LGBTQ seniors and their friends are set to celebrate all things queer on the silver screen, with the a series of movie matinees and afternoon tea parties across Sydney and regional NSW.
The Afternoon Delight series will run during July and August and is being organised by LGBTQ health organisation Acon, along with aged care provider Uniting and Seniors Rights Service.
Ticket holders will be treated to a selection of LGBTQ-themed shorts, followed by the feature film McKellen: Playing the Part.
The acclaimed documentary takes a closer look at Sir Ian McKellen's life, work and activism as one of only a few openly gay actors in Hollywood.
The screening will be followed by an afternoon tea (served by local drag performers) and the chance to mingle. chat and pick up local health information.
"This is ACON's annual premiere event for LGBTQ seniors, their family and friends and we are excited to be marking Afternoon Delight's twelfth year," ACON chief executive Nicholas Parkhill said.
Since it was first held in Sydney in 2007, Afternoon Delight has grown to include screenings across NSW, and this year, it will roll out in Wagga Wagga, Newcastle, Lismore, Katoomba, Sawtell and Sydney.
"NSW has a significant older LGBTQ population and our rainbow seniors continue to play a vital and valued role in our communities," Mr Parkhill said.
"Events like Afternoon Delight allows for older members of our communities to get together in a welcoming environment, enjoy movies about their lives and also reduce a very real sense of social isolation that many can experience."
Seniors Rights Service chief executive Russell Westacott said the organisation is "passionate about supporting rainbow seniors".
"The LGBTI community is one of our 'priority populations' and we are present at many rainbow events. Afternoon Delight is the perfect opportunity for senior members to connect, relax and share stories. We are proud to be involved."
Afternoon Delights dates and venues
Sydney: Event Cinemas, George St, July 14, 2-5pm. RSVP 9206 2017 or rgluyas@acon.org.au
Newcastle: Event Cinemas Kotara, July 28, 2-5pm. RSVP 4962 7700 or hunter@acon.org.au
Sawtell: Majestic Cinema First Avenue, August 3, 2-5pm. RSVP 0409 680 836 or athoener@acon.org.au
Wagga Wagga: Museum of the Riverina, Morrow Street & Baylis Street, August 10, 12.30-3.30pm. RSVP 0417 915 719 or tarapali@acon.org.au
Lismore: Birch Carroll & Coyle, Crn Keen & Zodac Street, August 17, 2-5pm. RSVP 6622 1555 or northernrivers@acon.org.au
Katoomba: Carrington Hotel, Katoomba Street, August 25, 2-5pm. RSVP 0417 915 719 or tarapali@acon.org.au
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