Watch: Orange is the New Black stars support Manchester Pride

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Several stars of Netflix drama Orange is the New Black have recorded a video message supporting Manchester Pride.

The video features Taylor Schilling and Laura Prepon – who play lovers Piper Kerman and Alex Vause on the Netflix series – alongside Danielle Brooks, who plays fellow inmate Taystee.

They call for people to “celebrate and embrace” their love at the festival.

It follows today’s announcement that comedian Lea DeLaria – who plays fan favourite Big Boo on the series – will serve as Grand Marshal for the event.

Mark Fletcher, Chief Executive of Manchester Pride, said: “We’re excited that Lea will be leading this year’s parade through Manchester City Centre. We’ve loved watching her in Orange is the New Black.

“Not only is she an incredible performer but she’s an inspiration for the global LGBT community. We know she’ll bring her unique charm and personality to really get the crowd going and kickstart the parade with a bang.”

Austrian Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst and US singer Anastacia were announced last month as the headliners for the Pride festival, which stretches across the weekend, from 22-25 August.

All Saints, Neon Jungle, Foxes are also on the line-up for the annual event, alongside former X Factor contestants Marcus Collins, Lucy Spraggan and Rowetta, and British four-piece girl group Neon Jungle.

Tickets for the entire Pride weekend cost £22. Day tickets start at £12.50.

The Pride festival also released 300 discounted day tickets for the Big Weekend, available to Greater Manchester residents who are undergoing financial hardship.