At the time of writing this, we are in the middle of Pride season (yay), but our summer is yet to arrive (boo)! So whether you’re a Londoner, a regular visitor or a tourist visiting our city, I have investigated, researched, hunted for and selected another short stack of stunning dragulicious type treats to brighten your day and as always, there should be something for everyone, so why not have some cultural pampering this month with a bit of gender-bending entertainment!
Watch Martha d’Arthur’s July ’24 Cabaret Report for QX Magazine
Martha d’Arthur Mentioned:
Classical Pride, 3 – 7 July
Classical Pride’s upcoming event promises to be bigger and better this year, with a program featuring remarkable events, new works, guest artists, premieres, and stunning performances. One exciting highlight is the evening of Classical Drag at OUTERNET on Wednesday, July 3rd, where classical music and drag will come together.
NADC Grand Final at Pleasance Theatre, 8 July
Not Another Drag Competition has been a hit for years, and this year’s All Stars will compete in the Grand Finals at the Pleasance Theatre on Monday 8th July. Don’t miss it! Check out their Instagram account for @methedragqueen for more details.
S!NG Karaoke at She Bar, Every Wednesday
SING karaoke has gained iconic status over the years and is packed to the rafters week after week and proudly boasts that is absolutely rammed with London’s finest lesbians and pals. This lesbian centric karaoke night is hosted by uber talented Drag Cabaret power couple Adam All and Apple Derrieres who not only host the night, but regularly entertain the loyal crowd with a power ballad or twelve. Follow @shebarsoho on insta for venue details, and @adamall_drag and @applederrieres.(note: gentlemen visitors are required to be accompanied)
Myra’s Bingo at The RVT, 16 July
Myra’s own unique take on a popular British pastime – Bingo – had become the stuff of legend when it ran for 22 weeks in Manchester last year, and so for one night only on Tuesday 16th July, you can chance fate and attempt to get lucky with Myra’s balls at her spiritual home of the Royal Vauxhall Tavern on the Lambeth Riviera. Assisted that evening by talented cruise ship crooner Mr Jordan Smart. Grab your dobbers for a night of song and laughter, and prizes
QUEENZ: Live In London! at The Underbelly Boulevard, 11 July
Queenz, Live and in London, take to the stage for a limited run at the Underbelly Boulevard in Soho before they embark on a massive UK tour. It’s a show with emotion and soul wrapped in make up and heels and served with fierce performances and it all opens on the 11th July for strictly limited London run! Check out queenztheshow.com for UK tour details.
July’s Cabaret Venue Profile – The Two Brewers, Clapham
You cannot talk about popular LGBTQ+ venues in London without mentioning this stalwart and long-standing location in Clapham High Street. Not only is it a popular cabaret location and one of the handful in London that provide cabaret 7 nights a week (even on Christmas Day!), but more and more people are learning that they provide a programme of inclusivity and diversity as their “backroom” is seeing more and more events programmed. Take my word for it…. There’s something for everyone, and you just might be surprised. Check out @the2brewers on insta.
July’s City in 60 seconds – Manchester
One of the big playing cities when it comes to drag, the scope of choice will rival any other big cabaret city. Three venues that I know will offer you something you’ll like: BarPop, The Cockatoo Club and Via! Get there and enjoy!
Love Martha x