Cinemas serve alcohol these days so why shouldn’t bars show films, even better when it’s for charity! Mary’s – on Cardiff’s St Mary’s Street – has just launched Mary’s Picture House, where they will be showing LGBT+ themed classic movies.
Their first showing was the 1990 documentary – and essential viewing for anyone who considers themselves a fan of drag – Paris Is Burning, the documentary chronicled the New York drag scene of the 1980s, drag balls and voguing. The venue was closed off and there was a special screening of the documentary film, popcorn was available and there was even a vogue ball after the screening. Management say “the first Picture House went really well even though small numbers, it all has to start somewhere”.
The charity that Mary’s Picture House is supporting is the Terrance Higgins Trust. THT is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity. The Cardiff office provides support to anyone in Wales living with HIV; helps with testing and public education campaigns around HIV and STIs. THT also campaigns for greater political and public understanding of the personal, social and medical impact of HIV and sexual ill health.
Wayne Curley of THT Cardiff had this to say about the support from the events:
“The fundraising that Mary’s is doing makes such a big difference to people living with and affected by HIV, and poor sexual health here in Cardiff. The money raised will help us deliver vital services to help us end the HIV epidemic, improve sexual health and empower people to live well with HIV.”
Their second film they showed was The Rocky Horror Picture Show – people turned out and dressed up! Mary’s are planning to release a film guide soon, so look out for that and further showings.
words CHRIS WILLIAMS
More info here.