck
- Thu 11 Mar 2004 21:55:54

I think not!

DJ's sign a very strict agreement regarding recording or photographing the event.

Handing out Demo CD’s is looked on by APRA as an invitation to litigate. Unless you have an agreement with each individual record company/artist or representative you cannot make a demo and send it out for your friends.

Demo’s made by DJ’s for New Mardi Gras as strictly defined by the law are illegal yet somehow permissible.

Kylie Rose you are wrong! (sorry) You cannot distribute a CD showing your mixing styles etc to your friends. I am happy to show legislation to anyone thinking of making this mistake. Don’t think that they wont find out either.

I will also without naming names state that a prominent venue and three prominent DJ’s are being litigated by APRA and relevant Record companies. The law suit is now going onto it’s 4th month at a cost of thousands.

DJ’s would love to promote our own works by way of handing out demo’s but with the laws its impossible. Best we can offer is come along and listen to us live. Or invite us round for a personal session….or party!

DJ's sign a very strict agreement regarding recording or photographing the event. Do we want to record it...yes but can we - no!

Given the heat on some very prominent
Ryan Murphy - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:17:05

Ryan, I think it's great that people can post comments about what they liked or disliked about a DJ's set on Pinkboard, even if their posting is anonymous. There will always be people whose comments are "slanderous" - as artists, you guys have to learn to cope with these comments, ignore them if they are really inappropriate, and realise that you won't be able to please every person in the room everytime you spin. However, a lot of people post comments that are honest opinions. Sometimes these are things you might not want to say to someone's face, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they shouldn't be posted! I think that a truly professional DJ (especially one who wants to continue getting work) should swallow their pride and take these comments into consideration when trying to think of ways they can improve on their performance in future. (Eg. Hopefully Shigeki will give a bit more thought to mixing acapellas over instrumental tracks in future, since quite a few people have commented here that some of his attempts on Sunday morning didn't quite make the grade.)
Anonymous Punter ... remember, I pay to hear you play! - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:19:06

To think otherwise is just shallow and wrong ... I was lucky enough to be involved in the party organising, Jock is nothing but professional, as was Mark and all the others.

DJs are selected on Merrit ..... Come one guys lets just burry this once and for all ... relfect on a great party, and count down the days til the next time we all gather again in the RHI!
Still Dancin...... XXX - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:24:32

I agree with what you have to say. I have no issue with people commenting on a DJ's work what so ever. It would be nice if people explain themselves a bit more ....."i thought Ryans set sucked" does not tell the people on pinkboard much about why.

I agree that a DJ cant please everyone.

My only gripe is with people making personal attacks. Especially on Shigeki's boyfriend; Its so lame.

Thank you for your constructive words
Ryan Murphy - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:33:55

Hey Ryan

You make a great point – I know several DJs who read “Pinkboard” .. Its kinda sand people can not sign a note on here – be it constructive or otherwise, as I see it if someone is too fearful to put there name to something then the negative comment carries no weight to it…

Slamin set on Saturday – you so rock

DirtyBoi
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:37:31

Demo’s made by DJ’s for New Mardi Gras as strictly defined by the law are illegal yet somehow permissible.

Kylie Rose you are wrong! (sorry) You cannot distribute a CD showing your mixing styles etc to your friends. I am happy to show legislation to anyone thinking of making this mistake. Don’t think that they wont find out either.

I will also without naming names state that a prominent venue and three prominent DJ’s are being litigated by APRA and relevant Record companies. The law suit is now going onto it’s 4th month at a cost of thousands.

DJ’s would love to promote our own works by way of handing out demo’s but with the laws its impossible. Best we can offer is come along and listen to us live. Or invite us round for a personal session….or party!

DJ's sign a very strict agreement regarding recording or photographing the event. Do we want to record it...yes but can we - no!

Given the heat on some very prominent
Ryan Murphy - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:17:05

So then Ryan, how do you personally get around this issue? Surely you aren't in a position to get by without any promotion? Many DJs do promote their work - some in quite an obvious and public way (no names mentioned here either). Does APRA have the time to come after all of us? How many law suits would this involve? Yes you are right that I am breaching all manner of IP restrictions by making any kind of recording of another artists work. Believe me, as a visual artist I know that this can and does happen! I am interested to know what you do to avoid the possibility of litigation - other than contacting all artists concerned to gain permission? By the way, I am not offering anything to make a profit...
Kylie Rose - Fri 12 Mar 2004 14:51:19

Instead I found people were standing around in the breaks that seemed to be in every song. Now I have travelled around to quite a few circuit parties and one way to hook a crowd is to take them on that journey. Throw in a song that builds but doesn't peak. Tease them!

What happened to the days when a DJ used to sample an anthem that was to be played later in the set. To watch the crowd go off as you drop it - priceless!
US Circuit Boys - Fri 12 Mar 2004 15:00:45

Now theres a Name.... Is he still DJing?? God imagine having Greg Close the party... that would have been the end to a near perfect Mardi Gras.

Where Are you Greg ?? What are you doing ?? where are you playing...

Does anyone else want to see Greg Back where he belongs... in charge in the DJ booth!!!

Come back to us we miss you - u sexy boy you!

Vote 1 Greg B to close the Sleaze Party!!!!
Greg4Sleaze - Fri 12 Mar 2004 15:20:38

APRA aren't after DJ's who record their own work. If they were to make a profit from doing so then maybe.
Put the needle on it! - Fri 12 Mar 2004 15:30:23

Mardi Gras could well have done with compiling two mixed CD's of retro tracks that the DJ's were going to play on the night and then release those CD's on the Monday after the party. I'm sure that sort of a CD would have sold really well.

Record companies are a bit testy about having current tunes placed onto compilations but normally are more responsive when the tunes are well worn out and fall into the category of "golden oldies"

If Mardi Gras do a retro space again (and I'm absolutely positive they will) they would do well to try something along the lines of this suggestion.

Any comments ??
Disappointed their was no 2004 MG CD - Fri 12 Mar 2004 15:31:48

Now I was not big on the retro music though did love what the DJ's produced on the night! Maybe not all the way with retro in the main halls, though can you imagine a party where NMG actually put on shows of old?! Like a collection of the 'best in show' of the previous shows we have had? Now I am not necessarily talking live acts though flash backs to previous Sleaze and Mardi Gras shows!

<> !!

Oh now I am all excited with the memories. It could be like a Mardi Gras Greatest Hits!
Jayson - Fri 12 Mar 2004 16:07:50

For the record. We have tried very hard to bring on a Caesars style night on @ Newtown. Dispite initial interest, the venue could at best come up with a 'once a month during winter' offer, and wishing to have a cover charge at that.

Balls in their court. We know the night would work, the venue and location are fantastic.

It does take time to get a night up and working. It took us a least a month to get the numbers into the Lewisham once Caesars closed
Steve (Eileen) - Fri 12 Mar 2004 16:57:13

Balls in their court. We know the night would work, the venue and location are fantastic.

It does take time to get a night up and working. It took us a least a month to get the numbers into the Lewisham once Caesars closed
Steve (Eileen) - Fri 12 Mar 2004 16:57:13 "

Steve, That is the very thing my gf and i have been hoping for ever since @Newtown opened its doors. At first there seemed to be a bit of push to make the club gay-oriented but looking at what they have on, it seems very straight to me. We've been a couple of times and liked the vibe and the people - mostly straight but, gay friendly - but thought it would be absolutely great if we (ceasars crowd) could take it over on the weekends...
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 17:15:54

Tell that to Queer Nation honey...

The Community will go where the glitter flows.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 17:38:37

Not true, so don't try it at home kids...
marcus b - Fri 12 Mar 2004 18:22:11

A hardhouse set in the Hordern would have made it a 10/10 :)
Hardfan - Fri 12 Mar 2004 18:31:43

I think this is a good question for any DJ's who care to answer, not just Ryan. As someone trying to make headway in this business, just what is the best way to get yourself out there and noticed without breaching any guidelines?
Shanobear - Fri 12 Mar 2004 18:56:19

Oh and... How about pointing out some of the positives with Shigeki's set as well - Some parts of his set were just amazing! I loved hearing 'Pavement Cracks' by Annie Lennox and "With or Without You" by U2. Shigeki - you rocked.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 18:58:21

My recommendation is We should have public vote by SMS just like Australian Idol to have Djs line up for the night who would play 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th set ect.... Agree ?
Party boy - Fri 12 Mar 2004 19:02:05

It would turn into a vicious, bitchy election campaign style affair.

Just look at last years DJ Diva Award for an example.

The party committees at the Old Mardi Gras and now the New Mardi Gras in the main definitely know what they are doing - Leave it up to the expects I say.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 19:20:12

Seeing as we all loved the party so much, there is a market in Sydney and Australia for a CD. And with the Mardi Gras name renowned around the world...you'd think maybe there's money there?

As for the legalities...well thats an agreement NMG can come to, just as the old Mardi Gras did for their CDs???
KB - Fri 12 Mar 2004 20:33:46

They don't Ryan. Most people on Pinkboard these days are positive, offer constructive criticism and very quickly identify those who are just here to backstab. Just track back through some of the threads and you'll quickly see that reason predominates over anonymous bitchfesting every time.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 21:06:05

Does anyone know HOW our favourite mix CDs began? In the early days it was the BOOTLEGS that started to create a huge market for continuous mixes played live at raves. Think of how someone like Carl Cox got to be so well known, and some of the reasons that his rise to fame has become obscured over time. (see recent copies of IDJ magazine for more details on this information - Nov 03 I think).

The market machines and record company moguls have all helped us to lose track of this history and these days it's incredibly out of control. I spoke to a friend today who works very hard at promotions. His opinion is that organisations like APRA like to make examples of certain people to reinforce the fact that the law is alive and well. But bring back the good old days I say! Why does someone like Sasha have a few available on his website if there were not many, many requests?

With all this in mind, I can understand why there would be lots of requests for copies of live mixes from people attending the party. It's just a shame that DJ mixes, either live or studio, are so subjected to the music and copyright laws of today.
~kr - Fri 12 Mar 2004 22:24:40

make new memories
six of one - Fri 12 Mar 2004 22:46:56

I have quite regularly re-recorded my exact set after a big gig at home on the days following an event and recorded this to CD for my close friends.
- Fri 12 Mar 2004 22:54:49

can I be your friend? :)
- Sat 13 Mar 2004 01:11:23

Because it’s such a cheap, quick & easy system then of course all DJs adhere to it ;)
Dan Murphy - Sat 13 Mar 2004 04:36:55

First saturday in March 2005.
- Sat 13 Mar 2004 07:03:49

I was at the RHI from 4 till close and danced/swayed like a maniac through both sets. Shigeki, admittedly, made some technical errors with his mixing, however, his errors were easily forgiven considering his choice of so many beautiful songs for the set. Overall, his set was sexy, smooth, hypnotic and happy. I was smiling all the way home to bed - unlike some of my friends who chose to spend the last party hours at the Hordern.

Shigeki is a young and talented DJ with a passion for music and an ear for beautiful melodies. He needs to be nurtured and encouraged so that he will develop much further in his trade and become an asset in our community - a la Luke,Ryan,Alex et plus....

Looking forward to your next set at Sleaze Ball - without the hiccups :))

Thanx and cheers Shigeki.

Also many thanx to NMG for a fanstatic night. I am so looking forward to your next gig.
InLoveWithNMG - Sat 13 Mar 2004 16:38:14

panther@pinkboard.com.au