In this forthcoming documentary, Noisey gained exclusive access to explore the history of London’s vibrant LGBT Dancehall Scene and it’s incredible characters.
For so many, the scene has created a space and support network where young people can come to terms with their sexuality and identity in their own culture whilst struggling with issues of racism, homophobia, transphobia and immigration.
The second series Channel 4’s “The Black Lesbian Handbook” was shot during this years Atlanta Black Gay Pride. Consisting of 6 episodes, this series visits the no holds barred US LGBT scene and covers the following topics.
1. Pulling (vb.): attracting a person you desire
2. Celesbian (n.): lesbian famous in the LGBT community
3. Hersband (n.): woman who adopts the masculine role in a lesbian marriage
4. Pride (n.): sense of your own dignity and value
5. Transgender (adj.): gender identity differs from that assigned at birth
6. White Piece (n.): white partner of a black lesbian
Our resident presenter/Host and Special events Co-Ordinator Nims featured in the series and gave us the lowdown on her experience. Read our aftermath interview with her below.
Q1 – So the handbook looked like a lot of fun, was filming at Atlanta Pride what you expected or were there any suprises?
Nims – Fun doesn’t even come close to describing my Atlanta Black Pride experience. Let’s say I felt like one of the lucky golden ticket holders from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 😂😂 Now this was not my first time in the US but it was surprising to see how receptive they were to having a film crew filming them. Seems as if once again our American brothers and sisters are just that little bit more liberal than us and don’t mind being on camera. Also I take my hats off to the US femmes….jheeze. Now we all know Nims loves her a stud, but the femmes really dressed to impress. It was a beautiful sight I tell ya.
Q2 – If you could have brought one aspect of your trip back home with you, what would it be?
Nims – Now this one is hard. There’s so much I would bring back over here, narrowing it down to 3 is the best I can do!
1: Their openness
2: Their success (there were a lot of successful lesbians who own their own businesses)
3: Big BOOTY strippers 🙈❤ (I kid you not…. I don’t know what they are eating).
Q3 – What parts of ATL would you recommend to a first time visitor wanting to explore the scene?
Nims – For a first timer in Atlanta, for Pride I’d say don’t limit yourself to just LGBT events. Venture out maybe check out “Six Flags” amusement park, and definitely go to “Hooters“. Oh Hooters. There are plenty of comedy clubs to check out such as “Kia Comedy” which hosts a weekly comedy set. Clubs like “Phaze One” that offer open mic sets for up and coming artists. Our very own Deanz was one of the performers there during Pride.
Q4 – Has your trip changed your point of view on any of the ‘usual’ rules that apply on the UK LGBT scene?
Nims – Oh most definitely. We as a community need to let go and be free and come together as one. Drop the labels and the judgment. Studs on studs, femmes and femmes, are we not all lesbians? And shout out to all my trans brothers and sisters..
Fire Nightclub 39 Parry Street,Vauxhall,London,SW8 1RT
Brought to you by Project X Ent, this South of the river affair gathers a young and exuberant crowd (LGBT Friendly) under the arches at Fire Nightclub. Taking place during London Pride weekend with a UV foam theme, this months edition was billed as ‘The After Party’ to be at.
VENUE
Fire is a two min walk from Vauxhall Tube/Train station, those queuing outside were processed promptly by friendly door staff.
The interior is a mix of high-domed ceilings and exposed brickwork which gives the place a real underground warehouse feel. Disco balls and fractured mirrors glued to the walls create amazing reflections.
Cloakrooms and a large outdoor smoking terrace with wooden banquette seating are available.
The main room boasts a large bar and centrepiece dance floor surrounded by raised platforms, attached is a second room providing a more intimate alternative.
Situated above the bar overlooking the main dance floor is a comfortable upstairs seating/lounge area complete with private booth. A cosy retreat for a quick breather with plenty of room to manoeuvre should ‘your song’ come on before you’re ready to return to the main floor. Complete with the best view in the house of the revelry below.
The toilets, located just off the second room were well attended with no more than a minutes wait at any point during the night.
ATMOSPHERE
State of the art LED lighting was exceptional.
With foam canons positioned over the main dance floor. Revellers were knee deep and in their element by 12.30am. The slightly lowered dance floor contained the bubbles almost like a bowl with the most gamesome amongst the crowd diving into thick of it and those happier just to dip their toes in dancing around the edges.
We spotted one or two ladies came prepared in swimwear no less, kudos. Covert smoke machines added to the clandestine lair like ambience.
The adjoining second room complete with its own bar and DJ catered to those that wanted to dry off but keep dancing. This room played a more house leaning selection for the shape cutters in attendance.
MUSIC
Flare audio systems linked up throughout the venue were all about the bass.
No less than 6 DJ’s on the night weaved through a variety of genres including Bashment, Hip Hop, R&B, Trap, with Afro Beats, Soca and House thrown in for good measure.
DRINKS
From J20 to brandy and coke were very reasonably priced, a round of drinks for four came in at under £18. A solid team of bar staff were all hands on deck.
ENTRY
Over 18’s I.D required
Guest list prices started at £5 before 11pm and £10 thereafter and Non guestlist at £10 before 11pm and £15 thereafter.
Discounts were provided for those with flyers and June babies were permitted free entry before 1am.
NEXT EVENT
The next Project X Ent event is ‘Fiesta The Boat Party’ taking place on Friday 31st July on board the M.V Jewel of London from 8pm – midnight, followed by Bad Bitches The After Party taking place again at Fire Nightclub.
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