Pinkboard's Mardi Gras Graffiti Wall 2009

Mardi Gras Home Page
Mardi Gras 2008 Graffiti Wall #1, #2, #3
Mardi Gras 2009 Graffiti Wall #2

...to Mardi Gras for booking some bold acts for the party! Oakenfold, Infusion!, Freemasons....


Im in and so are my friends from San Francisco.
Heres to 2009!

I have a good feeling about MG this year I hope it gets the support it received last year.

So long as they dont cut back on Halls like they did for Sleaze.

For something as big as Mardi Gras you do need Dome,Hordern RHI.

And of course City Live for Retro which as always proved popular.

Just so long as I get some tribal/hard in either Hordern as first preference or Dome as 2nd preference I will be happy

who made that decision? It should've been Feb 28. Alot of people's schedules will be put out by the move to one week later.

Oh hush, people will deal with it...
Looking forward to MG next year!
Cant believe oakenfold and the freemasons!
This party is gunna be off the hook!!!

dont be so daft. Check your calandar for the last 3-4 years and you'll see Mardi Gras party has been on the first Saturday in March

March 7 IS THE 1st SAT IN MARCH

No surprises there whatsoever for the majority that can grasp that concept :P

The parade and party has been held on the first Saturday in March for many years now

Can't wait to hear Paul Oakenfold at Mardi Gras! I reckon they are on a winner here and I wouldn't be surprised if tickets sold out faster than last year. I just found two clips on youtube, one of him playing at a club and one of Mads performing on stage to one of his remixes. The party is going to go off big time!

12 Weeks to go

Yeah that should look good in the RHI big hall with big
stage for him and acts.

Congratulations NMG, the organisers selecting Paul Oakenfold must have taken some notice of the DJ survey. All they need to do now is add in CARL COX!!! imagine him playing a bangin set in the Hordern... if only!!!

I would imagine that RHI will have the Freemasons as they are more hands in the air and Paul Oakenfold will be in the Hordern which is more suited for his darker sound. It makes sense to have a big name in each room both of whom will hopefully be supported by some of the best gay and lesbian DJs from round Australia.

There are 80 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 80 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 80 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 80 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 80 Days to Mardi Gras !!

Anyone know where I might be able to get a copy of the festival guide? Most years you see them everywhere in the inner city, but this year the closest I've gotten is seeing the vips holding them in photos!!!

I know it's a rumour that goes around every year but word is that Kylie will be performing at the Party. The Mardi Gras chair and his boyfriend were at the concert on Wednesday night in the front row right in front of the stage, and then headed backstage after the concert. And there was a whole lot of Mardi Gras footage (with the Mardi Gras logo) being played on the big screens before the concert.

You can view it online here...

http://sxnews.e-p.net.au/mardi-gras-guide/index.php

No to Carl Cox in the Hordern ! ( sorry love ).

If the Hordern is not hard and/or tribal I aint going.

"word is"

which word exactly?

Or is it just your "theory"?

God Kylie NEVER performs at MG.

Let me just clear a few things up!!

- The chair of MG attended with a FRIEND. NOT BF.

- Seats where not centre stage, they were off to the left.

Publish the correct facts or nothing at all.

Well I know for a fact that Elton John, George Michael, Madonna, Cher , Whitney Houston, Celene Dion, Janet Jackson, The Pet Shop Boys, Donna Summer , and Dolly Parton are all performing together in one perfomance at Mardi Gras. I'd even heard a rumour they're digging up Freddy Mercury for a one night only performance. Wow, what a line up

Wow, such interest in who I went to that concert with, where we sat, and what we did when there!... A close friend, 2nd row, left of centre (but close!) And no we didn't go backstage afterwards, we sat in my car like idiots for about an hour trying to get out of the carpark. At least the bit about playing all that Mardi Gras footage and our logo was correct - would have been nice if we'd been asked (and maybe paid?) for the privalege? And if you want to know who's performing at the party, then come along and see. But I promise it will only be people who are actually alive!

Hmmmm.... so the Chair of NMG has just refused to rule out Kylie performing at Mardi Gras...

.
David Imrie - "And if you want to know who's performing at the party, then come along and see. But I promise it will only be people who are actually alive"

Oh stop bullshiting us David. I've heard about that application to dig up Freddy Mercury. Don't you dare deny it.

Perhaps we will get to see Kylie at MG this year. her last album failed to sell particularly well. unfortunately most of my friends are over kylie. she's looking a little bit "Nicole" lately!

For me I dont care who performs. None of the abovementioned names would get me to MG. You waste more than 1/2hr waiting , it gets squashed and they are on for 1 or 2 songs and gone and you have lost over an hour of good dancing time. Fine if happen to be in that hall dancing at the time but learnt long ago if enjoying another hall to forget about heading into RHI. Was there though ages ago when Kylie popped up from the stage in RHI so that was fine.
But appreciate others like all that excitement and squashing up etc to see someone.

For me its the DJ's and what the various styles of music are in the Halls. Thats what nails my decision to go to
MG or Sleaze.

Preference like another poster is Dome for Tribal or
Hordern with its trance/hard etc.

If for example it was commercial in RHI and Retro in Forum and no other Halls then no matter what star is on would not be buying a ticket.

So who are all the DJ's ?

O M G! I HEARD IT TOO!!! my neighbour has a friend who's mother in law's sister got a cat who heard it from across the road where they feed her.
its incredible what MG can when they get their act together!!
i am so there for freddie mercury! iai yay iaiaiaiai

i heard it's the wiggles

WOW!

We've never had a boy band before...

Human Nature?

Well 1/4 of them used to go to the Parties. He was mighty yummy in those days.

Ha! No matter how much work Kylie has, she'll never look as ridiculous as Madonna does these days. Can you say Bride of Wildenstein??

As for Party, whether the Queen (KYLIE) is there or not, I will be. Can't wait to hear Oakenfold at a gay party!

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009 !!

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009 !!

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009 !!

There are 70 Days to Mardi Gras 2009 !!

Yeah its funny . She tries to look younger and sexier yet when you see her its more of a shock/horror !

And even funnier when watching vids and on comes some African American singer with a bit of weight too her and she is a thousand times sexier than Madonna.

She needs to put some weight on. Those arms eeeeeeeeekkk.

Last year, NMG got rid of the very popular Retro space at the Forum, under the pretence that the larger hall would be a one huge RETROspective "discotorium".... which never eventuated music-wise, p___ing off many many people, who vowed they wouldn't go back to a NMG party again.
This year those who where hoping the retro space would be back, & give NMG another chance are in for a shock... the live band space stays, meaning no Retro space (not even a fake token discotorium this time).
Whilst the live bands are a great diversification, not at the expense of completely erasing the popular retro space.

If (and I Prey to Almighty God it's only an if) this is true I will *******NOT********** be attending Mardi Gras.

I have always supported the mardi gras party every year since 1990. I've always resisted the urge to go to a Toybox or other types of non community run competitor events because i believe in the community event.

HOWEVER, enough is enough.

DAVID IMRIE READ THIS CLOSELY - Do not slam the door on retro fans at Mardi Gras 2009. I know you believe that MG has to be an attractive party for the twinks to want to attend but do not for fear of your job turn your back on the 35-50 year olds who have propped up your organisation for longer than we all care to mention. We deserve to be catered to just as much as the 18-25 yr olds. Now I know some of the oldies out there love the new music but I wouldn't think they are in the majority of us oldies who dont go out very often anymore. On big nights like this we want to sing along to music we know and because we dont go out anymore the only dance music we know is retro. Don't treat us like peasants, we deserve far better than that ... and you damn well know it.

Any chance of a response from our beloved Chariman ? I'm not holding my breath lol.
,

i honestly love those "live in the past cant move on" retro and trance pople. they always find hundreds of reasons why we should have a particular style at MG.
just a few:
community run events
non community run events
friends attending/not atteding (how many exactly? 4.6 or 12.7? dogs and cats included?)
being old
dont go out - not knowing current music
feeling like a 2nd rate party patron
etc etc


i dont know if i should feel sorry or just laugh. i just add one thing - there will be thousands of people in several halls and outside areas. i find it rather sad that you see yourself standing in the corner on your own (or with unspecified number of friends, cats & dogs) waiting for your zillion times played abba, gloria gaynor or village ppl. why dont you just stay in that night, play your favourite retro music at home. and if you still have the needs to support a community event, just donate the $$.$$$ you would spend if you went.
happy MG hon

ps: have a look at madonna. she is probably as old as you are and where is she? why cant you be

All I'm saying is that:
- The Retro space in 2005, 2006, 2007 was packed to capacity all night, with very long queues to get in the whole night.
- In 2008 we were tricked into believing the Retro space was "expanded" into the RHI into a giant "discotorium" & hence the smaller retro space wasn't neccesary... only to pay our $150 to find we'd beeb lied to. (Backlash was immediate on http://www.pinkboard.com.au/graffitiarchive/mardigras/08/ch83.html)

Me personally... I LOVE retro music, but I also love techno versions on current top 40 commercial/popular music. What I'm not up on is the latest DJ/dance music. I being honest. Alot of other people are the same.

http://www.pinkboard.com.au/graffitiarchive/mardigras/08/ch83.html is the link for the feedback from the 30th Anniv.

I'd like to thank the poster at Mon 29 Dec 2008 03:41:36 for the appalling manner in which you poke fun at and
disparage the retro music fans. One of the ugliest posts in failing to respect others points of view I've seen on this site in many many weeks.

Shame on you.

i do apologize for the way it was presented. however, as i said there must be a reason why they dont have retro space second year in a row....

"as i said there must be a reason why they dont have retro space second year in a row...."

And that's what is so f-cking frustrating. NMG's continual cloak and dagger attitude when it comes to getting straight answers to simple questions.

If live music is what appeals then go to homebake or V-Festival, but if NMG insist on having live acts then keep them in the smallest venue possible.
I will never get over that appalling live act that was on at midnight on last Oct long weekend which is why MG won't get my cash in March whether there's live acts or not.
Retro Lovers, although it's not a dedicated space, there will be plenty played in the RHI throughout the night whether it's a discotorium or any other incarnation.

'What I'm not up on is the latest DJ/dance music'

Maybe dance parties aren't for you anymore?
When I go to a dance party - i like to push myself and enjoy new experiences with my friends (and friends i make on the night).
I also like to hear music I've not heard before as well as currently charting dance music.

Really - and I'm totally serious - is it THAT painful to expand your boundaries for ONE night and listen to different music in the company of friends and the wider GLBTiQ community?

I'm sure you'll be suprised how much of it you'll know anyway and how much you will like.

"Really - and I'm totally serious - is it THAT painful to expand your boundaries for ONE night and listen to different music in the company of friends and the wider GLBTiQ community"

YES IT IS. Particularly for me cause I only go out twice a year. Mardi Gras and Sleaze. I dont go anywhere near other venues that play dance music. I'm just not interested in them. But when I do go out I want to know the tunes I'm supposed to dance to.

It's not that hard a request, surely ?

The problem is that the retro space 2005-2007 was SO popular, then we were lied to in a manouver to remove it by being told the RHI was one giant retro/disco, which it wasn't. Record ticket sales from people that were lied to. This year, it's pretty clear that the confusion of 2008 has now lead to the popular retro space being totally overlooked for 2009.
Don't get me wrong, I think live bands are a great addition, but put them somewhere else, such as City Live?
btw- if "trance/tribal" etc dance music is so popular, then why is this year's NYE party of traditional dance music at Ent Qtr now cancelled!!!
Again, the record ticket sales at last years MG party where made up from alot of people who had been lied to.. let's see how dismal sales are this year when all those people steer clear, & in desperation the tickets are flogged off to 18yr old straights, wanting to see thier favourite live band.

OK, SO THAT WAS THE RETRO DEBATE FOR THIS YEAR.

moving on, anyone knows any local djs doing MG '09?
also i must say i love this wall. thanks panther, simple, easy to read and done with a taste.
im dreading the not so tasty colour & font mish mash telling us how many days we have left...

I wonder why the Forum for 4 years running was packed with people lined up to get in for retro, and yet with the live bands there was no such line.
With no popular Retro this year, I will throw my "Party money" into buying a fantastic seat at the Parade instead, in the BGF stand, to see the fabulous Matthew Mitchum lead the parade... then maybe head off to Palms afterwards with friends, for a fun uplifting end to the evening. Can't wait for Imperial to re-open too- it really is a fun & inclusive night out.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but Wildlife wasn't ever advertised as tribal, nor trance. Wildlife is a HOUSE music party....
Again, correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't City Live where the bands are going to be... and were this year??

Dears, the entire concept of Mardi Gras is retro.

Does Paul Oakenfold play retro?

No one is suggesting to cancel the music in the Horden, and in the RHI & change it ALL to retro. But, on the other hand what is being proposed is to completely cancel & erase any type of retro space (a space which has proved to be very popular), thereby by alienating a large part of our community who where burnt last year into not coming back at all.

sure, he always throws some i should be so lucky or too many broken hearts in. im surprised palms has never booked him.

...alienating a large part of our community who where burnt last year into not coming back at all....

I guess thats why there's no retro space this year...(I'm assuming there isnt anyway)

If he plays "Bullet in a gun" which was his signature track from 10 years ago I would consider that as retro.

How old does a song have to be before it slips into retro acceptability?

If you're really after retro stuff over Mardi Gras you could always try Toybox or Frisky, most of that music has been around for a while now

(please note the smiley above as this comment was tongue in cheek, I will be going to both parties as well as Mardi Gras)

Yes,,,there IS a Retro space......stand by for an announcement soon!

Looks like retro will be in the forecourt. This from Mardi Gars Party Facebook page.


Will you be breath-taken by international surprise acts (ie. Cyndi Lauper this year)? Will you stumble into The Forum and be blown away by live bands that you know and love (or soon will)? Will you hide from the sun in The Dome where you'll be hypnotized by the dark and dirty beats? Or maybe you'll catch some fresh air, the latest gossip and rainbow-coloured retro in the Forecourt..

Dancing in the forecourt as the sun comes up has always been a favorite of mine. But I have to say I am no fan of retro.

Hate the live bands give us back the Forum for retro

If this latest news about retro being outside is true then mardi gras havent learned their lesson.

Sleaze 2005 the retro space was outside the RHI and despite the best efforts of the 2 DJ's who played good music the space was pretty damn ordinary.

The outside tent used at Sleaze this year was a bit better - I hope the retro space is at least in an enclosed tent rather than out in the open exposed to potential rain.

However all of the above is a worse case scenario for me as I feel a tad ripped off whenever the music I wanna dance to is denegrated to a space that isn't in one of the main buildings on site.

Retro was tailor made for the City Live / Stage 11 / Forum building (why has this venue had three name changes in 4 years) .... but i digress , it makes no sense to me to have retro out in the open when it was so huge in City Live / Stage 11 / Forum.

Some of the people who make these crazy decisions really do need to have their heads examined !

I actually think the more diversity the better... so I think the live bands are a great idea... but maybe in another section, maybe outdoors... but certainly not at the expense of the popular Forum Retro space.
The Retro space has been sooo popular, and after last year's fiasco of people paying out $150 tickets only to find out on the night that retro was cancelled & the discotorium turned into a trance-a-torium, I don't see why NMG would want to alienate & exclude a large group of cashed up over 30yr olds who want to listen to music they love.
We're not saying to turn every hall into retro- just have ONE space for it, so we are not excluded completely (NOT to MENTION is was sooo popular at the Forum... why delete it?)
Will be very interesting to see how it all pans out this year, as people will be VERY wary... especially after being flat out lied to about the "discotorium".

I would like to get myself onto a float for the parade but I'm not sure how to find out what floats are available.

Perhaps NMG could add a page to their website with the floats that are registered and their contact details. This would assist people in working out which float best matches what they are looking for and it may also increase the number of parade participants.

And for the girls above, why not leave the bitchy comments out. The chat above resemles a primary school playground. Make your point and move on. (I vote for a retro space in one of the main buildings - its gay gay gay and I love it).

Happy Mardi Gras - hugs to all xxx

Retro is very popular. Also current commercial top 40 songs fit the bill too (so it's not just about the past, but a style of music.) I would love to dance to some classic 80's & 90's commercial mainstream hits, and current songs from Pink, & current Kylie (yes there were actually Gay fans at her X tour concert last week- gays of all ages who love her style of music).

Mardi Gras was so amazing this year. The Forum was packed, fresh, fun and fantastic. Faker were awesome, as were all the other acts.
Kudos to Mardi Gras for bringing a dynamic that resonated so well with our diverse community. Sorry haters, some of us LOVED it. Time to embrace our diversity.
Happy New Year!

Maybe call it "Pop music Space"?
Yes, lots of gays love Kylie, Pink, etc.. any kind of current commercial pop music, plus retro pop music hits from the past thrown in.
Definiately need a space like the Forum, not outside in the courtyard where everyone is walking/jostling.... forget it.
Retro/currentPop music had the Forum packed year after year, with a 40min line to get in most of the night... why get rid of it? Who is in charge of choosing the music this year... some committee of 17yr olds? (serious question...who is actually making these decisions?).

Many in our community only go to nightclubs occassionally, but come out to MG Party- why not give them ONE space where current Pop music (& retro pop) will be played. (Basically no matter what age they are, if the are not regular nightclubbers then they wouldn't have a clue about the latest tribal/trance music, but do know current & old pop music). The MG Party needs to be inclusive of those people, and also acknowledge that pop-lovers come in all age groups. MG Party does need to cater for those young & old who are not regular clubbers, with at least one proper designated space for pop music (& not in the outside walkway).

Having that one space is not encroaching on anyone else, but to not have it at all is very exclusionary and non-inclusive.

The extra diversity of the live bands is great, & should stay. But we also need a decent retro/pop space.

"Again, the record ticket sales at last years MG party where made up from alot of people who had been lied to.. let's see how dismal sales are this year when all those people steer clear, & in desperation the tickets are flogged off to 18yr old straights, wanting to see thier favourite live band."

Firstly, I doubt there are enough retro fans out there in comparison to other major styles to make or break a party. That being said, retro in City Live has been successful in the past. Equally, the live band element was well received this year and you only have to watch the various you tube clips to watch the crowds going off. Liking live bands has nothing to do with being "straight" and in fact the young gays have grown up with most major music festivals having both DJ's and bands. Even the very first Mardi Gras party had a band not a DJ!

Mardi Gras needs to continually evolve and renew otherwise the party will become predictable and stagnant and the punters will stay away. So rather than turn on each other wouldn't the best solution be for us all to lobby Mardi Gras to have house and trance and tribal and retro and live bands and a new style that hasn't had a look in to keep the party fresh.

Finally, no music style "owns" any single venue. Hopefully Mardi Gras will continue to move things around to keep it interesting... just as they did in 2008.. in my opinion one of the best Mardi Gras parties ever!

still doesn't explain the "lie" of the discotorium last year & the misleading advertising of it.
Yes, LOVE the idea of adding the live bands, but not at the risk of having "pop" music / retro space gotten rid of.

I've just read this year's Festival Guide- they are billing this year's party as being the same early sell out as last year. Mmmm, well, with lots of people like me not buying tickets, we'll see. I'd rather spend extra money getting into the BGF stand to have fun at the parade, rather than setting foot in that party again- where oh where did my $150 go!
Interesting stories in the media this week about massive youth unemployment expected later this year- maybe young trance lovers won't be able to afford a ticket to the 2010 party... older cashed-up bitches like me might find a little retro offering from NMG then perhaps?

That needs to be the last word on this topic. The discussion is getting nasty. You have made your decision. It has been documented on this wall. It is time to leave the discussion there.

I love that Joan Rivers will be in town for the Festival. And its a great way for Mardi Gras to kill two birds with the one stone. Just put Ms Rivers on the RHI stage at the party in a feathered outfit and everyone will think it is Kylie! I swear I can't tell the two of them apart anymore.

I think after the way that channel 9 here in Oz, and NBC in the the U.S. ignored the existence of Matthew's partner Lachland (NBC were later forced to apologise), I think it is very important that Lachlan be invited to be by his side when being part of a gay welcome into our community at Mardi Gras.
NBC especially made such a huge deal of focusing on partners of all gold medal winning athletes- except Matt & his partner Lachlan. Matt ran to kiss him in the pool stadium, and they were hugging outside afterwards in interviews, immediately after his record breaking win. Yet NBC was able to carefully edit out any footage of Lachlan & Matt together. Here, Channel 9 carefully only showed a wide shot of the backs of thier heads (during a face-on interview with media!) with the comment "he then celebrated with 'friends' ", & cut the story.
So in light of that, I think it very important to show the international community a real couple in action- cause that's what really got to the straight media... it was one thing for Matt to come out & say he was gay, but a huge slap in the face for him to actually be in a successful relationship! Lachlan had to be edited out at all costs by them!

There's only



Weeks to Mardi Gras
.

Very Pretty Countdownboy....luv your work.

Sorry love, I think you've mistaken Madonna for Kylie.

I saw Joan Rivers last time she was out and all she did was spew out offensive vitriol on everyone from gay people to indigenous people to anyone else she could think of. I wish someone involved in the Mardi Gras festival could explain to me how having her perform at the 2009 festival is in keeping with their theme of Nations United.

Jay,

If you join up tot he Mardi Gras parade entrants yahoo group you can request information about vacancies on floats and participate with them. The group is:

http://au.groups.yahoo.com/group/mardigrasparade/

Refer: http://www.mardigras.org.au/internal.cfm?sub=Parade&nav=Mardi%20Gras%202009

Easy.

Show your support by not buying a ticket to Joan Rivers.

She is a comedian, someone you laugh at and take lightly. Not some world leader preaching racism.

She was a real laugh last time I saw her and will be going again. Just dont sit in the first few rows in case she picks on you !!!

THERE ARE ONLY





DAYS TO MARDI GRAS
.
.

Thank you so much.

Will do

Cheers

My news from close to the party committee is that a THIRD overseas DJ is playing at Mardi Gras.

Brent Nicholls , an ex Sydney DJ well known for his work in Sydney in the early 1990's who moved to England about 13-14 years ago has been picked to play at Mardi Gras.

If you're a Sydney DJ it would really annoy you wouldn't it seeing so many places taken up by out of towners.

I'm all for one or 2 OS DJ's but really three is a slap in the face to the local DJ's if u ask me.

i totally agree with you. i have got no idea why they keep booking freemasons. theyre played by the locals at least 5 times in each set. what a yaaaaaaawn

re slapping locals in tehir faces - who is MG exactly slapping in face? the same 5 locals doing MG year after year? what a yaaaaaaaawn

congrats brent nicholls, lets hope its a good sign and the end of importing the US circuit diva djs rubbish

Please explain ?

lets say only 3 spaces. Thats approx 12 DJ's.

So

a) its not the majority

b) its not a slap in anyone's face

c) NMG trying to balance things out by not giving the
same old same old that people whinge they can pay $20 to see on Oxford St anytime etc with some OS DJ's so those that do whinge about same old same old can dance to someone not usually seen on the scene.

Thats what my reply would be if you asked me.

Rumour: RHI will not be used this year

Mardi Gras is an international party. It has to be made attractive to people from all over the world so they make the effort to come here. I am not a marketing expert, but I can understand that international DJs make the party more attractive to overseas visitors.

"Mardi Gras is an international party. It has to be made attractive to people from all over the world so they make the effort to come here. I am not a marketing expert, but I can understand that international DJs make the party more attractive to overseas visitors."

Maybe so ,but not really.

I meet soooooo many American's and Europeans at Mardi Gras over the years who express disappointment that DJ's from thier own countries are playing at a Sydney event. These tourists expect to be entertained by local talent, not by DJ's that play in their own clubs back home.

looking at the first press release from last years MG party and the majority of DJ's were not from Sydney. I think that percentage got better as more were hastily added but locals can feel rightly slighted when unknowns from NZ clubs get selected ahead of people who support NMG all year round as happened in 2008.

Surely with a season theme of "United Nations" there should be some international DJs playing? I think it would be a little silly if there wernt!

What crap - all halls are being used. From SameSame:

DJs in the Royal Hall of Industries will be Kitty Glitter, Wayne G and Dan Murphy, alongside the Grammy-nominated Freemasons, who are back again after a memorable Mardi Gras set in 2007.

It’s all about House in the Hordern Pavilion headliner – and the man who opens Madonna’s world tour – Paul Oakenfold, as well as Brent Nicholls, Alan Thompson and Mike Kelly.

Both the scenic and the sound in the Dome will be Tribal with Annabelle Gaspar, Ben Drayton, Rob Gilbert and Feisty.

The Forum will play host to a mix of rock, electro and disco, with DJs Avra, Dan Random, Matt Vaughn, Stereogamous and Lauren Flax starring alongside live performances by Beau Monde, The Ones and Infusion. There’s also a surprise act planned for this space too.

Well Natalie Bassingthwaighte told media last year that she wanted to perform at Mardi Gras Party, and it seems she’s getting her wish! Mardi Gras announced today that she’ll be doing a live show, along with West End star Alison Jiear, who you’ll know best for her gay anthem I Just Wanna Dance from Jerry Springer The Opera.

DJs in the Royal Hall of Industries will be Kitty Glitter, Wayne G and Dan Murphy, alongside the Grammy-nominated Freemasons, who are back again after a memorable Mardi Gras set in 2007.

It’s all about House in the Hordern Pavilion headliner – and the man who opens Madonna’s world tour – Paul Oakenfold, as well as Brent Nicholls, Alan Thompson and Mike Kelly.

Both the scenic and the sound in the Dome will be Tribal with Annabelle Gaspar, Ben Drayton, Rob Gilbert and Feisty.

The Forum will play host to a mix of rock, electro and disco, with DJs Avra, Dan Random, Matt Vaughn, Stereogamous and Lauren Flax starring alongside live performances by Beau Monde, The Ones and Infusion. There’s also a surprise act planned for this space too.

The Coach Carpark will be fully integrated into the party this year as a retro space, with David Hiscock, Justin Scott and Jake Kilby spinning the discs, along with the winners of the Mardi Gras DJ Spin Off competition.

Then let them stay in their own country.

Usually its 1 International DJ in a hall with 2 or 3 local
DJ's.

So if 1 set destroys your whole night....why go out.

I love the Hordern when its Hard and Dome with Tribal. Never have I stayed in one Hall. I dance to the DJ I like, move to another hall if I dont like the next one, come back to check the next one after that and have never had a problem

Now if NMG have scaled back on the RHI ??????????????? I think it could be a bad move...........People go to the big parties cause they have BIG venues which you dont get on Oxford St and its something different etc.

Use a whole pile of small halls and still be charging over
$100 will have people whinging about being able to go to
a similar size venue on Oxford St for way less $'s. Hope
that rumour is WRONG.

This should scupper all the gossip above, announced today on SameSame

More Talent Added To Mardi Gras Party Line Up

Local News, By Christian Taylor, 8th January, 2009

Well Natalie Bassingthwaighte told media last year that she wanted to perform at Mardi Gras Party, and it seems she’s getting her wish! Mardi Gras announced today that she’ll be doing a live show, along with West End star Alison Jiear, who you’ll know best for her gay anthem I Just Wanna Dance from Jerry Springer The Opera.

DJs in the Royal Hall of Industries will be Kitty Glitter, Wayne G and Dan Murphy, alongside the Grammy-nominated Freemasons, who are back again after a memorable Mardi Gras set in 2007.

It’s all about House in the Hordern Pavilion with headliner – and the man who opens Madonna’s world tour – Paul Oakenfold, as well as Brent Nicholls, Alan Thompson and Mike Kelly.

Both the scenic and the sound in the Dome will be Tribal with Annabelle Gaspar, Ben Drayton, Rob Gilbert and Feisty.

The Forum will play host to a mix of rock, electro and disco, with DJs Avra, Dan Random, Matt Vaughn, Stereogamous and Lauren Flax starring alongside live performances by Beau Monde, The Ones and Infusion. There’s also a surprise act planned for this space too.

The Coach Carpark will be fully integrated into the party this year as a retro space, with David Hiscock, Justin Scott and Jake Kilby spinning the discs, along with the winners of the Mardi Gras DJ Spin Off competition.

There's always plenty of talk and hype (and Pinkboard catfights) early in the MG season about who's playing in the RHI and Horden. I always thought the freemasons were an odd men's group with funny handshakes, and I don't much care for RHI handbag anyway; so yawn to them. Paul Oakenfold seems to be a bit hit and miss - depends I guess what the music brief for the Horden will be this year...

Unfortunatley those of us who love the harder, darker, sexier music and the queer-come-as-you-are-boys-and-girls-vibe in the dome are always left hanging out til the last minute before we know who'll be playing for us on the night.

Last year was bloody briliant. I still get goose bumps listening to Jack Chang's set on his website. Sveta played a great opening set too. Martini Club's live performance a few years ago was a departure from the norm...but also an inspired choice. May the gods smile on the Dome DJ selectors for 2009. (My choice of whether to go to the party or not rests fairly heavily on that decision)

Put your tail between your legs and RUN.

I hope you didnt pay $'s for that piece information.

Well Retro Boy you get your space

Yes its the coach park but I have been there in a tent before and believe me if they put in a big mother
f*cker of a tent and wooden floor and lighting etc it will
be a way bigger space for all Retro Fans.

Hopefully you will show your support.

Damn for House ugh.....my opinion.... in Hordern.

Will miss my hard/hard trance styles in my favourite hall.

No trance so that means no Mardi Gars for me. Toybox and Frisky looks like they will now both sell out.

8/10 for the line up this year. Not too bad at all.

Very happy to see JK back on board but not convinced by Natalie Bassinthwaite or the I Just Wanna Dance girl (sooo 4 years ago!).

I was not going to go regardless of the line up but it's not as bad as I had suspected it would be.

FOUR OVERSEAS DJ's playing at Mardi Gras now

Go on Mr Imrie and company, just twist the knife even further into the backs of all us local DJ's

Well this 45 year old had just about decided to NOT go to the party this year for the first time in 22 years. The last few years, including the 30th, have been let downs for me personally, now, I shall quantify that by saying they were excellent parties, but just didn't cater for me, definitely appearred to be aimed (rightly so) at the younger set. Now with this latest announcement of Wayne G, Alison Jiear and a retro space I have just bought me a ticket!

Sounds like someone is bitter! Don't you think its a great opportunity for Sydneysiders to hear other DJs than they do on a weekly basis at Sydney venues?

I for one think its a great line up and diverse in all spaces and something for everyone.

Well, I posted just a tad too soon....The Dome DJs look like a solid, if not spectacular bunch. Will definitely have a bit of a dance to Ben Drayton....

Horden COULD be OK if the DJs all play good, new, harder, edgy house; alternatively it could turn into a 2nd RHI and end up being one of those nights when you hear the same track over and over again in both halls. Infusion are a good bet in the forum. I thought there were rumors of yet another bloody potbelleez set. They'd better not be the mystery, yet to be announced act!!

4 Internationals, 2 being headliners and 16, YES 16 locals! I would say that's a good representation of local talent wouldn't you?

The DJ line up is sensational.

Congratulations NMG.

As for the international djs, I can't wait to hear as many of them as I can. Fresh new music.

I wonder how our local djs would feel if they were excluded from playing at parties overseas. Many of them do and love the opportunity.

4? that's if you consider Freemasons to be 2 DJs then yes but otherwise its 3 acts:

1. Oakenfold
2. Freemasons
3. Wayne G

Kitty Glitter - local
Dan Murphy - local
Brent Nicholls - is Australian
Alan Thompson - local
Mike Kelly - is Australian

all other Djs in other rooms are AUSTRALIAN!

F*ck me dead, we're a whinging, whining bunch. No matter what Mardi Gras does, people will always complain. I also think it's a great line-up - not my favourite locals playing but whatever, more than happy to give it a go - it's Mardi Gras after all! And yes, I'll also be going to Toy Box the following day. Can't wait. Have to miss Frisky as 3 parties in 2 days is far too much in my opinion.

Speaking as a local DJ who wasn't asked to play, I have no problems with this line up. It's a big improvement from last year.

"Brent Nicholls - is Australian"

Maybe so. But he hasn't been an Australian DJ for over 10 years... that makes him an OVERSEAS DJ !

Freemasons - overseas dj
Oakenfield - overseas dj
Wayne G - overseas dj
Brent N - overseas dj

THATS FOUR.

Way too many

Looking forward to it all again!!
Where're we up to Countdown Boy??
See you all there!!!

xxxx

i miss potbeleez. arent they performing this year??

LOL.... Don't Hold Back

Get Over It

PLEASE!

poor Brent having such wonderful support when (after way too long) he is asked to return to his HOMELAND to play at one of the most iconic events.

change the industry a little and consider this in film logic. did any of us see the Australia movie? hmmm, hugh jackman lives in NYC. nicole kidman certainly is more cosmopolitan than in years past. how many people complained when baz luhrman gave them a gig on an aussie movie set?

or, perhaps kylie and dannii? conveniently australian whilst living in london...

do i go on?

brent is a good dj, and finally gets offered a place in a good AU party, and i do hope he is not reading this... i doubt he´d feel so special.

also, i think the house tag for hordern djs is a bit half accurate. looking at these djs we have house, yes, but also tech, trance, progressive, techno, and tribal. the freshest kind on the globe...

NMG i cannot complain because i can´t even see myself leaving the hordern floor for a drink (is this floor service?)

"Don't Hold Back"..... Oh those potbelleez just won't quit!!
I'm looking forward to the line up, I think it's great. As for the digs re too many internationals, who is/isn't - it's grape season of the sour variety
have a good weekend all.

Way too many os dj's? I don't think so. I wish they had added one more and brought back Jack Chang for the Dome - he was great last year there.

Plenty of other spots for the locals.

So leave all the negative comments till after you have attended the party, if you have any then.

And if you don't attend the party I can't see how you can comment on it at all.

this is a very nice post.
i just would like to add one thing. this is pinkboard. so far there are just a few posts from cca 110 people. if there were 2000 posts with similar topic then i would start worry
in the meantime i cant help but laugh.
what makes me laugh even more is that the NMG president has its own name registered and is trying to calm down all those 4 - 6 unhappy pinkboard contributors. i would think someone who is running such an organisation would have other priorities
i like the dj line up and i will be at mg! i trust the chosen people.

i agree about the tag 'it's all about house' - that line up is mainly deep, minimal, progressive - which is fantastic - but not 'house' in the real sense of the word. It's funny - i think the Horden line up will deliver a much sleazier vibe than the Dome one!
I can't wait to hear Oakenfold - and yes - Jack Chang would have been great in the dome again this year! He was brilliant last year.

Firstly congrats to Mardi Gras for including a range of music styles. But a big boo for no trance... big mistake given the competition around that weekend.

And who the heck is programming the DJ's and venues? I'm all for progressive in the Hordern but house??? A little strange given that the RHI is filled with it all night.

Oakenfold will be hot.

Natalie Bassingthwaighte will be hot, especially as it will be in the middle of her hosting "So you think you can dance".

Alison Jiear singing "I Just Wanna Dance"? Sounds like it will be camp but its hardly cutting edge and its one of those songs thats best left to the retro sounds of Toybox.

The rest of the DJ's just seem like a repeat of people who have done it before.

i think the hordern will be more progressive and tech than straight out house. i guess the trance fans will get a dash of what they love too, but i don´t think it will be the sound of toybox, it will be the sound of now

THERE IS ONLY



WEEKS TO MARDI GRAS !

No one can be 100% happy with the party.

I gave a big boo for no hard styles in Hordern.

House is too simple a word for music as there are many styles. I am hoping for some dirty sexy house ???
especiallin in the middle of the night otherwise as you say Hordern and RHI could end up sounding similar.

Hard styles always filled the Hordern as did Trance last year so would have been happy with a combination of both although would have been elsewhere while Trance was on.

As for the singers, well they rarely interest me so will leave that alone as I know a lot love it.

As for your comment re the DJ's just what else do you thing they should do ? dont even suggest they get complete unknowns as then people would be asking who they
hell are they, what are the like etc. You have to have names to attract the crowds otherwise you lose the crowd to other parties. Personally I will be looking forward to Rob Gilbert.

Alan Thompson?

A little overkill in my opinion what with Sleaze Ball, Summer Gay Day, DTPM, Wildlife, Action, MOS...

Some new blood would be nice.

Looking forward to Oakenfold though.

I must admit to laughing at the posts that suggest the RHI and Hordern could possibly be similar in music styles based on the selection of DJ's

Nothing could be further from the truth.

In the RHI the 3 DJ's playing the main section of the night from 12.30am to close (Wayne G, Dan Murphy, Freemasons) all play the more girly , cheesy, up-tempo type of house music. Music with energy.

The Hordern DJ's are all known at present for playing the more serious , smooth , progressive, sexy and dirty forms of dance music.

Anyone who thinks the two main halls will be similar with their music content should have absolutely no fears whatsoever. Get out there and buy your ticket now .

I would like to congratulate Mardi Gras for not having Trance at the party. What's the point? It will be played to death at every other party on the weekend.

As for comments about the the Hordern being house, I agree that it will be on the harder, techier end of the scale. As for Paul Oakenfold, he is simply amazing. He can play anything. His live set will have the Hordern rocking like it hasn't for years.

"Alan Thompson?

A little overkill in my opinion what with Sleaze Ball, Summer Gay Day, DTPM, Wildlife, Action, MOS..."

That's ridiculous statement!

Alan Thompson is one of the few gay DJs who plays all over the country and we don't get to hear him enough here in Sydney. His set at Sleaze was awesome and he (hopefully) deserves a much later slot than he did that night.

He is one of the organisers of summer gay day, promotes DTPM (they only do 6 or 7 parties a year!) and was the main resident in London. Wildlife was canceled anyway due to lack of support. He plays monthly at Action, and some of the best tech house around and has been associated with MOS for many years.

He seems to be very selective in where he plays and doesn't play all the Oxford Street venues on a weekly basis.

I love his sound and he always delivers a great set and has the experience to do this. I for one am looking forward to hearing him in The Horden along with Paul Oakenfold.

Set times please?

Good for you! Personally, I'm a little bored with it.

Wayne G is from melbourne. Last time I checked, Melbourne was in Australia.

Wayne G is from the UK. He may be living in Australia but the last time I checked you don't change nationalities until you become a citizen.

and Brent is Australian living in the UK.

So how about we balance out Wayne G with Brent.

So means we have 2 International DJ.s

I see on Jack Chang's website he is playing at Indulgence at the Shift on Sunday night after Mardi Gras. So looks like will be getting my tix to hear him play there.

Would have been good to see him in the Dome again - seeing as he is gunna be down here anyways.

jack chang is back for mardi gras indulgence!!!

WOW WEE!!!

Paul Oakenfold is one of the best DJ's in the world!!! Members appreciated that you put out the DJ survey and respect our views ......

It's such a great mix of music. Kitty is the cat around town at the moment spinning tracks everywhere... Mike Kelly has been working so hard overseas flying all over Europe from one day to the next.

It will be so good to hear Brent Nicholls play at home again and both Wayne G/Freemasons are a welcome return to the party.

Paul Mac (Stereogamous) are both just musical magicians when they spin discs together.

Annabelle Gaspar and Ben Drayton are Sydney Legends and have a long association with our Community.

David Hisckock, Justin Scott and Jake Kilby playing in the same room will have me there partying at some point...

Arguably musically this will be one of the best parties in a long time, I think this will be one party where I get lost in a daze at some point or all night in fact!

I turn 30 at midnight on the 8th and am so grateful that New Mardi Gras are going to entertain me with a party like this!!!

Great Work

Thank you New Mardi Gras !!!

Damo xo

"The RHI will also play host to some of the biggest shows on the night. NMG confirmed there will be surprise performers on the night, but can today announce live shows centred round two great female talents."

So Natalie Bassingthwaighte and Alison Jiear have been confirmed.

Dare I go out on a limb and suggest Tina Arena will be the suprise act. Though hardly a suprise given she is being promoted as a festival act.

What about Tina, Alison and Natalie doing a "Dreamgirls" medley finishing with "One Night Only" although Tina and Alison would have to fight it out as to who sang "And I am telling you I'm not going".

My god, what a pack of whingers alot of people are!

Obviously those who want to complain about MG are in the majority here, and those who appreciate it do so silenty.

I cant wait to go to the party, and the main draw for me is paul oakenfold and the freemasons.
Not to mention that the last time i went to the party it was totally awesome, and the live acts look great too!

I think everyone that complains about it will still go, have a great time, then continue to complain afterwards and again next year, so anyone who organises the party and reads all of the bitching and whingeing about some local DJ not getting picked over Paul Oakenfold (like you would anyway) or some form of music not being in a particular hall dont be disheartened.

These events are massive feats to pull off, and there are thousands more happy party goers than there are unappreciative ones...

Cant freakin wait!!!

umm, what about the POOL party???? I can't seem to find it on the Mardi Gras schedule.

reason no pool party on the schedule is that after running it twice at a loss, nmg decided not to run it and potentially lose a 3rd time. great shame because it was a lot of fun. but if not enough people go, then it's not worth running.

This is great news, come through on today's NMG newsletter.
The new space will be located in a brand new venue, converted from the coach carpark.
Should be packed all night.

"The new space will be located in a brand new venue, converted from the coach carpark"

AKA - A Tent.

`

"AKA - A Tent."


You mean to tell me they haven't started construction on a new building there yet?!!...outrageous!!

Last Mardi Gras they relocated the members bar from the top of the Forum to a rather large marque in the Coach Carpark (the open space next to the Forum) complete with bar and toilets. At the time I thought it had a lot of potential as a key venue if they dressed it up right.

Now if only they had a trance space...

I think the live bands would be better suited to the relaxed outdoor tent area, and the discoteque better suited to a proper indoor area / dance floor of the Forum.
Will have to wait & see what the tent set up is like. Maybe is not too late for the organisers to swap the two venues.

rock bands outdoors in the middle of the night at fox studios. no chance, sound restrictions

The live bands are to loud to be in an outdoor space. Local residents will complain bitterly.

Also the form allows for better viewing of live bands because of its stepped dancefloor and multi level mezzanines. Best keep the retro in a marque, hopefully a good one, in the car park.

Relax ladies.

Have been in tents and believe me *if* NMG do it right with wooden floors , big tent, and lighting etc once inside you will not notice a thing about the venue
aka the tent. If its a small tent then yes you will but have been in some that have been a decent size, you get on the dance floor etc and just get lost in the music. After all do you look at the walls of the Hordern or RHI etc ? No. You just lost in the lighting.

Lets give them a chance eh ? instead of slamming them before you even know the facts.

Wow! I had no idea you Sidneysiders bitched so much! We yanks thought y'all were all laid-back and easy-goin' and...y'know. Another stereotype shattered! Just kidding. At least you're bitching about partying. First trip to Mardi Gras, first trip to Sydney, first trip to Australia - totally looking forward to it and seeing / meeting (most of) y'all! Can't wait!

Yeah Tony don't listen to all the negative nanna's on here. Am sure you guys will enjoy your time downunder. Enjoy the parade and party you will have such a fun time regardless off what others say. And if ya up for it, Toybox day party at Luna Park the next day (Sunday 8 March, 12noon till 8pm) is a really fun time too.

See ya all at Mardi Gras - stay happy.

Any forum wall has its negative nanna's but they are in the minority ! so dont judge us all as negative

You will love the Parade and the party will be a blast for you.

And if you are here for a time before or after make sure
you do other Mardi Gras things .................... especially like Fair Day !

Can I change the subject please?

What a great idea to launch Mardi Gras on Fair Day.

It allows everyone to join in and participate.
The last few launches have been a bit esoteric, although I enjoyed them.
My favourite was when the cast from Little Britain showed up down near the Opera House.

As for bitchin about the DJ's, everyone's an expert except me.
If I like the sound I dance if I don't I still dance and stare at the lights all dxxg F***ed!

I'll have a few American friends with me from New Mexico and Oklahoma and one from Florida.
We'll toast President Obama while doing a twirl on the dance floor!!!!!

We are family........and lubed!!!

I know a lot of posters including myself posted that last year to save $'s for NMG.

It makes way more sense as they have that great big stage and instead of doing two set ups etc they only have to do the one. Even though Opera House steps was my favourite location it was all over and done within a few hours but tight for space. This way we have a huge park to ourselves and always enjoy Fair Day.

Looking forward to it and lets hope they get record
crowds for it.

Tony, Mardi Gras is spectacular, no two ways about it (also agree re Toy Box - such a camp fun party), however, I hope you enjoy your time in (in my opinion) the best damn city in the world - Sydney! Hey, it's home and I'm biased... but it is beautiful. Hope the weather holds out for you.

Maybe NMG can have members email in song requests to make up the playlist.
Current 2008 pop top 40 music should be included too- such as new music from Kylie & Pink, and YoungDivas. Would love to hear loads of Steps, Whitney, & SavageGarden too. Plus love Abba, Divine, Bananarama etc.
Looking forward to staying in the retro/pop/disco space all night! Hope it has it's own bar.

Thanks, guys! (I figured it was okay to "rag" you a little bit or I'd've kept my mouth shut.) JW, from everything I've ever heard you have every right to be biased: Sydney is the one city (in the world) I've never heard negative comments about from visitors. Glad to finally be one! It may be beautiful - but it's the fun and friendly people I hear most about. Thanks for the Toy Box tip - maybe we'll still be up. [ It's too late to ask now, but we bought Glamour Bar tickets instead of GlamStand for the Parade. Right choice? And we're "recovering" for a few days in Cairns afterwards. Any suggestions...? ] Might as well practice it: "Cheers, mates!"

Oh man, what a holiday it will be for you boys (and girls maybe?)! Cairns... or more specifically Port Douglas is just amazing. My favourite holiday spot within Oz. You are not going to want to go home. I hope you're staying somewhere nice.
I've done the Glamstand, not Glamour Bar, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Great view of the parade, nice easy walk up to the Party. Hope to have a dance with you at some point throughout the night. Cheers cobba! (not that we ever say that here. Hehehe).

.
.
.
.
.





DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !!

JW: Just boys. Three of us: my partner, a good friend of ours, and me. Would be great to meet, dance, party with a local. We're all about Southern hospitality - and your Southern hemisphere trumps our Southern US! Can I post an e-mail address on here for you or...?

Yay! I <3 Americans at Mardi Gras!!
Too much fun!!

Just became a member of Mardi Gras. It felt real good. Now I'm even more excited about the coming month. Might even volunteer to help with the parade since my boyfriend is going to be marching. Just posted this because I feel surprisingly good inside

Well you can't get more southern than Australia, not counting Antarctica! Thats why we call Americans Yanks because there all northerners!...
Never mind I have a big beef jerky you can all chomp on, while down under. 100% pure Australian beef!!!..with no TexMex...

Hey American Boy, keeps us posted about your travels downunder.Yeah sure, post an email as well.

Yes! I don't think it would be warranted in normal circumstances, but in this case it will be very important to have Lachlan included & as visible as possible..... especially after the majority of the WORLD straight media ignored him. Even those media outlets that mentioned Matt was gay, went out of their way to not mention he was in a successful relationship.(whilst the tv focus on straight athletes was all about their partners/lovelives.)

WEEKS TO MARDI GRAS !!

Hey Southern American Boy!
I'd absolutely love to have a dance with you and your Southern boy friends, but just so you know, I am a girl... a lesbian of course! Pls do post your email address and I'll shoot you a mail with my details. Yay!

agreed.

Unless BOTH of them are together, people will presume he's straight and just appearing as a goodwill gesture similar to Clover Moore.

Y'all really know how to make a guy feel welcome - thanks! Off to Washington for the presidential inauguration (!) and will follow-up with my favorite Aussie girl JW and jackaroo CattleStud - and all y'all when I get back! (Cheers to the new US President Barack Obama!)

Have you got unstoppable rhythm? Feel as though you belong on the stage? Do you just wanna dance? Here is your chance to perform centre stage in a colourful, high-energy show in front of thousands!

You might be a professional dancer, or someone that has been a part of our shows before! Or perhaps you’re someone with little previous experience, or a particular talent. Everyone is welcome, we’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers that would love to dance as part of the Mardi Gras Party experience!

The Party is set to include several exciting performances throughout the night, and every year our dancers work with star choreographers and support outstanding live artists. Most of all, they have a great time and gain invaluable experience!

There’s only one way you can be part of one of the most electrifying nights of the year – come along to our auditions and show us your moves! They’ll be held at 11am and 1pm on Sat 31st January at NIDA (215 Anzac Pde, Kensington).

"in this case it will be very important to have Lachlan included & as visible as possible..... especially after the majority of the WORLD straight media ignored him"

The theme is United Nations for this year's Mardi Gras- Lachlan should be there on the float by Matthew's side.

Im so excited...
i cant wait for mardi gras...
i can barely contain myself!!!

Oh PLEASE, why would anyone assume Mr Mitcham is straight??

Days To Mardi Gras !!!

Why?

Because the Media has hidden his partner and the straightos will not have a clue.

And unless people have read articles or seen vision of them both, they won't know.

He could just be gay friendly, couldn't he?

Fabulous graphics Countdownboy! Love 'em! Can we meet up again this year please? I wanna kiss your cute turned-up nose!

44 Days to Mardi Gras to coincide with the new 44th President.

Way to go Matt! Celebrating your 21st on March 2nd then leading our Parade 5 days later. Bring it on!

jut go to stonewal - you'll be fine

I voted for Oakenfold his Traveln stuff sends me, especially when mothers little helpers get their way.

Good on u cdb I like your new concept.

jag

Matt and his partner WILL both be riding on the Chief of Parade entry

Days To Go To Mardi Gras !!

What parties to do on Mardi Gras Weekend? My 45 year old friend who's slimming down to get into his 28" waist Prada jeans is planning to do Mardi Gras, Toybox and Frisky. But he has trouble staying awake for the 6pm evening news so I have serious but sincere doubts myself.

Just be thankful that he knows that "6pm" is evening news and not morning news

DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !!

OR...



WEEKS TO MARDI GRAS !!

What are the really weird shapes down the side of this page? They look like XRays of animals' noses.

Days to Mardi Gras!!

So relieved to see that Dome is back there as a dark, sleazy place that will suit me and me mates to a tee thank you very much NMG.

Days To Mardi Gras YAY !

Due to the small number of entries that have been received to date for the girl's up-and-coming DJ competition, the judges have decided to extend the deadline for entries until 5pm on Friday 30th January.

New Mardi Gras encourages all up-and-coming girl DJs to put their best CD forward for the competition. The best submissions will go forward to the spin-off competition at the Supper Club on 14th February from which a winner will be picked to play at the world famous Mardi Gras party on March 7th.

Further information can be found on page 18 of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2009 Guide or at www.mardigras.org.au

DAYS UNTIL MARDI GRAS !!

DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

I think 39 days to go has ben my favourite so far!

DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

DAYS TO GO TO MARDI GRAS !!

Hope this will entice more visitors to the Party!

http://www.smh.com.au/travel/travel-news/americans-get-sydney-holidays-for-under-1000-20090130-7tdp.html

From New Mardi Gras press release:


SENSATIONAL LINE-UP FOR MAGICAL
MARDI GRAS’ HARBOUR ‘09


New Mardi Gras (NMG) in partnership with Gaydar.com.au today announced the full line-up for the the annual Mardi Gras harbour party, Harbour ’09, including a spectacular array of Australia’s favourite DJs - Stephen Allkins, Kate Monroe, Alex Taylor, Peyton and Shigeki - all against the exquisite backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

This hugely successful annual party is one of the most glamorous and anticipated of the year, with the incomparable setting of the Royal Botanical Gardens at sunset the weekend prior to Mardi Gras.

“Last year was our first time running the party and it was a big success. This year we know the ropes and are going to bring the party back to the standard that made if famous,” said New Mardi Gras Chair David Imrie. “We think it will be a really magical night.”

“The party is blessed with one of the most spectacular locations anywhere on the planet,” said Imrie. “Mardi Gras’ production expertise and creativity are going to make this an absolute must for gay partygoers the world over.”

Gaydar Marketing Director Trevor Martin said, “We’re thrilled to continue our relationship with New Mardi Gras as presenting partner for Harbour ’09 and Fair Day. Sydney Mardi Gras offers the Gaydar brands unparalleled opportunities to support and entertain not only the local community but also a passport to get to know personally our international members and listeners who travel thousands of miles to be in Sydney during the festival – we can’t wait!”

Bringing more than 25 years of DJ experience, and a history that has had him playing next to the world’s biggest DJs such as Carl Cox, Armand Van Helden and Fatboy Slim, Stephen Allkins promises a breath-taking set at Harbour Party 09. The sublimely talented [love] tattoo producer, remixer and DJ is sure to get the party pumping.

NMG has selected a musical line-up as lush as the Harbour-side event itself. Kate Monroe will be showcasing the smooth sexy house that has made her one of the biggest DJs in Sydney, and the skills that earned her a place in the Sydney Olympic Closing Ceremony.

Monroe has supported countless international DJs such as Bob Sinclair, played international dance parties including White Party Miami and has released several essential compilation CDs under her own label – Mat Recordings – as well as SONY, Shock Records and many more. She is legendary for her sets at previous Mardi Gras Parties and Sleaze Balls.

Alex Taylor, whose residencies include Hugo’s, Arq, Trademark and Home, will bring his inimitable style to the party, with the UK’s Hed Kandi superstar DJ Peyton joining him in a sunset performance partygoers won’t forget.

Returning to Sydney from Singapore, DJ Shigeki will be on the decks later on, with his peerless style of vocal, deep and percussive house. Returning after massively successful previous sets at Harbour Party, and residencies on Atlantis Cruises and nightclubs around Sydney such as HOME and the Midnight Shift, Shigeki will bring the party to a close.

Partygoers have a great option for later in the night. The official after party to Harbour ‘09 begins at 11pm with GAZE Sundays hosting a truly glamorous recovery at Trademark Hotel, Kings Cross. A bus shuttle will be provided from Mrs Macquaries Point from 10:30pm to the only place to be to continue the night in style.

Harbour ‘09
Sunday 1st March 3pm – 11pm
Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketek on 13 2849 or by visiting www.ticketek.com.au.

Lets hope it doesn't get bastardized with an overbearing presence of sniffer dogs and over the top police. Even more , let's hope it doesn't get shut down early

Stephen Allkins, Kate Monroe, Alex Taylor, Peyton and Shigeki

OMG - finally classy line up which guaranties appropriate music for given location which will smoothly flows thru the evening. no fluff, no cheese, no trance, no santa maria, no US circuit crap.

its great to see stephen doing HP as well as shigeki with peyton.
kate n alex will certainly play summer sunset groovy music.
(congratulations all, your names give the party the extra something thats been missing over the past few years)

a world class event, worth attending and showing off to all the intls.

WELL DONE NMG - why did it take so long?

THERE ARE ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !!

OR...........



WEEKS TO MARDI GRAS !!

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/mardi-gras-mulling-over-switch-to-homebush/2009/01/30/1232818725577.html


They can count me out. Getting in and out of Homebush is a nightmare. The venues are crap and have poor sound quality as they were never designed for parties and not to mention the attitude of the police at Homebush who raid every single party/event held at the site and they have no or limited experience in dealing with our community.

Honestly - I feel this is ridiculous. I guess it would be convenient for many having us out of sight and out of mind. While Oxford St isn't what it was, walking away from it and the history and importance it has for the GLBT community as a whole, would be a huge shame. I cant imagine myself or any our friends even considering making the trek to Homebush for a parade or party - and I suspect to do so would be a serious hit to its ongoing success and viability. Negotiating public transport or driving and the potential abuse and issues that would expose us to would be unacceptable. We can only hope that NMG undertakes some heavy duty consultation with all of us before even considering such a massive change.

I have to agree.

The article said how many gays live out in the suburbs etc and I know that is right but didnt a lot of them move out that way to settle etc ? I know quite a few who lived in and around Oxford St then bought out west and settled down to a life not involving Oxford St.

So would that group all go to Mardi Gras ? what about the large proportion of gays in the inner city area who are party goers ? would this group be prepared to travel out to Homebush ? I have friends who live in Hornsby who come to the parties and its easy for them to walk to Central and jump a train home. They would have to travel to Cenral and change and then the same on the way back.....
Its not like Homebush is a hub for all forms of transport like Central Station is.

I know some hate Fox Studios etc but its just so damned
central to everything. Short walk to trains/buses. Usually plenty of taxis.

Where will the Recovery Parties be ? so many walk back to
Oxford St from Fox to attend. Will they be bothered to be jumping a train to Central from Homebush then walking up to Oxford St or getting a bus or taxi ?

And just imagine that long train/bus/taxi ride back to Oxford St ! aaaarrgghhhhhhhhhh I can hardly stand the 15mins back to my place from Fox

Will those who have settled into the suburbs attend both the Parade and the Party or just the Parade ?

I havent attended the Parade for years. No offence to the Parade but after a few years it isnt exciting anymore and just go to the Party. If a promoter had the Hordern that same weekend, depending on the music style ( I lurve
tribal/hard/dirty sexy house ) then I think I would attend that and for go the trudge to Homebush.

"There are other events [such as in Brazil] where it's done in a stadium."

If David Imrie wants to know what Mardi Gras would like like in a stadium he should review the footage of the 2000 Olympics closing ceremony.

This has to be a joke!

Hello Everyone

Just a few quick thoughts on the 'go west' idea, which I think is a really bad idea.

How would the Glamstand be set up; could it be successfully transplanted to Olympic Bld? If it disappears BGF would lose signficant funds.

The policing would be terrible. As well as sniffer dogs at the party and surrounds the rail system would be heavily patrolled. As most revellers would be using trains to arrive there would be a very real chance of ones 'one night of the year' turning into a legal nightmare.

Would the parade work at Homebush? At Oxford Street it is a parade; its starts, dances along and ends. How would it work at Homebush? Clomping around in a circle for a few revolutions? Then what?

We should be very wary of this. From my reading it seems that this suggestion is coming from the State Government desperate to find a use for site at Homebush. They want to co-op Mardi Gras' history for the sake of a bit of giggle and tinsel. Or will they be putting the hard word on Mardi Gras after finally starting to fund it?

I look forward to attending the first public Mardi Gras meeting where this proposal can be discussed.

I personally think you are completely closed minded and myopic.

You are only concerned about drug users and the parade route.

There is much more to Mardi Gras than that and I think it's a great idea and I'm sure they could figure everything out.

They successfully moved the Easter Show from Moore Park to Homebush and never looked back. Time for Mardi Gras to spread it's wings as well.

That doesn't mean everything needs to be there but it's high time they considered it.

I live in the west as do many others and it's just too far to get to the city at the drop of a hat.

It's a pity they decided to air this in the SMH rather than in one of our community newspapers, or via email to the members.

Does the pink butterfly on Party advert mean that Panther is leading the Scenic this year?

Just thought I would ask??

No I am not involved. I haven't even seen the poster. Is there a link to it anywhere?

...completely closed minded and myopic.

You are only concerned about drug users and the parade route....

I would like to ask this poster if her has ever been to party at Homebush?

The concerns raised so far are very valid. Firstly, even if you don't take drugs, the HUGE police presence at events at Homebush is enough to ruin anyones night. You will be sniffed by dogs as you leave the station, as you enter the party and as you dance. The policing by the local command is over the top and enough to take the shine of anyones night.

If you leave an event at Hombush at 3.00 there are no trains or taxis. It is actually easier to get to and from the city even if you live out west. Trust me, I'm a westie!

The venues at Homebush are crap. They were never built to host dance parties unlike the Hordern which is a custom built concert arena. The parties I have been to at Homebush have had awful sound quality.

I have been to many events at Hombush and have given up because of the issues raised above.

The easter show may work but Mardi Gras is a completely different type of event with a totally different client base.

Move Mardi Gras by all means but please not to Homebush.

Oh please.

" they moved the Easter Show to Homebush" what a laugh of a comparison.

A great deal of the gay population is lives around
Newtown, Darlinghurst, Surry Hills etc.

What needs to be considered is will this crowd who have been used to travelling 5-20 mins to get to Fox want to haul themselves out Homebush. Will they want to use buses ? the trains ? in the outfits they wear ? or pay for a very expensive return taxi fare ?

Homebush has awesome venues but its a dead end for transport. The train line is only a loop of one main line.
People are going to have to change trains and/or buses to get there and I just cant imagine a lot of people wanting to do that.

And as another poster said .........why didnt NMG release this to the gay media first ?

or

is this just another old rumour they have dug up and no truth in it.

What a crap idea...
The govt just want us out of the way. Oxf st is a main artery road that closes for this event, and i think they are sick of having to close it, all of the drunken kids that rock up etc...
Moving it to homebush is a crap idea that wont work... no one will stand for it!

so you're in favour of all the kazillions of arseholes who rock up at Mardi Gras, drunk off their tits, without knowing why the f--k they're there, ruining it for everyone?

o you're in favour of all the kazillions of arseholes who rock up at Mardi Gras, drunk off their tits, without knowing why the f--k they're there, ruining it for everyone?


There is nothing to stop them from rocking up to Homebush.

Possibly the 'out-of-towners' could also be considered. My partner and I, and various friends and hangers on, come down from north Queensland each year, just for parade and party weekend. So we rely solely on the public transport when in Sydney. With parade and party in Oxford St and Fox, we can walk there from our accommodation. Not sure what accom would be like at Homebush. It's been fantastic to walk to the parade, walk back to our hotel, walk to party, and home again in the wee hours. Without having spent any time at Homebush, I can't say I feel any enthusiasm for the parade and party to shift. The nature of the parade has been for people to come from all over into town, for the parade to proceed through all of the people to the party venue, and for those of us left on the streets to mill around together until we make our way to where we're going. It's a big part of the expereince. Would Homebush offer that? Or would the party become something that has a diminished place in the greater public's sensibility??

I'm neither for or against this idea necessarily but surely NMG aren't stupid enough to not have buses going back and forth between Oxford St and Homebush if they moved it out there! Of course they would! Let's not get carried away, people. It was a story in the weekend paper. Sure, it may happen, but it's not going to without proper notification to the NMG members first.

ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS!

The event works in it's current location! There is no need to move it so NMG please DON'T!!!

"but it's not going to without proper notification to the NMG members first."

You've got to be joking !! When was the last time NMG consulted anyone ? Besides David Imries spat in the press over the fact there were not enough members for a quorum for AGM, a very dodgy questionnaire which has not had its results released all we get are photo ops and spun press releases. They are even now using the straight press to float topics such as a move to homebush!

NMG out of touch and Out of reach!

Thinking of going to Harbour 09. Can anyone give me details of the donations last year and what is planned with the proceeds for this year?

Agree.

This *could* spell the death knell if Mardi Gras went to Homebush.

All the tourists who stay in the City area plus a very large demographic of gays living in the Inner City all having to haul their arses out to Homebush and back.

Sure NMG can put on buses but have you ever been in one when on party goodies ? waiting for it to fill up before it can go not to mention that long ride back to Oxford St and if you dont live in that area then having to get more transport to get home.

Plus out at Homebush there are not enouhg pubs,bars, restaurants that could cater to large crowds like those on Oxford St.

For those who dont do the Party are they going to trudge out to Homebush , then trudge back to the City ?

Last year Mardi Gras reported a donation to the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby of $15,000 'for the fabulous work they do".

I do not know about the plans for this year but would be interested to know.

There is ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !


You can see the excitement of it all is sooo overwhelming :P
_

Mardi Gras now provides no donation to the community from this event. the iris foundation used to receive the money and donate to various community twenty ten, the aids trust and the GLCS, and the quilt to name a few organizations but mardi gras took over 2 years ago and now puts the money into mardi gras coffers.

MArdi Gras is NOT moving west. NMG have denied it.

http://sxnews.e-p.net.au/news/mardi-gras-to-move-west-4863.html

.... We are in fact negotiating with the City of Sydney to move our own offices to a City-owned building on Oxford Street after this season. ....
http://superdrewby.com/blogs/drew/2009/02/its-nice-to-know-new-mardi-gras-listens.shtml

Thanks for that great news from some regular visitors!!

yeah but how much HB improved since nmg took over? im glad iris is out of the game.

JUST



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !!

read the mardi gras annual report. even though harbour party lost money in 2008 they still have gay and lesbian rights lobby $15,000.

Harbour 08 made $312,000 and donated $15,000 to the gay and lesbian rights lobby.

much as i do care about social welfare. truly i do! i am so much happier to know that harbour party is in the hands of mardi gras, and NOT (triple NOT) Iris group. i honestly believe the dip in attendance numbers, buzz in the city (ie tourists and then the locals out and out all day and night) is largely to do with the distrous treatment Harbour Party got as Azure.

harbour 08 lost $60,000. read the annual report. $300,000 was the total ticket sale revenue.

SO, SO, SO glad to hear Mardi Gras is not planning to moving west! The parade going up Oxford Street is the only time of year the street becomes magic again. It would be terrible to lose all those hunky international tourists too. I am really pleased to learn that Mardi Gras is negotiating with City of Sydney to move its offices back to Oxford Street. This is a step in the right direction for the street and something I'd like to see more of

Does anyone know what the options are for recovery weeks after Mardi Gras this year? I have heard of the Noosa event before. Has anyone been? Is it worthwhile? Are there others? Thanks for any help

The Noosa Recovery week isn't huge but it is a lot of fun with a variety of events planned for teh week. To make the most of your week in Noosa Heads after Mardi Gras you should go down to Brisbane at the end of the Noosa Mardi Gars Recovery on Sunday 15th March for Brisbane's Big Gay Day which is a street party that has around 8,000 members of the GLBTQ community attend. They have a range of DJs both local and interstate, drag queens and Australian entertainment. They haven't announced the main act as yet but I have been told it is someone from overseas. It is an event that raises much needed funs for local gay and lesbian charities. A great fun day with an after party at Fluffy that night.

http://www.samesame.com.au/news/local/3529/Same-Same-Exclusive-Sam-Sparro-To-Headline-Harbour-Party.htm

"Mardi Gras now provides no donation to the community from this event. the iris foundation used to receive the money and donate to various community twenty ten, the aids trust and the GLCS, and the quilt to name a few organizations but mardi gras took over 2 years ago and now puts the money into mardi gras coffers."

You need to get you your facts straight and a simple check of the Mardi Gras annual report will prove you wrong. Mardi Gras did in fact make a donation despite Harbour Party running at a huge loss last year. Mardi Gras now donate around 10% of their profits to community groups each year.

Wow! Spewing I'm not going now!

http://www.samesame.com.au/news/local/3529/Same-Same-Exclusive-Sam-Sparro-To-Headline-Harbour-Party.htm

Brilliant news!!! Anyone considering going to Harbour Party better not leave it to the last second to get your tix now

There's just



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS .... W00T !!!

we had a great time at mardi gras last year as it was the 30 yr and i think they made alot of effort in producing the party. Will 31 bom? I cant afford to go to both and im leaning towards toybox?

The smart boys will do Toybox. MG Pary is not selling. A friend of mine at ticketek has confirmed thousands of tickets remain unsold.
And no one does Harbour anymore. The IN crowd is doing the Bondi Life Savers party at the Bondi Pavillion.

good to see the wheels of the toybox promotions team working hard today :o)

amazing how anyone with "inside info" is always anonymous! in keeping with that - a call to Playbill (who run the Mardi gRas party venue confirms that NMG have asked to increase the footprint this year to allow an extra 1,500 people. so it must be selling ok then?

Phht.. the "IN" crowd...
U mean the homo pretentious crowd that are going to stand around, stare eachother up then go home with anyone that will have them...
Mardi Gras will be great, if you do anything you should show your support and go to MG, not dis it for a party that only started by leeching off the popularity of the mardi gras party season...
The original and always the best!!

A friend of mine at ticketek has confirmed thousands of tickets remain unsold.

oh i heard the opposite. i heard mardi gras was selling very well and that toybox was doing poorly.

i guess we will find out on the nite.

Well, I love both of them! It is also going to depend on the type of music you like and if you prefer partying at night or during the day. I will go to both, and usually I wouldn't have that in me these days, but for Toy Box, it doesn't matter - it's such a fab party, that you don't even notice that you're exhausted and partly coming down.
Mardi Gras has Oakenfold and The Freemasons! I mean, hello!! That's awesome. But Toy Box is... well, Toy Box!
Do both!

"The IN crowd"

...ah yes, the 'IN' crowd....I can't believe you just said that......

To be honest I think holding the Bondi Lifesavers party at the same time as Harbour Party is a bit of a joke. It's pathetic really. What are they playing at? I for one would much rather head to Harbour Party... especially now that MG is back in charge of it and we have just head that Sam Sparrow will be playing. Fair enough for the Lifesavers party to want to cash in on the Mardi Gras season by holding their event during it. But to directly compete with it by holding a party on the same night as one of the big MG events is a really strange choice

I guarantee we will never hear from our 'insider' again. Bulldust like this is posted every year because some bitter people cannot handle Mardi Gras succeeding.

i honestly wonder why that post hasnt been labeled by panther. something he loves like:
- this is the opinion of the poster
- pinkbored cant verify this statement
- this post is supposed to be funny
- im not ganna label this cause the poster is a friend of mine

or similar.

i also wonder why some messages are added as soon as people write them and some when panther thinks is ok to post them (or not at all)
is this some kind of new panther's strategy apart from the known and popular ones such as double standards...

"This is the opinion of the poster" is added when the post is expressing an opinion but is written as if it is a fact. For example: "The smart boys will do ..."

"Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement" is added when it is a statement of fact, but Pinkboard is unable to verify that it is a true fact. For instance "... thousands of tickets remain unsold". Pinkboard does not have the resources to check such facts.

Sometimes a post is marked by the volunteer moderator as a query to my attention. I then review it and decide whether it should appear or not. This happens at a later time than the rest of the moderating. For more information see the moderation policy

LOL. Well done Panther. Nice and succinct and to the point, as it should have been.
Why oh why do people have to be so mean and nasty? There is simply no need.

I dont understand why there's always this bickering MG party vs TB drivel, its whatever you like to do so just leave it at that.

Its still more than 4 weeks away, theres always a last minute rush on tix. Anyway the Melb Posse will be up there again to cause mayhem amongst the locals.

Its a tuff gig doing the party and TB, we may rest this year and go to Home this time to c Tony Moran.

Whatever u do have fun

This will be just one of those MG parties u don't want to miss! Scrap Toybox, tried to get some rest in the arvo. Then go and listen to Tony Moran at Home on Sunday night. Freemasons, Paul Oakenfold and Tony Moran all in 1 weekend! Really there couldn't be a better birthday present!

A great point is made here. If ya like Toybox then go to Toybox, if ya favour Mardi Gras then go to MG, if ya like Homesexual then go to HS, if ya like Frisky then go to Frisky, if ya like DTPM then keep it to yaself because no one else does :P Let's face reality folks, some like one party, others like another. Stop your frigging bitching and go to the one, two or three that ya like, and let everyone else make their own choices too. But one thing's for sure, if ya don't go to Mardi Gras and it dies again like it did 5 yrs ago, it won't rise from the ashes again, and all those other parties will die too - b'coz they only exist thanks to Mardi Gras. So if ya wanna have ya choice, then make one of them Mardi Gras.

YES INDEED... THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO GO UNTIL MARDI GRAS !!

"But one thing's for sure, if ya don't go to Mardi Gras and it dies again like it did 5 yrs ago, it won't rise from the ashes again, and all those other parties will die too - b'coz they only exist thanks to Mardi Gras. So if ya wanna have ya choice, then make one of them Mardi Gras."

TOTALLY AGREE. Very well said!

The "IN" crowd hahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaa
all standing around looking for something better to come
along.

And agree with you Johnny re no Mardi Gras. Sure those
parties will still happen but if posters are weighing
up the options dont just think of party versus party.

Mardi Gras also gives us Fair Day, Cinema, Theatre , Harbour Party and many other things to due throughout
February.
If you dont want to go to the Mardi Gras party and NMG
folds then will the likes of Toybox or Frisky or any other party put on all those community events for you ?

NO

My gang going to Harbour Party and Mardi Gras.

To support Mardi Gra is to support our community and the volunteers that put so much work into it. It was such a success last year and everyone had the best time it buzzed. The line up this year is I think one of the best mixes they have ever had. I love going to Frisky and Toybox but i will suppoprt MG first then head on to the others.Theres 100s of our friends putting a lot of time and effort into MG and its great to see how excited they are when its successful.

Why all the bickering over which party is better, we get this every year. Who really cares if you are going to MG or Toybox or whichever party/parties you decide on. It's an individual choice and you will go to what ever suits you.

And I for one am sick to death of the argument you have to go to MG to support the community. No, I do not - OK? I will go where ever I choose for my own reasons - the so called community does nothing for me so why should I support it.

Always amazes me.

People remember a bad party and sure there were a few years of some average ones but after being to over 20 years worth I have some fantastic memories from Mardi
Gras and Sleaze Ball.

Last years Mardi Gras was fantastic.

Like you Thu 5 Feb 11:47:36 when it comes to parties that go head to head with Mardi Gras and Sleaze Ball then these 2 parties win.

And of course I respect its everyones own call but I can just imagine the howling if there was no Parade no
Fair Day no real Community organisation doing so much on a large scale, no Queer Screen , no Harbour Party no Mardi Gras season etc etc etc.

Does anyone know what time and how long Freemasons will be playing at the party?

MG vs Toybox??? is there even comparison?

MG aims to be a celebration of queer diversity and welcomes all people to be colourful, cheerful and playful with one another. We have the term: "Happy Mardi Gras". We have people watching, we have choice. we can wander.

Personally I can´t think of anything good I remember from Toybox... All I ever got was a headache, and the term: "Do you have G?" from some random (over and over) who were having trouble to walk without dropping.

If this post is considered unnecessarily nasty, how should one consider the experience? it seemed nasty to me

My comment about the "IN" crowd not doing Mardi Gras or Harbour Party seems to have struck a nerve with some on here.
I meant no offence. But when I refer to the IN crowd it's those of us who are part of the younger generation who go the gym, look after ourselves, dress well, live in 2010. YOu older guys have had your time and you did MG and Oxford Street venues when they were popular. Time has moved on. We have embraced change - don't go the green park but the beresford instead. Don't do Mardi Gras but Toy Box instead. Don't do Harbour but the Bondi Life Savers Party instead. We are not stuck in the past facing the future backwards. MG is typical of Oxford St today. Irrelevant, outdated, and out of touch.
And no I don't go home with anyone. I normally have my pick and that is not being desrespectful to other guys on here it's being selective who I share my bed with.

Sorry honey but if you are representative of the "IN" crowd you come across as very pretentious and a bit of a wanker so I think there would be a lot of people that would prefer you go where the "IN" crowd goes as you and your "IN" crowd sound pretty boring. Us 'older guys" do go to Toybox but thankfully we don't have the bad attitude that you have. You say you meant no offence but this last post of yours just oozes offence. It will be interesting to see if you are still part of the "IN" crowd when 2010 does get here.

I find this very hard to believe. Harbour has always sold out as it did last year. Suggesting that Harbour 08 lost $60,000 is astonishing - and after reviewing the annual report absolute nonsense.

I can only see a comment that Mardi Gras donated $15,000 to the lobby. This is a real shame.

The community organisation that i am a member of benefited greatly from Harbour over the years but an approach for funds after Harbour 08 met with a very frosty response indeed.

I tend to believe the post that Harbour did make $312,000 last year and the Mardi Gras pocketed the rest of the money.

In short - it needs to donate more to our community.

Are you kidding me?! Mardi Gras itself is a community organisation. Does the community organisation that you're a part of donate to Mardi Gras ever? It seems to me like a lot of people feel that Mardi Gras owes them something. How about what they owe Mardi Gras? What about all the events that MG allow bucket collections at? Without the MG festival, a lot of organisations wouldn't get half the money they currently do.

Harbour Party in 2008 did not sell out - in fact far short of it. It was a really good party, but after being trashed by Azure and the Rocks Area Command a lot of people stayed away. It did not make money.

2009 should be different. NMG have obviously invested some money in getting Sam Sparro and a great DJ line-up. You can expect numbers to be up this year.

ROFL.. you made me laugh.
someone who attends tbx is telling other ppl they live int he past. lest not go into this... lol

i MUST agree with you. especially with the part "All I ever got was a headache, and the term: "Do you have G?" from some random (over and over)"

why no one talks about this? why is everyone scared to say this party is about taking buckets of it? why no one says it is impossible to enjoy this party if you are sober?
i went to two tbx's. it was enough for me to decide im not wasitng my $$$$ there.

harbour party, mardi gras, indulgence for me this year. cant wait. the line ups are awesome!!!

ONLY ONLY ONLY



Days to Mardi Gras !

Hahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaa

that is so pretentious its worries me that someone thinks of themselves like that.

The "IN" crowd are all young , gym bunnies hahahahahahahaa

Where I work the "IN" crowd are A-list stars and let me tell you quite a few a over 40.......worth millions...and are in the papers every week.

They are the in crowd. You are the pretend crowd.

ahh... the pretentiousness of youth. I remember it well!!!!
sorry, but us oldies used to be the "IN" crowd... went to the gym, looked after ourselves, dressed well and lived in 2010, 2011, 2028, 2021. Guess what!? we still do!! The only thing is that as you get older you realize that image does not maketh the man. I think if you have a look around the beresford on a sunday afternoon you may actually see some of us there!

Us oldies remember when the Stonewall and Colubian were the westpac and national banks. When they opened they were the new "IN" place to go. We remeber when Arc opened. It was the "IN" place to go. We remember the Beresford, when it had a lot more soul than it does now!

Ahhh... the laneway after MG !!!.... what memories.

And we remember not to be complacent about Mardis Gras and the important role it has played in allowing the gay and lesbian community to move out of the 2010 ghetto and diversify into postcodes throughout the entire city.

The "IN" crowd..............

Beauty fades, bodies gain weight. Its a phase , a very short lived phase thankfully.

But the best thing is............ I know that in a very short time , someone younger, more prettier will take some trade away from you or tell you your too old or tell
you that you are living in the past and it will be pay back time.

Enjoy it while you can.

Lets hope the gay community spirit lives on despite your
lack of spirit.

The 'IN' crowd. All together now.....

To the individual describing themselves as the "in crowd"... i am all those things, young, goes to the gym, looks afte myself etc, and i think you are nothing but a pretentious tool. MG is a great part of being gay, as a kid i used to watch it on TV and be happy that there were thousands of other people out there just like me, and now that im old enought to attend, they get my support, not some pretentious party that aims to market themself to an "in" crowd, which will almost certainly fail...

...just has to be a troll. Come on guys - who else would knowingly post something that would make them look so vapid, pretentious and just plain silly?

Re: Thu 5 Feb 2009 19:19:41
i MUST agree with you. especially with the part "All I ever got was a headache, and the term: "Do you have G?" from some random (over and over)"

why no one talks about this? why is everyone scared to say this party is about taking buckets of it? why no one says it is impossible to enjoy this party if you are sober?
i went to two tbx's. it was enough for me to decide im not wasitng my $$$$ there.
Currently listening to: i just wanna f** drop (2L bottle '09 TBX mix) - wayne g


I completely agree with this post - this issue needs to be more fully discussed in our community - G is a dangerous drug and must not be endorsed by anyone - even the promoters of the party.

The In Crowd"...
...just has to be a troll. Come on guys - who else would knowingly post something that would make them look so vapid, pretentious and just plain silly?

But unfortunately there are some young gay guys who are just like that. You can see them out every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night in every capital city. Fortunately they are in the minority. Their day will come when they realize that time has marched on and their time being part of the "in crowd" has finished.

The funny thing is though, that people who consider themselve to be like that are the ones being laughed at. They dont see it because they notice everyone else in the room but themselves.
You can instantly tell who these type of people are when your out, and believe me, no one wants to waste their time on them...

Agreed.

Get a grip people. Of course people are taking G at Toybox. They also take it at MG, at Sleaze, at Homesexual, at ARQ, at the Shift. Does that make these parties/venues G specific?

Puh-lease.

And it's hardly the fault of the promoters. They've got strict patdowns before punters enter. What else can they do?!

To the poster who said Toy Box will fail. I am a young guy but let me give you older guys a history lesson. Toy Box fail... . I don't think so. Remember when MG would sell out late January. Remember when MG would sell something like 26,0000 tkts. Remember when guys would queue overnight to buy a Harbour Party tkt. It is MG that is struggling to survive not Toy Box.
And finally to the poster who say's my looks will fade. Maybe as I get older my looks will fade and my body will fail. Maybe not, but what I can tell you is that when I'm 40 I will gladly handover the danceparty circuit to the younger generation. I will not be stuck in the past. Try to relive my youth and I certainly won't march up Oxford Street under the "bears" banner with a huge belly and an arse following me half a mile back. Have some self respect guys please.

Gotta agree with you .

No-one could be that vapid/pretentious ? surely ?

how can anyone believe harbour party made $312,000 profit? 3,000 tickets IF it sold out at about $100 per ticket means that it cost nothing to produce and every dollar in ticket income was pure profit. i'm no maths wiz but this doesnt add up. the annual report says "parties" made $983,545 profit. its just not possible that harbour party is responsible for a third of this, when that catagory includes harbour party, the big party, sleeze and the pool party. the annual report also says "low attendance" in three places on pages 16 and 29. it sounds to me at least that harbour party maybe might have lost money. but i went and it was the best party of the year and i've got my ticket for this one and i cant wait. i just hope it doesnt lose money again otherwise they might dump it and not do it again like they did with the pool party.

o the poster who said Toy Box will fail. I am a young guy but let me give you older guys a history lesson. Toy Box fail... . I don't think so. Remember when MG would sell out late January. Remember when MG would sell something like 26,0000 tkts. Remember when guys would queue overnight to buy a Harbour Party tkt. It is MG that is struggling to survive not Toy Box....Have some self respect guys please.

...I also remember when toybox would sell out well in advance. Not the case anymore either.

Panther, I'd really love to see bitter comments that put mardi gras up against toybox and vice-versa censored. We've heard it all before and it is BORING! Let us just enjoy the parties we love going to without slagging each others taste off.

Or is that too much self respect?

Toybox vs Mardi Gras... boring all right.

It's time we all accept they are two completely different parties and move on.

So anyway...

Umm guess I must be over the hill as am turning 30 at MG! The comments about young and old are disrespectful and offensive. My brother who is now in his 40's, a former leading Oxford Street DJ is now doing his honours at QUT. I learn so much from him & is a wealth of knowledge on just about any topic. We both respect ourselves and the world around us. The difference between me and In Crowd is I have the life experience on my side to realise that! As with anything, u have to be willing to change and trust me on this one IN (maybe OUT is def more appropriate) Crowd you need a serious attitude adjustment! ...... Lookin forward to dancing with my Queer Brothers and Sisters of any age at Nations United ........

If someone chooses to think like that, so what. It's just an opinion?
NMG does face many challenges most of which come from within. The greatest of these is cynicism combined with excessive criticism.
All things eventually come to pass and perhaps NMG will be no exception to that.
I know that for myself a 50 year old man who has supported gay rights and the MG since 1978 the MG has considerable significance for me.
Largely due to the fact that MG is not just a party but a gay spiritual state of mind that incorporates all the facets of what it means to be a gay human being.
Some of us see MG has nothing more than a fashion statement that is either in or out depending on the flavour of the generation.
But this warning I do give to those gay men and women who come after us. And that is that history can and often repeats itself.Intolerance and discrimination doesn't disappear just because a law is passed granting us more human rights.Peoples hearts and minds need to change and in a world where just being a woman can automatically earn a lesser status in society. What hope do gays have when even established religion will actively conspire against us. As gay men and women in Sydney and Australia we need to remember that MG is not just about us but a celebration for so many of us who are harassed, tortured and murdered every day (often in the name of God or some other misbegotten concept of social decency) around the world just for being ourselves/themselves.
For me MG is the Gay version of Anzac day both a celebration and a memorial only sadly for us the war has not ended.

Cheers and Happy MG to everyone!
Thomas

THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

thanks Thomas! That says it all..

The Golden Girls at the shift anyone?

How about some posts on some of the other MG events? There's at least 60 of them! What else is everyone looking forward to seeing/doing? Party bickering is boring.

Well said Thomas, I think you put it all in a nutshell to shut up all the critics of Mardi Gras and associates. 110% support of MG.

Does anyone know how many tix has been sold??
Actually, how many tix are they selling this year?

If they turn the waterfall on at the Shift we can have Golden Showers

There's ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

Selling 18,000. Around 5000 tix sold. I wouldn't worry it's not gonna sell out. Think all the parties are selling badly this year.... credit crunch.

I have ticket number 129276. That is over 100,000 tickets sold.

We have been slack booking tickets this year. There is lots of good stuff on though. And there is a resurgence in visual art too. We'll be going through the guide this week working out what we are doing.

.... We are in fact negotiating with the City of Sydney to move our own offices to a City-owned building on Oxford Street after this season. ....
http://superdrewby.com/blogs/drew/2009/02/its-nice-to-know-new-mardi-gras-listens.shtml

So THAT's what they're doing at 191!!

Surely NMG's offices at 253 or the Den would be more appropriate??

Remember a year ago when everyone was running around saying it wasn't going to sell out and then it did two weeks before? And then everyone who missed out was screaming about it? With the line-up this year it is guaranteed to sell out and be a better party than last year too!

"I tend to believe the post that Harbour did make $312,000 last year and the Mardi Gras pocketed the rest of the money."

Wow. That would have to be the most profitable party in history!!!

Look, the reality is that Mardi Gras does not make profit for the sake of making profit. The whole thing collapsed under the burden of financial mismanagement so it would be irresponsible of them not to now take a cautious approach to ensure they can survive any bad times in the future.

That being said and quoting from the (audited) annual report for 2007/2008:

"NMG implemented a plan after last year’s successful season to donate at least 10% of its net profit to support community organisations and other worthwhile causes and organisations. Cash donations amounting to $73,880 were made during the current year, under the 10% scheme and include:
• ACON $28,000 (Hats Off )
• Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby $15,000
• Centennial Park Foundation $5,000 (Launch)
• Community Parade entrants $15,880 (Parade)
• Breast Cancer $10,000 (Party)

Other community organisations that receive substantial
benefits include:
• The Metropolitan Community Church through proceeds
from coat check at Sleaze 07 and Party 08;
• Bobby Goldsmith Foundation benefits from licensing
the raised seating area at Parade
• Luncheon Club from 50 donated Party tickets
auctioned each year"

I'm surprised that none of the headlining DJs do anything for the community. We give our hard earned cash to attend their clubs each week, & all I ever see is that on big weekends, like Mardi Gras, they charge 4 times as much as usual.

How about some serious fund raising for the community?

I am appalled at the previous poster Sun 8 Feb 2009 19:28:19

These DJ's work in a cut throat environment where good DJ work is hard to come by. They deserve everything they get. It's a disgrace to suggest they do work for nothing. Gimme a break, it's their profession. It pays for their bills, their mortgage, their petrol, their food.

I worked as a DJ round town for many many years and never once at any regular club gig got "4 times as much as usual" for a gig simply because it was on Mardi Gras weekend.

The FACT of the matter is that the bigger the gig the bigger the rate you get per hour. You'd hardly expect to get the same rate per hour playing to 150 people at Palms compared to 5,000 people in the Hordern or the Harbour party. To suggest otherwise shows a complete lack of understanding of how the entertainment industry works.

Lets remember a Mardi Gras run party about 6-7 years ago when NMG was trying to raise the ashes of the old Mardi gras - To my knowledge all the DJ's played for free.

Nope you got that wrong. The old l91 is gonna be a health spa I think. Maybe a coffee shop on the ground level. I could be wrong though.

Lets not forget though that the year MG went belly up the DJ's performed free of charge.

i totally agree! ...and also the bar staff and every single security person working for clubs shoould be donating too!. they all are paid by us, the community. oh and the lady from yerros across from stonewall - they all should be donating. and the train drivers, when they take people like you back to the west every sunday morning...

THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS..... Beep Beep

I'm not a DJ and I find your post disgusting.

Why have you singled out DJ's ? why ?

What about all the bar staff ? security ? door person ?
owners ? wait staff ? or Fox Studios ? or the various
companies they use to get a party together ?

guess what ? its a salary and they need it to survive and have you ever seen a DJ living in Point Piper or driving the latest Maserati ? nooooooooooooooooooooooooo.

Out our curiousity what do you do for the community ?

Lets face it in this day and age, big parties require big name international DJs (at least 2 or more) it is just the way it is and probably will be for quite some time. With no disrespect to our local talent, why would you pay over $100 of your hard earned cash to see a local Dj, whom you could see in a nightclub any day of the week, when you could see the Freemasons and Paul Oakenfold only once a year or more?

Well that is your opinion.

And mine is I would still pay over $100 for Mardi Gras and Sleaze because -

-different venues
-lots of different dj's
-usually huge lighting rigs
-shows
-the people that go

and couldnt care less about International DJ's so would still pay if it was all local.

The atmosphere at Fox Studios cannot be beaten in my opinion.

I cant stand small dance floors, small clubs anymore. I love to sit in the bleachers of the Hordern or RHI and look out over a sea of people dancing. I love sitting outside for a "breath of fresh air" and watch the crowds walking past.

I love starting the night off with a dance in the RHI then move into the Hordern. Into Dome for some tribal and if the Hordern is Hard/Dirty Sexy House then back to there for another dance.

You cannot replicate that on Oxford St unless you keep jumping from venue to venue and if you did then the multiple cover charges would add up.

After 25 years of attending these parties , its certainly the minority of International DJ's who have been able to nail it. The rest just come across as quite average as they do not know the local seen like our local DJ's do.

Besides not every person goes out most weekends. My group only do the main parties now and even the one guy who still goes out every weekend chooses to pay the over $100
ticket price for something different and on a large scale.

thaks for the suggestions - had a good think and bought toybox tkts - they sold out today

Won't be missing the mixed crowds and looking forward to a boys party
Stephen Kidman

AB HOTEL WOWS 2009 SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS

WITH INCLUSION OF INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED ACTS



MISS COCO PERU

http://www.misscoco.com



Miss Coco is a heavenly hoot... Wry and uncensored, the show is a hilarious

exorcism, with music, no less. Hey, that's entertainment - Los Angeles Times



Hilarious, inebriating and elegant all at the same time... If there were an award for most girlish and glamorous, funniest, mouthiest diva/icon/trannie/comedian, the inimitable Miss Coco Peru would win hands down - L.A. Weekly



& LOUNGE-ZILLA

http://loungezillasings.com



'A+! INSANELY TALENTED AND SERIOUSLY DEMENTED

. . . HILARIOUS . . . GO GET TICKETS' -- EdgeBoston.com



'FIELY MATIAS IS SUCH A BITCH . . .

AND WE LOVE HIM FOR IT! A HELLUVA LOT OF FUN' -- Theatermania.com, New York City

Thank you for commenting on my opinion. I am guessing that is what these forums are made for (your opinion) and I could not agree anymore with what you said. Please think of this scenario; With the globalisation of todays society, if you were an organisation putting on a large scale internationally famous dance party, would you put all your eggs in one basket and take the risk of only having local DJs or give the crowd some variety with some overseas DJs included?
I call it risk management...

Is it my imagination or did someone stuff up in a big way? I just noticed the banners on the city street poles advertising Mardi Gras seem to be missing a vital 'S'. They say Nation United as opposed to Nations United. It might be only one letter but it completely changes the meaning. How could someone make such a big mistake? They also have Mardi Gras 2009 printed on them instead of Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras

Yep the old 191 is going to be a cafe on the ground floor and also a health spa. The 2 upper floors will become yet ANOTHER licensed venue for the area... as if another one is needed. The roof will also be used as a drinking/smoking area. I found the DA on the City of Sydney website. Let's hope the new bar is gay if not at least gay friendly. We don't need any more trouble in the area!

Um Toy Box isn't a boys' party. It's also a mixed party. In fact, I'm a girl and I'm going.

Just a quick response to the rather sad comment about the 'In' crowd not attending MG. I am also young, go to the gym and look after myself (BUT WHY ON EARTH SHOULD THAT MATTER!!!) and I LOVE Mardi Gras. I'm sorry but there is nothing else like it in the world. It is like a massive gay theme park. It is a timeless institution and all of my friends who are also 'young' all go to Harbour Party and Mardi Gras. There is also no better opportunity to meet spunky internationals! I met a number of drop dead sexy boys from New York last year. They all come over for Mardi Gras and not some Bondi lifesaver party.

Long live Mardi Gras. Fun times!

Tonker - Mardi Gras Party Sydney 4th March 2009

Tonker is proud to host the Mardi Gras Warm Up party at the Famous Exchange Hotel 34 Oxford Street Sydney from 9pm - 6am on Wednesday the 4th March 2009

In the spirit of Mardi Gras and to help celebrate, it we throw our doors open to all, Blokes, Bears, Queer Boyz and Girlz and all their friends!

Not only all the fun of Tonker but a Mardi Gras party to kick off what will be a great weekend! Expect hot hunky guys, cool girlz and VIP guests from Mardi Gras to drink and dance in the famous Phoenix Bar of The Exchange Hotel - arrive early to ensure you get in!

If you're in town for Mardi Gras come down and see us - only A$20 on the door!

DJ Tim Jones - London Bear Club DJ of The Year 2008 and DJ of The Real Bad XX Party San francisco, will pay a marathon set alongside local DJ George Hladilo

www.tonker.co.uk
www.timjonesmusic.co.uk
Info Line +44 7092252033
Press enquires Tara Beckworth riseandshine@btinternet.com

Given that this is the Mardi Gras wall perhaps we can stop talking about Toybox and leave them to the Party wall.

They have nothing to do with each other. Toybox is just one of many recovery parties on Mardi Gras weekend so there is no comparison between the two.

ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

Thats your opinion and I posted my opinion.

Not everyone goes to Oxford St every week and so are not tired of the local DJ's.

What I was saying is its the experience of Mardi Gras and Sleaze ball in such a big area with usually many choices of halls and styles of music and entertainment and the atmosphere is worth paying over $100 for and if it was only local DJ's we would still go.

I can count on one hand the International DJ's who got great reviews. So they are not a must for at a party for
our group.

toybox is prdominately a boys party? That should be ok too? If i want to go to a party that is 98% male i should be able to make that choice.

I think that sometimes we pander to the whim of alot of small but vocal groups and forget about simple male homosexuals who are in the numbers and purpose the only reason mardi gras exists

can you give us some examples of o/s djs with the great reviews please?
i just would like to know what shakes your group's bums on the dancefloor

Isn't this the same night of the UnderBear event held at ARQ and as a consequence have some impact on attracting that specific crowd?

umm lets see, Frankie Knuckles, Roger Sanchez, Paul Oakenfold, Tony Moran, Fatboy Slim, Wayne G, Arman Van Helden, groove Armada, Basement Jaxx, Carl Cox, Daft Punk just to name a few (10 in fact on 2 hands) ........ There are so many great International Dj's. We are so lucky to have a few of those named above in Oz over the next few weeks. Do u even know who these people are? ...... Looking forward to Fair Day on Sunday!!!

Ummm let me think of the past international DJs who have played at Mardi Gras that have shaked my group's bums and many others.... Fergie, Boy George, Freemasons, Victor Calderone, Wayne G, Allan Thompson, 4 Strings, Angelli & Nelson, Jack Chang, Hex Hector... when you have an international party with the reputation like Mardi Gras has, these guys help promote the party overseas and help spread the risk management to ensure the survival of the party. 10 to 20 thousand tickets is alot of tickets to sell on the hope you only have local DJs playing (full respect to the local talent).

Ummmmmmmmmmm

let me think who bored my group off their bum's to move to another hall -

Boy George
4 Strings zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Victor Calderone started well then became very boring
Jack Chang - so so compared to what our locals did

different strokes for different folks my luv.

I'd like to see some serious fundraising for the Red Cross Fire Appeal.

Those poor people have lost everything!

"I can count on one hand the International DJ's who got great reviews. So they are not a must for at a party for
our group"

Boy George
Freemasons
Victor Calderone
Wayne G
Hex Hector

the reason i asked was i wanted to know your and your "group"'s standards. so these are the people you think have the best reviews.
so far you made me nothing but laugh
go to k mart and get some real music. it doesnt cost that much there.

You cant even read posts correctly ie as to who we thought was decent or not.

As for the KMart jibe..........I'll let the childish
rebuke pass.

I love it when posters think that their idea , their
preferred DJ, their preferred music style can be the only one that has to be acceptable and therefore anyone else is totally wrong.

You gave your point on Intl DJ's coming here and I gave my side of what gets me to a party and its not an Intl
DJ.

Clear and simple I would have thought without resorting to catty comments.

Sounds like you may have had some dissapointments with international DJs I hope Paul Oakenfold or freemasons will change your mind at the next party.
Happy Mardi Gras.

'Jack Chang - so so compared to what our locals did'

Sorry but Jack rocked it in the Dome - compared to the local d's. Thank god Shift keep bringing him back for Indulgence he is one of the better dj's around.

Sorry but am paying big bucks these days for MG Parties so want more then local dj's and better production values like Toybox.

Excuse me! "Gay men are the only reason Mardi Gras exists"? How arrogant. Mardi Gras exists due to the whole queer community - not JUST gay men! Please do not be so self-important to think you are the be all and end all of Mardi Gras. There are plenty of lesbian 78'ers to my knowledge.

Would you like to be part of this year’s Parade? The Parade will be televised this year - you can strut your stuff before millions before getting more intimiate in your unique costume at the Party.

The team that brought you puppet dancing Thunderbags and giant handbags in the 2008 Parade is back to present the Enmore Pool Synchronised Dressage Team performing its gold medal winning routine in this year’s Mardi Gras Parade.

The entry will be a small marching group performing a simple routine. The costumes combine elements of dressage - top hats, jabots (a bit like a cravat), boots and crops - and synchronised swimming – goggles and swim rings. The routine combines cantering and go-go swimming routines with a bit of crop action performed to the hits of Motown.

You will be issued a unique Synchonised Dressage Team uniform so you won’t have to worry about what to wear to the party! You do not need to be able to dance (or ride) to participate. You just need to be willing to have a bit of fun with the idea.

If you are interested check out our Thunderbags are Go! Facebook group or email thunderbags09@yahoo.com.au

Sorry but Hex Hector was terrible at last years MG. The local talent was much much better. Didn't hear Jack Chang 'cos i didn't leave the RHI but from what I have been told he too was disappointing.

And Stephen Kidman.... well said..... gold star for you buddy. MG is a G and L event for gays and lesbians by gays and lesabians. Straights at MG change the whole dynamics of the party. It's a poofter event after all and for just one night of the year I wanna dance and play with other poofters and not be a spectacle for the straight crowd to gawk at.

I'm not anti straight but there is nothing wrong with protecting our territory on MG night.

this post sounds like internaliised homophobia to me! I have many straight friends, some are even coming to the Parade and Party with me. fancy that huh! They can gawk at me all night, i dont really care. It's better not to do other people's thinking for them, i hope everyone supports our community gay or straight by attending therefore ensuring a successful sell out party!

ONLY



DAYS TO GO TO MARDI GRAS WOO !

from what I have been told he too was disappointing

jack chang was fantastic. read the posts in the mg 08 pinkboard - immediately after the party and you'll see the responses.
i was there and we all loved it. dont believe what you are told.

the freemasons were good in 07 and lisa german was amazing in 04.

THANK YOU THANK YOU COUNTDOWN BOY

Your new take on the countdown to Mardi Gras is both innovative and exciting. It's brightened up the wall in so many different ways.

Thank you.

What about the rest of you ungrateful sods ???

Yes Hector got very average reviews.

I thought Jack Chang was very average and friends who went to Shift later said he was awesome. Maybe it was a bad night. But enjoyed the locals.

My favourite in Dome for last few years has been Rob
Gilbert.

Lisa German was good as was Rachel Auburn even further back.

Thing is most ( not all ) times its divided over whether the Intl DJ was worth it.

and lets not forget how fantastic Frankie Knuckles was. unfortunately the forum was so packed the night Fergie played the wait to get in was way too long and i missed him.

Bring on the internationals.

ps: Paul Oakenfold is ranked #14 in the world according to the respected DJ Magazine. He will be the highest ranked, most famous DJ to ever hit the decks at a Mardi Gras Party.

he played in the Hordern first. Is there a chance u did hear him? He was so awesome, a master of the decks!

IMO. Mandy Rollins played the pants off Jack Chang last year - both at Mardi Gras and Woof Club. I thought the Mardi Gras set was a little 2002.

Agreed.

Locals were much better in Dome.

Mandy always Rocks.

it always depends whose friend you are on this wall, now doesn´t it.

seems like both jack and mandy have friends. perhaps they are/were both good??

why were the Mardi Gras festival banners being taken down tonight on Oxford St ?
looked dodgy, the cherry-picker was revving up the street and not lowering the basket with the guy in it

SameSame

has a thread and someone asked by it has Mardi Gras
and United Nation

ie shouldnt it be Sydney Mardi Gras or Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras etc
and its been advertised as United Nations

so spelling mistake on Nations and shortening to Mardi Gras.

maybe a spelling mistake?

I would hope they are being replaced with the correct theme. It's Nations United, not Nation Nnited. One letter can make such a big difference!

"why were the Mardi Gras festival banners being taken down tonight on Oxford St?"

Rumours are the printer stuffed up and left the "S" off "Nations United". Guess they are reprinting them.

Yeah we saw that too.... so glad it's being fixed. It's one thing to make a mistake, it's quite another not to admit it. Still, very glad it will be as it should be soon.

Who's going? Cant wait!

ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS WHOOPIE

You've excelled yourself! Great work and a joy to see.

Unfortunately the weather is supposed to be crap all weekend, but I'll still be at Fair Day/Launch. I am so pumped for Mardi Gras... what to wear though...?!

From todays Mardi Gras email...

It's probably a good time to sort out your party ticket. We don't want to nag, but we'd hate to see you disappointed. It's getting quite close now and - frankly - it's proving quite popular. To make sure you have your ticket to Mardi Gras Party visit your local Ticketek outlet, 132 849 or www.ticketek.com.au

Hopefull many of those e-x-t-r-e-m-e-l-y annoyed people who vowed never to return to a NMG Party after they billed then cancelled any proper Retro space, will return this year.
They have billed that there is a retro space this year- lets hope they deliver. (unlike last year's billed "Disctorium" of ""retro"" celebrating 30yrs, that never eventuated & left many wanting refunds as they walked out of the party straight after the Olivia show)

"And Stephen Kidman.... well said..... gold star for you buddy. MG is a G and L event for gays and lesbians by gays and lesabians. Straights at MG change the whole dynamics of the party. It's a poofter event after all and for just one night of the year I wanna dance and play with other poofters and not be a spectacle for the straight crowd to gawk at."

What can I say....? Poofter event? What about our queer female friends? When did we stop including them?

As a 39 year old gay male, I would like to say the following....(I'll try not to swear at you)

I guess you could say that I'm a Mardi Gras veteran (certainly not a pioneer). Over the years, I've found that the parties have increasingly played host to straight persons. In that time I have admired, touched fondled and kissed many a straight man.

In my humble opinion, these are the straight men (and women) that we need in our lives. I believe that these people simpathise with our cause and in no way hold any mallace towards us and our community.

So "anonymous", do you really want to keep excluding "these people" or, shall we come together as one and make a community that is inclusive of all people, no matter what the difference, and have a party that rocks because we are tollerant of all. How would you feel if we were excluded from a party because we were poofs or lez's?

Finally, you may want to remain "different" but, I long for a world where we are ALL THE SAME IN DIFFERENT WAYS!

I'll now get off my high horse and I suggest you do the same.

One people - One community!

Country Bumpkin

The BF bought our party tickets yesterday. WHOO!
My first dilemma: do I do another party in the tight leather trousers - I love those freaking pants SO MUCH! - or something different this time?
My second dilemma: do I keep myself nice for the party, or do I go out to hear Paul Goodyear at the Shift on the 21st?? He was ON FIRE last year at the MG party - when he played those remixes of ABBA'S The Visitors and Kylie's 2Hearts, I just about creamed those leather pants. Decisions, decisions, decisions. It's tough being a gay boy sometimes!

i have my ticket. and no, i will not go hunting this year for anyone who missed out on a ticket like last year. get organised kids!

how dramatic!

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED -
DJ SPIN-OFF COMPETITION

The finalist of the DJ Spin-Off competition for this year’s Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival have been chosen.

New Mardi Gras is please to announce the 4 guys and 4 girls that will be playing in the finals of the DJ Spin-Off competition at the Supper Club on the 14 February. The winners of the guys’ and girls’ competitions will each get the once-in-a-lifetime experience of playing a set at the world famous Mardi Gras Party on 7 March.

The finals will take place at the Supper Club on 14 February and will be judged by invited DJs and people involved in music promotion in Sydney. The finalists will be assessed in areas including consistency, track selection, journey, originality, mixing, crowd reaction and overall impression.

New Mardi Gras encourages everyone to come and support the finalists and help chose the lucky two to get to play at the Mardi Gras party.

Finalists – Guys’ Competition

7pm – 7.45pm David Jago
7.45pm – 8.30pm Damien Reddrop
8.30pm – 9.15pm Brett Austin
9.15pm – 10pm DJ Man

Finalists – Girls’ Competition

10.30pm – 11.15pm Prue Monro
11.15pm – 12am Magda
12am – 12.45am Bel West
12.45am – 1.30am Natasha Chamberlain

Can always go as Rubber Ducky......

YOO HOO ... Hey, There's ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

Settle petal.

There is always someone who wants to live the 100% everything in their lives must be gay. Mind you they can do that any weekend at certain clubs/parties on Oxford St.

Mardi Gras is a celebration and when I celebrate I go out with my gay and my shock horror !!!!!!! very close straight friends.

I too am a party verteran and couldnt remember the last time I saw someone "gawking" at the poofters. In the old days when straights didnt have their own parties and Club Hordern was going you got it then but it was because they hadnt been exposed to our lifestyle .

Anyway I found myself gawking at the beautiful straight boys so it works both ways.

And this boring type of post rears its head every now and again.

Somebody recently "alluded" to the "potential" straightification of Harbour Party this year as it was being advertised in the mainstream papers.Well I just saw a small display ad in the Metro section of today's Herald. In fact its kinda small and the words "Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras" is very hard to read...Huge pic of Sam Sparro, which all makes it look like a straight party.just letting you guys know...

If the "gays" support the event and buy up all the tickets then it won't be a problem.

Also... not all gay people limit their reading to SX and SSO. In fact many (shock horror) don't read them at all.

I didn't go to the event last year but I heard it was a return to the great parties of old before the last mob took over.

Is Fair Day going ahead in the rain as predicted for Sunday? Or will it be switched to the following Sunday.

GUESS WHAT ? ONLY



DAYS TO GO TO MARDI GRAS !!

i just ran into david imrie and his bf at olympic yeeros and he told me harbour party is almost sold out!

Friends ????????????????? I dont think so.

Fans/Followers ? maybe

I dont know Jack , I dont know Mandy.

If I got to choose then it would be Mandy or Rob Gilbert.

"Is Fair Day going ahead in the rain as predicted for Sunday? Or will it be switched to the following Sunday"

Fair day goes ahead rain or shine. I drove past there on Friday and much of it was already set up.

"Fair day goes ahead rain or shine. I drove past there on Friday and much of it was already set up"

Absolutely ridiculous. Forecast is for heavy rain tomorrow for a lot of the day. That's one fine way to restrict the numbers who attend. Why can't NMG show some common sense and have a reserve day for Fair Day in the event of such horrid weather.

Nooooo , that would be too sensible.

Pinkboard has a pair of tickets to give away to the double bill Bison and Natural Born Hooker. Tickets are for Sunday 22 Feb at Belvoir St Theatre.

This is from the team who did Blowing Whistles for last year's Mardi Gras which was a great show.

BISON by Lachlan Philpott follows four guys as they search for that illusive special something in the gay hunting grounds of Sydney and beyond. Where does the thrill of anonymous sex and one-night stands end and the need for love and fulfillment start?

NATURAL BORN HOOKER by Konrad Product takes a Madonna-fuelled road trip across America’s sexual underground, as one boy becomes a man, survives strip clubs, socialites and S&M, turns ten thousand tricks in Hollywood … and lives to tell the tale.

To enter email me in 25 words or less why you should receive these tickets. Competition closes 23:59 Wednesday 18 February. Pinkboard will publish the best entries here.

"Absolutely ridiculous. Forecast is for heavy rain tomorrow for a lot of the day. That's one fine way to restrict the numbers who attend. Why can't NMG show some common sense and have a reserve day for Fair Day in the event of such horrid weather."

If only life was so simple. Quite simply Fair Day is a major event and is a massive logistical exercise. Once you have committed to hiring equipment, paying for contractors and organising hundreds upon hundreds of volunteers I can't imagine that its an easy thing to just change your mind. The event takes 2 full days plus Sunday morning to set up so it's not a matter of now saying "oh well, lets take it all down now and try again next week". It's no different with the Mardi Gras Parade - they don't put it off a week later just because of some rain. Damn NMG... why cant they do a better job with organising the weather

I don't live the life of 100% gay everything. Who does? A gay party is not gay if it is flooded with straights. If you wanna gawk at straight boys go to a club on oxford street. Stay away from Mardi Gras.

Well i don't think david imrie is going to admit that it's not almost sold out. That wouldn't be very smart of him.

MG has in the past always provided an alternative date in the event of rain (except last year). No one is gonna go if it's pissing down with rain. Sure MG can't control the weather but perhaps a bit of forward planning and a plan B to put into action isn't too hard. Previouis boards were able to do it.

I don't recall an alternative "rain day" Fair Day ever being organised - certainly not in the ten years or so since Fair Day has been at Victoria Park. And it has rained on a number of Fair Days (to greater or lesser extent) in that time.

That post is really rather absurd. For the amount of work and effort that goes into it, as if someone can simply wave a magic wand and move the whole thing to another day! How many businesses and organisations are involved in Fair Day? Do you think the people who give up their SUNDAY to attend can all just keep another day available IN CASE it rained?! Really, please think before you make ludicrous claims like that.

When I see absolutely stupid comments like that I wonder why anybody bothers volunteering their time to organise anything in gay Sydney! If you had a clue about the logistics of organising such a mammoth community event - oh what's the point? You obviously have no clue but are happy to sit on the sidelines whingeing and taking pot-shots at the people who give up their time and energy so that people like you can piss and moan.

Your funny.

Now your saying stay away from Mardi Gras what so it will be gay ??????????????????

totally funny.

See the thing is the majority of gay people couldnt care less about the straight discrimination your wanting to do.

As I said every year someone drags this old post up and guess what no one takes notice of the dribble.

HEY EVERYONE, THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO GO TO MARDI GRAS ............... OH YEAH

Fair Day isn't about Mardi Gras. Fair Day is about the community coming together. It enables community groups and businesses to share information and for some to raise money for their floats.

It costs Mardi Gras a stack of money each year to stage the Fair Day and to my knowledge they have never mad a profit from it. They do their best to make it cost neutral each year through bar takings and the like but it never quite gets there. They will loose a stack of money today if it pours all day so if there is a break in the rain, why not get on down there, support the community groups, buy a beer or two and then head to the Bitch tent for a dance.

Yes, MG Has had to postpone Fair Day in the past, and I would presume, has the option of doing so again. Quiet apart from anything else, the OHS issues of having people injured because of damn, possibly muddy ground just isn't worth it and if Sydney City Council says no, then that's it.

There is no way that David Imrie would ever go to Olympic Yeeros....

"I think after the way that channel 9 here in Oz, and NBC in the the U.S. ignored the existence of Matthew's partner Lachland (NBC were later forced to apologise), I think it is very important that Lachlan be invited to be by his side when being part of a gay welcome into our community at Mardi Gras."

Any update / news on this?

Let it go. Just let it go.

Please.

Yes, don't forget your sunblock!

Who knows what the weather will be like later this afternoon? One thing is certain though and that is that Fair Day and our launch will be going ahead today.

The stallholders are in place. The gourmet sausages are sizzling. The white wine is chilled. The red is decanted. Come down and catch up with old friends, make some new ones, enjoy the shows and be part of gay Sydney's big day out in the park.

See you there!

Well I live about 800m from Fair day and it is absolutely bucketing rain as I speak. I cant help but think what a slosh pit the ground is going to be like and what a nightmare it has the potential to bring for injury. I pray everyone stays safe but this lil black duck ain't going anywhere near such a debacle. I understand the "issues" with having a reserve day for this event however it's not something that could be impossible if you planned the event meticulously. Shame about the weather, shame it can't be postponed to next Sunday. The numbers attending today are going to be significantly down because of this.

"Don't forget your sunblock" - very funny indeed.

and get soaked.... no thanks. I'm heading out to the gym then coffee at lumiere. Much more sensible

I'm surprised the council would let the event go ahead considering how much damage will be done to the park by all those people tramping through the mud.

To all those suggesting reserve days and postponing Fairday by a week in the hope the weather will be better, I'm sure the Fairday committee would love to have your superior management and logistics capability on board for next next year. Don't forget to volunteer your services in about October, if my memory serves me correctly from when I did it.

Please don't underestimate the amount of planning and work which has gone on for months and months to try and put on one of the best days of the festival for our community. Pity about the rain. To all those that haven't volunteered before, why not give it a try, it is hard work but it's also very rewarding.

The last post was quite disrespectful the the views of others.

When i was on Fair Day Committee we convened in September and yes we factored in an alternate day in case of rain.

Have start times for the dj's been announced yet theres not much about it on the NMG site other than general comments about who's playing where.

Cheers big ears

PS; Good to see Sean Penn kissing boys for a change even if was for a movie.

"I'm surprised the council would let the event go ahead considering how much damage will be done to the park by all those people tramping through the mud."

This is a very VERY valid point.

Local councils in wet weather will often close their sporting grounds and not allow organised football or cricket matches to be played as it will do too much damage to the ovals.

Same theory applies here. WHO is going to pay for all the damage to the park after thousands of queens stomp thru the slushy grass and mud and invariably do some irrepairable damage to the grass and surrounding areas. WHO takes on that burden ? Interesting times ahead....

I also was once on Fari Day committee and also confirm that we had a reserve day up our sleeves in the event of requiring it. It was just common sense to do so.

We just got back from Fair Day. Spent about 4 hours there. It was lots of fun. Thankfully the rain held off for most of the day. It only rained for a few mins when we first got there around midday and then no rain after that. It started off quiet but as soon as the weather cleared the place was pretty packed. The entertainment on the main stage was good and also enjoyed Doggywood. Huge selection of stalls too... managed to pick up a few tickets while we were walking around and sort out some travel plans. There were lots of concrete paths to walk on so the sludge wasn't an issue... the grassed areas seemed to hold up well... not too much mud at all. All in all a really good day!

I second that. Got there quite late, about 3ish, got a bit rained on but who cares!? Was a great couple of hours. Glad I went.

Just got back from Fair Day. Congrats to Mardi Gras for another great event and well done to the volunteers, community groups, stall holders and the gay & lesbian public at large for not letting a little rain spoil the day. I say a little because other than a downpour at the start and the occasional sprinkle it was fine. I thought the crowds were quite large considering and everyone I came across was in a great mood.

i was at Fair Day today and thought the launch was touching, stayed bout an hour b4 catchin my flight out. Went to Good Vibes yesterday and after seeing that sloshy mudpit, dont really think Mardi Gras had anything to worry about. Off the topic a bit, apart From rain on his records and crowd booing him Fatboy Slim was Awesome! Presets pretty darn good as well... Bring on Paul Oakenfold, I can't wait!!

I agree. Fairday was great. I arrived just before 3 and was amazed at the size of the crowd considering the rain. It did thin out rather quickly though at 4 when it started to rain heavily for about 5 minutes.

Well done Mardi Gras!

Had a great time with my partner. Took two umbrellas with us just in case and only needed to use it once during the official launch. Being part of the launch was a great experience and so was the atmosphere. Rain, hail or shine made no difference to me. It's my community and I'll support it!
Clover Moore stated that it was her 23rd MG event.
David Imrie gave a great speech that touched on many areas of the gay experience. Not just here in Sydney but all around the world. He hoped that one day we can have a MG Fair Day in Afghanistan or Iran!! Perhaps a pipe dream, but dreams carry hope.
Happy Mardi Gras 2009 to everyone!!!
Thomas...

Funnily enough.... I did get sunburnt, even though the sky was covered in thick cloud all day. Normally I would wear a hat there, but thought I'd have my umbrella up most of the day... but there was almost no rain.
Was a FANTASTIC Launch & Fair Day.
Was funny watching Ian Roberts getting dunked for charity (he almost got up on the seat with his shoes still on though!) I'm glad that Launch & Fair Day are now combined- maybe now the straight media may gradually take notice of Fair Day, and show this incredible event & festival that stretches well beyond just the parade and party (where channel 9 reporters hang out the next morning searching for their staggering "bare bum" leather chaps shot they show every year). The straight media need to start showing Mardi Gras in it's full context with balanced reporting.

When they putting the flags back up alond oxford st. they should have kept the old ones up until the new ones were reprinted.

GOD HELP ME... THERE IS ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

oooh forgot to mention that it was great to see Matthew Mitcham at Fair Day... he is sooo cute. He was happily taking the time to talk and have his picture snapped with people as he walked around with his friends.

Good choice for the Chief of Parade!

Yep. Well done with Fairday. Didn't get rained on, numbers down but not as much as I thought they might be and great atmosphere.

Walked through Vic Park this am on my way to work this am and it looks to be in pretty good nick.

Hey JW – still around? (I haven't been here since January - sorry.) I'm the American "boy" you promised a dance to. If I ask Panther to forward or post a pic you'll see it'll be more of a "father/daughter" dance - but I'm up for it if you are! Can't believe our long-awaited trip to Oz is almost here!

Want a Mardi Gras warm up mix? This is proabaly more commercial remix stuff than we can expect at the party but feel free to download and let me know what you think!

All my girls are there - Britney, Solange, Kelly,Rihanna.

http://acidjasmine.blogspot.com/2009/02/acidjasmine-jan-08-disco-mix-free-to.html

i decided to pop up to fair day for an hour just to be supportive in the rain and stayed all dayand had a great time. The wine bar was a great idea

they are up today...Yay!

Hey Tony!
I am indeed. I've just given Panther my email address and asked him to pass it onto you.

After a successful launch New Mardi Gras announces an expanded party footprint, record parade numbers and Joan Rivers on the pink carpet.

Despite the constant threat of a downpour gay Sydney turned out in large numbers to celebrate the launch of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras at Fair Day in Victoria park on Sunday. While coloured ribbons snaked their way round the park to form a rainbow by the stage and Shauna Jensen belted out a series of gay anthems the heavens opened, however by the end of speeches by New Mardi Gras (NMG) Chair David Imrie, Lord Mayor Clover Moore, Neighbour Day founder Andrew Heslop and Julie McCrossin the sun was almost bursting through the clouds.

“I think it’s testimony to the popularity of the Fair Day format that so many turned out despite the rain,” said Imrie. “There was still a great buzz and of course the chance to catch up with old friends. It is a great start to the season.”

NMG today gave more details of what will come over the coming three weeks. A record number of participants have registered to be part of the Parade on March 7th – over three hundred more than last year’s record. NMG also announced the award of this year’s Parade grants.

Fifteen groups are benefiting from the awards this year including a group from Victoria who will be celebrating the Nations United theme, a glamorous display of Hollywood gay icons and a Sydney group call The Honeymooners who will be sailing a love boat up Oxford Street in recognition of same sex relationships around the world.

“With over $18,000 given back to the community as grants this year this is our biggest ever support to assist Parade entrants with their floats,” said Imrie. “We’re determined that this will be not only the biggest but the most spectacular Parade in our history.”

Adding to the excitement on the night will be high camp comedienne Joan Rivers who will be ditching the red carpet for a ‘hot pink’ one when she participates as a host of this year’s Parade broadcast on FOXTEL’s Main Event Channel Saturday, March 7, from 7.30pm. Joining hosts Alex Perry, Charlotte Dawson, Julie McCrossin and international air hostess comedian Pam Ann, Rivers will be reporting from a specially made ‘hot pink’ carpet that will mark the starting point for this years’ parade entrants.

Joan’s positioning at the beginning of the world famous street parade will give her unprecedented access to all of this years entrants and under her watchful eye, will ensure that no one will be safe from the ‘queen of mean’s’ caustic tongue.

NMG also announced that it was running a casting for models to provide a concierge service at Harbour ’09 to ensure that all its partygoers needs are taken care of.

“I’d also suggest you get your ticket now for Harbour ’09,” said Imrie. “It’s selling much faster than last year and we are expecting a big overseas contingent. Hundreds of visitors from over twenty countries have bought tickets according to our sales data. With Sam Sparro, an A-list DJ line-up and all the little touches we’re adding it should be a very memorable party.”

NMG also announced today that Mardi Gras Party will incorporate an additional venue – the Fuse Bar – upping the capacity of the party. It will be used as a women’s space, the Girls’ Republic.

In addition a number of new acts have been added to the line-up, including Miami Horror, Glace Chase, Faggot Rooster, Roshani Priddis and the Margaritas.

“Ticket sales have been really strong ever since December and we’re doing what we can to up capacity,” said Imrie. “By adding the Fuse Bar we have a bit more leeway, but not by much. I’m advising everyone to get their ticket well ahead of time.”

Mardi Gras has a secret… It’s our love of rock, electro and live music! While we love to fill dancehalls with hand-waiving, lyric-mouthing, handbag house music, we also love seeing fresher than fresh live bands and dancing to some rock and electro.

This year sees a New York flavour pervading The Forum. Fierce NYC glamour band The Ones headline the night, and will have you all up, all dancing to their deliciously distinct flavour of disco-punk.

Their stunning debut song Flawless was an international club anthem and reached the top 10 in the UK in 2001, and then again in 2004 when George Michael added lyrics to it for his hit Flawless (Go To The City). Their outrageous attitude, penchant for quirky, stylistic fashion and early nineties electro sound has made them a fixture on the New York scene for years, and their style has been rightfully compared to label mates Scissor Sisters and Le Tigre.

Joining them on the flight from New York will be superstar DJ Lauren Flax. Fresh out of Brooklyn, New York, Lauren has made an international name for herself as one of the most exciting electro-house DJs around. She is synonymous with the hippest clubs in NYC, invited to throw down mayhem-inducing sets around the world, and now she’s coming to Sydney to perform her infamous music style just for you.

The Forum remains a place to see the best in Australian live music that you already know and love, or that you should. Recognised for being at the forefront of the musical zeitgeist with their ARIA award-winning rock-electro, Infusion are set to perform a mind-blowing live show.

Practically defining the current underground dance scene in Australia, the Girls Can Be Cruel and Better World singers have released several hugely successful albums and their songs are instantly recognisable. Working alongside luminaries such as New Order and Basement Jaxx, they’ve played in 39 countries and 123 cities over the years, and are bringing their unique beats and clever lyrics direct to you at this year’s Mardi Gras Party.

Mardi Gras loves to nab the hot-new-things for our Party. That’s why this year sees Melbourne’s electro-synth rising stars Miami Horror take the stage. Infamous for their unparalleled remixing skills, they’ve recently released their first EP Bravado with electro hit Don’t Be On With Her that currently has kids losing their minds on dancefloors all around Australia. Make sure you’re there to say you saw them live before they made it big.

Meanwhile Sydney’s own Beau Monde will be showcasing their big-guitar melodies that are set to raise the roof on The Forum. Purveying their very own style of retro glam-rock and power-pop, Beau Monde have been described as “on the verge of something big”. Be there to see them live, where they may follow the lead of small-time bands such as Faker who performed at Mardi Gras Party moments before they shot to national and worldwide fame.

And Mardi Gras will keep you guessing on the night with spontaneous entertainment throughout the night from some of the most interesting and outrageous figures in the scene today. You’ll never know whats coming next, with cameo performances from Glamour Pour Le Hammer performer and DJ Faggot Rooster, LA cabaret star and self proclaimed “world saviour” Glace Chase and jaw-dropping dance-comedy group The 4 O’Clock Dancers.

The night’s live acts will be interspersed with the best rock-electro DJs we could find. Watch them mash up rock tunes with ease, as JJJ’s Dan Random, Sydney’s Matt Vaughn (Loose Ends), infamous duo Stereogamous (Seymour Buttz and Paul Mac) and the inimitable Avra Cybele (Handlebar) man the decks and keep the music unpredictable, alternative, highly danceable, and most of all fun all night long in the Forum.

"NMG also announced today that Mardi Gras Party will incorporate an additional venue – the Fuse Bar – upping the capacity of the party. It will be used as a women’s space, the Girls’ Republic"

And when does NMG plan on announcing the men's space :P

I have received very few entries for the competition for tickets to Bison and Natural Born Hooker. You still have a couple of days to send in your entry.

Any word on the dj times???

I agree that Mardi Gras should be screened on tv, but NOT live. It should be shown the following night.
The first time it was ever screened on tv it was shown on the Sunday night after the parade and had huge ratings. Many of my friends might be interested in paying the $24 to watch "the action" on Foxtel the following night- but screening ON the actual night is pointless.

WARNING WILL ROBINSON. ONLY



DAYS UNTIL IT'S MARDI GRAS !

..and they are now having to resort to papering the event with 'models' who are given a free ticket.

this has never been done before - last year's event was so poor no one will go - it is no longer a private party - knuckleheads - we have all moved on!

give up!

While I hear what you're saying, I think most people are over it by then and are catching up on much needed ZZZZ and have had enough glitter and sequins for the next six months.

I saw the promo yesterday for it on Foxtel and it seems like they've got a good line-up for the night. AND, Joan Rivers is going to be the main commentator. ROFL. Can't wait for that. Hope she gets pissed like she did at the Logies and lets rip. Haha. Should be a fun night.

"And when does NMG plan on announcing the men's space"

Oh no not that old chestnut! Men don't need their own space as 80% of the party is men.

I think Toybox said it best once at a party at Luna Park where in a lonely corner of the room they had three 1m x 1m roped off sections with a sign on each stating "Girls Space", "Mens Space" and something like "Confused Space". I couldn't stop laughing when I saw it. It was a funny piss-take on the gay politics of old. I don't think young people give a stuff about having separate spaces anymore.

I already bought tickets.

It used to be on the night after when the technology was not as capable of doing the parade live. There were a couple of years it screened a week later.

I would like to see the parade on DVD so we can watch it at our leisure. You don't see much of the parade when you are in it.

Shauna Jensen singing in the rain

an angel

Welcome to Country

"I don't think young people give a stuff about having separate spaces anymore"

If young people don't give a stuff about separate spaces and NMG are so driven by making their parties attractive to the new generation of gays then why are they providing a women's space at Mardi Gras 09 ?

It's disgusting.

Does anybody know when the DJ set times will be announced!!!!

Fair Day was fun, if a little soggy. I'm just wonderign about the lack of beer choice? The only full strength beer available was budweiser - and quite frankly, it's poop!

Who gives a shit about men having their own space.
Lets face it, it's not to discuss politics or human moral values!! Can't we gay men just have fun in each others company that doesn't involve lurking in dark spaces. As for womens spaces, have you noticed how boring they are? Often they are completely empty.Perhaps they should offer knitting needles and wool so that they can knit jumpers for charity!
Any way thats my opinion.

Happy MG..

There should be no segregated spaces at a community event.
In 2007 i went to the 'female' bar with a male friend of mine who was refused entry (initially) because, i suspect, he was hairy leather man. Meanwhile i could see countless creepy straight/bi boys wandering around that area. it was not until i pointed out to security that they have NO legal right to enforce a women's only policy (which they don't by the way) AND i pointed out all the boys already in there that she grudgingly let us through.
Gee, that really set the tone for a fun dance in that space - NOT!
I still remember the look on my friends face (who is in his mid 30's) when he realised that he was blocked from entering that space because it was a 'womens only' space - when we could clearly see this was not the case. It's disgusting.
Segregated spaces have no place in community events - especially one with a Nations United theme.
I should be able to wander through any space with my male/female friends. And legally I can. And so can you.

When we go out to party at Mardi Gras - we do it together .

Totally agree

The theme is United Nations.

Get rid of the Womens only space. Its so 25 years ago
thinking.

How can anyone attend a Community Event yet press for
same sex space ?

Just found out tickets to the Member's Viewing Area this year have gone up to $70!! They were only around $20 or so from what I remember the last few years and for me was one of the things that made membership so attractive. Does anyone know if they are including anything extra to justify this massive price jump?

It was much more than $20 last year but I suspect its gone up again because it keeps selling out so quickly (the supply and demand principle). They're still much cheaper than BGF which sell between $120 and $175 (though some of these tickets come with seating and drinks included). According to the Mardi Gras email this year they have increased the DJ's in the members viewing area to 5 "including the fabulous Baby Bear, Doug James, Kitty Glitter, Kate Munroe and a surprise DJ yet to be announced."

Here here! Totally agree. As a nearly 50 year old dyke and veteran of over 20 MG parties, the women's space is boring, unfriendly and not where you want to spend this fabulous night. My partner & I (she is only 5 foot 4) love to be in the middle of the RHI with our gay brothers and sisters, celebrating our community! Segregation is not the way to go!
Happy Mardi Gras brothers & sisters!

Screen the parade on Saturday night is the best option. Have a few friends round... a few vodkas... watch the parade on TV and then off to the party. I wouldn't dream of watching on the street.... way too crowded and Sunday night I'll be at recovery party.

harbour party last year was the best harbour party i have been to in 5 years! there was the amazing backdrop of the QE2 & Queen Mary switchover to add to the normally amazing view. There was, a fresh faced bunch of locals and internationals who actually gave a damn about being there. we had amazing music, especially kate and scott pullen´s sets. there were abour 2000-2500 people there at my guess, and it was totally unlike the overcrowded diminished version of harbour party, know as azure. the munted-beyond-all-capacity-and-social-graces queens did not show up, THANK GOD, because it was not cool enough for them. i hope they still think it is not cool enough. last year was filled with heart, warmth, and style. i so wish i could go to this one!

I also agree. The women's space is the most boring area of the whole night. I am also a lez and find it utterly appalling that a female within NMG feel it's an absolute must to have a stupid women's space at every party.
I find it offensive almost.
Bring on Parade, Party, Toy Box... everything! Can't wait!

And now .. It's ONLY
.
.



Days To Mardi Gras YEAH !!

Well, I'm a boy - albeit an early 40s boy - and I don't have a problem with a women's space or a men's space. I'm from way out of town - in fact, way out of state - and for me, Mardi Gras is my only 'gay' time of the year. So the potential for being in a predominantly gay and lesbian space is fantastic. No other part of my life is like that. If I could be in an exclusively G & L space, I'd probably take up the opportunity.
Regardless of that, if a space is provided, and people have the choice of being able to go in or not, then I don't see that anyone loses anything. If they were traipsing around corralling the women up to restrict them to the women's space, or something similar, then I'd object. In the meantime, I respect the rights of people to choose to a space of company of their choosing. If women want a women only space, then as a man, I would (and I do) choose not to go in there. If my friends are in there, why can't they come out for a dance in the mixed space?
Aside from all of that, there will be upwards of 10 000 people at the party (I hope). If a thousand or so decide to separate themselves, then let's all the rest of us just party on and have a good time together! Guaranteed we'll have a good time.
Smooches to all in preparation for a great Parade, Party, etc.

wow!

just discovered Miami Horror! So cool!

Miami Horror - Don't Be On With Her (Directed by Warran & Rhett) from Moop Jaw on Vimeo.

Problem is Mort that whenever they announce a Women's only space the boys ask where is there's.

Then it snowballs and you would have other sexualities
asking why they cant have their space.

Just like at Mardi Gras when someone is giving a speech they rattle off half a dozen different sexualities so they dont offend someone but there is always some group claiming they got left off.

So its way easier as per the theme of Mardi Gras - United
Nations so lets just all party together.

There are plenty of other times throughout the year when there are boys parties and girls parties etc.

Hi Mort,
When you look at the history of Mardi Gras, who it came about, the poeple who have worked tirelessly to get it to where it is today - both men, women, trans etc - all working side by side - you realise how 'wrong' it is for a community event (that was born out of the discrimination of the GLBTi community as a WHOLE) to have segregated spaces.
There are plently of NMG sanctioned events that are men only, women only or anything in between. Everyone can have their prefered 'gay' time at those events - in the company of their choosing.
Mixed community events are for everyone to enjoy: all spaces, equally, regardless of their gender, race, sexuality etc.
I would suggest a truly 'gay' time is dancing side by side with your fellow brothers and sisters. It doesn't happen often these days.
Surely we can tolerate doing that ONE day in a year. Those who can't - perhaps the spirit of the mardi gras party is not for you.

"Then it snowballs and you would have other sexualities
asking why they cant have their space."

What rot. There's never been any song and dance about spaces for anybody other than males or females. I think what gets up the noses of the guys is that they aren't getting equality. If there must be a girls space then there should also be a mens space.... OR NEITHER.

I wouldn't care if the men's space was a one meter by one meter roped off square in the middle of the forecourt just as long as there was something supplied to balance up the inequality that currently exists with NMG's attitude to this topic.

PS - I'm female.

I remember one year in the Hodern they decided to put
in a Mens only and Womens only space and they blocked off
a corner each of the dance floor near where the stage is.

Each space was quite large so took up about a 1/3 of
the Hordern dance floor. The boys that used it were only
getting up to no good and the Womens space had only a few ladies using it. Everyone else was out under the lighting rig enjoying themselves.

As Everybody Free points out there a plenty of other opportunities throughout the year to party with you own kind only but for this Community event it should be One for All and All for One.

"dont be so daft. Check your calandar for the last 3-4 years and you'll see Mardi Gras party has been on the first Saturday in March

March 7 IS THE 1st SAT IN MARCH

No surprises there whatsoever for the majority that can grasp that concept :P"

For those of us who've been around a bit longer, the rule has always been the first Saturday in March unless Feb 27, 28 or 29 is a Saturday.

Clean Up Australia Day has always been the following day. This year it's the Sunday Before Mardi Gras.

I only bring this up because MG is usually the weekend before the Canberra Day weekend. I live in a town that gets invaded by Canberrans on that weekend. When I told the owners of the pub where I work that I wanted that weekend off they said "But that's Canberra Day Weekend" to which I replied "You know I'd rather quit than miss Mardi Gras!" After a moment or two I received the response. "Have a good time, you can do Easter weekend can't you?"

A couple of points I'd like to raise. To the best of my knowledge this is factual. I am, however, willing to accept responsability for any inacuracies.

Men's Only spaces have disappeared for a couple of reasons. Fox Studios and antiquated laws. Let me explain.

From memory - Men's Only spaces, before Fox Studios came about, used to equal sex. In NSW it is illeagle to have sex on (Liquor) licenced premises. I believe that Fox Studios, in negotiation with Mardi Gras, have agreed that to not have a Men's Only space is a simple and effective way of ensuring that this does not happen. Granted we could have a Men's Only space with 1000 security guards to ensure we do not break this law, but what's the point. Fox simply have too much to lose if found in breach of this law.

I say, don't blame Fox or Mardi Gras - blame the laws. Think about all the major "Gay" cities in the world that have darkrooms attached to many gay pubs or clubs. Think "Queer as Folk". Sydney laws simply don't allow us to have these options.

Realisticlly, do you think we could put 100's of, mostly, drug affected gay males in one space without Fox Studios risking their licence?

Let's address the laws and bring Sydney up to world class standard, one that gives us a choise to access these places if provided. Let's give Mardi Gras and Fox a break.

I, also, miss Men's Only spaces.

right on sister!

Super Supremes	Ian Roberts about to get dunked again	Candy Box and dancers
	Mr Fair Day	Mad Hatters Tea Party
Raen	Ray Isaac	Barbra Bubbles
Leroy

Mens space... womens space.... for me I find my spot under the mirror ball in the RHI and I ain't movin.
For the record though, last time there was a mens only space i think it was a sectioned off area in the corner of the RHI and NO ONE was there.
No offence but mens spaces are called for by those who want sex spaces at the party. I am right?
Sure I'll snog heaps of boys at MG but if i wanna have sex with him I'll take him home thanks.

From todays Mardi Gras email...

"We're delighted that so many of you are going to be joining us at Harbour '09 and in particular that so many people from overseas will be there. Over twenty countries are now represented through ticket sales. Join us, Sam Sparro, the gorgeous Gaydar and Atlantis boys and girls plus a truly A-list DJ line-up in welcoming them to Sydney!"

Love the reply. I soooo agree.

"for me I find my spot under the mirror ball in the RHI and I ain't movin."

Hun, we're reading from the same page. Let's embrace the things we love about the party, go and enjoy them, and forget about the things that NMG are simply not able to cater for, for one reason or another.

Sounds like you're someone I wouldn't mind having a snog with - I'll be under the mirror ball too. Put your hands in the air and I'll know it's you.

"No offence but mens spaces are called for by those who want sex spaces at the party. I am right"

No. You are wrong wrong wrong.

For some like me it's about equality. I want to be treated the same as the girls. And that means supplying the same facilities for men AND women.

Would I use the men's space - probably not. But to me it's not that I would or wouldn't use the space, nor is it about the fact that a mens space might be a sex space or not but what it IS about is seeing the principle of treating everyone the same being upheld by supplying a space for BOTH genders or not at all.

Preferably, not at all.
.

Ooohh, snogging under the mirror ball! Faaaaabulous! I'll be thereabouts too! That's my idea of a good night, too, and maybe i'll take someone home, or be taken home, or not. Will be a hoot whichever way. And if others would choose to be in a men's space or women's space, good for them. That's what Mardi Gras represents for me - people's rights to choose for themselves, even if it gets up someone else's nose.
Yes, Mardi Gras has been about standing side by side with our brothers and sisters to fight the good fight. And what a long way we've come. But Mardi Gras was also once a fairly segregated thing - there wasn't the representation of people who don't identify as gay or lesbian. That was a time when the experience of being gay or lesbian really set people apart, and so finding a space to be in the majority was enormously affirming. Though I started attending MGs only in the mid-90s, that's what it was like for me. And I think, for lots of people, that sense of being 'apart' is still real, so to be surrounded by people that you feel fairly confident have had some similarity of experience to you is liberating. So if that's people's need, I'd like to think we can make some efforts to provide that. Naturally we're not going to meet the needs of everyone. But does that mean we shouldn't try to meet the needs of some?
And those of us who are happy to mix and mingle, snog, dance, take one another home, etc, can do so to our hearts' content.
Love yous all. Mwa mwa mwa

HaHaHa I'll def be there but sad to say that MG threw a spanner in the works last MG party by having two mirror balls. This poor party boy was confused about which mirror ball to anchor myself under.

Sex spaces (Mens Space) ain't gunna happen no more at parties, clubs or bars. Time to move on guys it's 2009 not 1970's, 1980's or 1990's. There are plenty of sex on premises venues that cater for this activity after the party - Ken's is only down the road and will be full after the party. So just enjoy the party for what it is.

HEY THERE ... ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS... EXCITING !!

can we please have DJ and acts set times? Would be good to know in advance who's playing/performing where and when...

I hope some that I ant to see/hear don't collide like last year!

what will you do if they do?

LOL. Seriously Countdown Boy, that pic is hilarious.... they just keep getting better. Always make me giggle... thanks.

I demand a retro mens sex space NAO!

you should be demanding a wooden floor and donations at the retro sex men only space.
the donation topic seems to be rather popular this year...

One last thing to say on the mens space. I have never used them in the past and i really don't think 99.9% of us guys want one.... I think I'm right in saying that. Let the women have their space 'cos honestly I may not go to MG as a gay guy if it was 85 or 90% woman just 'cos i think it may be a bit intimidating and uncomfortable being in such a huge minortity. Also I think the girls tend to be hassled more by straight guys who just wanna come on to them. Now i don't mind straight guys pinching my arse all night (bring it on) but I think dykes may just get a bit jack of it and ruin their fun. So i can understand the logic behind the decision. Yeah I'll be the one under the mirror ball..... and if the music is what i think it's gonna be like I'll have my hands in the air and shirt off too.

OK. I declare the area under the mirror ball in the RHI the Official Mens Space.

"OK. I declare the area under the mirror ball in the RHI the Official Mens Space"

And can we all pull our dicks out like what happened at 1am in the middle of the RHI floor on the night of Sleaze Ball 1997 ?

DJ times anyone??????????

I'm told MG will print the DJ times in the press the week before party time. Show times won't be released but I'm told MG have shaken up the format a bit.... ie all shows are not gonna be in the RHI.

GROVER SAYS - THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

Miami Horror totally owned thier set at Good Vibrations. Despite the krappy rain. they really delivered an fun & energetic live set. Also they did a beautiful live cover of "Praise You" by Fat bOy Slim.

They look set to be up there with The Presets one day soon. Now check out their amazing remix of Dan Hartman "Relight my Fire"
http://www.buffetlibredjs.net/index3.php#miamihorror
And even better ... it's free to download!

Does anyone know if Frisky is sold out or are there still tickets available?

During the MG season there will be an influx of international cruise ships in Sydney.Perhaps during the Harbour Party we may seem some of these pass us by.
For ship lovers such as myself this is a wonderful time to look and marvel at these wonders of maritime engineering and design.
I watched the Queen Victoria sail out the harbour today. Although she looks very similar to a block of floating meriton apartments. The design focus is on the luxury of her interior.

Ships ahoy and Happy MG!

try the party wall

yes I was disappointed in Queen Vic... a very poor design, just no sweeping lines just an ugly block of flats.

ONLY 2 WEEKS .... OR ....



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS YES !

Has anyone else seen Holiday at the Stables Theatre? What did you think?

I saw it tonight and thought it was one of the most excrutiating plays I've ever seen. The most frustrating part was that I was blocked in so I couldn't walk out like 5 people who did.

The thing is I can't work out why on earth it's listed in the Mardi Gras Festival guide as there is nothing gay about it... unless the two characters were in fact gay and the point was that gay people can sometimes have an utterly dull, disconnected conversation about nothing meaningful for an hour and a half.

Oh oh! My girl and I have tix for tonight's show. Faaantastic! Still, I shall keep an open mind and see if I can enjoy it anyway. Eeeek!

I heard that MG is about to sell out.

Well I loved the men's spaces of years gone by - and so did thousands of others. However, I'm sure they were a major public health hazard given that almost everyone was completely off their faces and taking risks they would not have taken normally. A great memory though!

I bought tix last Monday numbered around 12,800 so it may well sell out (but who knows exactly when?).

I think many people are only now looking at their options; there are no Frisky or Toybox tickets left, just a handful of (comparitively) also-ran events. So the pace of ticket sales would definitely be improving.

I heard that MG is about to sell out.

I have heard this too but i believe that the capacity of this party has been reduced to 15000 people. This is the same size as the 2nd last party.

12800 is just the batch number. it isn't the number of tix actually sold. that's commercially sensitive information and not on the actual ticket. i hear it's close to sell out too so slack arses get your tix this w/end if you wanna go. i bought mine first week in Jan.

I just got ticket number 16787!

It's gonna be a sell out for sure!!!

Last week they added an extra venue. I doubt they have reduced the capacity.

No! Don't go...staying home and watching The Bill would be a much better option Is the worst play I have seen for ages. Above poster is spot on, and there is no gay theme whatsoever. If you go, sit near the exit!
Even better, go and see Baghdad Wedding at The Belvoir. It is a great play with really good acting - everything Holiday is not - IMHO apparently the point of Holiday was to remove all character & conflict - well they did suceed in that! We could not work out what it was doing in the festival guide either!

what he means is the capacity is less than lass year, thus "reduced"

I just bought ticket number 31,256

LMAO!

Well it does look like the Party will sell out. I was just at Allan Cumming at the Opera House and David Imre was there with the owner of SX and two others (not their bf's! but that's enother stor story.) and David told me at interval that it the Party should sell out before next weekend! Bring it on Mardi Gras! And one other thing, David wouldn't confirm this but he didn't deny that Britney is performing at the Party!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, I'm back from it.... and yes, it was, well, rather odd! I actually found the 2 characters fairly engaging but gay it certainly was not (except for one very brief moment when the older guy touched the younger guy's chest - which was also very odd and out of place). Oh and good, it was also not. So bizarre....

No it's not Britney it's Donna Summer. She's booked on QF 12 on the 4 th March. Nothing like starting a good party rhumour

"12800 is just the batch number. it isn't the number of tix actually sold."

I agree with you about ticket numbers not tallying with the amount of tickets sold.

I have just noticed something on my ticket that I haven't seen before. My ticket # is around 9700, but that's not my point. I've noticed that in very small writing it says "PAX: 7500" (or at least close to that number).

In know that in hospitality we use Pax as an abbreviation for people or persons. ie: booking for 50 pax.

Interested to know other's thoughts on this.

Woo Hoo Getting Close... ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

thats fantastic, i must say i spoke to kevin rudd's housekeeper and she said the taxes will be lower next year. she didnt know anything about britney tho...

David wouldn't confirm this but he didn't deny that Britney is performing at the Party!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



David may not deny this but everyone in Florida can. She is touring in the States with shows in Florida on 7 & 8 March.

Ok now that I have bagged out (the totally non-gay) "Holiday" it's only fair that I give a rap to the double bill "Bison / Natural Born Killer".

I highly recommend Bison in particular. It was well written, produced and acted. At times it was a funny send up of the scene, at times touching and occasionally disturbing. Definately a must see.

More of this please Mardi Gras!

"David may not deny this but everyone in Florida can."

Are you saying that everyone in Florida is going to the Britney concerts? Or is it just that everyone in Florida knows she'll be on stage on those two dates?

Either way, that's still pretty impressive.

I bought my Mardi Gras party tix over 4 weeks ago from the head office in the City (Sydney) and it is #11733 which probably does not mean a great deal, but glad to be going. Get you tix before they sell out!!!!!

Brittany, Donna Summer!! What about Kylie that is always a good rumour

if they announced the name and it was Donna Summer i would go for sure to the party, last year sold out when we knew it was Cyndie Lauper

AcidJasmine's new mix is in honout of the upcoming Sydney gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras party on 7 March 2009. The Royal Hall Of Industries, commonly known as the RHI is known for hands in the air, pop, fun anthems and this mix is to get you in the mood for that.

Unashamedly music for 3am to get you hands in the air.

Tracklisting:

2009 Pre Mardi Gras RHI Hands In The Air Mix

Circus (David Morales Epic Club Mix) - Britney Spears
The Fear (Stonebridge Explicit Club Mix) - Lily Allen ( LOVING this track)
I Stay In Love (Jody den Broeder Club Mix) - Mariah Carey
Love Stiry ( Digital Dog Mix) Taylor Swift
Long Distance (JDB Club Mix) - Brandy
Insomina (Remix)- ( Craig David)
Be Without You (Moto Blanco Vocal Mix) - Mary J Blige
Don't Stop The Music (Peter Rauhofer Reconstruction Club Mix) - Black Eyed Rihanna

http://acidjasmine.blogspot.com/2009/02/acidjasmines-2009-pre-mardi-gras-rhi.html

at the gym today 2 german guys here for MG. At brekky 2 US guys sitting next to me arrived this morning. Many more o/s accents I'm hearing around the trap. More visitors here than i thought there would be with the credit crunch. MG is gonna be fun. I can't wait.

Getting Closer.... Now ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !

"Brittany, Donna Summer!! What about Kylie that is always a good rumour"

I think we've all learned that Kylie is quite happy to take our money but when it comes to giving something back to the gay community that has supported her all these years, that's another story. Mardi Gras wouldn't be able to afford her.

I thought she owed us a performance for last years party. When it didn't happen, I lost all interest (in Kylie).

Why are still hoping and liking Kylie ? she is nothing. She can't sing, she can't dance, her teeth, oh my...oh my...like a horse. In America, her name never been heard at all. have a good night hibernation, kylie

is there more than one underewear party on the 5th of march? I understandd there is one at Arq? Wheres the other? Are they any good?

Has Toybox sold out?

Sorry guys but no bitching on her about Kylie.... please. She has performed at MG parties twice and so has Dannii. The only other person to do MG more than once is Tina Arena and Marcia Hines.
Don't be so harsh on Kylie.

I also saw these two plays and would thoroughly recommend them.

Bison is very Sydney and very gay. As the previous post said it has everything - funny, moving, disturbing.

Natural Born Killer, being a one man show, was a bit more difficult, but it also had lots of great parts.

Both plays have nudity too.

Exactly!!! Kylie is best, chuck out the rest!