Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Music star to headline city’s ‘biggest ever’ Pride festival
A chart-topping singer will headline Canterbury’s Pride festival – with organisers expecting more than 20,000 to descend on the event.
Star Alexandra Burke, an X Factor winner and West End star, will take to the stage for the massive event in the centre of the city on Saturday, June 11. The LGBTQ+ celebration will also feature a performance from Baga Chipz, who is best-known for appearing on Rupaul’s Drag Race UK vs The World, and a DJ set by Denise Van Outen.
Canterbury Pride entertainment director Stephen Sullivan said: “It will be the biggest line-up we’ve ever put together. “In previous years, we’ve had over 20,000 who have gone to experience the day at some point.
“It’s about LGBTQ+ people coming together, and for some people it’ll be maybe the first time they can really be themselves.
“It’s a chance for people to see they’re not alone and there’s a community out there, and to meet new people. “Families will also be able to come along and experience the community.”
Since its creation, Canterbury Pride has become one of the city’s biggest crowd-pleasers, drawing in revellers from across the south east.
The event, which last year drew about 16,000 people, will begin with a parade along the high street, prior to the performances in the Dane John Gardens.
The line-up is also set to include drag performers Jujubee, Vanity Milan and Jimbo, who all appeared in Rupaul shows, along with Lady Gaga impersonator Donna Marie. “It’s absolutely going to be the best Pride yet,” Mr Sullivan continued.
“We’ve been making it better and better each year.
“In previous years, there were people of all backgrounds and ages, so seeing everyone come together is really, really special. We just can’t wait.”
In addition to being a contender on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, Alexandra Burke has starred in hit musicals Dreamgirls, Sister Act and The Bodyguard.
For the more details or to sponsor the festival, visit www.pridecanterbury.com.