issue 129 - OCTOBER 2009 MAG.BENT.

COM

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7 7 1 7 42 3 0 3 0 0 1
ISSN 1742-3030

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Aqua
The Barbie Girl clan are back
Clairvoyant

Tony
Stockwell
Do you believe?

DJ Filthy Rich
Secret of success

Bears Aloud
Grrr - hairy, camp and a hoot.
It’s No 1
it’s… No 1
They say that there is nothing new in clubbing these days
and that everything has to be retro to catch on… but that
isn’t the thinking behind Manchester latest club No 1.
Although there will be a ‘tipping-the-hat’ in the direction
of what the Number 1 club was like in the past, the new
format is aimed at bringing a whole new concept to
the north’s primary party capital. There will be glamour,
trannies, pussies and studs… twinks and hunks and
spunks with a fair sprinkling of androgynous waifs.
Some are calling it The Clubbing Revolution (and they
don’t mean taking it out on baby seals) with something
spectacular, interesting, vital and fun once you pass
through its hallowed portal. If you don’t want to sleep
then get along to Manchester’s latest offering… it’s not
called No 1 for nothing.

www.no1club.co.uk.

2
OCT 2009
 BEARS ALOUD
Page 20

AQUA
Page 15

OCTOBER 2009 ISSUE 129

Publisher: Terry George
Editor: Gordon Hopps
Features Editor: Adam Lowe
London Editor: Simon Savidge
Cover: Jools Newsome
Courtesy: TerryGeorge.co.uk
Designer: Graham Goddard
(www.lexio.co.uk)
Photo Editor: Mark Hawkins,
Contributors: Beyonce, Adrian Gillan, Lee Hudson, Chris
Geary,Terry George, Chris Amos, Jarrett James, Dino
BWO Gamecho, Jason Guy, Johan Volny, Bryan Herb, Les Lea
Page 16
Astrologer: Philip Garcia
Editorial: [email protected]
Advertising: [email protected]
Accounts: [email protected]
Design: [email protected]

Editor's words ADVERTISING

Advertising Director: Darrell Hirst
I was watching Coronation Street the lesbian kiss. Again outrage occurred 08712 246 529 [email protected]
other day, it was the first time in over and a disgruntled public complained
10 years since I’d sat down to watch a more about that than the storyline THE NEXT ISSUE IS OUT 27th OCTOBER
soap… and unfortunately, it will be at where a murdered man was buried Publishing Director: Michael Rothwell
least another 10 years before I tune in under his own patio. Of course, the Finance Director: Ian Ellis
again. I know we gayers are supposed newspapers are always keen to stir
Accounts: Louise Lee
to be infatuated with ‘soaps’ but I up a perceived ‘outrage’ and there are
began to wonder – Why? Do all soaps only too many organisations who will 08712 246 516
treat there gay characters the way complain about anything – given half IT Support: Dan Slatford
Corras does – shallow stereotypes? the chance. “What about the children?” Distribution and Availability Enquiries:
I know that looking for short cuts they bleat not realising that it only 08712 246 529
when developing characters makes becomes a problem when parents Clubs & Bars Distribution: Dale Express
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instantly know where that character is Web: www.mag.bent.com
coming from and what that particular Thankfully, we have made progress. Basic annual rate: UK: £36.00
person is like. However, short cuts Thankfully, we have organisations who International: Call: +44 113 3449529 for prices
also mean that the actor is stuck in a are equally vociferous in challenging
character that can’t go anywhere or, the negative and promoting the Bent Ltd. APN House, Temple Crescent,
more importantly for me, a character positive. Thankfully, there are Leeds LS11 8BP
that cannot be taken seriously. I’m individuals who put their reputation Telephone: 08712 246 511
sure that an eight year old Macaulay first innocent gay kiss in Eastenders on then line every time they fight for Fax: 08701 222 666
Culkin clutching his fingers to his provoked the kind of backlash that yours and my rights… just to be who
© Copyright, Bent Ltd. 2009. No Part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in an electronic or other retrievable system, or transmitted by any
face when he realises with horror the the BBC were none too keen on but we are. Perhaps I shouldn’t be so hard form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photo-copying, recording
or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher. Advertisers
predicament he’s in when he’s been they stuck with it and developed a on soaps actors who are only doing a are reminded of their obligations under the 1984 Trade Protection Act.
left Home Alone is quite passable. pretty believable couple in Colin and job that entertains… I think the worry is…
Advertisers are responsible for the content of their copy under the terms
of the Act. The appearance or mention of any establishment, product,
A 40 year old gay man in a gay club Barry. When questions get asked in we don’t want to go backward either. individual or organisation within this publication, should not be taken as an
doing the same when he realises he’s Parliament about something on a soap
endorsement by the publishers of the same unless otherwise stated. The
appearance, mention or likeness of any individual or organisation within
left his ‘straight’ mate in the hands of you know it has hit a nerve. One that this magazine should not be construed as an indication of either the sexual
a group of gay footballers… doesn’t the makers of the show could so easily Hugs preference or political persuasion of the same, unless otherwise stated.

Gordon
Contributions are welcomed on the understanding that any unsolicited
really work. have pulled away from and to their manuscripts that they may be published without further correspondence,
with a fee (if applicable) paid at standard rates as specified by Bent Ltd.
Having said all that, I do realise that, credit, they didn’t - although images Work cannot be returned to the author unless agreed by the publisher.
over the years, many soaps have of tenderness between the pair were
taken on gay issues and run with never again exploited to any extent. And finally…
them often putting up with a great Brookside was more ‘in-yer-face’ than
deal of criticism in the process. I’m any other soap, so it was really no Remember… the latest survey shows A product of a sustainable resource
sure the publicity surrounding that surprise when they went for the first that three out of every four people
make up 75% of the population.

4
OCT 2009
 BENT
BUZZ
MEANays to
10^w lover
leave your
Learning Move while he’s in hospital.

a Lesson
Erase all his browser memory.
Change your name from Gary to Gladys.
By Trey Lefferson Book a holiday for one.
“Disco is not dead,” declares Barton.
“I hear a lot of music on the radio today that is
Send him an text saying that it’s over.
very clearly disco derivative, inspired by classics like
ABBA’s “The Visitors”, Yello’s “Vicious Games” or Grace Run up huge bills on his credit cards.
Jones’“Feel Up”.”
Barton, one of the new breed of American out
singers, aims to add a few of his own songs to the Tell him you’ve
list of tracks that will endure on gay dance floors. taken Holy
Two of his singles have already become staples:
the dark extended mix of “Take Me Up” (featured
orders
on the soundtrack of the film “Boy Culture”) and
his ascendant dub of “To Call My Own”. Shag his
Is he worried about his limited success? “I am not uglier
brother.
and never intend to be a Madonna or a Depeche
Mode” he says. “I’m incredibly lucky to be able
to make music that I love. I will be known and
appreciated well by some people – not all – and
that is exactly right for me.” Shag his dad.
What lessons have you learned as an openly gay
artist? Tell him it is
You have to take the risk to truly be yourself in
order to find what’s worthwhile. him, not you!
Is it still difficult for an out-artist to break into
mainstream?
Gay or straight, there’s a lot of competition
for a musician. A friend who works for a major
record label calls part of what he does for a living
“pushing people through the looking glass”. That’s
not what I wanted when I set out to do music. Doing

Passwords
things on my own terms is important for me.
How does the new album Lessons Learned
compare with your 2008 release, Formative?
Hearing the two albums next to each other
is a little like watching a flower open up. The
production values and vocal arrangements are far

a n t s
richer and more complex on the new album. Also,

e l i k e p
it was a more collaborative effort. I co-wrote many

a r
of the new songs with some exceptional artists. You
start to hear with other people’s ears when you work
with other talent.
What was the inspiration behind the last
single, On The Beach?
I was in Provincetown, walking alone on the beach
with the waves crashing and the sun beating
down. I looked up and I noticed the moon was in
the sky! It made me reflect on all the elements
around me so, while soaking in the wonders
around me, I started thinking about a man I loved,
who I missed, and longed to be with. I imagined
seeing him on the beach in front of me.
What’s your favorite track on the album?
The one that speaks to me the most “Nothing
Lasts Forever”. It’s about how our lives are finite
and the importance of capturing the beauty in
each experience.
The notion of celebration seems to be a
common theme in most of your songs. Why is
celebration important to you?
That’s due to the influence of late 70’s disco, which
was all about celebrating being yourself. Artists
like Sylvester, who made music in San Francisco
where Lessons Learned was recorded, used his
music to take people to a higher place. That is
something I aspire to do in my music.
Does the gay community have reason to celebrate?
can see them
We certainly do. The gay community is finally uniting
as a group to battle important civil rights issues.
ld n’t le ave th em out where people
What words do you live by? You shou them regularly
Listen to your own voice. You should change strangers!
loan them out to
And you shouldn’t
To learn more about Barton, visit Netspheres.net.

Photo: Felix Drobek

6
OCT 2009
 •F RIENDS•FRIENDS•F
NDS RIE
THE
S • FR FRIENDSHIPS
IE COURSE
ND
S•
FR
E ND IE
N
RI
Friendships
F are important to everyone. As gay menDit S•
S•
can be difficult to build friendships outside of the social
D

FR
EN

IE
RI

scenes we are involved in, and get support for ourselves.

ND
•F

S•
DS

The Friendships Course is a one day course that will help

FR
EN

you to look at what you want from friendships, increase

IEN
FRI

your skills to make and keep friends and look at how to

DS•
DS•

end friendships without confrontation.

FRIE
IENDS•FRIEN

NDS•FRIENDS
We are running
The Friendships Course
in cities throughout
DS•FR

England. All places on the

course are free of charge.

•FRI
The course starts at
EN

EN
10am and finishes
FRI

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at 5pm.
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BSL interpreters available by arrangement

Book your place online at www.gmfa.org.uk/national or call 020 7738 3712

Saturday 10th October Saturday 17th October Saturday 24th October Saturday 31st October
City Agency City Agency City Agency City Agency
Leicester Trade Liverpool Armistead Centre Birmingham THT Midlands Bristol THT West
London GMFA Brighton THT South Newcastle MESMAC North East
Manchester LGF Leeds Yorkshire MESMAC Nottingham Healthy Gay Nottingham
Norwich TEN Sheffield Centre for HIV and Sexual Health Southampton GCHS

GMFA courses delivered nationally in partnership with

 e d
Photo: Chris Jepson

m
REVIEW
bent
bites

Lady Boy F r a
Crowned
y C l i f t
Eight glamourous ladyboys from
across the globe competed to be
Mont gomer actor.
an film
crowned queen of Lady Boy 2009 -
a s a n Americ orking-
the campest beauty contest of the 966) w ive w rd
– July, 1 rooding, sensit Academy Awa
year - at the Mango Tree in London. r, 1920 b r
(Octobeknown for his e received fou
Unveiling their talents before VIP He was aracter roles. H career.
is
class ch tions during h hieved
and celebrity guests including
nomina , Clift ac
Gabrielle, Beverley Knight and t th e a ge of 13 r 10 years
ya fo
Dame Kelly Holmes, the eight fierce roadwa d starred there in 1948’s Red
ng on B n ng
and fabulous contestants took Appeari on the stage a wood, debuti
y
part in three rounds to complete success oving to Holl yne.
m a
the competition. Starting with the before posite John W
River op Clift an
‘creativity’ category - imagination was d made n
the only limitation, as the teasing u g e s u ccess an type of man o an
a s ah a n e w e ra b le m
temptresses displayed their most w ie d ln
This film it. He embod ensual and vu men alike.
h d
avant-garde handmade outfits. instant e beautiful, s to women an
th l
The sensational sexy ‘swimwear’ screen, med to appea
round followed before ‘evening that see Place in
lor in A
dress’ brought the competition to a E li z a b eth Tay standard for
with ew
closefitting climax. The overall winner scenes nted a n
was Miss Garcia from Vennezuela. His love (1951) represe
n
the Su e in cinema
www.mangotree.org.uk e would
romanc ls and h
e s D e an’s ido voice”.
f Jam to hear
his
s one o
Clift wa es call Clift “just
som eti m heavily
e to rely
Desert Island Dick road ac
After a ription drugs
s c
cid e n t, C lift cam ol to relieve
and alc
oh
With a new single about to be released and on p re
.
rumours of a possible reunion with Take his pain looks a
nd his
That, Robbie Williams still seems to be one of
e a n t both hisne – he often
the nation’s favourite pop stars. A survey by iction m p decli
PRS for Music has revealed that Robbie is the His add began a stee ng his lines.
ri
ultimate choice of male star to be taken on a memory ble remembe
u
had tro lated
desert island with Kylie being top of the charts s an iso
for our female companion. th a t Clift wa an who used
lso sa id gay m .
It was a ured, closeted scape his pain
and tort d alcohol to e
n
drugs a ving
also ha
ro e , w ho was time,
Mo n t th e
Marilyn al problems a ft as “ The only
n
emotio described Cli worse shape
ly in
famous know who is
I
person .”
m
than I a
Apology for Turing
Alan Turing cracked the Nazis’ Enigma code and atr ic ia
h write
Boswort e accident Mo s
s in her ty
n
P e fo re th e s s a ff air
shortened World War 2. He pioneered artificial book, “B ed into countl It suited
ft .
intelligence and is regarded as the father of had dri n and women sex with a
e
computing. with m onality to have
Unfortunately, Turing’s life came to a premature and his pers f partners.
o
tragic end. In 1952 he was tried and convicted for variety
n’t
ing: I do
gross indecency after his homosexual relationship
Top Male Choice Top Female Choice q u o te d as say as either
with a 19-year-old Mancunian. His punishment was a He is lled
be labe ual.
choice between jail and probation on the condition Robbie Williams Kylie Minogue want to or a heterosex ing. We
s y it
of chemical castration via oestrogen. He chose the a pan g is so self-lim at we
h
latter but it ruined his life. He suffered severe side Labellin t we do, not w
effects and the consensus is that his conviction Ellis Rich, chairman, PRS for Music, said: “Ever since the are wha re.
a
led to his suicide a year later. After a petition heady days of Take That Robbie has had a special place say we
supported by major public figures, entertainers in the UK public’s heart and he’s a good choice for desert
and GLBT activists, Prime Minister Gordon Brown island companion. With Kylie the top female choice, perhaps
has apologised for the part the government of the the time is right for another Robbie-Kylie duet before that
day played in hounding the great man. He said; “On rumoured reunion!”.
behalf of the British government, and all those who PRS for Music collects royalties on behalf of its 60,000 members
live freely thanks to Alan’s work I am very proud to in the UK whenever their music is used.
say: we’re sorry, you deserved so much better.”

8
OCT 2009
Taste rainbow...
Photo courtesy of fitlads.tv
the

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...tast
n fitlads to play with.
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 REVIEW
Bites “Here Come The Girls”
Here Comes the Girls is centred on the three
superstar voices - Lulu, Anastacia and Chaka
Khan - each with their own unique sense of style,
humour and musical heritage. Celebrating all
that it means to be a woman – the laughter, the
lost loves and the true loves, the yearning, the
celebrating, friendship and family - the show
mixes great music, laughter, tears, glamour, joy
with bit of mischief for good measure! You will
sing along to songs that are the soundtrack of
your lives – and we defy anyone not to dance,
dance, dance!

www.herecomethegirls.org
www.gigsandtours.com
www.ticketmaster.co.uk

November Dates:
21st Edinburgh Usher Hall
23rd Newcastle City Hall
24th Liverpool Philharmonic
26th Sheffield City Hall
27th Swindon Oasis
28th Bristol Colston Hall
30th Cardiff Arena

December Dates:
2nd HMV Hammersmith Apollo
3rd Brighton Centre
4th Oxford New Theatre
8th Nottingham Royal Centre
10th Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
12th Bournemouth Intl Centre
13th Plymouth Pavilions
14th Portsmouth Guildhall
16th Manchester Apollo
17th Birmingham Symphony Hall
18th Hull City Hall
20th Blackpool Opera House
21st Belfast Waterfront

Sex and
Money
In their most revealing
series to date, Current TV
will be providing a real
insight into the vices of
the 21st century in the
documentary Sex and
Money. The show includes:

‘Ramone’ shows us the

‘chicken run’ in Leeds; a
Tummy Trouble
casting call for male escorts If, like me, you have trouble losing that set of
and prostitutes. ‘love handles’ that seem to have arrived while
you weren’t looking, 2(x)ist have come up with a
Checks out a web site bit of a solution. Providing you’re not asking the
connecting ‘Sugar Babies’ impossible, their new Form series of underpants
with Sugar Daddies and have a 6” elastic waistband that helps retain and
asks “Is this dating or hold firm some of that excess. Now I know what
prostitution?” you’re thinking, “I aint wearing no damn girdle”
Savannah Sinclair is a career but, I have historical proof that wearing such

Kingdom Cum
prostitute, talking about how a benign piece of clothing has been a boon to
websites like Gumtree have men. In literature, girdles are often portrayed
changed her industry. as magical, giving power and strength if worn
Anna Span, a feminist who by men. For example, Odysseus wears a girdle,
makes porn, she talks about Those lovely people at Squirt have brought out a terrific fun little game which allows him to swim for three days
making porn by women for for all you pervy cruisers. If you’ve never tried Squirt before you can play straight, and a girdle worn by Thor doubles
women. this game, and by avoiding the hedgehogs (?) and getting it on with your his strength. Doesn’t that make you feel better
Transmission: 26th October fellow cruisers, you can rack up points that gives you access to the site for a trial about strapping yourself in?
@ 10pm - Sky Channel 183/ period. Why Super Mario never went down this route is beyond me! The Form by 2(x)ist
Virgin 155 www.squirtgame.com available from www.deadgoodundies.com
10
OCT 2009
 interview
dj filthy rich by JASON GUY

Filthy Rich
As a talented Producer/DJ Filthy
Rich’s innovative sound has
made him undeniably one of the
country’s finest DJs today. A
promising figure looming out
from the crowd, Rich is the
complete package. Effortlessly
leaving his contemporaries
behind, he leaps and bounds into
a league of his own laughing
to himself as he does it. This is
because Rich knows that the
secret to getting this far – is
playing music that he loves, for
people to dance to.
Without dictating to the crowd, Rich has become
popular with everyone from the techno train-spotter,
to the handbag honey through his envy-inducing
music. His tight mixes and twisted sounds mean
nothing is ever a disappointment. Flying between
everything from sleazy tech-house, to dirty minimal,
to irresistible electro with an old classic thrown in just
because he can, Rich delivers such perfection it hurts.
Springing from his early dreams of dance music via a
backstreet upbringing of filth, Rich has clawed his way
to the top, earning such prestigious residencies as the
international Kissdafunk, the glamorous Hat Club to
the dark and dirty Very Very Wrong Indeed. He has now
smashed it home with bi-monthly dates at Ministry of
Sound, proving he has the ability to top his cake with
more than one shiny sweet cherry.

Filthy Rich fame is quickly spreading around the world,

in the last year his international dates have included
such far-flung destinations as Dubai, Shanghai, Russia,
Serbia, South Korea, Manilla and Bahrain, to name a
few plus regular appearances at Alter Ego in Italy, MOS
in Ukraine and of course not forgetting old friend Ibiza.

Documenting his talent, he has laid down a

discography of over 50 productions and remixes. In
addition to being played on Radio One and gaining
support from the likes of Steve Lawler, Tiesto and
Carl Cox, he has also completed successful remixes
for the likes of Sidney Samson, Dave Armstrong and
Seamus Haji. With more production work than he
knows what to do with, he has also found the time
and determination to start building his own empire,
Control Freq records. Rich will use this as a springboard
for home-grown talent, as well as releasing his own
productions.

The future can only hold more tempting offerings from

this boy with his thirst for new music and undoubtedly
many more tricks up his sleeve. Rich gains strength
Photo: www.ben-thomas.com

from his diversity and will keep on giving and giving

until the crowd is screaming for mercy. With not a
spare date in sight for the next 6mnths one thing is
clear… the future is looking very Filthy!

During October Filthy Rich has 2 releases out. His own

release – Luvstruck (www.floorplaymusic.com/013/)
and his remix of ‘Overdrive’ by Disfunktion out on
Audiodamage.

Find out more at www.djfilthyrich.co.uk or

www.myspace.com/filthyrichuk

12
OCT 2009
 REVIEW
MUSIC
by JASON GUY
me
r you can catch
During Octobe w at the No 1 Club

Wanna hear you say

ksho
playing at Frea (www.clubfreakshow.
in Manchester n Blackpool on the

David Jordan
com), Federatio th regular sets at
17th, along wi also try and get a
I’ll
Fibre in Leeds. loaded by the time
new podcast up mes out to www.
co
this magazine omatic.com
jasonguy.pod

Forthcoming
At just 23 years of age, Barnet born In a fortuitous twist of fate, Jordan’s
David Jordan is serious hot property guest vocal on a track happened
on the UK singer/songwriter scene. to fall into the hands of music
Stemming from the almighty Trevor producer Trevor Horn.  Horn

releases
Horn production stable, which instantly recognised that he’d
brought global success to the stumbled upon something special
likes of Frankie Goes to Hollywood and snatched up the talented artist
and Seal, Jordan’s 2007 debut immediately.  Eighteen months
album, ‘Set The Mood’, reached an later, the result was a debut hit
impressive No.16 in the UK album
charts.  Standout performances
at The Royal Variety Performance,
Al Murray’s Happy Hour and ITV’s
selling and a gold selling album.

That was in 2007 and now David

TRACK M of the onth
Jordan is back.   ‘(Don’t Wanna’)
Loose Women have also proven
Jordan to be an untouchable live
Hear You Say’ is the first single to be
taken from his highly anticipated
4 Medina
performer. second album and delivers the You And I (Parlophone)
amazing vocals encased around Undoubtedly one of the biggest tracks of the year for me with
The Ethos of David Jordan is to vibrant stomping beats and an some of the biggest crowd reactions I’ve seen during my gigs
make music bigger and better infectious melody. at Manchester Pride. With its dirty sub bass, lush strings, and
than anything else you’ve haunting vocals, this track has all the hallmarks of being a
experienced before. For Jordan The single ‘(Don’t Wanna) Hear You classic. Stand out mix comes from the ever reliable Deadmau5...
music is a 3D adventure, which Say’ is released 26th October on his trademark sound fitting perfectly with Medina’s vocals.
spans the spectrum of outstanding Flingdown. Spencer & Hill beef up the beats for the electro floors too.
visual image and incredible live
performance, hand-in-hand
with a uniqueness of sound that For more info visit www.myspace.
excites audiences everywhere.  His com/davidjordanofficial
childhood influences were also
diverse and slightly unusual for a
4 Ruff Driverz presents Arrola
child of the 90s, with idols Dreaming 2009 (Maelstrom)
including a mix of rock, A massive tune for Ruff Driverz (Brad Carter & Chris Brown) back in the
soul and classic artists late 90s, Dreaming was the flamenco inspired dancefloor hit featuring
such as, The Jackson the vocals of Katherine Ellis. Now here are the 2009 versions. Hoxton
5, Marvin Gaye, Jimi Whores turn out an electro-tinged number, filled with bleeps and
Hendrix, Guns n punchy riffs. Hot Slovenian producer, Beltek, is up next encasing the
Roses, Prince, Lenny vocal with synth keys and making full use of the breakdown. And if
Kravitz, Fred Astaire you’re into hard dance or Tech House, there are mixes to suit you too.
and Gene Kelly.

4 Recall 22
Subimos Juntos (Champion)
OK, so this is 2 remakes of an old dance track in one column,
but this one is less well known. Go back to the late 90s and
Subimos Juntos (We Rise Together) was one of the Ibizan
floorfillers. 2 great remixes and it’s tough to choose between
them... If electro is your thing head for the Pablo Decoder
Mix.... I prefer the Arabica housy mix, which keeps everything
that made the original to great – a great breakdown along
with a huge, chunky uplifting groove.

4 Duck Sauce
Anyway (Data Records)
Duck Sauce are Armand Van Helden and A-Trak and
have produced probably the most infectious track of
the year so far. Here, they’ve melding the spirit of classic
disco house with modern day production thump and
clever new twists. It reminds me of so many things
yet I can’t quite put my finger on it... a slice of upbeat
sunshine, New York style, and is certainly reminiscent of
Armand’s older productions such as You Don’t Know Me
and Full Moon.

4 Wally Lopez ft Hadley

Burning Inside
Progressive house, but in the more gay friendly version
played at the likes of Matinee and SuperMartxe. Spanish
DJs and producers Tikaro, J Louis and Ferran deliver a
trademark hands in the air remix, with a driving baseline
and plenty of percussion, alongside a great female
vocal from Hadley. Although this one will surely be
remembered for the haunting violin breakdown (its
sounds much better than you think!)

13
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 REVIEW by adam lowe
MUSIC

ALBUMS

SINGLES
5ALEXANDRA BURKE
Bad Boys Ft Flo-Rida
Out: 12th October
5TREVOR LOVEYS OK, we know she’s a winner of a TV talent show and that doesn’t always
Body Jack bode well for a career in music. However, this is a pumping number
that drives a rather strong vocal in a plea for more Bad Boys… and
Out: 12th October
who can blame the girl. The production, arrangement and just about
Trevor Loveys is something of an underground favourite with music everything about this single looks certain to make this a sure fire… and
lovers, including bloggers and critics. Loveys’ is a brand of edgy, worthwhile… hit. Keep an eye out for her album ‘Overcome’ at the end
beat-driven dance that was once niche and now is troubling sound of the month it’s a belter. Hallelujah !
engineers all over the world. As one half of production duo Switch
he reworked tracks by Basement Jaxx, Chemical Brothers and Busta
Rhymes. Body Jack is his first compilation album with remixes of Bloc
Party and Roisin Murphy making this perfect for any gay household.
3GRUM
Heartbeats
3JAYBEE Out: 26th October
Graeme Shepherd, AKA Grum, is
Sussex Cowboy a Scottish dancefloor destroyer,
Out: 5th October who follows ‘Sound Reaction’ and
Sussex Cowboy is worth ‘Runaway’ with this Justice-meets-
buying just for the comedy Mylo concoction that clearly shows
value alone. ‘The Ballad of off its Daft Punk and Human League
Bonnie & Billy’, for example, influences. This is crossover-tastic
includes the line ‘Billy wakes delicious, with French house, Italo
up in another man’s bed’. disco and pop all slapped together in
Other highlights include raide-the-roof club loveliness.
‘Blind Date’ (about the joys of
internet dating) and ‘Brokeback
Mountain’, where Ang Lee’s
cowboys head down to Devil’s
Dyke in the middle of a rave.
Pop meets country meets 3LULU & THE LAMPSHADES
electro meets pissed pants.
Feet to the Sky
Out: 18th October
Plastic cups, paintbrushes and gramophones
are just some of the tools used to make this
4FEVER RAY weirdo-pop single, which was conceived on
a New Year’s Eve bike ride to Paris at 4am.
Fever Ray – The Double Disc It’s playful, wacky and melodic, with air-
Edition glockenspiels for all those that think a record
Out: 12th October has to have one to be respectable (not that
Fever Ray – The Double Disc Edition anyone would). Multi-instrumentalism is their
is a collector’s edition of the hit forte and originality the product, so give this
album with a few covers and a DVD one a spin and enjoy.
thrown in for good measure. Those
who aren’t die-hard collectors
probably won’t care that much
about the extras, but the extras
may be a nice bonus for those
who can’t quite decide whether
the album is worth their money.
Of course, those who bought the
single disc edition might be rightly
3CROOKERS
pissed if they have to fork out again Put Your Hands on Me
Out: 5th October
Crooker are a Milan duo with
slam down hip-house mojo
4GYRATORY SYSTEM sluicing all over their decks.
Their whole ethos is to make
The Sound-Board Breathes crooked, wonky music—a task
Out: 26th October them accomplish with relish.
Kraftwerk meets Looney Tunes, says This dancehall rap-infused single
NME, and it’s almost too obvious features the sugary vocals of
a comparison. There are definite Carla Marie Williams and the
Europop elements, but also surreal MCing talents of Xenomania. This
voltas of dusty 19th Century beat-driven mash-up works well
instrumentals. This is layered, manic, and serves as a nice introduction
chilling, rampant and elemental to a team otherwise known only
in turns, but overall the sound is for their popular remix of Kid
unique and fresh, proving that Cudi’s ‘Day & Night’.
modern music can be as much an
art as it was two hundred years ago.

14
OCT 2009
 5Haçienda Acid House
Classics
Creating the world of dance music as we

Turning Back Time

know it today, The Haçienda became an all
encompassing way of life for its founders,
creators and the clubbers who all came to
call it their own. Marking 21 years of the
genre and the club’s seminal involvement
It seems only yesterday, and yet strangely so long ago, that the airwaves were filled with the sound since its heady early days, Haçienda Acid
of ‘Barbie Girl’ and the blissful pure pop of Aqua. Then, two albums later, they sadly split leaving the House Classics presents a selection of tracks
gay public grieving… but now they are back with their Greatest Hits and new single ‘Back To The handpicked and mixed by Hooky to portray
80’s’ to once more reign as pioneers of pop. Simon Savidge went to meet them and discuss, fall out’s, the definitive sound of Acid House and The
reunions, solo careers and if they ever got annoyed singing ‘Barbie Girl’? Haçienda. Spread over two CDs, this album
collates many of the biggest Acid House
It’s quite weird meeting some pop people, especially Aqua I had to find myself a bit and there wasn’t quite moments from this time.
when they were a big part of your youth and Aqua the space to do that. Who was I? What did I want to
were such with mine. In fact, I spent most of their do? You know I was straight from college when Aqua
pop reign drunk and dancing to them in various gay started so it was tough. It was pretty much - meet a Out: 5th October - Label: New State Music
bars and clubs. So I am happy to admit when I met producer, write a hit, meet a producer write a hit and To be in with a chance to win a copy of this
Claus, Soren, Rene and Lene… I was a little star struck. while I enjoyed it in parts… it was also scary.” I ask CD just answer this simple question:
“Hug me please,” Lene says, “we are a very huggy if she found it weird that her singles, Pretty Young Which band was Peter Hook the bass
band… we don’t really do hand shakes, it’s all hugs Thing and Here We Go, have been covered by Tina player for?
and kisses.” Rene asks which magazine it is “Bend Cousins and Girls Aloud. “Wow you know your pop! I
Over Magazine… wow (laughs) oh Bent Magazine? didn’t know that.” Rene looks shocked. “Did you just
I like Bend Over, I could do your health pages and say that he knows his cock?” Lene raises her eyebrows
be Doctor Bend Over Please, sorry it’s the jetlag in mock despair. “No I didn’t…” she winks at me “though
and no sleep” and with that we sit down with a few I am sure he does” and they all start laughing.
beverages and a chat. In order to calm them all down I ask if they missed
Back in 1997 the rise of Aqua in the UK was a each other during the break. Rene looks over at the
very sudden thing, one minute we hadn’t heard rest of the group, “We stayed friends but I think we
of Aqua (Europe had because they are better at all really missed each other, although during the
detecting pop than us) then suddenly ‘Barbie Girl’ first two albums there was times when we may have
was everywhere. This aural epic was followed by wanted to kill each other”. They all laugh.
a couple more hits (Doctor Jones, Turn Back Time) So, the $64,000 question… what made them
and it was ‘Aqua overload’. “If you think it was crazy decide to reform? Lene laughs. “You all have me to
for you,” Lene laughs, “it was really crazy for us. blame for Aqua coming back… sorry.” Rene smiles
One minute we had a few big hits in Europe then knowingly.“I knew it was coming, I almost predicted
unexpectedly it was Asia, America, the UK… it was the call. I picked up Lene’s call and just said ‘yes let’s
like an unstoppable force and we were very much in do it”. Lene grins. “It was actually more Claus and
the middle in a strange little bubble.” Soren… I wasn’t sure they would want to do it, to be
Was all this pressure part of what caused the band to honest and Soren is my husband for goodness sake!
split up just a few short years down the line? I don’t think we all knew for sure if anyone would
“Yes and no.” Lene ponders for a while. “I think that be interested.” They all laugh again. “We have taken
one of the problems was that because the success things much more slowly though this time.” Claus
adds “You know now we are all at a certain age (there
5Pop Party 7
was so swift we didn’t quite have time to catch up.
We were constantly promoting and never actually are muffled ‘speak for yourself’ and giggles). We have The wait is over, as the best-selling pop brand
doing anything live. I mean can you imagine we had children, we are doing things more leisurely. We also returns for its 7th annual party; not only is Pop
all these hits in the UK and only now we are finally want to make sure that everything feels right and Party 7 brimming with number 1 smashes from
doing G-A-Y for the first time… almost ten years that we are happy being back together, which of the likes of Black Eyed Peas (I Got A Feeling),
later? If you tour you have more time to process and course we are, and that things happen naturally.” Cascada (Evacuate The Dancefloor), Kelly
catch up and that’s what we didn’t do. It was single I tell them that according to Wikipedia they are Clarkson (My Life Would Suck Without You),
promotion after single promotion, then the studio already making the third album. “That’s your clever Tinchy Stryder ft N-Dubz (Number 1) and 2009’s
for album two and then back doing promotion.” way of asking if we are…” Soren laughs. “I tell you most outrageous chick, Lady Gaga (Poker Face),
what though guys” Rene announces “we start from but it also features brand new exclusives from
“I also don’t think it helped being constantly called Pixie Lott (Boys and Girls), and Naturis Naughton’s
a one hit wonder, even after three number ones scratch. No old bits and bobs that we might have
had floating around. It’s all got to be fresh.” Lene show stopping twist on a classic (Fame).
people kept calling us one hit wonders,” says Rene.
“It is quite hard to constantly fight that, well not fight raises her eyebrows again and confesses “We did CD2 features karaoke versions of your favourites
it but try and persuade people it wasn’t the case.” start a third album though before the break but from the album – guaranteed to keep you
Lene interjects. “We know we are a guilty pleasure, we want anything new to be fresh…take our time entertained all the way through winter season,
we are pure, unadulterated pop. We aren’t trying to over it. There will be something new maybe middle right through to the New Year!
have huge deep lyrics, though I think our ballads of 2010. It’s not like we are a new Aqua, we are just
are always beautiful, we are about having fun and a an evolved Aqua, we won’t be forgetting our pure Out: 26th October - Label: UMTV
party and that’s it. Soren adds, “You know the world pop, guilty pleasure roots.” “We are quite forgetful
though… we forgot to put Good Morning Sunshine To win a copy of this CD just answer this
is quite a miserable place sometimes and what we simple question:
want to do is bring happiness into people’s world. on the Greatest Hits”. They all laugh again.
It truly is a delight to enter the Aqua bubble… long Who had a No1 hit with Boys and Girls?
We are all aware that we are pop, pure and simple,
but people really slated us. But you knew that these may it continue… after all Pop is Pleasure and I feel
like I’ve just been pleasured by Aqua!
Competition Time
journalists probably had Barbie Girl on their iPod’s
and probably still do.”
After the split Claus and Soren both carried on in The new single ‘Back To The 80’s’ and the ‘Greatest Turn to page 78 for entry details
the music business. “But more behind the scenes”. Hits’ album are both out now. For more Aqua info
Rene went on to do some solo material as did Lene. visit www.myspace.com/aquaofficialsite
However, Lene found this quite a difficult time. “After 15
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 feature
bwo
Photo: Dan Dion

BWO
Music for all occasions
“I love BWO, Alexander Bard is absolutely mad, he has written
one of the world’s best pop songs of the new millennium.”  Mika
He’s not the only one. When I get on the treadmill at the gym, plug myself into my iPod
shuffle and press play… there is no better music to uplift your spirits and encourage
you to exert yourself. BWO have that magic, electro-Eurobeat formula that works on the
dancefloor, on the airwaves and in the sweaty confines of a gym.

Thankfully, there’s a new album out soon… so prepare for ecstatic eruptions as the band
renowned as the most popular pop act across Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, hit the
UK with an explosive new release -Big Science.

The biographical history of this Swedish trio from Stockholm is nothing short of
overwhelming as it boasts glittering accolades of platinum albums, countless hit singles
across Scandinavia and Eastern Europe and awards that would make the mightiest of
musical legends weep.  BWO, aka Martin Rolinski (lead vocals), Marina Schiptjenko and
Alexander Bard (both laptops and backing vocals), exude a unique razor-sharp image
that’s reminiscent of the eccentricities of bands such as Scissor Sisters and the Brand
New Heavies, boldly stating that BWO are distinctively unparalleled and extraordinary
in every sense.  Band member, Alexander, claims that BWO are the much sought-after
missing link between Abba and Kraftwerk and their success to date is living proof that
he’s right!
Forcefully stomping in the footsteps of their Swedish predecessors, Abba, Roxette
and The Cardigans, BWO have stealthily proven that they are worthy of upholding the
Swedish mantel of outstanding music and performance.  Since their formation in 2003,
BWO have delivered more hit singles in the Pan-European Singles Chart than any other
artist in the 21st century and have toured to territories untouched by many other bands
such as Lebanon, Kazachstand and South Africa.  Already with four hit albums under
their belt (all of which went gold or platinum in their home country), BWO’s CV boasts
awards such as, ‘Pop Artist of the Year’ in the Swedish Grammies, as well as the Rock Bear
award for Sweden’s most popular band two years in a row.

BWO are also no strangers to the UK as they smashed four singles into the UK Singles
Chart throughout 2008, as well as scooping a Top 40 Dance Chart hit in the US.
Now for 2009, BWO’s sights are firmly set on gripping the attention of the UK music
market with their best album to date, ‘Big Science’.  The album is a collection of 14
quality electro/pop tracks, all of which have been originally penned and produced by
the band, alongside internationally famed co-producer, Ander Hansson, whose previous
production works include Cher and Christina Aguilera. The result is an astounding
assortment of undeniably catchy and infections songs, which will have electro/pop fans
reeling for more.
Album - Big Science - Out 5th October More on BWO www.electronordica.com

16
OCT 2009
www.squirt.org

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17
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 interview
tony stockwell

Do You Believe?
Tony Stockwell has become one of the UK’s leading clairvoyants and
is about to tour with the world famous medium, James Van Praagh.
We sent the always open-minded Simon Savidge to meet him and
talk about spirits, gay men being more sensitive and the afterlife.
Little did Simon know he would get more than he bargained for…

“It’s funny isn’t it how some people are what had happened. “I felt like there
never going to believe what I do is real, was someone else like me and so I
but I’ve decided that I don’t mind now. I started to go. As soon as I entered that
mean, if they just refuse to believe you, how environment I knew that that’s what
on earth are you going to convince them? I was all about.” Despite having a day
This is how Tony Stockwell is. He is very job, he found his skill taking on more tact and discuss the fact that it must a medium too” and he adds with a wry
warm, very chatty, and open and knows and more importance. “I was a wedding be difficult knowing that people who smile, “and we have dogs that are very
that sceptics exist. planner for a while, very stereotypical, are bereaved and come to his shows sensitive to it so it would be chaos.”
“However, I once did mind. One and then I would go and do readings are anxious for some kind of message. I wonder if being gay helps with
lady was totally set to disagree with in the evening. That was until it just got How can he, in a huge audience, give mediumship. “I think it can actually.
everything I said even though her too much and I decided to be brave and everyone something? “People can be A lot of gay men and gay women are
daughters were saying ‘Mum that’s true’. just go for the medium work. Eventually, desperate for a message and that can mediums or have the ability. I think in
She was insisting that it wasn’t. Then regular demonstrations at Spiritualist be difficult. Mediums get attacked by many cases we are just more sensitive
when I told her of a special memory Groups led to one-to-one’s, which grew the press etc. for making money out of to things. I am not saying there are
only her and her husband would know, and grew and took me on tours until the people’s hopes and fears and that’s why, no straight mediums (laughs) there
she suddenly became very emotional TV work started.” if I can prove it to people it is real, I am are some brilliant ones. Nevertheless,
and said ‘Yes’. Some people just don’t All things paranormal have been huge more than happy to.” I do think that more gay men also try
want to believe that what mediums do is TV winners in the last few years. The I decide to bite the bullet and ask if he to see if they have that ability. It’s not
real. Unfortunately, some people are too likes of Most Haunted, Street Psychic can see my granddad. What does he something straight men would rush out
keen to believe what mediums do is real.” etc have brought mediumship into look like, and what can he tell me about and do. However, if you have the gift
I got the feeling that if I said that our living rooms and made them more him. Tony goes very quiet and things you can’t really hide from it.”
everything he does is rubbish he would popular. “I also think the fact that people slowly start to come through. “Okay… I liked Tony and was; in all honesty, a bit
say “Well that’s ok… at least you have question religion and the afterlife more so… he had piercing blue eyes… I can ‘spooked’ by him but things got even
an opinion”. From an early age in the is also part of it anyway”. However, see those but he’s not really presenting weirder once I got home. I checked and
East End, he knew that he was a bit has the sudden rise in popularity in himself too well. I know that he had found that indeed the watch stopped
different from the other children. “Not anyway been detrimental to the field? cancer… of the liver… or kidneys. I at “5.05”. Do I think my Granddad was in
only because I was gay, which you know “Hmmm… no I don’t think so. I think know when you last saw him he was the room? Logic tells me one thing…
when you are quite young, it was also for genuine mediums it’s been very very thin and fragile, which for him what I’ve heard and seen for myself
because I could see things that other good and has made some incredibly wasn’t normal. His name was David have, if anything left me more confused
people couldn’t”. popular. You have a gift but at the same but you called him something else. It’s than ever.
time, you need to live. I think if you are a B name… a Bo… a Bon or a Bong or
In fact, from the age of four Tony could claiming that you can tell when people something I don’t know that word.”
see “…a woman in my bedroom, she are going to die and things like that
would appear after my mum had left Now at this point it got strange as
then something’s not right. We can’t do indeed I did call my granddad Bongy.
the room. It wasn’t a family member as that as it’s not preordained it can change.”
I would have felt that in some way and But then Tony says. “You have his
I knew that she wasn’t real. She had So far, so good but, like all people watch” I think, no that’s way off, until I
a different look about her somehow, who meet him I wanted something a remember my Gran did indeed give me
ethereal sounds too ‘spooky’ but I guess bit more solid than just his opinion. a watch of his. “That watch stopped at
that’s the word that describes it. I also “Well for a start I would say that your 5.05. Hmm what else?”
used to get quite annoyed and upset Granddad, who died when he was 68, Feeling quite emotional I think its time
if we played war games at school and is sat in the room with us, well with to move on and ask if he can switch
people who had been shot had to die you.” A stunned, slightly unsure silence when he is getting messages on and
as I would say ‘but you can’t be dead… follows. “I know as I can see Granddad off as there are things that you might
people don’t die’.” I ask him how other written above your right shoulder and be doing that you don’t want spirits
kids reacted to this and he laughs. “I the numbers 68”. Tony picks up I am watching or even being around. He
think they felt I was trying to ruin their slightly shocked. “You’re questioning if laughs. “Yes, you can but then when you
you believe me, that’s ok people do, you are in certain situations spirits won’t For more information about the
games”. Did this knowledge ever make Across and Beyond UK tour with
him feel like an outcast? “Not really, no.” want proof.” visit you… they wouldn’t have in real
Feeling slightly uncomfortable, it’s all a life so why would they now. It would get James Van Praagh and Tony Stockwell
It was a friend of the family who visit www.tonystockwell.com
mentioned she’d seen a medium and little close to home, I decide to change very bad in our house as my partner is

18
OCT 2009
 A night in with
Babs and Rossy
 One of the biggest and
best-loved superstars in the
world, Barbra Streisand, has
confirmed a world exclusive
appearance with Jonathan Ross.
 
In her first  British TV interview this
century, she will be in the UK for a
unique edition of Jonathan’s Friday
night talk show, Friday Night With
Streisand & Ross, entirely devoted to
a celebration of her legendary life as a
performing icon.
As well as discussing her extraordinary
career as (take a deep breath) a double
Oscar-winning artist, actress of stage
and screen, concert performer,  film
director, movie producer, screenwriter,
songwriter and best album-selling
female recording artist ever, Streisand
will also be performing live in the
studio intimate material from her
eagerly-awaited new album Love Is
The Answer as well as one of her all-

COCK
time classic hits.
Friday Night with Streisand & Ross
TX:  Friday 2nd October
“But that’s what this is, isn’t it? The ultimate bitch fight.”
When John takes a break from his boyfriend, he
accidentally meets the girl of his dreams. Filled with
guilt and indecision, he decides there is only one way to
straighten this out...
Mike Bartlett’s punchy new story takes a playful, candid
look at one man’s sexuality and the difficulties that arise
when you realise you have a choice.

The Heat is On
Heaton is a singer/songwriter from
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs at the Royal Court, London Box
Office 0207 565 5000
Starts: 13thNov – 19thDec
Manchester.  He has been writing and
recording music for the best part of 10
years and setup his own label in 2005
to release his debut album Computer
Music.  The album was a huge success
and created 5 mp3 number ones
including the massive download hit
Let It Go. His brand new single ‘2 Minus
1’, co-written with London based Nick
Rumbelow is out now. Heaton recently
organised an online remix competition
and will feature the winners on the
iTunes release.
Meanwhile, his appearance at this
year’s Manchester Pride event saw him
performing in front of 5,000 people his
biggest live audience yet. The show
was a huge success and showed just
how far Heaton had developed as a live
performer.  Speaking shortly after the
show Heaton said “What an amazing
day.  My band and my dancers did
an incredible job and we all had so
much fun, I think that came across to
the audience as well.  The crowd were
also very supportive and I would like
to thank everybody who came down
to see us”
www.heatonmusic.com

19
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 feature
bears

Grrr! Bear Country

Simon Savidge goes on Bearwatch
OK, if you are absolutely fed up with labels I’ll apologise now. Bears
is just another short-hand way of describing a certain ‘style’ of
man in the gay community. Some people take great pride in the label
that gets attached to them, others rebel, while others find comfort
knowing they have a place within a certain group.
Bears, an obvious reference to the animal itself, are Yes and no, it would sound really arrogant to say ‘oh I get
seen as big, solid, hairy and powerful. Many think the chased by all these men all the time’ and it wouldn’t be
origins of the ‘Gay Bear Culture’ stem from lumberjacks, true. What I do like about being out on the bear scene is
who appealed to gay men as the ultimate in maleness, that if you say ‘no’ people take it better… there seems to
and their style was copied or fetishised. Some present be a lot less hissy fits.
hyper-masculinity, others a disdain for the ‘beauty Do you think Bears are manlier than other gay guys?
entrapments’ of male grooming, while still others shirk (Laughs) It depends on how you define manly... I don’t
the fat aspect and deal only in the muscular. Many see think simply having a beard or some stubble can make
it as a chance not to conforming to a public perception you any more of a man necessarily.
of ‘being gay’ or simply love a man with loads of bodily
hair. In the States there are codes referring to these
aspects but over here in the UK it is seen as more of a
social gathering than a ‘political’ statement.
Whatever the reasoning or preference, one thing is for
certain, the clubs, websites and image-makers all have
seen a huge growth in interest for the hairier man.
Where once only DVDs of cute, pretty boys adorned
the shelves of gay stores, there has been an upsurge
in demand for the more masculine, grownup, hairier
models… doing what nature intended… and that’s not
just shitting in the woods.

Dom Agius, Photographer & DJ, 39

Would you describe yourself as a bear?
I’m just a gay man on the brink of 40 with an occasional
beard, a one pack & big grin most of the time. I got
called a Baby Bear once. By the tone in his voice I
deduced it was meant to be a compliment.
Are you yourself into bears or cubs or not at all?
I like men who at the very least don’t give the
appearance of being too acquainted with moisturisers
or their bathroom mirror. My husband Mick couldn’t be Alaercio Brustolon, Personal Trainer, 29
further from anything bearlike. Now I wouldn’t personally put you down as a Bear myself…
Why do you think the Bear Scene has expanded so much No, I guess I am what you would call a ‘chaser’ I have
in the last few years with clubs and themed nights? always been into bigger hairier guys and by bigger I
I’m a Trade baby of old but that intense late 90’s body don’t mean muscle I mean a nice huggable belly on a
fascism was always going to lose it’s grip eventually. I’m guy. Mind you I should say that I was a chaser as I am
all for equal opportunities me oh and sandwiches lots now happily married.
of them. Are you yourself into just bears or cubs or have you
liked ‘non-bears’?
Well, I am originally from Brazil and we don’t really have
the same sort of bear scene as you do here. I think it’s
James Vaughan, Team Manager, 33 something that is growing back home but nothing like
Isn’t it all just stereotyping again? it is here. I have dated a range of guys but the ones
It’s all about how you feel I guess – some people hate that have lasted have been with more beary guys. My
all those sort of labels, even though they could well fall husband is more of a cub though but I think he’s a bear
into those categories in other people’s eyes. It’s an easy in the making.
shorthand way to describe people, but no more so than
‘twink’ or ‘daddy’ or any other gay “type”. I’m quite happy www.XXL-London.com
to use it though, I don’t find it offensive. Bear is a much www.manbears.co.uk
nicer description than fat bastard anyway!
www.cometodaddyclub.co.uk
How do people on the gay scene describe you and
indeed other bears?
Depends who you talk to – I’m sure a lot of the G-A-Y
crowd wouldn’t be too enamoured of the bear scene,
I’m sure they think it’s full of lazy and unkempt people…
but bears are just as proud of their look as anyone else, it
just happens to be a different look!
Do you think Bears are manlier than other gay guys?
Ha, no not at all! Have you listened to conversations
at bear venues? Some of them are the campest guys
I’ve ever heard. Just because you’re large doesn’t mean Ryan Lock, PR Consultant, 23
you’re butch. Now many people would say that you were a cub,
What would you recommend out there for a cub or a how would you describe yourself?
bear new to all of this? I would describe myself as someone who enjoys a lot
Take it slowly… you don’t want to get a reputation as of different “scenes” I don’t really like limiting myself to
a slut within a few weeks of appearing on the scene one scene in particular. I do have a thing for hot furry
because everyone kind of knows everyone. But enjoy muscley guys at the moment though.
yourself, see what’s out there, and find your comfort Do you find you get a lot of older guys on the bear
zone on the scene. scene chasing you because you are a cub?

20 Photos: www.domagius.com
OCT 2009
 feature
bears aloud

Bears Aloud
Photos: Darrell Hirst

Bears Aloud; Andy, Roger, Gary, Daniel

ands Martin, have become something
of a phenomenon. Appearing at
various clubs and gay pride events,
they have literally been taking the
crowd by storm. What on paper
at least should not work… does.
Five hairy, XL guys (well all except
one and they’re fattening him up),
slapping make-up on over their
beards, donning extravagant wigs
and slipping into shiny frocks are
transformed into an entertainment
tour de force.
Adopting the Girls Aloud personas, the guys deliver
something that is not quite a tribute act. Roger aka Sarah –
who was one of the original instigators of the band explains
how it all came about. “For a laugh I wanted to frock up for
our local Drag Idol charity show. I thought it might be funny
seeing a less-then-glam drag act take to the stage. I was
thinking of miming to a Girls Aloud number but as soon as I to
talk about it to one or two others… well… that was the start.”
Unlike the Spice Girls where Two Became One… this one
hopeful drag queen quickly accumulated others as the idea
just blossomed. Pretty soon five rough and ready, unshaven
guys became the campest bears around as they discussed
the concept of doing more than just the one charity gig
and performing one song. Fuelled by the equivalent annual
alcohol intake of a reasonably sized Scottish town the group
set to work and planned their future.
Andy aka Cheryl adds, “We toyed with a number of names
– Bearnanarama, Spice Bears, The Nolan Bears… but Bears
Aloud seemed to fit… and the more we talked and drank…
the more fitting it became.”
The guys are all friends, having known each other on the
heavier side of the gay scene for many years. However, even
with their gruff bear background they were worried just how
that particular community would take to them. They need
not have worried as every audience and every performance
has attracted more and more fans to the cause. They aren’t
sure just what that cause is… but the sheer hard work they
put into their dance routines, their changes of outfits (or pie
breaks, as Bears Aloud knows them) and their hour-long act,
has converted quite a few ‘husky’ gentlemen to wish they had
been brave enough to don the occasional frock.
Gary aka Nadine thinks the world has gone mad. “At Leeds
Pride we came off stage and mothers were emptying their
prams of kids to thrust them into our arms for a photo. I mean,
what is that kid going to grow up thinking…?” Martin aka
Kimberley interrupted. “And the number of bears who’ve said
that we’d not only given them a laugh but were envious of our
guts (no pun intended) to get up on stage and … well… do
it. Also, we were surprised when professional drag acts began
taking an interest in us… often suggesting us for shows and
offering advice. It’s mental.”
Their wigs (inspired by the women of Wallace and Gromit),
their sparkly outfits and their sheer originality have set them
on a path that might just lure them away from their daytime
jobs. The future looks bright as they plan on adding more
to the act; live vocals, more audience participation and chat
… and, if they have their way, more pies. Fans are already
coming along with their latest Sarah Lee cake creations and
appreciative savoury pastries to place at the feet of their
sweating hairy idols (though not for long as they soon find
their way backstage). So, all is looking pretty good in the Bears
Aloud camp. I asked the cub-like Ginger (the slimline Daniel who
is the quietest member of the band), where he thought they’d be
in a year’s time. A contemplative look formed on his youthful, un-
hairy face as if in deep debate, fully considering the depth of my
searching question. His eyes scanned the room as he looked from
colleague to colleague. Then, as if in a natural rhythm with each
other, they raised yet another foaming pint to their collective lips
as he gave his opinion. “Re-hab.”
www.bearsaloud.com
21
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 REVIEW
bites
“HAIRSPRAY”
The producers of “Hairspray” are delighted to
announce that Phill Jupitus, Belinda Carlisle and
Sharon D Clarke have all signed to join the cast of
the hit musical, from 26th October.
Phill stars as larger than life heroine Edna Turnblad,
who must help her big-haired, big-hearted
daughter Tracy fulfil her destiny… if she can just
leave the family apartment. Belinda plays Velma
Von Tussle, glamorous white supremacist and
controller of the local TV station, who is out to
thwart Tracy’s plans, and Sharon is Motormouth
Mabel, celebrity DJ and owner of Baltimore’s
biggest set of lungs!
Shaftesbury Theatre, London.
Box Office:0207 379 5399
www.hairspraythemusical.com

A brief history of DIVAS

A cornucopia of camp as Terry Sanderson honours those women who appeal to that very special gay mindset

Photo: Hugo Glendinning

that worships excess, melodrama and over-the-top glamour (with just a little bit of sleaze and self-deprecation
thrown in for good measure). Terry has gathered together archive film of those performers who have grabbed the
imagination and the emotions of gay men and women over the years. ‘They’ve made us laugh and they’ve made us
cry let alone inspired a thousand drag queens. Lavishly illustrated with a big screen presentation of some of their
best performances, it’s an evening that celebrates the gay sensibility and our playful sense of fun. Terry Sanderson
says: “We’ve got something for everyone in this show. There are comedy queens, drama queens, tragedy queens and
queens of the silver screen. This show will lift those gay spirits right up into the stratosphere.
Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, London. - 5th & 6th November
Tickets £10 Tel: 020 7404 3126

Swan Lake
Premiering at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, Matthew Icons
Bourne’s triumphant modern re-interpretation of Time Out’s new talent 2008 Michael Twaits
Swan Lake turned tradition upside down, taking brings his latest show – a theatrical cabaret
the dance world by storm. This Christmas the multi for the Heat generation. This multimedia
award-winning hit returns to the theatre where adventure through the cult of celebrity
it all began for a strictly limited run followed by a leaves the fame game stripped bare, taking
national UK tour. you on a dark excursion into the fascination
Matthew Bourne blends dance, humour and and fixation with fame. Adoration.
spectacle with extravagant, award-winning designs, Idolisation. Impersonation. When do you
to create a provocative and powerful Swan Lake for cross the line from fan to fanatic? And when
our times.  Now firmly crowned as a modern-day does the art end and the private life begin?
classic, this iconic production is perhaps best-known Brighton:
for replacing the traditional female corps de ballet The Komedia – Wednesday 4th November
with a menacing male ensemble. Manchester:
The Lowry – Friday 6th November
Sadler’s Wells, London London:
www.sadlerswells.com The Soho Theatre – Thursday 19th
10th Dec2009 – 24th Jan 2010 November

Tour dates 2010

26-30 Jan
Woking - New Victoria Theatre,
1-6 Feb
Milton Keynes Theatre
8-13 Feb
Birmingham Hippodrome
15-20 Feb
Stoke – Regent Theatre
22-27 Feb
Liverpool Empire
1-6 March
Salford - The Lowry
8-13 March
Cardiff - Wales Millennium Centre
16-27 March
Newcastle Theatre Royal
29 March-3 April
Bradford - Alhambra Theatre

www.new-adventures.net

22
OCT 2009
The Lady Boys
of BANGKOK
The sky’s the limit as 16 of the world’s most beautiful show-girls (who
just happen to be men!) blaze a spectacular jet-stream of fun and
glamour as they glide smoothly from the disco floor to the Broadway
stage combining the heady spice of Bangkok’s exotic nightlife with the
glamorous showgirl appeal of Las Vegas.
It’s the show everyone talks about - and the new high-altitude production
is even glitzier and more glamorous than ever – if that’s possible! It’s pure
entertainment – from the show-stopping choreography to the 400-plus
fabulous designer-inspired hand-made costumes …from the excruciatingly
immaculate make-up to the sheer style and effervescence of the
performance. And when it comes to costumes – hey! It’s all the way from
fabulous feathers to mind-blowingly miniscule!
Mama Mia! The feel-good-factor has never felt better - from Riverdance
to Dirty Dancing from Katy Perry to Whitney Houston you’ll be dancing
in the aisles!
But it is not just “a show” – attending a performance of the Lady Boys of
Bangkok is a complete experience. You know you’ve left the every-day
world far behind from the moment you enter the fully carpeted foyer.
The ambiance and aroma transports you to the heart of Bangkok’s
vibrant nightlife. Authentic Thai cuisine freshly prepared by Chef
Thanpwat Phamee is so popular that a dedicated dining area has been
created for those wishing to eat before the performance.
The Lady Boys of Bangkok - Mile High Tour
16th -31st October, The Sabai Pavilion, Millennium Square, Leeds
Quay Tickets – 0871 702 9506
Online: www.ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk

'ANDEY
7ORLDæ#LASS
0RODUCTIONS

Fri 16th to Sat 31th OCT

The Sabai Pavilion,
Milleninium Square
LEEDS
See website or call for further information

0871 705 0705

Fr
i
16
& th

(Calls to this number will cost 10p per minute from a BT land line. Other networks and mobile networks may cost more)
Sa
Al £1
t1

The Grand Box Office: 0844 848 2702

7
lS 2
th

www.ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk
O CT
ea
OB

Box office on site from Tuesday 13th October

ts
ER

11.00am to 9.30pm daily

23
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 REVIEW
bites
“Infinite Variety”
Combining the sexiness of Paris’ Crazy Horse with The
Whoopee Club’s decadent arthouse aesthetic, the
show will be a modern piece of cabaret delving into
the visually surreal, where the cast and set become
one.  Whoopee bring vintage acts such as the Egyptian
sand-dance and trapeze bang up to date with a
pumping rock n’ roll soundtrack a la Bowie and Peaches
all in a opulent Christian Dior aesthetic. 
Much of the costume and set will be made from folded
paper giving the show a stylised look that will frame all
the action. As well as being environmentally friendly, a
show highlight is an enchanting routine in which both
costume and set will be unfolded and created before
your eyes, entirely from paper!
  
Infinite Variety celebrates the uncomplicated ambitions
behind modern British variety: to impact the senses
& provide simple delight. The focus will be on
breathtaking spectacle.
 
New Players Theatre, London. On Now until 1st
November www.newplayerstheatre.com

Whoopee Club - www.thewhoopeeclub.com

Germany 8 – October 5
Electro Pioneers, living legends and
globally revered masters of electronic
sounds, Kraftwerk celebrate the 35th
anniversary of their landmark 1974
hit ‘Autobahn’ by releasing digitally
remastered versions of all eight of their
albums. Remember, we are not machines
but we came pretty bloody close.
Kraftwerk Catalogue released 5th October
on Mute records

Celebs in the frame

Gay Games VIII Cologne
 This exhibition allows a rare glimpse into the more private
moments of the country’s most celebrated actors including
Vanessa Redgrave, Gillian Anderson, Jim Broadbent, Martin The organizers of the 2010 Gay Games
Sheen, Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett, Kristin Scott Thomas, in Cologne, Germany, have announced
Holly Hunter, Daniel Craig (above) and Jude Law, in the that more than 1,700 athletes and artists
intimacy of their dressing rooms. have now registered to participate in
The portraits have all been taken during the 30 minutes the quadrennial sports & cultural event.
before curtain up, known as ‘the half’. The half is one of Participants from more than 30 nations
the most private times for an actor, a time for intense have already signed up including many
concentration to prepare for the performance ahead. It is a from Eastern European countries where
moment rarely captured on film. many who are openly gay or lesbian
are still persecuted. Participation by the
host country Germany leads all other
The Half: Photographs of Actors by Simon Annand
nations with registrations from the United
The Lowry, Salford Quays (Free entry) States and The Netherlands following
www.thelowry.com close behind. Gay Games VIII runs from
Now on until 3rd January July 31 to August 7, 2010, and will open
A book of over 300 of Simon Annand’s photographs with an inspiring Opening Ceremony
has been published by Faber (2008) The Half is £30 at RheinEnergie Stadium, the city’s
hardback. football stadium. Up to 48,000 people are
expected at the Opening Ceremony.
www.games-cologne.com.
24
OCT 2009
 E
TERRY GEORG G A Y U K
TEL L I N ' S T O R I E S MR
Switch On with
Alan Carr

Blackpool’s big ‘switch-on’

Truly
that he can put the weight on and take it off with
relative ease. After a while Alan said, “Terry take
happened last month. It’s that me to one of these gay places around town” So I
time when the entire Golden called Basil Newby owner of the Flying Handbag,
Flamingo and really… he’s Mr Blackpool…
Mile is even more colourful

Amazing!
to check if it was OK to bring a few people
than usual. Blackpool along. What started out as just the 5 of us but it
ended up being 30. Later, in Flamingo Alan was
Illuminations have become recognised and he was very accommodating
a bit of a tradition in my and posed for photos with all the fans who
gathered around him. Still, he ended up dancing
household and every year we the night away with singer Paloma Faith (who What a summer! What a mental, amazing summer. 
pile in the car and make our is going to be BIG) not caring at all. I don’t know
where he gets the energy. I just got back from the trip of a lifetime to New York with
way to the west coast’s most I’ve never avidly watched Big Brother before but
my boyfriend and my two mates Sophs and Greg. It was
spectacular! We walked the never-ending streets, saw a
glorious (and gay friendly) this time around, I was addicted as I knew some Broadway show, visited Miss Liberty, ate hot dogs from street
of the housemates –Rodrigo, Charlie and David. 
seaside town. Charlie, who was a Mr Gay UK finalist a couple of years
vendors and sat in Time Square watching the hectic citizens of
this incredible city go about their business. Then we travelled
ago and Rodrigo, comes into Bar Fibre in Leeds. upstate and spent a week chilling out, watching American
Radio 2 were broadcasting the event live and I got a surprise call from Charlie when he got football games (those tightly packed hunks are really quite
a host of stars had gathered to help Alan Carr voted out, he rang up to thank me for some mesmerising, going to horse races, theme parks, and water
pull a knob. OK, that’s me being a bit cheeky; photos I’d done of him before he went into parks… the whole shebang. It was ace.
he never needs any help from what I gather. I the house. He said they helped him with his Before the trip however, I worked with the National Youth
did cringe though when he recounted the tale confidence, which in turn helped at the auditions Theatre. It was an amazing experience. We performed an
of him and Lionel Blair saving the life of a man to get into Big Brother. I thought that was a amazing stadium arts piece of theatre at the end of it all – it’ll
hanging from the pier a couple of years ago lovely thing for him to do. be on www.ideastap.com soon, check it out!  So, I’ve just begun
– his phrase was “Me and Lionel rushed to the So, having a few friends round for Sunday lunch a brand new chapter in my life and started drama school. So far,
pier and pulled him off!” It’s a true story too he recently I invited him and Rodrigo.  They were it’s amazing. I know it’s going to be very tough but I’m excited
confirmed to me afterwards. both lovely and it was bizarre as all the other and ready… I’m hoping that my need for a bit of drama in my
JLS were also on hand at the switch on, and guests wanted to have their photo taken with life and my love of all things theatrical will hold me in good
needless to say, the girls and a few lads, were them. It must be a very strange feeling coming stead for my future ambitions treading the boards.
screaming their lungs out as they took the stage. out of Big Brother and everyone knows who you However, as a new chapter begins another finishes.  As you all
Alan thought all the screaming was for him are and knows so much about you. Some one know my reign of as Mr Gay UK is very shortly ending.  So here
and wondered if anyone had told the girls they said that it was like meeting your best mates it is…. my final ever column as leader of the homo’s!   What can
were barking up the wrong tree. The switch-on who’d been away for a while, even though they I say? It’s been amazing and I’ve had such a great year! There
is always a great night and huge crowds fill the have been so many wonderful experiences and I am thankful to
entire town… that then continues right through so many people!  I’d like to give a very special thanks to Darrell,
until the 8th November… so don’t miss out on Gordon, Terry and the whole Mr Gay UK team for being so good
this de-LIGHT-ful extravaganza. Sorry. to me and making my year extra special. Also, a big thank you
Alan is a mate of mine so, after he’d done his duty to the Jonathan Lipman team and an extra big thank you to my
he dragged me along to the after show party. close friend Ryan. You legend.   Last, but by no means least, a
We jumped into the waiting car along with Kate massive THANK YOU to all my readers and fans… if I have any
Thornton – she was on the phone to her mum – ha-ha.  I’ve loved writing these little columns for you all – it’s
who was saying she’d just heard her on the radio, been fun and kind of therapeutic for me in a weird way.  I’ve
which I thought was rather sweet. learnt so much and grown up a lot, I’ve made some amazing
Once we’d reached our destination, The Tower new friends for life, I’ve had lots of great times and some not so
Ballroom, we jumped out of the car but couldn’t great times (told you I like a bit of drama) but all in all it’s been
find the correct entrance – it was like being in a bloody brilliant.  Now I look forward to what the future holds and
siege situation as everybody was trying to get wish you all the very best of luck in what ever you do (follow your
Alan’s autograph. dreams! Ha-ha love a bit of cheese).  So, I’m afraid it’s bye-bye for
had never met them before. Both of them said now peeps!
Laurence Llewelyn Bowen was there, whom I’ve they felt lonely since leaving the house –waking up
met several times in the past and always found without all the other housemates around was weird
him a bit aloof. Once Alan had introduced me Thanks for such a terrific experience…
for them, but they don’t miss the wake up calls!.
to him, he seemed to take more interest in who

Dino
I was and what I did. Funny that! Boxer Ricky
Hatton was his usual fun and joyful self but I’m just waiting for the call to take part in the last
people were taking the mickey out of him, as he’s Big Brother… I don’t think I could go through
looking a bit ‘chunky’ at the moment. However, I with it though, there are too many skeletons in
my closet. x
know from previous meetings with the ‘Hitman’
25
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 bent SHout loud about
advice sexual health

Six leading sexual health and HIV

organisations are launching SHout loud
(Sexual Health out loud), a website which
enables the general public, community
groups and campaigners to have their say
about sexual health, contraception and HIV
services in England.  Gay Men’s Sex Survey
The new site, launching during sexual The survey was carried out by Sigma Research and
health week, is a joint initiative by the commissioned by Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), on behalf
African HIV Policy Network (AHPN), Brook, of the CHAPS partnership. It is the largest survey of its
fpa, the Medical Foundation for AIDS and kind in the world, with over 6,000 men taking part.

The rise and

Sexual Health (MedFASH), NAT (National The findings indicate a big increase in the number of
AIDS Trust) and Terrence Higgins Trust. gay men who have ever had an HIV test. Whereas less
Visitors type in their postcode to receive

fall of Civil
than half of all men surveyed in 2002 said they’d ever
local data about sexual health, find out tested for HIV, the latest findings shows that 66% of men
if sexual health is a priority in their area confirmed they have had an HIV test.

Partnerships
and can use the site to take action by Among men that had ever tested, one-in-seven (15.2%)
contacting key decision-makers. had tested positive for HIV infection. Testing for HIV
Everyone who is interested in sexual health and testing positive for HIV were most common among
will be encouraged to get involved from men living in London, men in their 30s and 40s and men
young people, to those living with or with 30 or more male partners in the last year. However,
affected by HIV to anyone who feels it’s an testing and testing positive was common among all
The number of same sex couples tying the knot has
issue worth shouting about. groups of gay men and in all regions of the UK.
dropped, whilst partnership dissolutions have shown a
significant increase, according to recent figures from the Teenage pregnancy rates are high across Marc Thompson, Deputy Head of Health Promotion at
Office of National Statistics. particular areas in England, one in 12 Terrence Higgins Trust said: “A third of gay men have
young people has chlamydia and more never tested  and with a quarter of gay men with HIV
people are living with HIV than ever before.  unaware they are infected, the Gay Men’s Sex Survey is
Civil partnerships have been available to same sex Individuals and community groups will be vitally important when it comes to planning future sexual
couples since December 2005 when the Civil Partnership encouraged to get in touch with their MP, health campaigns and HIV prevention work. It’s now
Act was introduced, and according to specialist family Primary Care Trust (PCT) and local authority recommended that gay men test at least once a year, or
lawyer Angela Davis of Nottingham law firm Berryman, it to demonstrate that these issues matter after any unprotected sex so if you have any concerns
is unsurprising their take-up has steadily declined: to them and to try and ensure that sexual about your sexual health consider getting tested so you
health, HIV and contraception services get know for sure.”
“Whilst statistics show a large fall in the number of the attention and funding they deserve.  
same sex couples entering into civil partnerships, it Getting local people engaged in The report is available to download (or order for postal
is interesting that over the same time there’s been a campaigning on local healthcare priorities delivery) at
significant increase in the number of civil partnership is essential, especially during a recession
dissolutions - the equivalent of marriage and divorce www.sigmaresearch.org.uk/go.php/reports/report2009f/
when resources are limited.
respectively – and further, a total of 33,965 couples have To sign up visit www.shoutloud.org.uk
entered into premarital agreements since they became
available.

“As with marriage, couples who enter into civil Liverpool and Everton
partnerships face an absolute bar from being able to
dissolve the partnership until 12-months have elapsed football clubs join
unions to tackle
from the date of the ceremony, meaning dissolutions
would not have been available to those who entered

homophobia in sport
into partnerships at the first available opportunity until
late 2006/early 2007.”
 
Angela adds: “The Civil Partnership Act gives civil
Liverpool and Everton FC joined with unions in
partners almost identical rights to those of their married
Liverpool recently to step up the fight against
counterparts in the event of marital breakdown.
homophobia in sport.
Therefore, civil partners should seek legal advice in the
event that their relationship breaks down whilst those The TUC’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans
contemplating entering into a civil partnership should (LGBT) committee held a fringe meeting at
also consider the possibility of a pre civil partnership the Jury’s Inn Hotel during the unions annual
agreement. Congress. The lively meeting heard what is
being done to tackle the homophobia and
transphobia that prevents LGBT sportspeople
“Premarital agreements are increasingly popular and are from coming out.
finding increased favour with the Courts and can be just
Participants, including representatives from
as relevant, if not more so, for same sex partners.”
both Liverpool and Everton FC, also discussed
how to combat the anti-gay prejudice that
Berryman is a Midland’s law firm based in Nottingham, continues in sport despite the big legal
which provides an extensive portfolio of legal services. changes of the last decade.
For more information, T: 0845 310 7200, or visit Addressing the meeting – which was well
www.berryman.co.uk. attended by people from across Merseyside
– were the Football Association’s spokesmen
Mark Hardcastle and Dave Raval, and
Professional Footballers’ Association Equalities
Executive Simone Pound.
Also speaking were Kick it Out! Campaign
Director Piara Powar and Rugby Football
League spokesperson Sarah Williams. TUC
General Council member and TUC LGBT
Committee Chair Maria Exall chaired the meeting.
TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber
said: “Professional sport remains blighted by
homophobia and transphobia in spite of the big
advances in LGBT equality over the last decade.
“Due to the bigotry and narrow-mindedness
that exists in sport, the majority of LGBT
sportspeople are unable to reveal their
sexuality for fear of discrimination or attack.
This cannot be tolerated.
26
OCT 2009
 preview
laramie project

The Laramie Project

 On 6th October 1998 Matthew Shepard was beaten
and left to die tied to a fence in the outskirts of Laramie,
Wyoming. He died 6 days later. His murder became a
watershed historical moment in America and the world
that highlighted the violence and prejudice lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people face.
A month after the murder, the members of Tectonic Theatre Project
travelled to Laramie and conducted interviews with the people of the
town. From these interviews they wrote the play The Laramie Project,
which they later made into a film for HBO. The piece has been seen by
more than 50 million people around the world.
The Lowry in Salford will join forces with theatres across the world to
stage the first performance of The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later, an
Epilogue. 120 theatres have been selected to present the new play
on the same evening – 12th October 2009, exactly eleven years after
the death of Matthew Shepard. Manchester based Hope Theatre
Company has been chosen to present the UK Premiere, the play stars
Warren Brown, Adam Zane is the driving force and its director.

I remember reading the play for the first time. I remember thinking
I have to do this play, I have to tell this story. I made Dick (my now
husband) read it and he said exactly the same thing – you have to do
this. Before this I was an actor, I’d been in the original ‘Queer as Folk’
but I’d kind of fallen out of love with acting – there was only so many
gay vets, gay doctors and gay comedy side-kicks I could play! ‘The
Laramie Project’ totally changed me.
 
When was this first production?
I first directed the play with a group of university students in 2004.
This was the first time that I felt as if I’d done something that I could
be truly proud of. It really was a life-changing experience. I saw the
journey that the students went on, they were so passionate about
telling the story and I think it changed the way they viewed the
world.
It was also Tectonic’s ‘verbatim’ style of theatre that was a revelation.
The actors felt a real connection with these characters – with the
residents of Laramie. It’s amazing really, a company of British actors
connecting with cowboy country.
 
How did you set up Hope Theatre Company?
There’s a line in the play where someone says ‘the whole thing
ropes around hope’. I set up Hope Theatre Company and our
first production was ‘The Laramie Project’. Some of the university
students joined the cast and we took it to Manchester and Liverpool.
After one show I arranged an after-show discussion with teachers,
councilors and Manchester’s Lesbian and Gay Foundation. Strangely
enough a Minister was there from Wyoming. He’d been in Wyoming
when Matthew was killed and had since moved to Salford, near
Manchester. We all talked about what we could do next. We all
agreed that we had to be in schools, talking about hate crime,
homophobia and Matthew.
 
Tell us about the work you do in schools.
We set up ‘Exceeding Expectations’, funded by Manchester City
Council and we are in our third year now. Our aim is to end
homophobia through education. I created the verbatim play
‘Outloud’ about young people and how they cope with homophobia.
One school I visited were putting together a presentation about
homophobia. Some of the students had created a short film about
Matthew. I hadn’t told them about Laramie – they’d put it together
themselves. It was really moving to sit in a school and watch a group
of young people talking about Matthew Shepard. We now use
that film in our play and every school in Manchester learns about
Matthew.
 
What about the future?
There is still a long way to go. What happens when the play is over?
It’s up to the teachers to continue the work when we’ve gone.
Pupils have come out after seeing the play, some have formed LGBT
groups. We give them a pack that tells them about Matthew, The
Laramie Project and where to go for help and advice.
 
The Laramie Project, 10 years later…an epilogue
Directed by Adam Zane
12th October 8pm
The Lowry, Salford Quays, Manchester
www.thelowry.com -Ticket: 0870 111 2000

27
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 BENT BLOG

photos: www.staxus.com Carsten Schlink

JOHAN’S

It’s all part

of the job.
My idea of heaven is a very relaxing
Fit Lads
Britain once again becomes the watchword for chavvish
debauchery, as a second collection of horny members
evening with my boyfriend – sitting of the UK’s underclass engage in a sordid series of
on the couch together and watching ball-busting, cock-draining encounters. Tattooed and
some porn movies. I know what blinged, these foul-mouthed youths are the cream
of their nation – producing it in copious amounts as
you’re thinking: how boring! But if to underline the point. Preston Matthews makes a
it isn’t at all. Fact is, I don’t always welcome return from the first instalment – this time
need to party every weekend. as one half of a very randy pair of work-mates who
Indeed, spending a nice evening literally can’t keep their hands off each other once
with the guy I love and having a hot, their boss has left them to their chores. Meanwhile,
sweaty shag with him is all I need. Danny Thomas and Chris Crawford savour a sweaty,
ball-banging, ass-slamming suck-and-shag sesh; whilst
Keiron Griffin and Kristian Kerner engage in a brief (but
mesmerising) encounter courtesy of an online chat-
room. Arguably the hottest pairing, however, is that
between Harrison and Conrad Johnson – a couple of
dark-haired wonders whose gorgeous physiques, thick,
uncut cocks and nonchalant arrogance make for perfect
scally-porn. In short, this is another superb effort from
director Zack Hadley, whose eye for chav-candy is spot
on and who has surely notched up another sure-fire hit
in the process. Believe us, the dregs of British society
really have never looked hotter!

Of course I watch porn all week as part of my And maybe it is true what all my friends say about
job – cutting trailers, uploading material on to my me. Sometimes I’m just thinking too much with
site or even performing in front of the camera. my cock instead of using my brains.
As a result, I often don’t really pay full attention I recognise this fact sometimes when I’m out
and enjoy the action. I’m watching the timer, shopping – especially when I’m shopping for
checking angles, making sure the production is clothes. Whenever there’s a cute assistant who
pacey enough and that the sexy models are doing smiles nicely at me, who touches me in intimate
something exciting... but that’s about it. But when places (to check the fit of the trousers, of course),
it comes to watching porn with my boyfriend and who tells me that I look gorgeous with his
it’s all totally different. We get a bottle or two of hard-sell pitch, you can guarantee that I buy the
wine, some savoury snacks, a few lighted candles, stuff immediately. Then I get home and discover
pillows and a blanket, and then we cuddle up that what I’ve bought is like some kind of old
on the sofa to watch TV. Next to us is a huge box potato sack – but hey, the sales guy was just too
with more than 40 porn movies which I packed cute! Recently I even bought a new kitchen table
on a previous visit to the warehouse of my porn from IKEA – and all because there was a picture in
studio STAXUS in Amsterdam. Honestly, that office the sales brochure with a cute, half-naked twink
really is my idea of porn heaven. Can you imagine? sitting on it. Alright, we needed a new table, but
A huge warehouse with 10 metre high shelves this one is just way too big for our small kitchen!
stacked with porn DVDs! Believe me, it’s just great! As my friend told me afterwards when he helped
But which movies to choose? Twinks, Sport Ladz, carry the table back down the stairs to take it back
Czech guys, American beach boys? Well on this to the shop, I really should’ve ordered the twink
occasion we decided to opt for some twinks who and left it at that!
were paired up with college types. But not any Nevertheless, thinking with your cock can
Czechs. Believe me, I see enough of them in the sometimes be helpful – especially when you’re
supermarket around the corner. Indeed, I have – in the porn business. Indeed, my cock is a kind of
and I really do mean have – plenty of Czechs in the guide for me when it comes to deciding whether a
showers of my gym. I certainly don’t need to see scene or a guy is right for my site or for the studio.
any more of them in a porn movie, that’s for sure. When I see someone in a club and my cock starts
In the end, we had a lovely evening watching porn twitching I just have to make an approach and
on the sofa – and needless to say we continued talk to him. And I admit, sometimes it ends with
in bed with some activities afterwards. After all, sex – which, incidentally, is a much better test of
we just had to practise some of the interesting whether the guy is worth a part in one of our porn
positions that we’d seen performed just a few movies. Such reactions will also help answer some
minutes before on the DVD. As always, however, of the letters that I receive from you all asking
it looked so much easier and hornier in the film what it takes for a guy to be in a porn movie with
than it did for us when we were doing it ourselves. me. In short, a nice body, a huge cock and the
Yeah, I know, it’s totally stupid. I’ve been in the ability to stimulate my own hard dick!
porn business and performing in movies for about
5 years now and yet I still get taken in by the tricks You see, I always follow my (sexual) instincts!
of the porn business, where everything is much
more glamorous than the reality! For more information: www.Johan-Volny.com

28
OCT 2009
 REVIEW

Calling All Book Geeks! books

Our very own self confessed Gay Book Geek Simon Savidge is on the hunt for the Great Gay Reads of All Time. He needs your
recommendations and input. You can go to http://greatgayreads.blogspot.com to see his journey through the highs and lows of
gay writing. To email him with suggestions of your favourite gay reads drop him a line at [email protected]

4Gypsy Boy
By Mikey Walsh
The story of a boy’s
struggle to escape
from a secret world…
the world of hard men,
hard fighters, hard
drinkers and con men…
all encapsulated in his
gypsy father. A world
of anger and violence
where being different isn’t tolerated and being
gay could lead to a family death sentence.
Experience the physical damage wrought on a
young boy who liked to play with his He-Man
characters.
£10 - Hodder & Staughton

4When
You’re
Falling Dive
By Mark Matousek
Do survivors of life’s
greatest trials possess
a secret knowledge?
This is the question
posed to people who,
in adversity, rose to the
occasion and drew power
from their situation.
A spiritual book that isn’t preachy, doesn’t have
preconceived ideas and might just explain how some
people can find a positive in total negativity.
£10.99 - Hayhouse

499 Classic
Movies for
People in a
Hurry
By Thomas
Wengelewski
Yes, all the big movies
are here. Citizen Kane,
Psycho, Dirty Dancing,
Rebel Without a Cause… the list… well there’s
99 of them all told in four, simple to follow
squares. Sound impossible? Seeing is believing.
3Gods of Football Now you no longer have to sit through all that
artistic dross - you get the picture without having
Pedro Virgil to go to the pictures. Brilliant.
£6.99 - Nicotext
Fact…sport is an erotic experience
for many gay men! After all, physical
strength and fitness usually entail a
well build body. Think about sweat,
4Between
masculinity and a good looking Men 2
man in addition—what more could
Edited by Richard
our gay heart desire? In Australia
Canning
they already discovered the value
of certain sporty sex appeal and Can we ever get fed
picked up a unique super team: up reading about men
Gods of Football. These adorable on men action or their
guys present themselves in a more intimate relationships?
alluring way than any hot August Some of the world’s
afternoon: The bodies are perfect, best contemporary
the faces are handsome, the poses gay authors have
are dominant and self-assured— in contributed to this series of 18 short pieces of
short: So sexy it hurts! fiction, including; Alan Hollinghurst, Andrew
Holleran and Jim Grimsley.
£49.99 – Bruno Gmunder
£9.99 – Alyson Books

29
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 interview
adam lowe

Lowe down?
Troglodyte Rose is the new dark fantasy novel from Bent’s own Adam
Lowe. We thought it might be fun to have an interview by his psychotic,
promiscuous alter-ego, Beyonce Holes, where we get down to literary
promiscuity, singing for Fatboy Slim and judging Drag 4 U.

Beyoncé: So who is Adam Lowe? selfish, since it was actually their hard work,
Adam: Adam Lowe is a writer from Leeds. but I like to think it was the weirdness of
I’ve written for Fitlads, Bent, Pink Paper, The that story that enabled them to create this
Leeds Guide and The Local Herald. I’m also award-winning piece.
known amongst readers of science fiction
and fantasy as a short story writer and Beyoncé: This sounds nothing like
the owner of Dog Horn Publishing, which Troglodyte Rose so far.
publishes a literary journal called Polluto Adam: I’m getting there. Writers talk a
amongst other things. Poetry lovers will lot. Now the publisher liked their art and
know me as a poet. Hard house fans may my work, but felt a short story collection
know me as a curiosity who penned and wasn’t quite right, and he wanted a framing
sung the lyrics to one song by DJGRH and narrative. So I came up with an idea that
Paul Maddox, released on Fatboy Slim’s Tidy the main character, Rose, would be tapping
Trax label. into the dreams of crazy people, with
each dream being one of my stories. My
Beyoncé: So you’re a literary whore then? stories would be prose and the overarching
Adam: Only in as much as you’re an actual narrative would be a comic strip. But then it
whore. became a series of drug-induced trips, Rose
lived underground and the short stories
were replaced by journeys that fit into the
Beyoncé: Touché. So what is it with all the narrative better.
different stuff you do?
Adam: I don’t know. I guess I just don’t like
to let people down. I get asked to judge Mr Beyoncé: Sounds organic.
Gay UK and I say yes. I get asked to judge Adam: It was. And then I set myself three
Drag 4 U and I say yes. I get asked to set up a months to write the first draft and, well,
new gay night in Leeds and I say yes. I think that’s what I did. It was fun. I got some other
I’m a bit too busy. I’ll have no hair left by the writer friends to edit and proofread it, and
age of 25. then the final book was ready. I’d read a lot
of Japanese light novels, which are slim,
illustrated novels which specifically appeal
Beyoncé: And why do they call you to comic readers. As a result the book is
Beyoncé? high-octane, fast-paced and very visual.
Adam: They don’t. They call you Beyoncé. The artwork inside complements the very
stunning imagery and locations.
Beyoncé: Where did the idea for this book
come from?
Adam: I was chatting to the publisher, who’d
already submitted a story to my magazine,
Polluto. He was asking for spectacular
writers and artists I might recommend to
produce books which would be a fusion of
art and fiction.
5WHO IS TROGLODYTE ROSE?
Beyoncé: And you recommended Set in an undetermined far future where mankind lives
yourself? underground, enslaved by their own, more evolved
Adam: I think it was you who recommended descendents, the psychic Limbids, who live in a vertical
me. city in the world above. Rose is the anarchic heroine, who
blusters into the narrative with a gun and a bad attitude,
accompanied by her hermaphrodite lover, Flid. Tiring of
Beyoncé: I get blamed for everything. running from winged troops of genetically engineered
Adam: You’re an easy target. You’re too out monster-police, and sick of an economy that relies on
there. And you can never keep your mouth slavery and cannibalism, she and Flid spend their days
shut. It gets us both into big trouble. wallowing in computer games left over from a previous, lost
civilisation and taking every high they can get their fingers on.
Beyoncé: That’s like blaming Jekyll for Mr At rock bottom they try the most dangerous, illegal drug of
Hyde. all: the legendary Haze. They soon discover the real reason
Adam: One did make the other. why it is illegal: the Limbids themselves rely on its mind- and
reality-altering powers to fuel their own psychic abilities.
And with the Haze in their grasp, they can journey to myriad
Beyoncé: Whatever. And so you came up alternate universes, meeting talking dragons, swimming
with the idea on the spot? amongst the sunken ruins of New York and rescuing alien
Adam: Pretty much. I initially pitched a short princesses from eternal slumber.
story collection that would be illustrated But soon even that’s not enough. Rose wants to see the sun.
by my pals Kurt Huggins and Zelda Devon. She wants to make a difference. So assembling a ragtag
They’ve currently got some artwork up at band of fugitives and liberals, she resurrects an old plot to
the Tor website, and they’ve worked with overthrow the oppressive government and escape to the
all kinds of wonderful people. Previously world above.
they won a Silver Award in editorial art Troglodyte Rose is due out 30th October, priced £8.99,
from Spectrum Fantastic Art, which was and is available from all good bookshops, or direct at
for the cover of Polluto 1. They’d illustrated troglodyterose.com. It also features seven pages of
a story of mine about a woman who was Beyoncé: So it’s a drug-fuelled orgy of full-colour artwork from award-winning TOR/DC Comics
half sewing machine, and they’d won an monsters, guns, cannibalism, tits and duo Kurt Huggins and Zelda Devon, which can also be
award for it. I was so proud and blown away dicks? viewed at the fully-interactive website listed above.
by their talent—which is perhaps a little Adam: How did you know?

30
OCT 2009
 interview
MICHAEL SOLDIER
Soldier, Soldier will
you marry me…?
He won Best Actor at the 2004 GayVN Awards in
2004 for A Porn Star is Born! and Best Sex Scene
in 2003 with Chris Steele in Cops Gone Bad! Lately,
Michael Soldier has found another side to his many
talents which some might think is a bit of a drag!

The new DVD Gay Bed and Breakfast of there! My weekly club ‘BULB nightclub of
Terror is full of unspeakable horrors… the performing arts’ and the revival of the
what, in your career, has been the most Cockettes’ musical ‘Pearls Over Shanghai’
unspeakable horror you’ve had to deal with? have me very busy ‘til New Year.
How nice of you to call it a career! But how
can I possibly speak of an ‘unspeakable Most of our readers will know you from
horror’?! If we speak of film/theatre...getting your movies (and your terrific… erm butt)
in drag before sunrise is an abomination. If did you ever stop to count the number of
it’s porn...that time I snapped my nutflesh in times you had sex?
a cockring during a scene that wasn’t going My focus is on ART, not MATH. I don’t do
that well to begin with qualifies. Ohhh… numbers so well.
such tender skin! Who would have thought
the old balls to have had so much blood in
them? If it’s massage therapy...leaning in on Do you have a specific type of guy that
the glutes just in time to catch a blustery fart you go for?
in the face beats all. Fit, smart, tender, confident, and funny. I also
have a special fondness for mixed race guys.
The rest is all up to chemistry.
The movie looks ‘fun’ but of course we
all realise it is a parody of the global
financial collapse and the possible end of In porn you have to keep hard and
civilisation – discuss (or not, depending if produce several loads… did you have a
there’s something good on the TV) daily regime to help with the quantity?
I’ve grown so weary of waiting for the Stay hydrated and don’t wank for a few
collapse. Artists always do better when
everything’s gone to hell anyway! I think the
days. Moderate viagra usage is just for porn
insurance. Find chemistry on whatever level
3The Gay Bed &
underlying message that drew me to our you can. Enjoy what you do and remember it Breakfast of Terror
movie is that REAL perversion is the result will never go away so make it memorable!
of denying one’s instincts and identity and On the eve of the biggest LGBT
making others suffer because of it. Bigotry blowout of the year, five gay and
You’re a licensed massage therapist… lesbian couples find themselves
and oppression are best discussed in the what exactly does that mean you can
arena of a ridiculous, murderous farce! having to make reservations at the
legitimately do? secluded Sahara Salvation Inn. What
Legitimately, I am a licensed health care should have been the party of the
Having been a top porn star for several pro. I can help with stress, posture, exercise century quickly turns into every
years… when and where did you find your and rehabilitation. Anything beyond that gay and lesbian’s worst nightmare
feminine side? enters gray legal areas...often, and for an when they discover that the
Well, I think of myself as an actor/artist first. appropriate fee. hotel’s proprietor is a god-fearing
I knew so many talented drag queens while gay-basher with a penchant for
in art school in NYC that inspired me to When, where, who with and how old were mincemeat muffins! If that wasn’t
develop my ‘Lady Friend’. It’s a great way to you when you lost your virginity… and bad enough, a snarling, homosexual-
embrace your inner sissy and grow fearless was it good or a dud? eating Republican mutant starts to
as a performer. Then the pendulum swung... pick them off, one by one. A B-movie
Virginity has so many levels! The first time I gore fest but who will survive?
got fucked was about as tawdry as I could
Will you be bringing that character (or come up with involving a pornstar that I was
yourself for that matter) to the UK in the rather obsessed with in a Times Square ‘hotel’ Out: 12th October - £14.99 –
near future? . It lasted 8 hours. It was worth waiting for. Peccadillo Pictures
I have only spent two days in London so far...
if the invite comes I would love to perform www.facebook.com/michaelsoldier If you’d like to win a copy of this
DVD just answer this simple question:
On which continent is the Sahara desert?
32
OCT 2009
 REVIEW
DVD

5Big Bang Theory: 5Blind Dating 5Heroes – Season 3 5The Hills Run Red
Season 2 Blind twenty-something Danny (Chris
Pine - Captain Kirk from the latest Star Trek
The addictive, smash-hit series returns
with epic stories of ordinary people with
 You heard the story. The one about the
goriest, bloodiest splatter fest ever, the one
Hyper intelligent room mates Leonard and movie) has plenty going for him – he’s extraordinary gifts, whose only destiny is made in the ’80s but mysteriously lost. Flash
Sheldon are back along with their brainiest smart, witty, handsome and intelligent to save the world. But this time, some of forward to now: Young fright fans search
of best friends Wolowitz and Koothrappali. and he won’t let his lack of sight get him those breath-taking abilities are in the hands for the secret location where the movie
The beautiful Penny still lives next door to down. When his girl-crazy, limo-driving of some seriously wrong people. Packed was shot, hoping to find the film. What they
the boys but chaos breaks loose as they brother discovers that he’s a virgin, he’s full of fascinating extra content including find is that the mysterious slasher flick is
finally overcome their inability to talk to determined to help him. He sets him up alternate stories, an insight into the mind- more than a movie. It’s real… and they’re its
girls and their love lives start to hot up. with a series of hysterically disastrous bending special effects and an art gallery newest stars.
Out: 12th October - £24.99 - Warner blind dates with shallow girls that can’t featuring Tim Sale’s creations, it will keep you  Out: 26th October - £12.99 – Warner
Home Video. seem to get past his sight impairment. entertained for hours. Home Video
If you’d like to win this series boxset just Out: 5th October - £14.99 – Universal Out: 12th October - £49.99 DVD - £59.99 If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD just
answer this simple question: If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD BluRay - Universal Playback answer this simple question:
Complete this Einstein equation E=MC ? just answer this simple question: Who If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD just Complete the title of this iconic horror
was the host of the ITV series Blind Date? answer this simple question: movie: Night of the Living ____?
Complete this Heroes saying: Save the
Cheerleader… save the ____________?

5Looking for Eric 5Out At The Wedding 5Wasting Away 5X-Men Origins:
Lifelong Manchester United fan Eric
the postman is seeing his control of life
Ever tell a little white lie that got slightly
out of hand? New Yorker Alex gets
Zombies, you know ‘em, you love ‘em, but
what do they think of you? In this hilarious
Wolverine
slipping through his fingers. His family embroiled in a farcical web of mistaken twist on the classic Zombie tale, we see the Leading up to the events of X-Men, this DVD
are in trouble and, despite some comical identities – and sexualities – when world through Zombie eyes when a barrelful tells the story of Wolverine’s epically violent
help from his mates, things are not getting she decides to keep her mixed-raced of Toxic Goo transforms four friends into and romantic past, his complex relationship
any better. Time to call up that sage of the boyfriend a secret from her family at the Walking Dead. Suddenly, unaware of with Victor Creed and the ominous Weapon
thoughtful footballer Eric Cantona. Funny and her sister’s wedding. All goes well until their rotting undeadness, it seems everyone X program.  Along the way, Wolverine
philosophical… what more do you need? her loose-lipped gay best friend Fred else has gone mad. So they embark on a encounters many mutants, both familiar
Out: 12th October – DVD £19.99 Blu-ray inadvertently suggests Alex is actually in bumbling quest to find the ‘truth’ – after all, and new, including surprise appearances by
£24.99 – Icon Home Ents a loving relationship – with a woman. Full Zombies are people too! several legends of the X-Men universe whose
of laugh-out-loud moments, swinging Out now - £12.99 – Kaleidoscope Home Ents appearances in the film have long been
If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD anticipated.
just answer this simple question: sexualities and crazy characters. If you’d like to be in with a chance to win
Out: 19th October - £14.99 – tla a copy of this DVD just answer this simple Out: 19th October – Blu-Ray £24.99 – 20th
Eric Cantona was an international Century Fox Home Ents
football player but for which country? releasing question:
If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD What was the name of the Michael Jackson If you’d like to win a copy of this DVD just
just answer this simple question: video that featured zombies and the voice answer this simple question:
What is the name of the huge park in of Vincent Price? In which country was Hugh Jackman born?
the middle of Manhattan?

Competition Time
Turn to page 78 for entry details

33
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 REVIEW
film
by CHRIS AMOS

10 THINGS YOU
NEVER KNEW ABOUT
Heath Ledger
1 Was originally set to star in Oliver Stone’s Alexander (2004) before
Colin Farrell took over the role.
2 Jake Gyllenhaal is the godfather of his daughter Matilda Ledger.
3 Was set to star in Baz Luhrmann’s Australia, but backed out to play
The Joker in The Dark Knight.
4 Was one of seven godparents of Elizabeth Hurley’s son Damien. This month acclaimed director Terry Gilliam
releases the last film ever starring Heath Ledger.
5 Directed three music videos for Australian artist N’fa and Ben Harper. The adventure fantasy - Imaginarium Of Doctor
6 First acting role was as Peter Pan, at age 10, at a local theater company. Parnassus comes out on Friday 16th October.
7 After his death his body was returned to Perth, Western Australia,
where it was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery, with his ashes scattered in
a family plot at Karrakatta Cemetery, next to two of his grandparents.
8 Played the character of Scott Irwin in the long-running Australian soap
opera Home and Away for 10 episodes in 1997.
9 In both his first and final complete roles, he portrayed a clown.
10 The day after he died, he was supposed to meet with Steven Spielberg
to explore the idea of playing Tom Hayden in a movie about the Chicago 7.

5An Education
Out: 30th October
A star is born in Carey Mulligan. Already
generating Oscar buzz, An Education is set
in London in 1961, and is an unforgettable
5The Invention Of Lying 5Zombieland coming-of-age story. Attractive, bright,
Out: 7th October 16-year-old Jenny is stifled by the tedium of
Out: 2nd October adolescent routine; she can’t wait for adult
From Ricky Gervais, comes the new romantic comedy In the horror comedy Zombieland focuses on two men who have
life to begin. One rainy day her suburban
which takes place in an alternate reality where lying— found a way to survive a world overrun by zombies. Columbus
existence is upended by the arrival of a
even the concept of a lie—does not exist. Everyone (Jesse Eisenberg) is a big wuss – but when you’re afraid of being
much older suitor, David (Peter Sarsgaard).
speaks the truth and nothing but the truth with no eaten by zombies, fear can keep you alive. Tallahassee (Woody
Urbane and witty, David instantly charms
thought of the consequences. But when a down-on-his- Harrelson) is an AK-toting, zombie-slaying’ bad ass whose single
Jenny and introduces her to a glittering new
luck loser named Mark suddenly develops the ability to determination is to get the last Twinkie on earth. As they join
world of classical concerts, art auctions, smoky
lie, he finds that dishonesty has its rewards. In a world forces with Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Little Miss
bars, and late-night suppers with his attractive
where every word is assumed to be the absolute truth, Sunshine’s Abigail Breslin), who have also found unique ways to
friends. He replaces Jenny’s traditional
Mark easily lies his way to fame and fortune. But lies have survive the zombie mayhem, they will have to determine which is
education with his own more-dangerous
a way of spreading, and Mark begins to realize that things worse: relying on each other or succumbing to the zombies.
version. Channeling the spirit of a young
are getting a little out of control when some of his tallest Holly Golightly, Carey Mulligan makes Jenny’s
tales are being taken as, well, gospel. With the entire character blossom on screen from a girl into a
world now hanging on his every word, there is only one woman, and transforms herself from an actor
thing Mark has not been able to lie his way into: the heart of into a star.
the woman he loves.
Man
ectorial debut. A Single The
loo k ou t for is fas hio n designer Tom Ford’s dir Ve nice Film Fes tival. Word has it that not on
Film to at the ly
Firth the best actor award k out for Smith back in the title will we see Will
already earned star Colin 60s and stars Fir th as a gay British Film to loo d star role of Hancock 2,
es pla ce in the 19 Ma n alread y ear ne but Charlize Theron an
film tak A Single d
Ford’s directorial debut. Festival. The film takes place in are also set to return for Jason Bateman
is fashion designer Tom
award at the Venice Film to cope the critically panned 20 the sequel to
Colin Firth the best actor as a gay British college professor attempting the 08 box-office
rs Fir th pe wi th success Hancock.
the 1960s and sta attempting to co
rtner. college professor
with the death of his pa
death of his partner.
34
OCT 2009
 REVIEW
film

5The Fantastic Mr Fox 5Up (3D)

Out: 9th October
Out: 23rd October
From the Academy Award-awarding Pixar comes Up,
Based on one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved a comedic adventure. Carl Fredricksen spent his entire
books telling the story of a crafty fox who life dreaming of exploring the globe and experiencing
finds himself and his family targeted for life to its fullest. But at age 78, life seems to have passed
death by the three dumb, pug-ugly farmers him by, until a twist of fate, and a persistent 8-year
who tire of sharing their chickens with old Wilderness Explorer named Russell, gives him a
the critter. Heavyweight star voice line-up new lease on life. Up takes audiences on a thrilling
includes George Clooney, Bill Murray, journey where the unlikely pair encounter wild terrain,
Jason Schwartzman, Meryl Streep, Willem unexpected villains and jungle creatures.
Dafoe, Owen Wilson, Brian Cox and Adrien
Brody - clearly Dahl book lovers. Superbly
crafted and highly entertaining, a real
crowd pleaser.
en’t had
w o o d an d M att Damon hav ood Reporter 5Michael Jackson’s This Is It
East llyw
It seems Clint another just yet as The Ho eafter. Eastwood Out: 30th October
h o f o n e g fo r Her
enoug e two are rete
amin on
g awards seas
Director Kenny Ortega of High School Musical fame has quickly
brings word th d Damon in the upcomin drama in which put together Michael Jackson’s farewell movie tribute which is
te
recently direc ctus, the South African-set r, which will be
hitting cinemas worldwide for a limited 2-week engagement.
This is It will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide
contender Invi Pienaa
la ys ru g by p layer Francois ourne 4 is in the works a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer, his career,
Damon p nwhile, B
and the stage spectacular that would have been. The film will
ecember. Mea provide moviegoers with an unforgettable front row experience
released in D . compiled from extensive footage that shows Jackson’s
o
for Damon to meticulous preparation for his 2009 London shows.

Two to take home from TLA

Available at:

“A warm and witty gay flick “An unpretentious dramedy

with oodles of soul” – BOYZ of postcollege confusion” – The New York Times

Out Now Out Now

It’s not easy being attracted
Sleeping with your best to guys when you are stuck
friend’s sexy father – is it in a straight man’s body... at
every gay man’s secret least that’s the hurdle Josh
fantasy or the ultimate faces after arriving in L.A to
betrayal? begin a new life.

35
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 bent
STUFF

5Sunrise Alarm Clock.

30 minutes before the time you set your alarm the clock
glows and gradually brightens. Though you may still be
asleep, the photons of light reaching your eyelids will
begin to gently stir, resulting in the most soothing and
natural wake up call you could ever experience!
£19.99 www.paramountzone.com

5Bugger it
If you want a bit of fun on your
desk at work… why not adopt a
Hexbug. This clever little robotic
insect will skitter around your desk,
bumping into things then find
its own way in the world. Hell, it’s
already clever than me. 4A close shave
£9.99 www.hexbug.com. A wealth of technology ensures this
deluxe bit of shaving kit gives an
exceptional shaving experience and an
exceptional end result. With Titanium
& Teflon® coated foils, the Remington
F7790 protects skin from irritation,
with results that are 45% smoother
than Stainless Steel. Ultra stylish in
silver & charcoal with black non-slip
4Lamborghini Laptop rubber and hi-tech digital power
The wonderfully sleek ASUS-Lamborghini gauge, no wonder it’s got its own high
VX5 notebook contains an array of simply gloss charging stand!
outstanding futuristic technology that £119.99
delivers super- performance coupled
with attentive design finishes – all
amalgamating into a luxurious and user-
centric product truly deserving of the
Lamborghini badge. With striking lines,
elegant curves and a textural combination
of mesh, chrome, ceramic and leather,
the VX5 is a true reflection of the
futuristic style and quality of its supercar
counterpart.
5Absolut Rock £1999 www.asus.co.uk
It’s hard, it’s cool and it’s the drink in the
world of Rock. Now those nice Vodka
people have confused hard rock with
a tinge of S&M to produce the kinkiest
bottle for their premium brew. Wouldn’t
be out of place on the set of The Rocky
Horror Show.
£14.99

36
OCT 2009
 bent
STUFF

6X Trainer
Bremshey’s most popular home
exercise machine makes its debut
in stunning matt black livery this
autumn - exclusively from John
Lewis.
£TBA www.johnlewis.com.

5TV DVD combo 

With an integrated DVD player, you can play all your favorite DVD’s without the need
for a separate player or any unsightly cables to worry about. This series with integrated
digital Freeview has a beautiful high gloss black finish and petite 19 and 22-inch screen
versions, complete with invisible speakers, to complement any space in your home –
perfect for the bedroom or kitchen. It also has Energy Saving credentials.
£TBA www.lge.com

Wall Art Canvases start from £53.00 for 46 x 46 cm

Roller Blinds start from £115.00 for 600 x 1000 mm
Murals and Wallcoverings start from £79.00 for 1500 x 1500 mm
www.digetex.com

37
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 bent
fashion The Nerve of it
Nerve’s mission is to create a menswear brand,
which gives new and funky interpretations to
tradition features, fabrics and shapes of masculine
fashion.

£35 - Scarf
£75 - Shirt
£80 - Knitted tank
£95 - Jeans
£10 - Socks
£90 - Shoes
www.saturdaycasuals.co.uk

Inspired by classic horror films,

£34.99 - Diego Hoody such as Hitchcock and the
£19.99 - Basic Jog Pant gothic hammer horror movies,
www.republic.co.uk menswear label, Custom Deluxe,
has released a new range of
‘Horror’ t-shirts.
£19.99
www.customdeluxedenim.com

£25 – Torch T-shirt

www.frenchconnection.com

38
OCT 2009
 bent

£70 - Tan Brogue Boots from NEXT

fashion

Add a touch of exclusivity

to your autumn wardrobe
with these Limited Edition
‘Suede’s’ from PUMA.
£44.99 www.size.co.uk

Wearing your art on your sleeve

£199 – Remus; grey short coat with funnel
neck, buttons and pocket detail.
Stockist 0121 784 6161
Arty cufflinks may not be your idea of an investment but, with a limited
edition of only 1000 pairs, designed by some of the best contemporary
and cool artists… it certainly makes you think. These delightful silver
enameled cufflinks won’t break the bank and will make the perfect arty
statement for a mate or partner.
£35 www.castlegalleries.com

£21.50 - Red Devil,

Halloween inspired undies
from Clever Moda
www.deadgoodundies.com

39
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 travel
TEL AVIV
Take Me Back To Tel Aviv
It’s fair to say that since August, when a lone gun-man shot dead
two young gay lads and injured 10 others in Tel Aviv, which led
to a temporary closure of the cities gay nightlife, Israel is seen
as a homophobic and violent place to visit. However, we sent a
nervous Simon Savidge to find out what happened and what the city,
with a huge gay population, has to offer in future.

40
OCT 2009
 Once you arrive in Tel Aviv and get used the cloudless best beach”. The centre is quite something; it has a café,
sky, the hot temperatures and the attractive men, a baby-creche for gay couple’s children, its own small
you are instantly hit by the warmth of the people. hospital and medical centre and dance studio. There
Everywhere you go, should you be walking along the are classes for acting, safe sex, dating, you name it and
shopping streets, in the markets, on the beach and they will have it... Clearly not a sign of a city with a dark
in the bars, anyone and everyone will happily talk to underlying homophobia.
you. “And that is why people were so shocked by the
shooting.” Said Shai Doitsh, National Board Member So, what apart from the forward thinking does the city
of Gay Tourism. “We don’t have homophobic things have that weould attract the gay tourist? I mentioned
happen here in Tel Aviv, it’s a very cosmopolitan forward the endless sun and the gay beach, which alone make
thinking city. We don’t have a gay ghetto as bars can it the perfect getaway. There are also the men. Walking
be everywhere and anywhere. You can see gay couples into Evita, one of the city’s ever growing number
kissing and holding hands and no one cares. That’s of gay clubs, you have every sort of man you could
because, after compiling research, we discovered that wish for under the one roof - twinks, latino’s, bears,
around 35% of Tel Aviv’s population is gay.” curious, straight!!. There is also the endless shopping
opportunities in little boutiques and markets in Neve
Though there may be some dispute about that exact Zedek, the history of the old Jaffa Town to explore,
figure there is no disputing that people don’t bat an eye plus the movie set like art deco White Town, with
lid to both female and male couples kissing and holding its amazing restaurants - the food in Tel Aviv is
hands in the street. In fact, it was possible that is was me just awesome. It is the perfect short or long stay
who was the most shocked, as even in London, unless destination to relax and enjoy the good things
you’re on Old Compton Street, people still stare. On my in life. Plus the next 12 months are going to be
tour through this, the second largest city in Israel, we the perfect time to go as Shai explained. “After
stopped at the community centre and saw the huge the success of our own Pride event we want
amount of candles outside. My guide Igal Zeevi said more parties and so, very soon, we start the Love
“It shocked people so much, even the Prime Minister Weekends, which are going to just make the city
came to see what had happened and to urge people to even gayer”. He looks at me quizzically. “You must
try and find whoever did it. As a straight man in Tel Aviv tell everyone… it is going to be brilliant.”
there are gay people all around you and I am out all the
time with them. We have a community culture and it Simon Savidge travelled to Tel Aviv with www.
was shocking that this happened.” gaytelaviv.co.uk and BMI
www.flybmi.com Packages start from £544 per
The city does have huge community spirit. Later on person based on two sharing at the
the tour we visited the actual ‘Gay Centre’ for Tel Aviv, luxurious Neve Tzedek hotel for three nights from
(which isn’t as reported where the shooting happened) Thurday to Sunday in
which sits in one of the cities most beautiful parks and
not too far from the gay beach. “You see,” Igal adds November, includes return flights with BMI and all
laughing, “the gay community run this town… they taxes. To book visit
get the best park for their building and they have the www.gaytelaviv.co.uk or call 020 8515 4698.

Photos courtesy: www.glbt.org.il/tourism.php

41
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 travel
chicago

Chicago
What’s Hot in the Windy City
As the temperature drops and the thought
of cold dark nights loom, Bryan Herb
wants you to think about Chicago for
your next summer vacation. It’s the place
rapid becoming a surprisingly new gay
playground for our American cousins… and
he’d like us Brits to come and join them.

There are several things that make parallel streets, Halsted and Broadway, renowned architects, planners, artists Direct flights from the UK are available at:
Chicago the perfect place to spend some between Belmont and Grace Street. No and designers on 24.5 beautiful acres in
time. While Chicago may get a bad wrap matter what you’re into, Chicago offers a down town Chicago. Virgin Atlantic Virgin-Atlantic.com
for its winter weather, its summers more little something for everyone. Just down Michigan Avenue from
than make up for it. Chicagoans enjoy British Airways britishairways.com
The city’s gay nightlife is outstanding, but Millennium Park, you’ll find one of
warm sunny days and gentle breezes in it is not a city that never sleeps. Especially the city’s treasures, the Art Institute BMI flybmi.com
one of the nation’s greenest cities. Most in the summertime, Chicagoans wouldn’t of Chicago. The Art Institute is one of
restaurants open outdoor seating to want to risk sleeping away the best part the world’s most famous art museums, Flying into Chicago’s O’Hare International
take advantage of the fabulous natural of the day. Whether they’re window particularly known for its collection Airport
light and fresh air that blows off Lake shopping, dining in outdoor cafes, or of French Impressionist and Post-
Michigan. The lake, with its sun-ignited exercising along Chicago’s lake shore, Impressionist paintings by artists like
aqua and turquoise hues is perhaps The CTA’s Blue Line, located at the lowest
Chicagoans know how to make the most Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Caillebotte. Its
Chicago’s biggest attraction in the level of the main parking garage, may be
of a beautiful day. permanent collection is magnificent, and
summertime. However, the city would the best option for getting downtown,
If you’re gay, this definitely includes a travelling exhibits keep the museum’s especially if you are arriving during rush
never forgive me if I didn’t mention that visit to Hollywood Beach. Located off atmosphere fresh and exciting.
it also gave the US its latest President, hour. Trains depart every 10 minutes.
Lakeshore Drive to the North of the city Chicago’s most famous street, Michigan Travelling on the Blue Line will take you
Barack Obama. at Hollywood Avenue, Chicago’s gay Avenue, commonly referred to as 45 minutes to get downtown. Cabs are
community swarms here in the summer The Magnificent Mile, has abundant also accessible, but be prepared for a
time to escape the mild humidity and shopping at your favourite stores. You’ll possible wait, depending on the time
to gaze at turquoise waters and the find Barney’s, Hugo Boss, Kenneth you arrive, and it will take you about 25
man candy that abounds on the beach. Cole, Louis Vuitton, Diesel, Puma and minutes to reach downtown.
Most people arrive here by bike, but you many more. To break up a busy day of
can also drive, or even take a cab. The shopping, check out the RL restaurant
beach has a private feel, and there is a To get to know gay Chicago better:
next to Ralph Lauren for lunch, but be
concession stand at the top of the beach sure to make reservations. www.chicagopride.com
where one can buy ice cream, burgers, Speaking of restaurants, when in Chicago www.gaychicagomagazine.com/
nachos, etc. you will not suffer from a lack of delicious
However, you will not want to spoil food. Old favourites like MK continue
your appetite, because at 4:00 PM the to please patrons with consistently
beach begins to clear, and the gay mouth-watering American Cuisine.
boys walk or bike to Big Chicks bar Tru continues its reign as the trendiest
for vodka lemonade and free grilled upscale eatery, while Japonais gives it a
burgers, salads, hot dogs and more. You run for its money, with sumptuous sushi
Of course, many people would consider would think that since the food is free,
Chicago’s best feature to be the people creations.
it couldn’t be very good, and you’d be For something quick, less healthy, and
who call it home. Famous for their wrong-it’s delicious, and well worth the
friendliness and charm, Chicagoans totally satisfying, you can’t leave Chicago
long line that amasses as the day goes on. without trying its famous deep dish pizza.
love their fair city, and welcome tourists This is the perfect post beach hang out!
with open arms. This isn’t one of those Few cities offer gay travellers such a
places where locals snarl with distrusting In addition to life in the gay scene, modern, well-rounded experience,
sneers at the out-of-towners. Rather, Chicago has so much to offer to help you and there is no better time to be in
Chicagoans desire nothing more than for round out your stay: some of the world’s Chicago than the summertime. With the
visitors to love their city as much as they best museums, riverboat architectural International Men of Leather (IML) party,
do. This attitude finds itself into gay bars tours, world class theatre, outdoor and Boys Town’s weekend festival, the
and restaurants as well, where you will recreation, and more abound. Halsted Street Fair taking place around
find little, well, attitude. One of Chicago’s most highly acclaimed August, make sure your summer vacation
Chicago has a thriving nightlife, located attractions is Millennium Park (www. plans include Chicago.
in two main areas: Boys Town and millenniumpark.org ), which has
Andersonville. The most concentrated impressed even the most scrutinizing of
section of gay bars, restaurants, coffee Chicagoans. This award-winning centre
shops, and gyms can be found on two for art, music, architecture and landscape
design features the work of world-

42
OCT 2009
 Website: JarrettJames.moonfruit.co.uk
bent
fitness
Mobile: 07876525392
Location: London

Rehydration
Man
Men’s skin faces the worst time
during winter. Their lower level of
skin hydration and dryness caused
by shaving is compounded by the
humidity and cold temperatures,
which lead to dehydration and
dryness in the skin. Lock in the
moisture with Maximum Hydration
Face Lotion.
£34 www.manceuticals.co.uk

Be S.M.A.R.T
So many people find that the most difficult part of
their fitness programme is sticking with it. Often
we drift from programme to programme, becoming
passionately dedicated to step classes one month,
then Pilates or yoga the next. Sometimes we drop
fitness altogether, opting for life back on the couch.
The problem is motivation. The core component of the overall goal and weeks or will it take six months? Identify
of any personal fitness programme states it. For a power lifter, it may involve your timeline.
is staying interested and, as a improving muscle endurance, stance, Using the SMART criteria, you can
personal trainer, my role is to keep my and strategy. In other words, it’s a set generate a SMART goal to improve
participants coming back for more. If of clearly defined goals rather than one muscular endurance. It might read:
I don’t, then I’m out of a job. The law broad one. “Within 30 days, I will increase my squat
to which all PT’S conform states: No 2. Goals Need to be Measurable resistance on the squat rack from 100 to
participants; no classes. No classes; no A measurable goal could refer to time, 120 KG by training four days per week
money. distance, times per week, numbers of and increasing my weight by five KGs
Motivating participants means goal repetitions, or mass. If your goal is to do per week.”
setting. I know what you’re thinking. more squats, your goal would state that If at the end of 30 days you reach your
You’re thinking, “Great! He’s going to you want to be able to squat with 120 goal, evaluate how this fits in with
tell me if I set a goal to become a power KG of weight. your overall fitness goal of becoming
lifter, I’m going to stay true to a fitness 3. Goals Need to be Action-oriented a power lifter. You may wish to set a
programme forever.” Nothing could be new or different goal. If you didn’t
further from the truth. A broad goal like This part means that you’re going to go
to the gym  and use the squat rack to reach it, ask whether there might be a

Watching you
becoming a power lifter doesn’t take reason. Perhaps you had the flu, or the
into account specifics such as how to carry out your goal four times per week.
goal wasn’t as realistic as you thought.
train, when or where to train, or how to 4. Goals Need to be Realistic Formulate a new goal and time interval.
tell when it’s time to enter competition. Once you begin weightlifting, you’ll New Age Defense For Eyes - a
SMART goals can be useful in many comprehensive all in one anti-
It leaves no room for evaluation. become familiar with the weights and aspects of life that involve motivation–
what your limits might be. You can ageing eye cream. Fast absorbing
It’s not a SMART goal. A SMART goal is not just fitness. Use SMART goals in
develop a strategy to gradually increase cream hydrates and diminishes the
Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, your relationships, for career change or
the weights until you reach your goal. look of dark circles and puffiness
Realistic, and Time-bound. advancement, and to improve eating immediately and over time.
5. Goals Need to be Time-bound habits. Any aspect of life that requires £22 15ml
1. Goals Need to be Specific How long will it take to reach your goal? motivation is open to the application of
Is this something you can do in six SMART goals. www.cliniqueformen.co.uk/
A specific goal is one that takes a

43
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
 Sauna Guide
When responding to an advert, please tell the advertiser that you saw their advertisment in Bent Magazine.

To advertise in these pages contact Darrell: 08712 246 529 or email: [email protected]

On camera at
the GreenHouse
Ever the innovators in style
and class and often setting the
benchmark for the quality saunas…
those clever people at GreenHouse
Health Clubs have come up with
another brilliant idea.

Their new website has a host

of new features, including
member’s video, galleries, blogs,
chat, events and a camera room.
No, they are not fitting web cams
to every room but now, through
their computer ports, you will be
able to chat in vision to others on
line. This means you can arrange
to meet up, check out and get
to know other sweaty chums at
the various GreenHouses around
the country. Every Saturday in
October and November there
will be a live show from the
Luton venue, which will see
gloryhole demonstrations,
medical scenarios and fetishes
for everyone. If you want to take
part you are being encouraged
to go nip down and do so. For
those who are a bit shy, but
still would like to be on the live
broadcast to all the other on line
venues, GreenHouse will supply
balaclavas. Perhaps not quite fun
for all the family but certainly
a huge plus to a company
that always wants to give its
customers that little bit more…
and after all… who doesn’t want
a little bit more?
Check out what is on offer:
www.gay-sauna.com
City Steam
Derby is
One Year
Old.
To celebrate their amazing first year
trading, they are having a Halloween
weekend party.
With Free Buffet and Drinks. Dress code
is wear what you like 31st October.
Lots more themed parties to come.
No other sauna in the UK can rival the
unique location of City Steam. Set in
the prestigious city centre area of Derby
known as the Cathedral Quarter.
Facilities include Sauna, Bespoke Steam
Room, Large Jacuzzi, Large Cinema
room, Sling Rooom, Private Rooms,and
the famous George Michael Suite.
For more info see their web site
www.citysteam.co.uk
City Steam,8-9 St Marys
Gate,Derby,DE13JF Tel:01332 209 150
Alternative night out!!
Don’t like going out on the scene? Looking for something different? Strapped for cash?
Steam Complex offer an alternative night out with a Sauna Experience and Clubbing
rolled into one.  Why pay for an entry into bars/clubs and again into the sauna when one
entry fee at the venue will get you it all.  They may not have on top name DJ’s or the laser
light shows but  then again, not every one is looking for that.  What Steam Complex offer is
cheap alcoholic drinks (until 3am), amazing atmosphere and good music. This, together with
their sauna facilities, makes for a fantastic night out.  For those who are travelling to Leeds,
Steam Complex offer overnight rooms.  Check with the complex for availability.

See the main advert for the events on offer, log on to www.steamcompplex.co.uk
or call 01132 798885.
event of the Month

Soho Live
by ChrisGeary.com

The annual Soho Pride festival was cancelled this

year due to lack of funding, so Gaydar and the
Edge Bar got together to make sure the free event
continued, only a month late. It was rebranded
“Soho Live” and expanded with more fun fair
attractions, market stalls and entertainment.
The event is just a guilty excuse to have a
party, shutting down the streets to traffic and
bringing together Soho’s bars and businesses,
scene socialites, clubs and new additions
from the fashion and sports communities.
QSoft Consulting Ltd, owners of Gaydar and
GaydarRadio formed a joint venture with The
Edge Bar (Soho Square) to deliver the event. The
Edge was responsible for logistics while Gaydar
were responsible for marketing and generating
sponsorship for the event.
The Gaydar Radio main stage included DJ’s
Nathan6, Phil Marriott, Oliver M, The Freemasons,
Steve Pitron and Paul Heron. Plus we spotted
several celebrities and PA’s from Bailey Tzuke,
Abigail Bailey, Katherine Ellis and Tara McDonald.

More info: www.SohoLive.co.uk

48
OCT 2009
Rocky in the
Basement
The scene is set as we join that Sweet
Transvestite from Transsexual Transylvania Frank N. Furter and his weird
and crazy gang for the Rocky Horror Halloween Party on Saturday 31st
October at Legends & The Basement Club
It’s a Science Fiction - Double Feature with Colombia cruising Legends
Bar on the lookout for the craziest of Halloween costumes. Those lucky
enough to be chosen will win spooky prizes.
After midnight she will be joining our Sweet Transvestite Frank
N. Furter down in The Basement Club for the second half of the
Science Fiction - Double Feature. Where they will be looking to
make themselves a man!
Become one of their scary house guests and enjoy the tunes from
the musical as Frank N. Furter and the gang take you on a time
warp though the best house and chart tracks. If you are lucky you
might even catch a glimpse of Brad and Janet as Frank readies his
man. Plus they’ll be some very
special Rocky Horror Show
guests.
So warp yourselves down to
Legends & The Basement Club
the Rocky Horror Halloween
Party. The party starts in
Legends Bar at 8pm on
Saturday 31st October.

‘The Basement Club’ below

Legends
31-34 Marine Parade,
Brighton BN2 1TR www.
basementclub.co.uk/

49
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
manchester

Manchester
Pride
Despite the weather not being able to make up its
mind, this years Manchester Pride was a huge success.
When you get thousands of happy party-goers hitting
that very special bit of gay Madchester a good time is
guaranteed… and the organisers pulled out all the stops
to make sure that happened. The event has blossomed
over the last few years to include a huge range of events,
which take place over a ten-day period at the end of
August. This has helped broaden its appeal and raise
substantial amounts of money for charity from a host of
different sources. The Heroes themed parade through the
city attracted nearly 100 floats, which were cheered on by
friends, supporters and the just plain curious… no one
was disappointed. Marching bands, sports teams, clubs
and bars… as well as a cornucopia of glammed up drag
stars entertained the crowds. Over in the wristband area,
the stage hosted top class acts including; man-of-the-
moment Peter Andre, trendy Little Boots, the ever popular
Bananarama and current faves Frankmusik, amongst
others.
With tens of thousands of ticket holders revelling in the
gay village the organisers are still totting up the total from
the event but local charities are set to receive a boost to
their funds… and the excitement that it will all happen
again next year.

Photos: Mark Hawkins and Darrell Hirst

50
OCT 2009
 Eazy on the
pocket
Eazysleep Manchester is a clean and comfortable
budget Hotel in Manchester City Centre. Located on
Canal Street – in the famous gay village – the Hotel
is surrounded by cosmopolitan bars, restaurants,
nightclubs and shops all minutes away.
All 14 of Eazysleep’s bedrooms are fully en-suite
with fantastic views overlooking the Canal and the
bustling, exciting street outside. All contain freeview
televisions and tea & coffee making facilities. Ideal
for people visiting Manchester for a weekend to
experience the city’s nightlife, Eazysleep offers
superb comfort and value for money with rooms
starting from as little as £19 per night!
Call us on 0161 236 2788

51
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
manchester

Don’t be
scared!
October is upon us and with it comes one of Cruz 101’s
favourite and most popular events…The Halloween Ball!
Last year’s spectacular happening was filled to capacity
and with 31st October falling on a Saturday this year the
entire thing promises to be huge.
The club will undergo a complete transformation
becoming an interactive, haunting experience for those
who dare.
Mistress Cara will be climbing out of her coffin to preside
over events hosting Cruz 101’s annual fancy dress
competition, with the chance to win a huge cash prize.
Last year was a riot with some amazing costumes, check
out the web for the ghastly selection of Ghosts, Goblins
and Ghouls!
Kelly Wilde will be live on stage performing her fantastic
Halloween Show - with monster party anthems galore,
perfect for the midnight hour!
Outrageous entertainment & unbeatable drink offers
make Cruz 101’s annual Halloween Ball a night to miss at
your peril.

The Halloween Ball

11pm – 6am
Selected drinks offers from £1.90 and premium doubles
at £3.80

Contact the club on 0161 9500 101– www.cruz101.com

52
OCT 2009
 manchester

Get Your
Freak On!
Last month saw the launch of a new gay club in
Manchester. Formally known as 1 Central Street, The
Number One Club opened its doors with a host of
fresh new club nights - so we took a look at their new
Saturday flagship night Freakshow from the guys behind
Federation and the huge Manchester Pride event Uni
Challenge.
“Freakshow is a spin off from the Federation Brand.”
Explained Federation Promoter Gareth Chapman.  “The
idea came about because we wanted to do something
new and more frequent in Manchester, with Federation
Events only running on the bank holiday Sunday’s in
Manchester.”
The organisers say they wanted to create a fresher, new,
more interactive atmosphere in such an intimate area.
Their Freak Circus personal will be on hand to… well
you’ll just have to get along to this event to find out.
“Our Manchester events are the ones my whole team look
forward to the most, the crowd and mood are second to
none; we wanted to create something more personal for
a new weekly crowd of cool clubbers. A venue where we
could take the music we’re known for to the next level.”
Gareth continues. “With Federation being such a huge
event the music needs to appeal to a broad cross-section
of fans, however with Freakshow we go on to a later time
so we’re able tomake the music a little tougher and dirtier.
It’s also important to us to involve the customer and make
them part of the party, we love interaction so we have a
horde of freaks just waiting to freak out on the dancefloor
with you.”
You can catch Freakshow each and every Saturday @
The Number One club, 1 Central Street, Manchester
from 11pm until 6am. Followed by the After Show party
from Organic @ Audio above Spirit on Canal Street until
freakshisly late.
For more info go to www.clubfreakshow.com 

54
OCT 2009
BLACKPOOL

Small and
friendly
The Lonsdale is a small friendly Gay, Bi, Trans & Gay
friendly Hotel.  Owned & run by Stephen & Karl, now
in their 21st year.  There are Premier en-suite rooms
with balconies, some with sea/Tower views, smoking is
permitted on balconies.  Premier rooms have free view
TV, DVD, music system, fridges, iron & ironing boards &
hairdryers. Prices include freshly prepared full English or
Vegetarian breakfast.
There is free secure gated and garage parking, and is
situated only a few minutes walk from railway and bus
stations, and also from the bars clubs & saunas.
www.blackpoolaccommodation.net

Granby Lodge
Nigel welcomes you to the

enbrook
PRIVATE HOTEL H o t e l BLACKPOOL
“A SMALL, CLEAN, COMFORTABLE
• Tea/Coffee & FRIENDLY HOTEL OFFERING A
making facilities VERY WARM WELCOME TO BOTH
in all rooms MEN & WOMEN”
• Car parking
available • 2 mins walk from Clubs,
• Residential Pubs, Shops & sea
Licence • Most rooms en-suite, all with
• Doubles, groups & family TV, tea/coffee making facilities
rooms available • Generous Full English /
• 5 mins from Blackpool Vegetarian breakfast
North train Station & shops
• Free car park
69 Lord Street, North Shore, • Club & Sauna concessions
Blackpool FY1 2BJ • Open all year
01253 626737 15 Lord Street, Blackpool, FY1 2AZ
www.thelenbrookhotel.com
[email protected]
Tel. Brian: 01253 627842
www.granbylodge.com

CHAPS Hotel
9-11 Cocker Street, Blackpool, FY1 1SF
Telephone 01253 620541

• QUALITY ACCOMMODATION • REASONABLE PRICES • EXCLUSIVELY MEN ONLY • CLOSE TO ALL THE BARS CLUBS AND SAUNAS
www.chapshotel.co.uk
56
OCT 2009
 BLACKPOOL

The Athol
Hotel,
Blackpool
Situated in the heart of Blackpool’s gay village, The
Athol Hotel has been in the same ownership for 11
years – the owners Colin & Mat specialise in providing
comfortable, modern accommodation for the discerning
LGBT traveller & their friends. The hotel prides itself on its
unique relaxed, home from home atmosphere. Prices are
structured to suit your budget & the hotel provides full off
street car parking & offers extra’s such as a complimentary
ironing service - meaning the only thing you have to
worry about during your stay is where to spend your
night out on the town!

Westfield House
78 Lord St Blackpool FY1 2DG
Jim or John 01253 621992

Fridays to Mondays - Gay male/female

and their friends. Highly recommended
for cleanliness and friendliness

Monday -Thursday nights

Men only, NO DRESS CODE
Usual facilities in all rooms. Close to scene
and shops etc. Most rooms
en-suite and late ‘Brekkie’.

www.westfieldhousehotel.co.uk
[email protected]
Concessions to The Flamingo and Aqua Sauna

ATHOL
www.atholhotel.co.uk

HOTEL
3 Mount Street
Blackpool, FY1 2DQ
01253 624918 E-Mail: [email protected]

• Car Parking • Complimentary Ironing Service

• Ensuite rooms available
• Quality English or Continental
breakfast
Prices from £17.50 (inc. Breakfast)
ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

57
www.mag.bent.com To subscribe to Bent please call 08712 246 529
BLACKPOOL

Illuminating
experience
Billed as the greatest free show on Earth, the world
famous Blackpool Illuminations shine until 8th November.
Illuminating 6 miles of dazzling displays as they shine
non-stop for a massive 66 nights, with more than 100 miles
of festoon lighting and over 1 million lamps, an army of
over 3.7million visitors will make the trip to wonder at this
unrivalled festival.
The Flying Handbag presents the perfect pre-club
experience, with nightly cabaret and events with Friday
Night Live bringing you the top names in comedy, song,
drag and strippers, why not pay a visit on your next trip to
Blackpool.
The Flamingo continues to present Ultimate Friday, with a
host of cabaret and events every Friday throughout October;
including the last Foam Party of the year on Friday 9th
October.
Clubbing sensation Federation takes up its regular third
Saturday extravaganza at Flamingo on Saturday 17th
October, presenting Boywatch. Expect horny shows
from the Federation hunks in trunks, and their legendary
entertainment troupe clad in swimwear.
So why not light up your October, and make a trip to
Blackpool - experience the illuminations, and visit the world
renowned Flamingo, where, no matter which night you
visit, you are guaranteed nothing less than an astounding
night packed with style, the finest of entertainment, and the
biggest night in town.

www.flamingoonline.co.uk

58
OCT 2009
DARLINGTON

Darlo-licious
Still creating quite a storm at Joes in Darlington is
the fabulous Gaylicious every Monday night. The
boyz and girlz are coming out in their droves to
one of the best nights of fun and entertainment in
the north east. Frock up or dress down, everyone
is always welcome and encouraged to be
themselves. The venue is attitude free… as is the
entry… so make a note in your extensive party
calendar and enjoy this drag-anza… or have we
just made that word up?

For more information join the Gaylicious Group

on facebook, or call 01642 244777

60
OCT 2009
 barnsley

Drag4U all
Drag 4U is a national competition now into its third year
and was designed to find the best drag queen in the land,
while in the process raising much needed funds for the
Terrence Higgins Trust. The competition has grown to
be a hugely successful event in the drag queen calendar
and has thousands of supporters across the country,
culminating in the exciting grand final. Heats have been
attracting a great deal of interest from both the public
and contestants and the final looks set to be a fun and
mind-blowing evening of high camp and high heels.
Tickets for the event are now on sale and cost just £10
when booked before the end of November, tickets after
that time will cost £13. Businesses in the local area are
also being encouraged to sponsor a table for the evening
that includes a 3 course meal with waitress service and
can seat up to 12 people. Tables cost just £150.

For further information, or to book your tickets please

contact Kevan Riggett the Drag 4U event co-ordinator on
01226 730060 or visit www.bpl.org.uk.

A first for
Barnsley
Drag 4U is a national competition now into its third
year The very first Barnsley Pride took place last month.
Taking over part of the town centre the bars and gay
organizations pulled together a very well organized,
and as the day developed, quite a good sized crowd
for a fist attempt. The Mayor & Mayoress of Barnsley,
Cllr John Parkinson & Mrs Linda Parkinson formally
opened the event and spoke enthusiastically about
the contribution of the gay community. There are a few
mayors and councilors in neighbouring towns and cities
who could take a leaf out of the mayor’s positive outlook.
Meanwhile, the main stage hosted by the “Faaabulous
Daahlings Faaabulous” Anna Glypta, saw many local acts
showing off their talent and keeping the ever-growing
crowd amused.. The action then moved to Chicago Rock
for the official After-Pride party into the early hours.

Words and photos: Darrell Hirst

62
OCT 2009
Viva La Diva @ Vida Lounge - Worksop contest - 1st October
The Albion - Scarborough contest - 11th October
The Viaduct - Leeds contest - 18th October
The Pineapple - Bristol contest - 8th November
Zeus - Wakefield contest - 15th November
Propaganda - Hull contest - 22nd November

Sparkles Showbar
The biggest Drag venue in the whole of the Canaries 1st floor in the Yumbo Centre Sponsor of Drag 4 U
Bring this voucher and recieve 1 free Cocktail per customer (1 voucher 1 customer)
Official
Afterparty
Offer lasts until 5th December 2010
For more information see our website www.sparklesshowbar.com
 leeds

Re-open
Back Door
Back Door Disco burst back onto the
Leeds party circuit last month with
a mega-sized re-launch celebration.
The night returned when its host
venue, Mission, reopened after a
huge overhaul. The club is now
back with an enhanced interior, new
management, new door staff and a
brand new weekly line up.
The promoters behind BDD promise
that it will be bigger and better
than ever before, with more DJs, big
brand sponsors and special offers.
Almost all drinks are priced at £2.50
and the door tax is just £5 all night.
Despite the changes, clubbers can
be sure it’s still the best weekend
party experience in Leeds with free
shots from the Back Door Disco team
and legendary mix masters Scott
Kelly and Philip James on the decks.
The re-launch party saw the night
rammed to the rafters as the hottest
gay boys and girls in the city came
out to take a look at the new
and improved Mission. Muscle-
bound gym bunnies, well dressed
fashionistas and a decidedly trendy
under-25 student crowd filled the
club right until dawn, dancing hard
to an irresistible mix of modern-to-
the-minute pop and commercial
house.
Expect lots more in the coming
weeks plus a Disco Bloodbath at the
Halloween fancy dress party.

Back Door Disco takes place every

Saturday from 11pm at Mission 2 on
Lower Briggate. For more info, go to
www.backdoordisco.com

64
OCT 2009
k 3/12/08 12:44 Page 1

leeds

DJ Relay
Charity No. 1040407
Company Reg No. 2958336

and Scene
Screams
Have you ever found yourself on the Leeds
scene wishing you could stay in the same
spot and get your favourite DJ to come
to you? Have you ever in a flight of fancy
thought what it would be like to go on
a pub crawl with Leeds’ top drag acts?
Have you ever wanted to raise money for
Yorkshire’s leading LGBT charity? Well your
wishes, fantasies and desires are about
to come true and in one night too. Friday
October 23rd will see all the Leeds venues
join forces to raise money for Yorkshire
MESMAC in a massive, unique joint fund
raising night. The ‘DJ Relay’ will see DJs
from all the Leeds venues spinning their
12 inches of plastic pleasure as they
themselves rotate around the scene in a
PEP must
dizzying nightbeoftaken withinrandom
fun. Expect 72 hours andof
possible HIVpairings
unexpected exposure. TheSassy
- think faster you start
Susan
PEP Fibre,
Platt playing the more
Annaeffective it is.
Glypta shouting
the odds in Mission, and Scott Wilson
PEP should
wowing be available
the crowds at Thefrom
Newsexual
Penny. health
clinics and A&E departments.
PO Box 491, HG2 8EZ
PO Box 491, HG2 8EZ

One
Onofoccasion
the organisers,
peopleGordon Hughes from
do experience side
Healthcare

the Viaduct, told us,effects.

‘This is going to be a
LTC

fantastic night, all the venues are up for it,

not only will
PEPthere
is notbeagreat
cure DJs
for working
HIV.
around the scene, but you can also choose
toThere
followisyour favourite DJ
no guarantee on it
that Drag
willled
prevent
pub crawl or asHIVwetransmission.
like to call them - Scene
Screams.’
Condoms and lube used correctly are the
For most
more effective wayvisit
information of preventing HIV
the Yorkshire
transmission
MESMAC website during sex.
www.mesmac.co.uk
or follow them on Twitter search for
yorkshiremesmac

NEW PENNY
66
OCT 2009
leeds

Make Over
Queens Court Leeds extreme makeover
is complete and now offers an amazing
drinking, dining and clubbing experience.
Their delicious menu is served everyday
from midday until 9pm. Happy hour every
day from 5pm until 8pm with fabulous
drink prices.
Monday night features the original and the
best ‘Pinkpounder’ with loads of top brand
drinks only £1 all night. Two floors of fun
with the legendary Miss Orry and DJ Marky
Mark - bring you the best of chart and
camp tunes.
Thursdays from 8pm bring is the amazing
student night ‘U-POP’ with drinks from only
£1.
Friday night in the Loft from 11pm offers
‘Flashback’, DJ Marky Mark bringing you the
best clubbing experience with the very best
mix of bubblegum pop and dance from the
80’s and 90’s… with special guest DJ spot
every week. All drinks just £2 all and free
admission all night!
Saturday night in the Loft features ‘Queer’
with the amazing Amanda Hammond on
the Decks and all drinks only £2.50

68
OCT 2009
 bent
fiction

Morning
Horny
By Les Lea
I love early morning sex and the guy on the down at me as I lapped at his piss-slit and I
chatline called ‘MorningHorny’ seemed just could see he was thinking about something
the type of guy I’d go for. His profile said he else. I began to feel useless and assumed he
was 6’2”, athletic build, short blond hair and was going to tell me to ‘clear off’ as I’m sure
blue eyes… with a large cock, I thought he he had a host of guys who could service his
was too good to be true but the shots of needs better than I was. A few minutes later
his cock pushing out from behind various he said that we should get comfortable and
pairs of tight boxers made me want to guided me to his bed. I was glad about this
get in touch and check him out. Early one as my knees ached from being being in this
Wednesday morning I sent an e-mail and he submissive position and I was also happy
told me to come on over right away as his that he hadn’t just told me to go. This boost
ball bag was bursting. As I hadn’t had such to my confidence made me even more
an enthusiastic offer for quite some time I determined to please him in whatever way
replied that I was on my way. he wanted me to. As we stretched out on his
bed he slipped his hand inside my briefs and
I arrived at his home within 40 minutes rubbed at my hard cock. It felt wonderful,
and this hunk, who looked even sexier and as this was the first time that he’d made
hotter than he did in his profile photos, any attempt to stimulate me. I was in no
greeted me wearing just a pair of tight white doubt that I was there mainly to supply his
cotton boxers. He was all he said he was, early morning desires but was hopeful that
which in itself was quite a change, and he he would repay the compliment at some
guided me straight to his bedroom. I had point. He pulled at my briefs then flipped
noticed his package looked nice but nothing me over on to my stomach to pull them off
I couldn’t handle so, as he eased me out completely. He then lay across my back and
of my clothes, I was looking forward to my I felt a finger scratching at my bum-hole.
morning mouthful. When I was down to One thing I do know is that my arse is tight
nothing but my pale blue nylon briefs he and my arse cheeks are firm, one of the few
kissed me gently on the lips… but after only things I’m pretty proud of, and he seemed to
a few seconds of this tenderness pushed be pleased about that as well. I heard a sigh
me to my knees. I knew what was needed. of appreciation as a finger sought admission
I stroked the front of his boxers and eased but my tight sphincter just gripped this
his cock and balls through the fly; it was invading digit and not allowing immediate
nice, soft, uncut and clean. I set to work access. Although I’d been shagged before
licking and sucking immediately… he tasted it was a rare occurrence and something
wonderful and was quickly leaking pre-cum I didn’t encourage. However, I heard the
with every lap of my tongue. To begin with bedside drawer being opened and a few

Screwed
I could fit the whole thing in my mouth moments later felt lube being dribbled into
my arse crack. I even detected the sound of go down as this tale of prison
however, in minutes I was struggling to take lust unfolds. Screwed stars:
even the tip of this huge beast between a condom being released from its foil prison.
I turned my head to look over my shoulder Cayden Banks, Rod Daily, Vince
my lips. How the hell something so small Whether you’re incarcerated or Ferelli, David Taylor, Shane Frost,
could have grown to that size truly amazed and tell him to ‘forget it’ as I knew I couldn’t
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me. I tried my best but I just gagged every stand a good chance of getting T.C., Kash Satal, Lucas Knowles
time he tried to force it to the back of my up my butt. He said that I shouldn’t worry
because he’d be very gentle, take it slow and it in the end - Screwed. and Mason Ross. This is the first
throat. I could tell he wasn’t happy with my made-for-DVD appearance of
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whilst pinned under this athletic stud I Chris Steele Film from Jet Set Cayden Banks, Austin Wrigley,
kept trying to frustratingly ram the thing as Vince Ferelli, David Taylor, and
far down as possible. I licked and nibbled found… he wasn’t gentle… he just rammed Men strongly suggests. There
it up and even more of a surprise… I did are 11 extremely hot guys on Kash Satal.
the entire length of his shaft in an effort to
give him some kind of sensation that would take it all. For a week afterwards my arsehole both sides of the Fontana facility
make him cum. I have to say I was looking was really sore but despite this I wanted a fence - ready, willing and eager Screwed will be available at
forward to experiencing a thing that size another early morning shag session with to get it on with each other. Prowler, Expectations and all
spurt all over my face. I saw him looking this hunk. Sorry to say he never responded Five scenes – 2 sizzling good video stockists priced at
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OCT 2009
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 e a uty
bent

B
help & comment

Simon and the

freaks
says…
Dear Simon to him to see if he can speak to your
I lost my partner a few years ago and mother. If that isn’t happening then

EATING FEET
everyone is telling me that I should you need to confront your mother
have met someone else. I didn’t think yourself. I know it sounds scary
I was ready and then I thought ‘well but you need to find out what her
why not’ I have been out on a few dates problem is. For mothers it can be a
and have even had a few overnight terrible situation that: she has lost
stays. The thing is every time I meet her little boy to a life of perceived
another man or sleep with a man I start degradation, she might have had
comparing them and then start feeling hopes of grandchildren, she might Okay. This is the curse of the gobby, However sometimes we cross the mark. It
guilty like I am cheating when I know I blame herself, she might just be opinionated columnist. Occasionally can be easier than you’d think. Especially
am not. I would like to meet someone thinking about your happiness!!! You (perhaps frequently) we put our feet in because we’re expected to be controversial
special but am worried that it’s never need to try and convince her that it it. This is perhaps why we’re perfect as anyway and each individual has differing
going to happen. What should I do? was because of your happiness that columnists. We don’t mind saying whatever levels of acceptability when it comes
you came out in the first place and we want to say. But unfortunately, it will to just how controversial they want us
Dan, Birmingham ultimately be our downfall. to be. Some friends will forgive you for
that you couldn’t stand the thought
of living a lie. It might take time, she headbutting them during drunken New
Dear Dan will have a lot take in but leaving Gossips like me can’t help but gossip. It’s Year’s Eve parties, whilst some will get
There is no time scale to the feeling the situation, I don’t think will help not necessarily about malice (although, frosty with you for tugging on their hair.
of loss. Everyone is different and anyone. when people get angry, we all say things I guess in these cases you have to ride it
people are affected in many different we shouldn’t). It’s usually because it’s out. Gossips do get a lot of leeway, and
ways. I’m sure your friends are only expected of you. The columnist is a gossip often people will take a while to cool
Dear Simon down before coming round anyway, and
trying, in their own not necessarily with the privilege of getting their words
helpful way, to encourage you to I got incredibly drunk a few months chalking it up to ‘one of those things’.
ago and ended up having a mercy shag in print. When you’re out and about,
start to live again. It is inevitable people expect you to regale them with
you will compare anyone new with with a guy I so didn’t fancy but it was
the end of the night and so I thought interesting stories, shocking statements I’d say, though, that rather than being
your partner but you need to give and outlandish acts. So you do. Society nasty people, most gossips are the
them a chance to prove what they ‘why not’. Now he isn’t attractive but oh
my god the sex is amazing and actually probably needs it, because without these opposite. They are overly social. They flit
have to offer. Your partner’s gone. morsels of salacious interest life would from crowd to crowd, entertaining as
He’s not coming back. Your choice he really makes me laugh, not at his
looks you understand? The thing is the be a hell of a lot more boring. If we can’t they go along, and usually cock up mainly
now is… what do you do about it? show people how outrageous and morally because they’re trying to please too many
Don’t feel guilty, you have nothing idea of introducing him to my friends
or even saying he is my boyfriend just is dubious we are, how can your Average people at once. Tip: you can’t. If you piss
to be guilty about so, go out and Joe measure himself against us? How can someone off, let them cool down and get
meet new people, you don’t have to so wrong in so many ways. I know they
will judge him as I am judging myself. everyone else know they’re not that bad if on with their own lives, and don’t stoop to
find anyone to be your new partner they don’t allow us to be bad instead? getting petty. After a while they’ll realise
urgently. Take your time and soon He is a really lovely guy and he makes
me explode in bed, it’s a problem! you have no problem with them and it was
enough I am sure you will meet just an innocent mistake, and then will feel
someone and everything will just Nathan, London Indeed, there does seem to be a

é
guilty for holding a grudge themselves,

nc
click. recognition of this. Gossips seem to get

o
before relenting.

y
away with gossiping, because most people

e
Dear Nathan

B
just roll their eyes and say, ‘Beyonce’s at it
Dear Simon You are so Charlotte from Sex and again!’. It’s kind of our licence to thrill. And
I have recently come out to my parents. the City, no really! I think if you like in a way, they want us to be naughty. They
I was really worried that my dad would the guy and the sex is mind blowing want us to be bad. It reminds people that
have a real problem with it, he is your what’s the problem? OK, your even though they abide all the rules and
typical northern builder but it’s actually friends might be a little surprised act with perhaps too much obedience,
been my mother that has had the but so what… is a good-looking, no they do have the option of rebelling
biggest problem with it, in fact she isn’t personality clothes horse some kind against social etiquette and being an
talking to me. If I walk into a room she of ideal? If they do slag you both off iconoclast—simply because we gossips do.
won’t look at me and will then leave. behind your back then what friends
This has been happening now for about are they? The main question to ask
3 months and it’s really hurting me as I yourself is what type of person are
love her so much, I don’t know how to you. We all have an ideal of what
make it all ok?
Liam, Barnsley
your partner should look like but
more often than not the ones we fall
for aren’t the ones we thought we
Registration number for sale
On retention for immediate transfer this unique number was valued by Elite
would. Just go with it and have fun; No. Plates Ltd. for £5000 on S.O.R.
Dear Liam
You don’t say how old you are Liam
amazing sex and a good laugh don’t
come around that often.
I will accept best offers over £500.
but I’m guessing, still quite young This to include transfer fee to your car so no work required by buyer.
and I assume you are still living at What a great present or investment.
home. The fact that your dad seems
to have accepted that you are gay is
a positive step, and you need to talk

Please phone Peter on:

07973 635 752

74
OCT 2009
 ONLY

10p
PER MIN

0871 550 8043

0871 = 10p per minute. Network extras apply. Live calls recorded. 18+.
Helpdesk 0844 944 0844. SP: 4D Interactive.

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enabled phones. To stop text STOP to 89998. Users must prove that they have been adult verified stop text STOP to 89998. Users must prove that they have been adult verified by their network operator in
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 bent
stars Philip has just started to write detailed monthly travel
horoscopes in addition to his existing content of weekly
love & gay horoscopes, daily horoscopes and weekly &
monthly in depth scripts for phone lines.

Aries (Mar21/Apr20)
Close friendships and partnerships will come Scorpio (Oct24/Nov22)
Illustrations: Oliver Weiss/oweiss.com

into their own over the weeks ahead. Old It might not be easy to put your trust in a new
disagreements are settled and where there has been partner in a personal or even business sense but
misunderstanding, no offence is taken. A work mate this is what you now have to do. You can’t possible
might hint they’d like to put your relationship onto do everything that’s expected of you over the
a more romantic footing. Be sure it’s what you want weeks ahead; your mental and physical capabilities
to do before making a binding decision. Expect a do have their limits. Accepting help from others
generally social feel to the weeks ahead; you will be is the only way forward. A cordial and optimistic
going out of your way to make others happy. social atmosphere will give your spirits a boost

Taurus (Apr21/May21) while the home front is likely to see an intriguing

development.

Sagittarius (Nov23/Dec21)
Fatigue is your enemy these next few weeks. If you’re
feeling out of sorts don’t fight it; find things to do
that don’t call for a lot of energy. Stress and tension

Libra (Sept24/Oct23)
could take their toll on a close relationship. Romance Friends and loved ones are in a particularly lively
will be far less fractious if you tried to be more frame of mind. Their enthusiasm is contagious and
patient with your partner. Medical matters need to a sense of well-being and contentment will prevail
be dealt with as soon as they arise. You might be
A little self promotion wouldn’t go amiss over the thinking about changing jobs or improving existing
over the weeks ahead. You might even persuade
someone who has been relying heavily on you, to
weeks ahead. Ambitious plans in the pipe-line working conditions. have the confidence to stand on their own two feet.

Gemini (May22/June21)
will soon come to fruition as long as you believe It’s a great time to break free from routine and if you
in yourself and your abilities. What have you want to get on and do more with your life, this is when
you should be letting other people in on the fact!
got to lose from blowing your own trumpet?
Capricorn (Dec22/Jan20)
If you’re lost in dreams of  a future that cannot
Your intuition is high and you can safely take be, it is time to face reality. Once you discover the
person you fancy isn’t available or isn’t interested,
a calculated risk. Your love life comes into full be sensible and accept this relationship was never You will benefit from the new ideas and schemes
bloom as a wave of self-confidence engulfs you meant to be. Some unusual hobbies and pastimes being put forward now. An experience helps you
and your personality shines. will grab your interest these next few weeks, leading adopt a live-and-let-live attitude towards those
you to join a group or society. Some money luck sharing your world; you enthusiastically welcome
could come your way and this will give your home- newcomers to your circle. The work scene is more
improvement plans a boost. to your liking when new projects capture your

Cancer (Jun22/Jul23)
imagination. Support will come for your ambitions
for the coming months, from unusual sources. A
CELEBRITY LIBRA relative may need your help with a money problem.
24/09 F.Scott Fitzgerald Be ready to welcome minor changes that occur over
the weeks ahead. These will help advance your work

Aquarius (Jan21/Feb19)
25/09 Catherine Zeta-
interests and improve efficiency on the job front.
Jones
You’re thinking about your long-term future but
26/09 Olivia Newton-John this isn’t such a good time to look too far ahead. You
27/09 Avril Lavigne don’t want to overlook your immediate objectives. A lively and expansive atmosphere will keep you
These next few weeks expect to see a marked on your toes these next few weeks. You can let your
28/09 Gwyneth Paltrow
improvement in your closest relationships. The more zest for action go to your head and put new ideas
29/09 Jerry Lee Lewis into practice. You’re keen to speed up the progress
you talk, the greater you will understand each other!
30/09 Martina Hingis of new ventures, long-term plans and travel. If
01/10 Julie Andrews
02/10 Sting
03/10 Gwen Stefani
Leo (Jul24/Aug23)
A sociable and more relaxed phase begins. This will
you’re waiting for a loved one to make their mind up
about something you can afford to be a little more
outspoken in your personal life. You might even feel
inclined to make their decision for them!
04/10 Anne Rice suit your outgoing temperament. Communications
05/10 Guy Pearce are fun; you’re feeling energetic and enthusiastic.
06/10 Britt Ekland
07/10 Simon Cowell
08/10 Matt Damon
There will be no complaint about life being boring
over the weeks to come. Whether it’s your choice
or purely circumstance, there will be new interests,
new people and new activities to keep you busy and
PISCES (Feb20/Mar20)
Financial problems of the past are lifted. The green
09/10 Sharon Osbourne happy. Domestic matters claim your attention late light should now be shining giving you the go-ahead
17/10 Eminem October. to get on with a project you’ve been longing to see
10/10 Mya launched. Others will react enthusiastically to your

Virgo (Aug24/Sept23)
18/10 Jean-Claude Van Damne
11/10 Dawn French plans over the weeks ahead. Don’t keep them to
19/10 Divine
12/10 Hugh Jackman yourself for fear of getting a negative response. Learn
20/10 Viggo Mortensen to rely on your sixth sense when dealing with people
13/10 Margaret Thatcher You have sound money judgement and this helps
21/10 Carrie Fisher as it won’t let you down. being in a relationship.
14/10 Usher you guide you to money-making outlets. You can see
22/10 Catherine Deneuve past a friend’s foolish expectations and will try to talk
15/10 Sarah Ferguson
23/10 “Weird” Al Yankovic them out of making a mega financial blunder. This
16/10 Oscar Wilde
is a good time for building bridges or strengthening
those already built. Visiting an old friend or relative Celebrity Horoscopes
will get you thinking about new plans for the
future. The social scene brings interesting new and Psychic readings at:
opportunities late October.
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