Keep it short and sweet
The 2005 Dublin Gay Theatre Festival was launched yesterday evening at a Boru Vodka reception in the historic surrounds of the Gate Theatre. As I arrived I could hear the unmistakable voice of Senator David Norris booming from beyond. Pleased that I had not missed Senator Norris' speech, I slinked in at the back of the crowded room.
Ever the entertainer, Senator Norris was a wonderfully witty speaker, as always. This country is very lucky to have such a scholar, activist and raconteur, who was looking refreshed having recently returned from a trip to Cyprus.
The festival runs from the 3rd to 15th May in a variety of venues including The Gate, The Project Arts Centre, Focus Theatre, Centre Stage Café and the Andrews Lane Theatre. With premieres of New Boy by William Sutcliffe, Naked Will by Blair Fell and About Face by Jinny McCallister the event brings new productions to the Irish stage. Others include an adaptation of the famous Torch Song Trilogy and Irish shorts Citizenship and Don't Die Wondering.
I spotted broadcaster and writer Ross Golden - Bannon, writer Emma Donoghue, GCN editor Brian Finnegan, Danny Lane of Queerid.com and Deputy Lord Mayor Andrew Montague. I would have stayed longer had one person's speech not exceeded 20 minutes, but how and ever. Next time I'll solicit bets to make it more interesting.
Question of the day: Which radio station (not FM104!) is going through major upheaval at the moment with the recent resignation of a presenter and the sacking of member of top management? Add that to the huge law suit they'll soon be facing and, well, things don't sound too good.
