The UK’s premier LGBTQI eclectic cross-arts festival is coming to the University of Roehampton next week to provide a platform for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer artists.
This year’s theme is Myths and Mythology and will explore society’s commonly held ideas and misconceptions surrounding the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex individuals around the globe.
Gaywise FESTival runs from November 10 to 22 and includes film, dance and cabaret as well as a panel discussion exploring LGBT myths at the University of Roehampton on November 19.
The festival’s artistic director, Niranjan Kamatkar, said: “GFEST spells out an ongoing challenge to attain social equality within the art world for LGBTQI artists, filmmakers and practitioners.
“Exploring the theme has proved to be an inspirational journey. I am confident the programme provides a glimpse into the vast sea of talent out there.
“The GFEST platform for expression demonstrates that arts can be used to build bridges between gay and straight communities for generations to come.
GFEST is a key commissioning platform for emerging and established LGBTQI artists and will be running for the seventh straight year since its conception by London arts charity Wise Thoughts.
Highlights will include the screening of Brazil’s 2015 BAFTA submission The Way He Looks by much lauded director Daniel Ribeiro, award-winning cabaret from Bird La Bird and Mizz Kimberly as well works by feminist artist Sadie Lee.
The arts and cultural festival will also highlight human rights issues and make a case for global equality.
Benjamin Cohen, CEO of PinkNews, said: “The diversity and longevity of GFEST is a testament to the brilliant and dedicated work by the team at Wise Thoughts.
“They work throughout the year to provide a compelling alternative arts festival for London and an important service for the LGBTQI community.”
Image courtesy of Niranjan Kamatkar, with thanks
