In just over two weeks' time, the Imperial Hotel basement in Erskineville will host "Medusa" – a new party aimed at queer women, trans and non-binary communities.
The party, on September 1, is inspired by the icon from Greek mythology, Medusa – a story of power, feminism and a force against the patriarchy.
By focusing on gender identity and not sexual orientation, its organisers are hoping to welcome the full spectrum of people who wish to access spaces like it.
Medusa is co-founded by Joe Mansour, who will be hosting the night, and their partner Bree Mountain, who is bisexual and the founder of the BiCONIC party for the Bi+ community and its allies.
Mansour – who is a non-binary person of colour – will be hosting the night. Mansour said they wanted to create a space where everyone felt equally welcome, particularly masc-presenting non-binary people and trans men who use a variety of sexual identity labels and often don’t feel as welcome at similar events.
Mountain said they recognised that many individuals didn't feel represented in traditionally "lesbian spaces" or were often an "afterthought" in event descriptions.
"As a bisexual woman, myself, and my queer non-binary partner Joe, want to create a space that equally welcomes the full spectrum of people from these communities," Mountain said.
"Our community is diverse and we want this event to reflect and celebrate that."
Medusa’s launch event matches this.
In addition to Mansour as host, the line-up includes drag king DikPik, pole dancer and burlesque dancer Cleo Rapture, award-winning showgirl Jackal and prominent DJs on the queer scene, FlowerBoy and Victoria Anthony.
Tickets are $17.19 online (including booking fee) or $20 at the door.
"You can expect sultry performances & a dance floor to match," states Medusa's event description.
"This is a space to own your power, embrace your confidence and connect with the community.
Patrons will be welcomed by door staff and snapped by a photographer from the queer community.
Medusa’s event description includes a link for accessibility requests, ensuring that all patrons of all abilities feel welcomed and supported on the night.
Ben Grubb is the founder and editor of Gay Sydney News, an independent publication covering LGBTQIA+ news. A journalist with more than 15 years' experience, he has reported and edited for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, WAToday, Brisbane Times, The Australian Financial Review, News.com.au, ZDNet, TelecomTimes and iTnews, primarily on the topic of technology. He previously hosted The Informer, a queer current affairs program on Melbourne’s JOY 94.9 radio station, and contributes to LGBTQIA+ media including Stun Magazine. Ben has also appeared as a technology commentator on Channel Ten's The Project, ABC RN’s Download This Show and commercial radio stations 2UE, 2GB and 6PR. Contact Ben: [email protected]
