by HEATHER GRANT-CAMPBELL
In the 1960s, Surfers Paradise gained its “glitter strip” tag for the gold lame bikini meter maids adding colour and vibrancy to a fledgling beach destination.
This month’s Glitter Festival promises to be an art and culture coming of age as the region hosts its first ever celebration of its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer community.
From September 28 to October 5, ticketed and free shows and performances will run daily, including cabaret and comedy, visual arts, motion pictures, yoga sessions, and the ultimate connector – Fair Day, a free family picnic with entertainment lakeside at Evandale.
A one night-only performance by celebrated entertainer Carlotta is sure to be a highlight. “(Sydney’s) Mardi Gras began as a political statement.
Our Glitter Festival is a time to celebrate diversity to show that the Gold Coast has matured and that we are accepting and inclusive of all,” festival artistic director Brad Rush told The Senior.
“The Arts Centre Gold Coast’s doors will literally be thrown open to the entire community in what we hope celebrates everything fabulous on the coast as well as striking up discussion and challenging stereotypes.”