ORGANISERS of this year’s Walsall Pride are promising that the annual event will be bigger and better – with a chart-topper among the line-up of 15 performers.
Former S Club star Jo O’Meara will headline the free event this Saturday (August 23) and will perform some of the 90s pop group’s cheesiest hits.
X Factor duo Diva Fever and a string of tribute acts to some of the world’s biggest artists – including the likes of Lady Gaga, Abba and Cher – will also appear on the main stage in Gallery Square.
“This year’s event will see entertainment to suit everyone’s taste,” said Matthew Higgins, Walsall Pride entertainment manager.
“Headliner Jo O’Meara will allow people to relive their youth from the 90s and others enjoy S Club’s hits that are still enjoyed by many today.”
This year will be the third Walsall Pride event, which celebrates Walsall’s diverse LGBT community.
Entertainment includes a cabaret marquee at The Red Lion, in Park Street, where some of the Midlands’ favourite drag artistes and dance acts will perform. The Wharf Bar, which is situated behind the main stage, will host this year’s dance arena with local DJ’s playing throughout the event.
Market stalls and a health and wellbeing area inside the New Art Gallery with stands from the likes of the NHS, local LGBT groups and West Midlands Police will also play a part in the day. Arts and craft sessions will be on offer for children.
And further businesses have also pledged their support to the event. A full line-up of entertainment will be included at The Lion Bar & Club, in Birchills Street, all weekend.
Artists including The Voice contestant Angie Brown, X Factor contenstant Kitty Brucknell and Kelly Wilde will appear on the Saturday, and Sunday will see a lineup of cabaret acts throughout the day.
Walsall Pride chairman, Les Hunt, is urging residents to turn out for the event.
He added: “This year’s event will be bigger and better with something for everyone throughout the day and will bring much-needed visitors to the town.
“I hope that the locals get behind the event and make 2014 a year to remember.”
The event is open to all with no age, gender or religious restrictions and is an alcohol-free event.
The fun starts from 11am to 5pm in Gallery Square outside the New Art Gallery.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust will also be providing support at the event.
A number of information stands will be held in Walsall’s New Art Gallery, and will offer access to services on the day, including the Stop Smoking service, Substance Misuse and Emotional Health and Wellbeing services.
The Trust’s Sexual Health Team will also be working alongside the Walsall Men’s Health Project on a health bus outside the gallery, to provide free sexual health checks, including testing for HIV, syphilis and gonorrhoea. Self-Chlamydia testing kits and will also be available.
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