Alongside the September edition of Orange Pip Market, a vibrant celebration of the Tees Valley’s LGBTQIA+ community will take place when Middlesbrough Pride returns to the town on Saturday 30 September.
Ahead of Pride, we sat down with Matt Campbell who is part of the Middlesbrough Pride Advisory Committee and considers himself an ‘unofficial town crier’ for the event.
Matt has a long history within the local LGBTQ+ scene after working for many different venues and running a variety of events. He’ll also be volunteering on the day and believes it’s an excellent opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate diversity, love and creativity in the heart of Middlesbrough.
Read on to see Matt’s top five activities he is most looking forward to during Pride:
Matt Campbell is part of the Middlesbrough Pride Advisory Committee.
#5 Faithfully Paloma & other fab Fringe performers
As part of Pride’s Orange Pip stage takeover between 3pm – 6:30pm, we’ve got performers from Sapphire’s, Club XS and the brilliant Gemma Bedlington – a rising vocalist in our area performing her Paloma Faith tribute, Faithfully Paloma. This will be a true showcase of talent from our area, certainly not one to be missed!
#4 Quiet Pride Quilting
In partnership with Middlesbrough Town Hall & Curious Arts, we’re offering a tranquil quilting workshop. It’s an oasis for those seeking a calm break from the Pride festivities. Everyone is invited to join in and create something wonderful at the Town Hall between 11am – 12:30pm.
#3 Arts & Crafts for Young People
Curious Arts are hosting creative workshops for the youth from our area! There sessions will be a safe haven for LGBTQ+ young people and their allies to get crafty. Highly recommended – Simply drop into the Town Hall between 10am – 11:30am or 12:30pm – 2pm.
“There is something for everyone…” – Matt
#2 The Pride Stage
This year’s line-up is truly amazing! From Lady Bushra, Rivkala and Jade Mia Broadhead to the fantastic ‘3 Steps to Venga’ – there’s a performance for everyone to enjoy. They’ll be taking place all day from 12pm within the Town Hall.
#1 The Pride Market
Featuring some of the most forward-thinking businesses, organisations, and individuals in Tees Valley. They’re not just supporting Middlesbrough Pride in words but in action. You can shop until your drop between 11am – 4pm in the Town Hall Courtyard and Fire Station.
Middlesbrough Pride and Orange Pip Market take place on Saturday 30 September. Explore the full Pride programme here.
Could you be part of Pride? Sign-up to be a volunteer here.
