Following the success of its inaugural year, Classical Pride has grown in size and will this year run over five days from 3-7 July.
Kicking off with a world-first, Classical Drag will take over Outernet in the heart of Soho on Wednesday, July 3, showcasing some of the biggest names in drag and classical music. This curated ‘drag battle’ will star UK talents such as Barbs, Snow White Trash, Vinegar Strokes, Freddie Love and Beau Jangles with celebrity judges and special performances from RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni Monét X Change and Thorgy Thor.
Classical Pride’s season also includes a choral concert featuring the world premiere of a new work by Isobel Waller-Bridge, a showcase of the top LGBTQ+ musicians from the London music colleges, a performance of Julian Eastman’s Gay Guerilla, and finally on Sunday, July 7 the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) with Oliver Zeffman, Nick Grimshaw and a lineup of star soloists will present a diverse programme of LGBTQ+ composers at the Barbican including a world premiere of brand new work by Jake Heggie with a text by Taylor Mac.
Conductor Oliver Zeffman, Founder and Artistic Director of Classical Pride, said: “At the inaugural Classical Pride concert last year, I was incredibly moved by the warm reception from the industry and audience alike. Now we‘re back with an expanded edition, celebrating the significant contribution the LGBTQ+ community makes – and has always made – to classical music.
“This year we’re showcasing both world-famous and emerging LGBTQ+ musicians, commissioning a diverse group of composers and broadening the range of styles and ensembles on offer. I’m particularly excited to be conducting the LSO, as well as making my first appearance in a drag show!”
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