Chester University staff unveil rare footage of Blackpool's drag legacy
Previously unseen footage of top drag and LGBTQ+ stars at a UK seaside town is being showcased in a new film created by Chester University staff.
'Queering Blackpool' recounts the rise of the town's drag and LGBTQ+ scene – from the pioneers who built it, to the new generation.
With most of the footage having never been shown before to the public, viewers can expect to see star names - including Lily Savage, Grace Jones, Sister Sledge, The Village People and more.
It has been produced over the last 12 months by senior lecturer, Dr Helen Eadon-Sinkinson, alongside Alexander Blackburn from the video production team at Chester University.
It is based on Helen's Doctor of Education thesis, also titled 'Queering Blackpool'.
Key interviewees in the film include Basil Newby MBE, the founder of Blackpool burlesque cabaret bar Funny Girls, and Adrian Thornton, also known as legendary Blackpool drag queen DJ Zoe, who has been the hostess on stage there for 30 years.
Other performers featured include Shirley Knot and Indiana Aphrodite Isherwood.
The film will receive its premiere at The Backlot Cinema and Diner in Blackpool on Friday 6 June.
Tickets are now available for the Chester screening of Queering Blackpool at Picturehouse on June 20 at 7pm.
There will also be a question and answer session afterwards with filmmakers Helen and Alexander.
For more information please visit the Chester Picturehouse website.
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