Last month we produced the eighth edition of The Kingdom Come, our drag king cabaret, and it was a Salty Seas themed night of queer joy!
We were back at Crookes Social Club for a night of nautical nonsense featuring some of the UK’s most exciting drag acts. We transformed the main hall into a sea themed wonderland bringing together over 300 people to celebrate some incredible drag king talent.
We were blown away by the talents of the artists performing and need to say a huge thank you for them sharing their acts – CYRO, Oedipussi Rex, Captain Cock, Pip Dream and of course our captain for the night – Beau Jangles! From Beau’s smooth singing, to Captain Cock’s hearty shanties, Pip Dream’s obsession with a buoy, CYRO’s powerful (and very witty) performances to Oedipussi Rex’s total drag nonsense as giant sandcastle, angler fish and rowdy viking, everyone was thoroughly entertained.
Our tech team and volunteer crew helped keep everything ship shape. Our thanks to them, the artists and you, our wonderful community for helping create a space where so many people feel free to be themselves. Your kindness and generosity is so so appreciated. As one audience member said;
‘It’s a space where queer people are welcomed to be their most authentic selves’.
Audience member
The vegan cake from Little Town Pantry went down a treat and raffle excitement kept everyone on their toes! Thanks to everyone who helped us raise vital funds for our Pay it Forward ticket fund enabling us to continue to provide discounted and free tickets to those who need them at future events.
We also introduced a Community Information Stall. Through this we shared information about local organisations fighting for a more just world and ways you can support them. We feel it is important to build solidarity in our region between those of us fighting against different systems of oppression.
Whilst climate change is set to become an even bigger cause of displacement and migration, particularly in the Global South, the UK government continues to create a hostile environment for migrants and refugees. The Rwanda bill is yet another example of this. We must not forget that many people also face hostile treatment in their countries of origin because of their gender identity or sexuality.
There are many local organisations supporting refugees and those seeking asylum, and we would highlight the work of ASSIST Sheffield, City of Sanctuary Sheffield and our friends from Lesbian Asylum Support Sheffield as groups to support.
At future events, our intention is to raise awareness of other local campaigns and groups supporting and advocating for migrants and refugees along with environmental sustainability. If you are connected to any such local groups then please feel free to get in touch.
We’ll be announcing news of future events very soon (make sure you’ve signed up to our newsletter to be first to hear) but in the meantime, enjoy these wonderful photos taken by Nelly Naylor of The Kingdom Come Salty Seas edition!
