Pinkboard: Sleaze Ball 2003 Graffiti Wall

Sleaze Ball is on at Fox Studios on Saturday October the 4th. Tickets will be on sale soon.

Watch the New Mardi Gras website and the press for announcements. Or just read this wall. At least some of what you read here will be true. Maybe even the rumours about Madonna.

New Mardi Gras
Sleaze Ball 2002 Graffiti Wall 2002
Sleaze Ball 2003 Graffiti Wall 2

As usual this New Mardi Gras group are cutting it fine and leaving everything to the last minute.

Little wonder Sleaze ball last year was so small.

C'mon Mardi Gras get that advertising "out there" and give people more confidence in what your doing
worried - Thu 31 Jul 2003 09:23:30

Like MG and Inquisition and ors this is always hard to police. You can say that you would prefer it just to be lesbian and gay but the straights always manage to get a ticket some way.
- Thu 31 Jul 2003 12:18:03

Personally, I really don't go to Sleaze to watch shows, I wanna dance honey, dance with thousands of sexy men.....Bring it On !
Josh - Thu 31 Jul 2003 12:40:10

I would like to see Svet there most definately.
- Thu 31 Jul 2003 19:51:38

NMG are inviting community suggestions about a theme, over at their website.

http://www.mardigras.org.au/
- Sat 2 Aug 2003 10:01:40

F E I S T Y - got it:)

re Sat 2 Aug 2003 17:57:34 - think you have almost nailed it give or take one or two.

please no internationals.... screws with the budget when there is loads of excellent djs. would be better to fund sound/lighting/new artist space (thinking live artists too - bands/dance acts/caberet/comedian/... whatever wins in the submission process which given the success of the stonewall event at MG could well be an event in itself and possibly a fundraiser)
- Sat 2 Aug 2003 19:51:10

Get in right please. Its Greg Boladian
spellcheck - Sat 2 Aug 2003 20:40:42

1. The "Oops Factor" - Oops we've forgotten to run the add in the papers and will now have to scramble at the last minute to get our shit together.

2. The "Presuming Factor" - They've decided that any DJ who wants to submit will simply presume to take it upon themselves to contact New Mardi Gras with a submission and stuff the ones who do submit after the decision has already been made.

3. The "Arrogant Factor" - They are gonna arrogantly screw with tradition and not take submissions from DJ's for a community run event and just pick the names they want to without any fairly run selection process in place (ie Lets pick my friends AKA The Pride factor).

If anyone at New Mardi Gras reads this PLEASE make a public statement as to what the DJ selection process is. I had a long look at the Mardi Gras web site and theres nothing on there about DJ selection process either.

For a community based dance party the selection process has to be via a public tender otherwise the process is tainted with controversy and allegations of picking "mates". We dont want Mardi Gras going down that path please.

Ive also emailed this post to Mardi gras for a responce. Am I naive to think that I'll get a reply ?
- Sun 3 Aug 2003 09:22:40

I think we'll go with no. 3.

I got my submission together weeks ago and contacted NMG only to be told not to send anything-it will just get lost. So I am waiting patiently for the submissions advert, but we are running out of time. Even if they advertise this week and allow two to 3 weeks for submissions to come in- they wont have a reasonable amount of time to process and discuss and then advertise selected dj's.

It probably doesnt matter to a lot of people because we are all in need of a big party and'we 'll go anyway. But it would be nice if they did it properly , wouldnt it?
wannabe - Sun 3 Aug 2003 10:44:03

Please don't forget the newbie's and those from other states or NZ. DJ Tas (MG2003) was very refreshing. Dan Murphy (Arq [Paul Goodyear's nominee?]) was reliable.

Don't forget the under-exposed pro's like Scott Pullen and Baby Bear (solid House). I would also like to see Chip and Steve Sonius in the Dome, please
DJ l-o-v-e-r - Sun 3 Aug 2003 11:51:47

Like a jazzy influence? Consider the elusive Dave Smith.

Commercial House? Kate you-know-who.
SOUND advice - Sun 3 Aug 2003 12:02:32

Why not draw the most logical conclusion? Which is: THEY ARE WAITING and WATCHING Pinkboard for input from US. The later, all the more fair.

Methinks that's pretty democratic!
- Sun 3 Aug 2003 12:09:48

That's a fair request and consider this: Submissions are OK in theory but why not just go to the clubs and experience the DJ, live? Playing to a strict format tends to stifle DJ creativity and leaves little room for crowd-reading and improvisation. But I am all for transparency.

Having said all that, I'm getting desperate for a BIG party. Any of our House-playing DJ's will do. I'm going, "no matter who the DJ is" --I will just sit out any Trancey stuff --
deep cover - Sun 3 Aug 2003 14:44:32

it doesn't seem arrogant for people who give up their time week in week out(for nothing when the rest of us really don't care enough to bother) to actually decide who plays based on their own research, gay press and forums (eg the pinkboard), and their visits to clubs/parties? promoters/club management do it all the time and get paid.

this is a pretty critical time for NMG and maybe it would be nice to either get involved personally if you feel really strongly or to support their choices. remember it is only one party, one dj line-up and did i mention it is a PARTY:)

you can have fun anywhere you WANT to.... even in the checkouts at the supermarket or in a bank que (spellcheck on que please someone?)

not suggesting you don't speak out against sucky things, but surely this party and others like it are for us, so we should enjoy them:)
- Sun 3 Aug 2003 18:54:00

sounds like somebody has the inside goss.
- Mon 4 Aug 2003 16:20:13

very different story if MG were selling these CD's
Mr Panties - Mon 4 Aug 2003 17:58:32

not cool to sell unlicensed cds, or even to give them to friends or anyone for public performance and you are ok. a demo of your style for work purposes is unlikely to attract ARIA/APRA/PPCA criticism as you are only submitting a demonstration of your abilities
- Tue 5 Aug 2003 00:02:09

I agree with your suggestions. Siouxe Spears rocked the house in City Live with her hard house. Whilst I wasn't too keen on her set the previous year, I think the hard house she played was fab. Kept me rocking anyway!

It will be interesting to see what the DJ selection process will be.
- Tue 5 Aug 2003 11:42:18

It depends on what happens with the flooring. Wouldn't rule it out altogether. A number of orgs engaged in discussions with Playbill have had the Dome offered to them.
- Tue 5 Aug 2003 14:50:32

pleeeeeeeaassseee????
miss margeaux - Wed 6 Aug 2003 10:29:05

It is quite exciting that the party is coming up. A lot of my friends have been abstaining from the clubs for ages now and are using Sleaze Ball as their springboard into Summer......
Josh - Wed 6 Aug 2003 11:12:34

Interesting what people are saying about Siouxe Spears. Ive made a concious effort to avoid any hall she's played in since PRIDE nye 01/02 (Talk about crying at the Discothque!). Would be interested to hear her play this "hardhouse WITHOUT the twist" stuff that people have mentioned above... where's she playing lately?
Adam:) - Wed 6 Aug 2003 12:11:05

I wasn't too keen on the Hordern set either but the Hard House set in City Live last year was totally wicked and she got rave revues. I think this style is really appropriate for Sleaze.
- Wed 6 Aug 2003 12:29:44

Got to agree-sorry. One good set isnt really enough. I remember a pretty dodgy start to Harbour Party a couple of years ago when she opened.

Also, I do hope that the selection committee doesnt get their info from a "public forum "like pinkboard. You never know who is posting for/against dj's- may not always be a punter.And I know heeeeeaps of people who dont have internet access-but have opinions.
- Wed 6 Aug 2003 17:25:24

Hey Adam - I felt the same as you after Siouxe set in the Hordern and was pissed when she got another set the next year and to think she had the audacity to play my fave dance music ie hardhouse and say she would do it with a twist...........but I was prepared to give her a go. I got on the dance floor in City Live 10 mins before she started and I did not leave till she
finished. As I said earlier 100/10.
I also like Luke Leal/Alex Taylor more at a party than club as they really seem
to get into at a Party than a club ( my personal viewpoint ). Peter McNamara is great as well. Rachel Auburn from UK when she played Hordern for MG was
awesome as well.
Just stop the "unwarranted" negativity please - Wed 6 Aug 2003 18:32:56

With all due respect I have to disagree with you. I'm a regular at the Colombian on Friday nights. It's such a fab place to go for a chill or a boogie after work. It's a really fun night and it's always packed out. There are always groups of people having a boogie, especially around the box interacting with the DJ and having a good time.

Anyway, can we please move on the Sue Spears debate. She is just like any other DJ. Some people really enjoy her music and for some, it's not their cup of tea. I agree with the "unwarranted negativity" remarks. I would absolutely hate to be a DJ. In no other profession (except maybe actors /muso's etc) do people have to cop so much grief.

Any word on the theme for Sleaze?
Sebrina - Thu 7 Aug 2003 10:33:44

I find that the Columbian on a Saturday night is a real drag....

i. too many people upstairs - to the point of not being able to get from one side of the room to the other - considering the lack of exits from this floor, God help those trying to get out if a fire starts
ii. the music is far too loud; I want to go to a bar to chat with my mates, not shout at them
iii. being given raffle tickets at the door and told to come back in half an hour because they are not allowed to form queues, hmm
- Thu 7 Aug 2003 18:03:04

I wish NMG would announce theme/DJ's soonest. Otherwise the other parties will
grab the good DJ's a partygoers will get worried and buy from the Promoter
who has his act together.
Just bring it on - Thu 7 Aug 2003 19:05:00

Thats a bit of a laugh actually.

If Mardi Gras left it to the last week before Sleaze to pick the DJ's I would say any selected DJ already booked on that night would dump the other booking without hesitation to accept the Sleaze invitation.

I know I would.
- Fri 8 Aug 2003 09:02:42

I think it has something to do with the heritage protection which delays all of this. But I totally agree with you - love the Dome!
- Fri 8 Aug 2003 09:30:53

Come on NMG - if your going to advertise a product - at least have A product !
- Fri 8 Aug 2003 11:41:22

um, probably because it is the SAME selector of DJs Lol:)

and the bar dowstairs where you are not supposed to dance can they please turn it down a few notches?
- Fri 8 Aug 2003 15:47:27

yes, plus some of the djs confirmed then unconfirmed
- Fri 8 Aug 2003 21:14:30

Yes, the dj's should be payed in full. They are underpaid, says I.
not a DJ - Fri 8 Aug 2003 22:21:39

yeah sure, could just imagine you accepting say an offer to play at Arq or
Phoenix or Venus room, Queer Nation etc , and then dump them cause you got offer to play Sleaze which is but once a year whereas the clubs other parties happen all year.

It was just pointing out not to leave it too late to choose the DJ's but
you
Just had to go and be negative. Sad really trying to spoil posters fun - Sat 9 Aug 2003 10:48:55

Mardi Gras know they have DJ's throwing themselves at them to play this sort of an event, I wouldnt put it past Mardi Gras to adopt a "play for free or you dont selected" policy.
How badly do you want it ? - Sat 9 Aug 2003 10:54:16

* No DJ Line up yet picked nor announced.

* No decision yet as to what Halls will be used.

* Tickets being advertised as being on sale but are not.

* No adds yet run for volunteer workers on the night

* No adds yet run for show performers on the night.

How can the community possibly have confidence in New Mardi Gras when they leave EVERYTHING to the last minute ????
underprepared is under achieved. - Mon 11 Aug 2003 08:54:59

We also have:

* lots of whingers

* one too many "d"s in "adds" (perhaps D for Dummy??)

* sky-high illiteracy levels amongst our community members (good thing that e's only have one letter on them)
Stop complaining and have some faith in the people who salvaged MG from the grave - Mon 11 Aug 2003 10:46:50

most massive events confirm something or someone by this point. the mystery is not an attraction when many people here and OS are still not sure whether to trust in them again

not a whinge - rather a suggestion offering support

i will be going either way because i love the atmosphere and the scale of gayness (probably not a real word) on display, but friends are not of the same mindset
- Mon 11 Aug 2003 13:23:36

yes, it was a whinge.

The post offered no suggestions as to how the situation could be improved.

It was only a list of all the things that haven't been done. If it had been phrased "I'm really worried about this year's sleaze as so many things that normally are done by now haven't been. things such as etc etc etc ...NMG needs to get moving on these things in order to make this year's sleaze the best ever" then that wouldn't have been a whinge.
Yes it WAS a whinge - Mon 11 Aug 2003 17:01:27

read it however you want - most people would have seen it as a criticism stressing action... big difference.

i suggested NMG establish a theme, book their acts and tell people in time so they don't go looking for alternatives. as for the best sleaze ever... what kind of pressure are you trying to put on the night? it is a party not a measurable commodity.

as i mentioned i am going regardless - with bells on - i would just love to see a few friends there and some hot internationals
sorry if it came out wrong the first time - Tue 12 Aug 2003 02:13:57

No DJ Line up yet picked nor announced - The date of such announcements has varied widely in the past. They are sometimes advertised on the poster. They are sometimes announced later.

No decision yet as to what Halls will be used - Again the date of announcement varies. It also depends on how big the party will be.

Tickets being advertised as being on sale but are not - I am sure they will advertise in the gay press relentlessly when they are available. Didn't SSO say something like the 15th?

No adds yet run for volunteer workers on the night - These are usually only run about a month before.

No adds yet run for show performers on the night. - same as above.

Don't you find that suspense adds to the excitement of the event?
Arti - Tue 12 Aug 2003 08:25:56

Sleaze Ball will go off.
- Tue 12 Aug 2003 15:28:42

Its very ugly.
- Tue 12 Aug 2003 16:29:39

But I do agree that Arq is changing and not for the better. It's a shame because it's an exceptional venue, no doubt.
- Wed 13 Aug 2003 12:32:41

The reason you cant remember last years one was cause it was simply forgetable.
- Wed 13 Aug 2003 23:32:22

The theme for Sleaze Ball 2003 is FLESH: Dressed Up.

We all have our own take on what we think is sleazy and what we will dare to bare. Wear as little or as much as you will – just show us your flesh all dressed up. More information on DJs, shows and some other treats will be coming out in the next few weeks, so keep your eye on your email and the local papers.

Ticket prices for this years event have been set at:

$90 full price;
$80 members;
$50 concession.
Tickets are available through Ticketek outlets, phone service and online.
Sleaze Freak - Thu 14 Aug 2003 08:26:01

Can anybody help me in regards to who will be playing? I would really like to know who the DJ's are. Anyone know? If not, is there a selection process?
Sleaze DJ's. Anyone know who they are? - Thu 14 Aug 2003 09:15:44

Am already spinning with ideas for our big dress-up down night.

Can't wait!
- Thu 14 Aug 2003 12:42:06

I like the theme too! Certainly gets back to the meaning of sleaze.
- Thu 14 Aug 2003 17:45:33

I have been told that there is no DJ selection process as was the case in recent years. The party committee are just going to choose who THEY want rather than ask DJ's to submit an expression of interest be it a demo tape or Cd or a written application. It doesnt sound very fair to me and its going to run into alot of critisism from people who will claim the process has been tainted with the committee choosing their personal favorites.

For such an important job as a DJ at Sleaze or Mardi Gras the New Mardi Gras need to show that they are transparent. Surely they should be advertising these positions in a public tender manner.

Hopefully they'll get it right for Mardi Gras next year !!
- Thu 14 Aug 2003 18:27:25
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

Personally I dont give a toss what the poster looks like. Its SLEAZE BALL for gods sake it doesn't need a good poster. (I havent seen it) Sleaze is sleaze it sells itself so dont judge a book by its cover.

Mike H: If you lack the creativity and flair to get into the theme and think the poster's crap then pleae do keep your $90 in the bank this year. Im sure you'll be thrilled when NMG goes through the hoop and we're left with no MG at all.

If anyone else is unhappy with the theme why dont you wear a pair of blue denim jeans and a t-shirt. I cant wait! Ill be there with bells on! (And not much more ;)
axa - Fri 15 Aug 2003 00:12:54

Not going cause you don't like the poster for the event? Have you left pre-school yet?

Not going cause NMG don't advertise the DJ line up 6 months in advance? Do everyone a favour and stay home, go to ARQ, or some other club but just leave the people who want to go and enjoy Sleaze alone!!

If moronic attitudes such as these continue to infect the gay community, then the future for NMG is very bleak indeed.

Also I would be interested to know how many of these whinging bitches put forward any suggestions to NMG or tried to join the committie. It's much easier to sit on your arse and do nothing but whine....for next years MG why not try to organise something yourselves, design your own poster and book your own DJ's. After you do that then you can bitch about NMG.

I think NMG have done a great job this year to ensure we even have a Sleaze or a Mardi Gras. They are the only 2 parties I go to and I look forward to each one. I haven't seen the poster for this years and I couldn't give a toss what it looks like, it won't change my mind about the event. I don't care what DJ's are playing, I will have fun regardless.

Hopefully majority of people will agree with me and come along for a good time.
the rest of you please stay home and please stop posting these stupid complaints.
- Fri 15 Aug 2003 06:09:59

Look at that post at 6.09 in the morning. Did you wet the bed , wake up early and grumpy ? Seems so.
- Fri 15 Aug 2003 09:25:47
This message is unnecessarily abusive.

Has this been tried before ?
Josh - Fri 15 Aug 2003 09:37:55

And what about the HIGHLY talented DJ's that dont work in the hip trendy cool to be seen at venues that most of the party committee selectors would probably never be seen dead at ?

They never get listened to. They rely on submitting a written app as well as sending in a disc of their stuff.

Most of these smaller name DJ's working the not so cool gay venues are far more talented than the boring big name DJ's that work in the big name venues.
The selection process has to fair for ALL not just a select few. - Fri 15 Aug 2003 10:30:54

I still think the best test of a dj's ability is on the dancefloor. Demo disc, you can take your time, no pressure, edit, re mix, until perfect. Can you see if they are playing to an empty room or a room full of people going off their nuts? Recreating that effect to a roomful of hardened party people, playing the crowd, and letting them feed off you, giving them what they need before they know they need it, that's what makes a great dj. Otherwise we'd have a juke box and someone with a bunch of dollar coins at our parties.

NMG does have a track record of giving new up and coming DJs a chance. I'll trust them to pick well. And like I always do, go for a wander until I find the right music for the right moment.
- Fri 15 Aug 2003 11:16:02

er, would you mind naming a couple of these "large SUCCESSFUL straight parties"???
- Fri 15 Aug 2003 14:47:12

pretty original i agree to show two obviously gay guys not looking at each other, whilst looking hopefully at a girl. does not seem very gay and lesbian, perhaps it is Queer, but is that what NMG is to be about?

on the other hand - i love the cheap layout and the 'real people' types presented.

as pointed out, it IS just a poster and whilst all this talk is interesting for the NMG marketing dept for next time, don't let a poster stop you from going PLEASE!!!

also, in regards to the djs, some of the gay scene's best djs do not play on the gay scene much if at all anymore - for various reasons too complex to go into. that is part of the submission process reasoning. and this is a community event not a capitalist enterprise like most of the big straight events where the selection panel is usually one person

would love to see a return of mark murphy, sydney's BEST trance dj
just talk - still gonna go and dance - Fri 15 Aug 2003 18:25:18

Explain how a bad poster will cause you not to go ? Why is the poster bad ? oh and gee some others have said they thought the poster was fine !

Personally sitting in a room listening to a DJ demo tape would be b-o-r-i-n-g. No atmosphere. How do you know they have not be visiting clubs/pubs , big venues/little venues ? over the last few months making sure they hear as many
DJ's as possible ? How do you know their tastes will be dreadful ?

Do you have the facts ? - NO

How many of you have supported NMG ?

Give the staff and volunteers a go. If the party sucks, sound/lighting is dreadful, DJ's are abysmal - THEN you have a right to slag but the party has not even started and you bunch of cats are sticking the claws in.

Successful straight parties - get out of Oxford Street - there are plenty of them and some as big as Sleaze and NMG and are out at Homebush.

And thank you to - "Standards and excellence people, the poster and theme are mundane, we all know it so take of those rose coloured glasses." and others who are posting support.

If the party is a succcess , will you get on this board and praise NMG ?

Saucers of milk all around please.
Just lighten up and Just give them a break - Fri 15 Aug 2003 19:24:35

NMG should comission the 'proper professionals'ie. and ad agency to come up with an amazing / interesting concept.
Stop trying to save money on the poster/invitation.(If you want people to go?)
You get what you pay for.
Clearly this poster design represents that.

end of story....the community isn't stupid.
- Sat 16 Aug 2003 14:14:52

Please for gods sake pull the ads to Sleaze ball and show some more respect for our community. You have disgraced our community and made the event look cheap. A good poster design could have been done by very good with much more of a professional and modern look without doing what you have done.

I will never forget the look of the posters around 2001 and earlier and they where a statement and a way forward. How do you expect support of the community with trash like this. It is clear from the posts on this wall that you simply have made a poor mistake (again as per the attempted name change) you simply need to learn from this change the poster and look and make the event something special again.

I want this to be seen as positive posting and you need to do something fast. More harm then good is coming of the attitude of No Frills MG. This is not hard to fix and if you cant make this simple PR issue resolve its self then you need to remind yourself why you are in the position you are in and what the community expects from you.

As Bill Gates said “know what you are good at and get professionals to do the rest”. That is how you will succeed. And remember paying tax is a good thing and shows that you know what you are doing. The old attitude of “spend the money before we have to pay tax on it” was a mistake of the old organisation that must not be repeated.
Pride in PR - Sat 16 Aug 2003 21:15:01

See its not that hard!

I dont think that there needs to be any submissions by DJ's, lets not insult them ,if the Sleaze party committee need to choose, go out and listen to the wonderful Sydney DJ's that we have, thats how you find out who's the best there is.
Follow my lead - Sat 16 Aug 2003 21:25:40

I disagree that the poster should be done by PR people. I think it should be created by artists. It should be a work of art that we can treasure for years and that will remind us of what a fabulous night it was.
Arti - Sun 17 Aug 2003 12:30:55

Pinkboard is able to verify this statement
Chiclet - Sun 17 Aug 2003 15:55:33

And I never said that a PR company should do the poster but they should at least consuly a PR profesional before making any more mistakes.

What made them even think that the croud that would go to the event would like this poster. Looks like they forgot who comes to the party and why...
Pride in PR - Sun 17 Aug 2003 18:04:37

I love the theme and the poster. My friends and I are quite excited and we've started planning our outfits already. :-)

People complained when old MardiGras stopped listening to the community and now they complain when New MardiGras actually reverses that trend!

The community newspapers and the MardiGras website have been calling for volunteers to join the Sleaze Ball working group, amongst other working groups for a couple of months.

Please take this as a "positive posting", maybe joining up and lending a hand might not be a bad thing? Who knows? You might even enjoy it! ;-)
Zak - Mon 18 Aug 2003 00:30:07

I'm quite dissapointed that an email to NMG on the 21/7 regarding dj's slections to date remains unanswered. I'd like to think that they would be doing something simmilar to the Pogoda again to showcase new up and cming talent. As most of the clubs on Oxford St would not play the music I play on a regular Sat night. I've not had a public gig as yet bigger then my own house warming and an hour @ the Beresford before it closed.. How does one get a go in this city ??????? I'd like to play to a gay crowd but hey if its comes to the crunch it don't give a rats..

Why we're submissions not called for. All other parties I know of even Inquisition call for them..

As for buying a ticket without the dj line up whats that all about.. I plainly refuse to buy a ticket unless I know that dj's are playing so I don't go and bitch and complain after that I did not enjoy myself.. Along as they have one awsome Hard House dj at the party i'll be goin.. !!!

Happy Sleaze to All and hope it goes off with a bang..

DJ Nick_K bruiser_80@hotmail.com
- Mon 18 Aug 2003 02:13:22

I think you might need a few more gigs under your belt, just so that the punters know who you are and what style of music you play.

My personal DJ picks would include Mandy, Jake Kilby, Alex Taylor, Junior B, Chip, and if there is a small dark and sleazey space somewhere, put LannyK in it at 3am with a couple of hundred dirty boys and girls, close the door and let them cook for a few hours. Oo baby :-)
Evil Twin - Mon 18 Aug 2003 10:13:40

you so won't ever get a chance at a gay party. Unless you are best mates with a promoter who's got the balls to put on a hard house party. And based on how the last Ice party did I don't think you'll find any promoters out there.

You'll have to try the straight world. Tough move 'cause you'll have to go to these parties to get known and the ghetto mentality means most of your gay mates won't want to accompany you. So hope you have straight friends?

Unfortunately the gay music world doesn't take its music seriously. So we're stuck with either crazy eclectic shit or camp handbag or dub tribal (great to fall asleep to).

But keep trying. I'm in the same boat as you (different sound though) and where there's a will there's a way.

Oh, you may get into Icebox if mega lucky but the Phoenix is closed closed closed to newcomers.
Trace-E - Mon 18 Aug 2003 14:47:36

i am currently volunteering with the marketing team for New Mardi Gras and have been very interested to read your views on this board. Yes, we at Mardi Gras do hear everything you have to say.

I'm sorry that the poster has had the negative reaction that it seems to be receiving, but lets look at things a bit differently.

Old Mardi Gras was a different organisation - they went down because they were not in touch with the community and what it stands for. Ultimatley, New Mardi Gras is a community group represented by the people it stands for. The poster, as much as people have villified it stands for the entire community. It represents every cross section of this community which is as a whole what Mardi Gras is.

Mardi Gras has always stood for what it has believed in and fought for the rights on the queer community. So the poster isn't all about the pretty people - so what?? 95% of the community aren't the 'pretty people'. They are everyday guys and girls getting on with things and standing together to seek the same equality.

So the poster may be seen as a bit 'bland' or 'not sexy' but I disagree. Sleaze ball was always meant to go back to it's 1983 roots - and that was dark, sleazy and sexy. The poster connects everyday people with making an effort for them to feel sexy and everyone on that poster IS sexy in someones eyes.

So the poster and theme lacks the glitz and glamour of normal years. Mardi Gras is glitz, Sleaze is sleaze.

Now you may be reading this thinking im an old, dried up hag not in touch with the community but you are very wrong. I am 26, I have partied my arse off around the world and I am one of the so called 'pretty people'. I am standing up for New Mardi Gras's decision to release the poster and for the photographer and art director who worked their butts off to come up with a concept around the theme.

They have done just that and done it bloody well. They should be applauded for going out on a limb rather than conform. I am indebtted to their talents and want to thank them for their efforts in really representing everyone.

The reason i am volunteering at New Mardi Gras was because I was fed up of hearing people my age doing nothing but complain about mardi gras, but doing fluff all about it. I'm 26, have travelled the world partying and moved to Sydney after my experience at Mardi Gras in 2000. People can moan all they want, but instead why not channel that negativity into something useful like giving up some of your time and help us get this organisation back on the tracks. We always are in need of fresh ideas.

Please give any feedback you wish - I am open to all suggestions and comments. They will be listened to and repeated through New Mardi Gras.

Sorry for the novel, but I think some of this needs to be put in perspective.

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
Marketing volunteer, Part time gym bunny and party boy.
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Mon 18 Aug 2003 15:09:13

I like their styles. Ok, so I am a friend but it was their DJ'ing that attracted me so I don't think it's inappropriate to mention friends.
- Mon 18 Aug 2003 15:25:10

The poster is understated and it's got a grainy (sleazy?) finish to it.

I'll go with it. Best to put the polish onto the party, where it belongs.
deep cover - Mon 18 Aug 2003 15:43:49

Where? I've looked around and can't find it. The Mardi Gras website doesn't seem to have it either...
FiremanSam - Mon 18 Aug 2003 22:43:13

Thank you for your reply however my view is still that the poster does not represent Sleaze Ball at all. And clearly I am not alone.

Tonight I spent much time at DIVA (I have to say they did a great Job) I was asking around what people thought of the poster and to my surprise I was not alone in my thoughts. MANY people simply don’t get what “Flesh dressed up” is trying to say. You are making it even harder to sell the whole idea of “Sleaze Ball” and I am aware of the original intent for the event but lets face it if pretty boys don’t go to the event then why again do you want us to go? Are you saying it will be filled with ugly people?

The fact is that we all think we are beautiful and we all want to aspire to something so your comment “So the poster isn't all about the pretty people - so what?? 95% of the community aren't the 'pretty people'” is simply not correct.

I have wanted to put more input to the new organisation but simply I have other commitments and so sending input via this website and emails is how I intend in the short term to contribute to this issue.

I still support what you are doing and I don’t wish to just bag the organisation as I feel it has achieved so much already. I just need to know you are learning something from the past mistakes and successes.

Lastly please don’t forget the Luncheon Club as the really need the money raised from the pass outs system etc. If you give it out to tender and they don’t win it you will take food out of the mouth of people that really need it.
Pride in PR - Tue 19 Aug 2003 01:36:01

com.au/fitinsyd - Mon 18 Aug 2003 16:54:25
priceless. thank you.

can we see Lee in a show?
curious chris - Tue 19 Aug 2003 02:09:44

I take your comments totally onboard. No, I am not saying that the people in the the poster are 'ugly' - far from it. They are just not the usual representation of the queer community that is usually seen on posters for dance parties.

In hindsight this is as much as a test for NMG than anything. This is our first Sleaze and certainly won't be our last!! We also had a very short turnaround time with the theme/poster design.

At the end of the day, the party is going to be fantastic as it always is. If people aren't going to go because a poster isn't very glitzy than i think thats a bit naive really. Wouldn't you rather the money be spent on a cracking party and than NMG be financially viable for the 2004 season than have a glam poster? The poster design and theme is finalised and won't change - so lets get on with the party and enjoy ourselves. I hope to see you all on the dancefloor at some stage!

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
NMG Mardi Gras Market Volunteer

P.s. Thanks for the comments com.au/fitinsyd - i'm in retirement and it was a very very long time ago!!
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Tue 19 Aug 2003 09:41:50

I have just come back from the Uk and pride in the park where I payed 20 pound ($55 aus) and saw Boy george, Mistique and Blue to name a few acts.

Being a camp gay man in sydney I love our G&L partys but for the last few years have felt I have recieved more for my money going to the Big day out seeing 15 live bands and slaming with all the cute grungy boys with their shirts off for $60 bucks.
turning butch - Tue 19 Aug 2003 10:54:59

You are right on. And a new poster would cost $1500 at the most or take submissions from the public to win 10 free tickets to the event if they design a poster that wins.

Involve the community!
Pride in PR - Tue 19 Aug 2003 12:35:32

Maybe Lee.....but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and modesty, in these matters, becomes us all.
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 13:00:22

Having said that, I DO very much like the Ruby posters but the trancey stuff just doesn't do it for me.

We need something tangible to bitch about {:-) bring on the DJ selection!
deep cover - Tue 19 Aug 2003 13:23:32

Most of us make decisions about attendance at iconic dance parties that have stuff all to do with the marketing at the end of the day. It's much more about our memories, perceptions, ideas of belonging, tribal celebration whatever. It's actually there where NMG has to connect with us. The poster's just a bit of paper with a picture on it....I remember Michael Woodhouse stating his commitment to putting the sleaze back into Sleaze. I think that's his continuing point of accountability as far as I'm concerned.
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 13:50:51

Wasn't trying to be big headed or bragging - was just trying to explain that I am trying to see things from all sections of the community and not trying to market to the section that I fit into!!! Please do not personally attack me for trying to get a point across.

Mike and PR - i get your point entirely. All feedback will be brought up at the next Marketing Meeting, but as pointed out there are 46 days to go to Sleaze.

If we re-design, reprint posters, re-align marketing we are looking at another couple of weeks and more money. i would rather see the money going towards a successful 2004 season personally.

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Tue 19 Aug 2003 13:52:50

Personally I find the poster sexy and fun, it makes me want to get along to Sleaze this year, which I have not done for a few years now.
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 15:35:47

You weren't being 'attacked' Lee. It was friendly advice.
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 15:45:17

And to Pride in PR when you say "Involve the community!"...um, did you not notice that the community IS involved? The volunteer marketing committee would presumably consist of community members. The poster design, photograph, and "models" were all community members. The community already is involved - are you?
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 15:45:45

Never take something written on this wall personally. The fact is that we all have different ideas and don’t like it when somebody does not agree with us.

That aside I disagree that the timing and cost you are saying is an issue. Poster re work 48 hours Re print in stages of 4 and you could have a new poster on the street this weekend! I have had to do this for another company before that ran out of budget and I assure you it can be done and very well at that.

Themes could have been: Secret Fantasies, Fairies Forest, Party Animals and the rest of the wall could come up with great ideas also.

I want to be excited about this next party. Your theme does not excite me at all. And you marketing of it via your poster has made the issue worse. Ever looked into the average ager of a party goer? Have you considered how many Boys v’s Girls go? What do you think the average gay boy in his 20’s thinks of seeing a half naked full figured women on the front poster of Sleaze?

More though should have gone into the marketing of this event. I understand the problems NMG is having I really do but accept you have made a mistake. Take note of the posts on this website. Don’t accuse 97% of your party goers of being ugly and let the community help. If you need help just ask.
Pride in PR - Tue 19 Aug 2003 16:14:55

What does that have to do with anything? The world doesn't revolve around gay men.
- Tue 19 Aug 2003 16:19:39

I seriously do not think we were wrong in the theme or poster we have chosen.

The majority of party-goers have been in their early 20's because people outside of that bracket feel intimidated in attending the party. We have had this feedback from a number of community members - this is why the poster choice is justified. The 20 year olds will still go to the party, but hopefully the poster will attract those who have not been to a Sleaze before because there is more of a mix of people rather than just the younger crowd.

There has never been use of the word 'ugly' and I resent it being used. But face it - the community at large is not in their 20's or gym buffed. This is the statement i am trying to get across.

If we sell-out Sleaze and there is a greater mix of the community and less 20 year olds because they are not represented on the poster than so be it. But I bet you now there will be just as many and hopefully some new ones. At the end of the day it is a community party. I am sorry the theme doesn't excite everyone, but the theme for the first Sleaze Ball was just the 'Sleaze Ball' The theme 'Flesh - dressed-up' is going back to basics. As with the 1983 theme it leaves the party-goer with the choice to take the theme in any way they choose. It can be about a 1001 things rather than a set costume ball. Be inventive in other words and let your imagination run riot!

The choice for the theme and poster has been actioned by the entire NMG board. This included people from every age, sex, sexuality, shape and size i.e. the community.

I'm not trying to argue or be pedantic. I totally accept everybody's views and all feedback will be rellated back to NMG and Marketing. The marketing for Sleaze isn't just about the poster either - but you will find out about that over the coming weeks.

Thanks for taking the time to give your feedback - it is greatly appreciated and welcome.

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Tue 19 Aug 2003 16:40:40

Lee , it might have been a long long time ago but some old queens like me, never forget the good old days :)

Oh by the way - COULD EVERYBODY GET OVER THIS POSTER DEBATE AND LETS FOCUS ON MOVING ON TOWARDS MAKING SLEAZE A FUN NIGHT OUT, PLEASE
Peter - Tue 19 Aug 2003 17:03:27

i didn't sing 'on the bible' was in the original formation of the group way before their 'success' with that song. So it wasn't me! I was 18 back than.........

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Tue 19 Aug 2003 17:12:26

Hasn't the NMG website been asking for our help/input towards Sleaze for several months ?
Josh - Tue 19 Aug 2003 17:30:23

http://www.nightclub-business.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&postid=2104#post2104
Andrew - Tue 19 Aug 2003 17:31:06

which Big Day Out did you get to tb? $60 - are you for real??
B - Tue 19 Aug 2003 18:47:26

Pride in PR - Tue 19 Aug 2003 16:14:55

How original you are Pride in PR. These themes are soooo sleazy. I personally can't wait to dress up in my fairy wings.

I can't wait to get to Sleaze in my dressed up flesh. Can you imagine how many bare arses are going to be walking around that night?
Arse out at Sleaze - Tue 19 Aug 2003 18:51:47

Themes were: Fetish Sleaze 1992, Jungle Sleaze 1993
Arti - Tue 19 Aug 2003 22:50:29

I was speaking to a friend who saw some of the individual photos that make up the poster - he thinks they're great - he really appreciates the community element of the posters and thinks the theme's excellent too. soooooo you moaning minnies (mike and pride in PR) stop assuming you speak for the whole community in your rants - because you don't - i think the theme is excellent - sleazy but still a wide scope to interpret it as you want - like the idea of playing up the community element too... NMG should be judged on its results so how bout giving them a break and getting out there and giving them some support... sleaze is shaping up to be a great night out and i can't wait to get out there and shake my deliciously fuzzy butt.

come on boys and girls we're all gorgeous so show a bit of thigh and arse and get out there and strut your beautiful stuff.
deeper harder faster - Wed 20 Aug 2003 09:15:24

Im a full figured woman who will be half naked at Sleaze, and I dont give a shit what the average gay boy in his 20's thinks about it. You guys are not representative of the entire community, and I'm glad the poster recognises our diversity.
party grrrl - Wed 20 Aug 2003 10:39:55

All this fuss over the poster!!!! is it really needed, I mean the poster nor the theme has never SOLD a dance party to me, it has always been the line up (ACTS, DJs) and word of mouth , (how many tickets have been sold) that has convinced me to fork out the money for a party.

The Format of our Sleaze and NMG parties are always being reviewed and critised but are they really being changed that much? i.e big hall, lights, music homo crowd.

Going back to The Big Day out (sorry) ticket sales for this event is huge every year and by the sounds of the few comments that have been made is starting to get the attention of the homo crown as well.

Should we look at embrassing a more str8 feel to some not all of the spaces at fox studio for our parties and have a few more live acts?
getting butch - Wed 20 Aug 2003 13:58:28

Sorry but when the over-whelming majority of attendies to the big parties are gay men I think it does. Especially when the parties need to make money.
- Wed 20 Aug 2003 15:21:29

Thank you Lee there's our answer!!

Lets hope you you put more time into the party production.

I personally think the poster is what creates the excitement to go.

So....lets see how many people go?
- Wed 20 Aug 2003 17:15:06

The big parties for me have always been a celebration of who I am. A celebration of my journey from scared closeted boy to an out and happy homosexual.

I love the parties because they are put on by people I know and people I see out on the scene and people I've made costumes and floats with in the past.

I love the parties because they are put on for us by us.

I can't wait to get there and have a dance with with my friends and the community.

Thank you to all the people who are working hard at the moment to make Sleaze Ball happen.

Now the only problem I have is deciding what to wear. Must wear my fav boots with something very very skimpy ........ mmmmm I'll get to back to you on that
happy happy joy joy 45days to go - Wed 20 Aug 2003 19:53:03

to "show some f........support",
Your magic words """... If the Sleaze poster was all black with just the words Sleaze 04 October - I'd still be there" made me want to join you and your mates at Sleaze 04. I'm serious, how will I find you?

to "Wed 20 Aug 2003 17:15:06", try uppers until you feel like the above|
- Wed 20 Aug 2003 20:53:52

You make one or two valid points in your post, however, is there really any need to accuse poeple of not having a life just because they have an opinion ?
- Thu 21 Aug 2003 11:42:26

Regards,

Lee Jenkins
NMG Marketing Volunteer - Thu 21 Aug 2003 15:20:17

What a fantastic idea to simply put the words "SLEEZE 2003" on a poster and go with that. Simple gets the point out and promotes a party and not a theme that may in fact have little to do with the party at all and cause a distraction to ticket sales.

As for the people that thought my examples of themes were bad. Well maybe they are but other years have done similar as some of you posted. The fairies Forest idea could have been pics of hairy older men with fairy wings on only like the Fishermen’s friend mint ad on TV. Who knows … simply giving an idea that would have required more thought.

Some people agree with my thought about who majority of the party goers are and I think if you have been to the event in the last 6 years at least you would see that I am right. I am in no way attacking Lesbians or anything like that but the comment about having a Boys only area and a Girls only tent are in fact a good idea and I loved it the one year I went.

I feel the thoughts of the people on this board are very constructive and will help the organisation (NMG) make future decisions.
Pride in PR - Thu 21 Aug 2003 16:41:22

Lee dont step over the line... you are NOT the head of the NMG... Diane should make a weekley statement or something if she can to support what you are saying
- Thu 21 Aug 2003 16:44:35

oh, that's right ...
Freud - Thu 21 Aug 2003 21:19:01
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

Did Pinkboard make ANY effort to verify the statement ?
- Thu 21 Aug 2003 22:41:07
That message is written as if it is a statement of fact. The graffiti walls are about opinions and rumours. Nothing written here should be accepted without independent verification. Pinkboard does not have the resources to verify such statements. Notation

Get off your butt.

Surely you can investigate the truth or otherwise of every single post on these walls.

What do you think we are paying you for???!!!!
Oh so reasonable one - Fri 22 Aug 2003 15:27:19

MEOW ! I've put a fresh saucer of milk out for you ! ;o)
Josh - Fri 22 Aug 2003 21:00:02

On the subject of DJ submissions, my mate said that he sent an email to wherever you send email to when you want to DJ at Sleaze and has not recieved any response back. Is this ok at this point in time?
Dj l-o-v-e-r - Sat 23 Aug 2003 08:06:18

So a DJ is sleeping with the Party Director ! So What !

You've now dragged this poor volunteers name thru the mud............and guess
what ? they haven't even named the DJ's ! ! !

Pathetic.

Slag Sleaze , slag NMG , slag the Party Director A-F-T-E-R the DJ's are announced after the Party - but for fvcks sake give them a go.

Besides is Shigecki a bad DJ ? maybe in your opinion ? but not others ?

I'm bemoaning the fact the Pride wont be using the Hordern for NYE. Their ignoring the partygoers complaints over the last couple of years mean we end up with some piss ant party in a club/much smaller venue.
Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa - Sat 23 Aug 2003 08:58:23

I have enjoyed the contributions of all the DJ's over the years. But the one thing I ask is that we are provided with a variety. There was one year where all halls were playing the same thing. In fact I heard the same track in several halls.

Is there a possibility of a remixed retro classics hall?
Up & coming DJ - Sat 23 Aug 2003 12:51:03

and please drop the shigeki pay out. he can dj, and do you really think you would sleep with (and essentially live with) a promoter in the hope that you would get gigs - maybe you are showing off a little of your personality and not his. the issue with shigeki was that he was on the small committee that selected him to play, not that he sleeps with a NMG senior member. however he delivered, and if you remember, didn't get paid.

i am not a shigeki fan nor a shigeki disliker, but i am not into indiscriminate and ill-informed slander (which given the business nature of a dj these days, what you suggest IS). go and check him out as he can play ok

can we stop saying hot good-looking djs are? PLEASE. they play music. listen to it for a change and stop looking at them. do we need a danny tenaglia styled tinted wall for djs to play behind so djs don't have to deal with this crap or be judged this way (or alternatively get gigs based on looks if they can't play for quids or play dreadful music). it really isn't flattering. if you want to hear a dj who only looks good, suggest to your local strip club that they get dj themed strippers and stay out of the dance parties

in response to bruce who? comment....
bruce dixon has been around for longer than many of us and has loads of skill.
didn't i win the award for biggest bitch at divas - jimmy who? - Sat 23 Aug 2003 16:32:58
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

I have on 2 occassions at the last 2 Mardi Gras's submitted to Mardi Gras the importance to provide a space where the DJ's played exclusively mainstream pop dance music that covered say the previous 10 years.

So many people going to the big parties are not "week in week out" clubbers and for alot of these people Sleaze and Mardi Gras are the only nights of the year they have a big night out. So many of these people dont get catered for musically and quite frankly they should.

The last 2 mardi Gras's I have submitted a proposal based on playing the best of handbag music from 1990-2002 in a smaller space (eg City Live). Both times unfortunately the proposal was declined. Never fear , I will try again at MG 2004.
A long time established DJ - Sat 23 Aug 2003 16:52:33

Love the idea.
AxA - Sat 23 Aug 2003 21:23:47

Faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaabulous idea. I'd be there from start to finish too.
self-confessed pop freak - Sun 24 Aug 2003 12:04:03

Thats one of the best party ideas i've seen on pinkboard in a long long time. Mardi Gras are blind if they can't see the potential of this idea.
Anthems rule ! - Sun 24 Aug 2003 14:10:05

The most basic point to be taken from all of this is that if you think you can do a better job and want to be involved, then damn well volunteer your services to New Mardi Gras, a not-for-profit organisation that is aiming to give as much as it can to our community.

There are various different volunteer groups that are doing their best to put this party together for you. Each and every one of them deserves respect simply for donating so much of their time. All these people have full-time jobs and many of them study as well.

I love the poster for Sleaze. I think it is a great cross-section of the community. There is someone on there for everybody, including a hunky, half naked guy (in the braces - for those that think there are no muscly boys on there)and they are all sexy in their own way. How dare anyone say otherwise. Who's to say that half of Sydney wouldn't look at you (the people bitching about the attractiveness of the people in the poster) and say they thought you were unnatractive?

All in all, the poster has been a huge success. You are all talking about it incessantly aren't you? That's what marketing is all about, baby...
fly on the wall at salisbury - Sun 24 Aug 2003 15:30:42