MP to host Commons reception for LGBT arts festival
This year’s GFest – gayWise LGBT Arts Festival will be launched at House of Commons next month, thanks to the support of Tottenham MP David Lammy.
The 18-day festival provides a unique platform across London for Queer Arts – principally created by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) artists from diverse backgrounds.
GFest, which is supported by PinkNews.co.uk, will be dedicated to creating an acceptance of ethnic and sexual identities through the arts.
It hopes to become a major established arts event by 2012, when London will host the Olympic Games.
Mr Lammy, who is Minister of State for Higher Education, is hosting the launch reception.
“I am happy to support the festival which showcases diverse talent,” he said.
“It is a unique celebration of arts and culture in London.”
The festival will feature short film screenings, performance events and a visual arts exhibition, programmed for November 10th to 28th.
The organisers recently received a message of support from Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt.
“This year’s programme is packed with interesting and diverse events so I am sure it will be a great success,” said Mr Hunt, who is one of the rising stars of the Tory frontbench.
“It provides a fantastic platform not just for the LGBT community but also for London and for the arts.”
Other supporters include former Culture minister Chris Smith, Margot James, Tory Vice Chairman for Women, Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Caroline Lucas MEP, Leader of Green Party and novelist Sarah Waters.
