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Village Voices...
review
Village Voices takes you on a journey through the history of Manchester's gay village by way of the experiences of real people.
In its early days, 'Alan' remembers, a seedy Canal Street was in darkness and you would have to be brave to walk down it yourself. A far cry from the in-your-face beacon of queerness that we all know today.
Adam Zane interviewed many people to discover the stories he was looking for, and unearth some of the village's history. The younger characters whom he found at a youth group in Wigan, attended the opening night performance, and were thrilled to see their stories being told.
The Hope Theatre Company made this so much more than a history lesson though; they portrayed their characters experiences on a level that you could really connect to. Reminding us that it's only since 1967 that being gay is no longer a crime - and that it was a long time afterwards, thanks to protests and gay men and women standing proud, that the attitude of the general public changed.
The production is a celebration of all that our gay village represents, and the freedom it allows - yet also highlights the concern of too much integration, and the village becoming "too straight".
The Joseph Perrier Lounge at Taurus is an intimate venue which brings the cast and the audience closer together, creating a more personal theatrical experience.
The cast stayed behind and were a delight to chat with over post-show drinks upstairs. I discovered that I'd met Debbie before, when she did a spectacular performance of Judy Garland - something she'll be performing again in July at the Lowry. I can't wait!
Village Voices was presented as part of the Queer Up North arts festival.
about Taurus Café Bar & Restaurant
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Set in the heart of Manchester's gay village, this wonderful restaurant and bar manages to retain a true LGBT community-focus, whilst maintaining extremely high standards The next Taurus Café Bar & Restaurant date for your diary:
Tuesday, 1st - Thursday, 31st July
Dreams of Atlantis - Art Exhibition
Click for more info and complete listings for Taurus Café Bar & Restaurant 
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