READING Pride has announced a flurry of acts who will be performing on two of its exciting stages when the Love Unites Festival returns next month.
This year’s Main Stage has has been sponsored by Unite the Union, who have named it Sue’s Main Stage, dedicated to the memory of Sue Hopkinson (nee Stevens) who passed away, losing the battle with leukaemia in February.
After the announcement that Son of a Tutu, Wilma Fingadoo, Martha D’Arthur, and Dr Bev are set to host the main stage, organisers have now released the acts who will be performing throughout the day.
Jack Trinder
Southampton Pride’s resident host and renowned actor Jack Trinder will be performing following extensive appearances in musical theatre and arenas all over the world.
Billy and Louie
They’ll be followed by pop/soul twin duo Billy and Louie, ahead of the release of their upcoming debut EP and feature film.
Lolly
Lolly is tipped to play at the festival after five top 20 singles, two albums, and years of stage and presenting experience.
Danny Lampo
Danny Lampo is also returning to the event, bringing dancehall and afro beats to the main stage following a Ghana Music Awards nomination and a NELAS award.
Xtina
Xtina is set to perform, bringing a consummate Christina Aguilera tribute act featuring fan-favourites “Dirty,” “Beautiful,” and “Lady Marmalade.”
Natalie Gray
Reading singer/songwriter Natalie Gray is set to perform, bringing her accomplished vocal style and neon-drenched synth-pop sensibilities to her original music.
Gray has just finished a UK tour raising money for Women’s Aid, and released a single, Live In Love, in aid of Stonewall, following performances at Pride events around the UK.
Reading Rock Choir will also be bringing their usual enchanting performances to the event.
They’ll join headliner Claire Richards, who rose to fame in the late 1990s while performing with Steps, and has released solo material since 2015, including an album in 2019.
Also performing will be Nicolette Street who, following her debut album Taboo in 1999, has played alongside artists such as Pixie Lott, Anastacia, and Toyah.
The Pride Awards also return this year, where Reading Pride recognises those who have gone above and beyond to make significant contributions and work to support LGBTQ+ communities.
Selwyn Jones Award, which is dedicated in his name for significant contribution to the LGBTQ+ communities in Reading.
Alice Driver Award, which highlights those like Alice who have worked tirelessly for the community.
Love Unites Award sees trustees thanking a member of the committee who has gone above and beyond the call of duty this year.
As well as those on Sue’s Main Stage, organisers have also announced the acts who will be performing on the PrideXtra stage.
With Iota Events taking over the stage for the day, host Big Jay is set to chart their journey through drag with a number of performers who’ve supported them since they began performing.
Reading Pride’s parade and Love Unites Festival are set to return on Saturday, September 2.
Full details are available via: readingpride.co.uk
