Actress Vicky McClure, ROB.GREEN and the Scream Queenz – along with more than 5,000 viewers across Nottinghamshire – celebrated Pride this weekend from the comfort of their own homes.

On Saturday, Nottinghamshire Pride went online for the first time in its history as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The show, which was hosted on Nottinghamshire Pride’s website and social media channels, saw performers and local activists come together in support of the region’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

Leigh Ellis, chairperson of Nottinghamshire Pride, said: “It was great to see that so many people were still keen to take part in Pride this year, despite the limitations we faced. The levels of production and talent that was showcased by all of those involved was incredible, and we cannot thank them enough for their tremendous effort in pulling this magnificent spectacle together.”

The show included performances from local artists such as Concrete Rose, Harlee Rosanna, Kitty Tray, Miss Bowie, Tash Bird and Titty, as well as a speech from activist Maryam Dim and a poetry recital by Ravelle-Sade.

ROB.GREEN, who has performed at the BBC Proms and been featured on BBC Radio 1, said: “I was thrilled to be part of this year’s digital Pride event – the production value and scale of this online celebration was really impressive and uplifting.

“I’m so pleased we were able to celebrate together in some way this year, especially with such prominent events and conversations currently happening around our trans and black queer communities. There was more cause than ever to celebrate who we are and how far we have come together as a community of LGBTQ+ people and our allies.”

Leigh added: “Pride is, and will always be, an important part of the local LGBTQ+ community, so we’re glad that we could create an online celebration that can be re-watched on our platforms and enjoyed by everyone. We have received immense support from our sponsors – including Sladen Estates, Nottingham City Council, Cartwright Communications and KuKu Creative – and we look forward to doing it all over again next year, hopefully this time in person.”

Developer Sladen Estates, which is working on two of the East Midlands’ most significant developments, helped to support Nottinghamshire Pride’s online event.

Nick and Julia Sladen, of sponsors Sladen Estates, said: “Feeling part of a wider community is a key part of Pride, so we are absolutely thrilled both as a family and a business to have provided sponsorship to help bring the LGBTQ+ community together at a time when physical meetings are limited. The hard work of all involved is reflected in the fantastic production values and the great reception from the community.

“Every child deserves to see themselves – and their families – reflected in books, art, music and the media they consume, and in the education they receive, so it’s really important that events like Pride continue for generations to come – under any circumstances possible.”

Councillor Rebecca Langton, portfolio holder for communities at Nottingham City Council, added: “I’m delighted that Pride has been able to go ahead this year in the face of unprecedented circumstances caused by the Covid pandemic.

“While it looked a bit different than usual this weekend, it is nonetheless important and has given us an opportunity to come together online to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in the city. The performances showcased Nottingham’s talent, energy and diversity – and I’ve loved watching them.

“Pride brings visibility to our LGBTQ+ community and encourages people to embrace this diversity, which Nottingham is so well known for – we celebrate equality, inclusivity and respect here. We want everyone to feel supported and are proud of our LGBTQ+ residents.

“I hope we can be back together again to celebrate Pride next summer.”

To watch the full recording of Nottinghamshire Pride 2020, visit: https://bit.ly/NottsPride2020

For more information on Nottinghamshire Pride or to get involved in next year’s event, visit www.nottinghamshirepride.co.uk

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