Manchester-Based Performance Artist David Hoyle Presents DIAMOND

Manchester-based performance artist David Hoyle, who has been at the heart of the LGBT scene for decades, explores LGBT history spanning the 60-year period from 1957 to 2017 in Diamond at HOME Manchester, Mon 11 - Wed 13 June.

Weaving together intimate personal accounts and landmark events from his event-filled life, which has taken in being a key mover and shaker in the city's gay scene to acting in Channel 4's cult comedy Nathan Barley, Diamond charts David's rise from gay adolescent in Blackpool to famous Channel 4 anti-drag queen cult phenomena.

Revisiting landmark events such as the 1957 Wolfenden Report, which recommended the decriminalisation of homosexuality, Margaret Thatcher's Clause 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 which prohibited local authorities from 'promoting' homosexuality, to its eventual repeal in 2003, Diamond also looks at the lives of prominent gay figures such as Alan Turing, and more recent LGBT political activists.

Diamond offers moments of reflection and insights into this history and the ongoing struggle for equality, and as a piece of theatre that navigates counter-cultures, queer gender and sexuality, and British attitudes, it will appeal to all with liberation in their heart.

"The show is a celebration of survival against overwhelming odds," says David Hoyle. "We have a LGBT history we are proud of."

Diamond, part of the Manchester Histories Festival, commissioned by Contact Theatre, and directed by Mark Whitelaw, features special guests The LipSinkers, described by The Times as "camp, cult, and glorious."

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