The Malmaison may have seen many sights in its short while in the city but the hotel and the staff could be forgiven if the sight of Gotham City’s finest crime fighting unit, Batman and Robin, handing out the programme of events ahead of the launch of this year’s Liverpool Pride to all, was one that had by-passed them…until today.
The reason for the dynamic duo, in reality Matt Belfield as Bruce Wayne’s alter ego and Dan Hicklin, suitably attired as his partner Robin, was soon apparent as Liverpool Pride this year will take over the City Centre superhero style on Saturday 3rd August.
In keeping with the public-voted theme; thousands of participants are expected to join this year’s march as well as headlining music arts on the day, there will be all sorts of activities taking place all over Liverpool as the city takes pride in this unifying day. This spectacle of caped crusaders will take flight from St. Georges Plateau at 12 noon, with participants asked to gather from 11am to take part.
With the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, First Citizen Gary Millar, opening the launch with a speech befitting the man and his core beliefs in the continued fight for LGBT rights and the organisers showcasing some of the music that will be heard over several stages during the day, including Carl William Lund and Bradley Johnson who both gave superb displays of their talent during the afternoon, and the news that Liverpool Pride will be also presenting a series of films around Merseyside including FACT, The Light in New Brighton and The Crosby Plaza.
In one of the most important years for the LGBT community since 1967, this year’s event promises to be the best yet and with music supplied by the likes of X Factor star Amelia Lily, Black Lace, the outrageously good Killa Sista, Huyton based band Tokyo Track and cast members from the West End hit musical Rent, crowds flocking to Liverpool will surely be in for the time of their lives.
For more information on films and music that will be part of Liverpool Pride go to http://wwwliverpoolpride.co.uk/events.
Ian D. Hall