Alterna-Queer, Pride Toronto’s alternative music program, goes big this year with programming at three different locations.
“I’m super excited to be part of the Alterna-Queer growth, and of having the opportunity to showcase both local artists and international talent from around the world.” says Bryen Dunn, Programming Coordinator for Pride Toronto.
The Alterna-Queer Warm-Up Party happens in Toronto’s West Queen West arts district, taking over the Great Hall for the evening of Friday July 2nd. Performances include-Vancouver based new romantic upstart, Lovers Love Haters, and Debora Cohen from The Organ’s newest project. This is also the first opportunity to catch Denmark’s Faggett Fairys for an intimate experience. These gals have ridden the pony to great success in Europe, and it’s now time for North America to get a taste. Rounding out this stellar line up is MEN, featuring the awesomely talented JD Samson (Le Tigre). And of course, the Alterna-Queer warm up wouldn’t be complete without its resident, DJ Triple-X.
On Saturday July 3rd Alterna-Queer takes over the South Stage on Church Street just north of Carlton. Local hip-hop duo Roney & Nani, performance diva Ryan G. Hinds, and electro darling Coko Galore kick off the afternoon in style. Vancouver’s Stink Mitt make a rare appearance strutting white trash rhythms, followed by Toronto’s loudest rock and roll machine Crackpuppy. Later we get our groove on with Toronto’s indie dance favourites Woodhands, followed by an encore performance by MEN. Josie Cotton and her band hit Toronto for their first ever Canadian gig, and ask us and Johnny if we’re queer. Finally, Mistress Barbara LIVE W/ Girls On A Ducati hits a Pride Toronto stage with a special performance and closing out is Fagget Fairys, the electronic queens of Europe and the people behind the hugely successful Trailer Park festival and the ArtRebels festival in Denmark.
Sunday July 4th, Alterna-Queer happens in sunny Alexander Parkette with a solid line up of Toronto’s finest. Starting the day off is sweet sensation duo Airheart, followed by the brassy, in-yer-face, politically incorrect antics of Adolf Glitter and the dark-rave sounds of The Torrent. Tomboyfriend get down with as many performers they can cram on stage while Señor Kasio rock out, and Heavy Filth keep the dirt flying loud and low. People You Know show us how youngings can rawk the party, before Diamond Rings glams up the stage in an amazing solo show followed by labelmate Private Life, featuring the one and only Katie Stelmanis.
Pride Toronto is hoping festival goers will come early and stay late. “We’ve got you covered with a triple shot of Alterna-Queer love,” says Dunn.
