West 5 are going to stand together with their LGBT Russian comrades, aiming to raise as much awareness and as many funds as possible, through the power of cabaret and love. Jason Reid found out more from manager, Daniel Wood…
How did the ‘From Russia With No Love’ idea come about?
Someone emailed us a link to an article about a homosexual visitor (to Russia) being kidnapped and tortured. West 5 owner, Bal, and I were shocked that such injustices were still so commonplace, so we decided to do something proactive to help.
What’s the aim of the night?
To raise awareness of the basic human rights that LGBT citizens in Russia – and other countries – are being deprived of.
So what entertainment is planned for our cabaret delectation?
We’ve got a great line up, including Baga Chipz (hosting), Lady Imelda, Mitzi Macintosh, Wilma Fingadoo and James Bedford to name but a few. All the acts involved are strongly in support of the equal rights movement in Russia.
What time does it all kick off then? You know it takes us ages to do our hair…
The stage kicks off at 9.30pm, with a speech by Lesley Mian, who runs the Project: 6131 voices group on Facebook. The cabaret follows this. It’s only £3 before 11pm/£4 till midnight and £5 after, and all the door money goes to the charity.
Which charity?
All monies raised from the door and the buckets will go to the Russian LGBT Network. Full details can be found at www.lgbtnet.ru. The charity is an interregional, non-governmental human rights organisation that promotes equal rights regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. The funds will help with materials, legal aid, lobbying etc.
Finally, Daniel, why do you think this is such an important issue to the West 5 customers, and the wider gay community here in London?
We must remember how lucky we are in this country. And never take that for granted. Other citizens of other countries are not as fortunate. We should all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation and nationality, be afforded basic rights to enable us to live our life freely. It’s not that long ago that we had similar laws in place here in the UK, so things can change.
• ‘Russia with Love’ takes place this Saturday 28th September at West 5, Popes Lane, Ealing, W5 4NB, with the stage show beginning at 9.30pm
