Derby Pride expands entertainment line-up

The biggest ever Derby Pride is being held on Saturday

Derby Pride is adding an alternative edge to its family-friendly LGBTQ+ event on Saturday.

As well as a main arena in Markeaton Park, which is suitable for all ages, this year sees a new Alternative Tent being introduced.

The stage, which is the only part of the event described as parental guidance by organisers, will showcase local musicians and drag performers.

Events director Tom Murphy said it will bring something new to the celebrations.

He said: “The alternative tent is hosted by John Smith, the landlord at The Vic near the train station. It’s Derby famous for having bands there every night.

“They’re bringing a bit of that to Pride, there will be bands and drag acts, something a little bit different.”

Visitors to the free event, which kicks off from 12:00 BST and runs until 18:00, will also have a main stage headlined by East 17.

The main Pride event will also have a funfair, market, wrestling ring, and a Families Zone.

Mr Murphy said despite a more autumnal forecast than last year’s September heatwave, it will be the biggest Pride they have staged yet.

Tributes to Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift will be performed by Lauren Porter, alongside DJ Will and DJ Adz, drag acts Betty Bangs and Ken Lambert, singer Danielle Barnett of the Urban Cookie Collective and Soraya Vivian as compere.

Terry Coldwell will lead out East 17 at Markeaton Park

He said: “Last year was really good but at 35 degrees you were melting, it should be a bit more comfortable this year.

“We’ve got East 17, and also got a couple of tribute acts to Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift. It's the same girl that does both and she’s incredible, it’s like seeing the real deal but for free.

“We’ve got a couple of drag queens coming on and Soraya who hosts for us every year is returning.

“Everyone’s welcome. It gives people visibility and a voice, it’s good that these things go ahead."