Pride Classical to show a night of beloved Pride Anthems in Manchester and Blackpool

Pride Classical, a groundbreaking celebration of LGBTQ+ music and history, will showcase beloved Pride anthems in a never-before-seen format, featuring new arrangements performed by a professional orchestra comprised of LGBTQ+ musicians and their allies.

This exciting and brand new concept featuring a full orchestra of LGBT+ and allies – with Danny Beard, Matt Henry and Alison Jiear as soloists – is a world first.

Produced by the esteemed and multi-award-winning Carrot Productions, in collaboration with a dedicated production team from the LGBTQ+ community, Pride Classical is designed to curate the perfect lineup of songs and community activities that embody the essence of Pride in the present day.

Over 20 iconic Pride songs will undergo captivating arrangements by the talented Daniel Whibley, recognized for his orchestral adaptations of music by legendary artists such as David Bowie, Tom Jones, and Irving Berlin, which have been featured on the BBC.

The headliners, accompanied by a 36-strong ensemble of skilled musicians and backing singers, all carefully chosen for their musical prowess and affiliation with the LGBTQ+ community, will deliver powerful renditions of hits from luminaries like Kylie, Queen, Diana Ross, and more.

In addition to the two performances of Pride Classical, the organizing team is collaborating with LGBTQ+ communities across the North West region to pay tribute to the evolving significance of Pride today.

One of the initiatives, “My Pride Song,” invites members of the community and allies to share brief videos recounting why Pride music holds profound meaning for them.

These heartfelt contributions include notable figures such as Julie Hesmondhalgh, a staunch ally of the LGBTQ+ community in the North West, alongside beloved actress Joanna Lumley (and her iconic character Patsy!).

These videos will be shared online and showcased in an exhibition at Manchester Central Library, providing a platform to highlight the diversity of voices and experiences within the community today.

The second project entails the creation of a brand new Pride Anthem, developed by members of Stockport LGBTQ+ PLUS Spectrum.

This group, dedicated to supporting individuals who identify as neurodiverse or pan-disabled, received the assistance of professional musicians and composers to craft their work.

The anthem has been meticulously arranged for a full orchestra and will be performed on the main stage as a pivotal part of the concert, symbolizing the spirit of unity and empowerment.

Pride Classical aims to not only deliver a mesmerizing musical experience but also foster community engagement and recognition of Pride’s contemporary significance.

This groundbreaking event promises to be a defining moment in the celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, history, and the power of music to inspire and unite people from all walks of life.