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Festival Weekend

Blockorama: The Sounds Of

Sunday, Jun 29 · 2PM
-11PM
Mill Street Wellesley Stage
15 Wellesley St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1G7

ABOUT THIS EVENT

Blockorama turns 27!

Join us in the sounds of Love, freedom, and joy.

Created and curated by Blackness Yes!, the volunteer committee behind Pride Month’s longest-running party

If there’s 1 thing Blocko is, it’s an unapologetically safe space for the African, Black, and Caribbean 2SLGBTQI+ community in the Greater Toronto Area. We showcase the communities’ best, DJs, performers, drag and ballroom artists, and dancers. We also spotlight health, spirituality, harm reduction, and community activism.

Don’t forget to get an extra 3 hours of Blocko on Saturday at Blocko After Dark, starting at 11pm.
Petra Queen of the Nile

Petra Queen of the Nile

Liana Lewis, a Canadian performer hailing from Calgary, Alberta, embodies the essence of artistic expression. From a young age, Liana’s journey into the world of arts commenced with piano lessons at the tender age of three, under the tutelage of the esteemed non-profit institution, The Suzuki Talent Education Society in Calgary. Infused with the Suzuki method’s ethos of fostering not just musical proficiency but also character virtues such as perseverance, patience, and respect, Liana’s passion flourished. Her ardor for the arts evolved to encompass diverse forms. At six, Liana’s exploration of dance was ignited at Premiere Dance Academy, where she embraced Jazz, Ballet (RAD), Tap, and Modern disciplines. Excelling in regional competitions showcased her remarkable dedication and skill. Yet, Liana’s talents stretched further – her love for singing and acting was equally profound. Following high school, Liana embarked on a journey to Toronto, propelled by her aspiration to become a Triple Threat Performer. Auditioning and enrolling at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, she honed her talents in acting, singing, and dance over a rigorous two-year program. Toronto’s prominent choreographers soon recognized her talents, granting her opportunities to grace stages across the nation. Over the past decade, Liana has carved a niche in the realm of Burlesque, adopting the captivating persona of Petra Queen of the Nile. Beyond her stage presence, she champions body empowerment as a movement instructor, offering healing through dance and inspiring individuals to embrace their authentic selves with every confident step. @lianalewis @petraqueenofthenile

DJ Nik Red

DJ Nik Red

My love affair with music began when I was just a kid. Living with a father who was a musician, he fostered an interest in a wide spectrum of musical genres from the time we could crawl. When I was a teenager, I got into making mix tapes for friends and myself. Music inspired me and was my rock when I came out as a queer teen. One Friday night I had the opportunity to play some music at my queer youth group's coffeehouse. It ignited something in me, and I decided this was something I had to do. For a couple of years due to the lack of opportunities I was relegated to making mix tapes and the coffee house nights. I moved to Toronto in the mid 1990's and stumbled into a wonderful place called CKLN 88.1 fm. The station offered training workshops in being a technician and on-air programming. I was soon volunteering there as a tech and doing the occasional on-air fill in. To my good fortune a slot opened on air and soon I was programming a weekly show with Karen Augustine called B.A.S.S (blak Afrikan sistas of soul). From spinning on air, I was asked if I would play a few gigs. I accepted it with joy and have been creating vibes since then. After a year and half on B.A.S.S, I moved onto RedLightSpecial and then I moved onto my own show on CKLN - RedLight Special (Tuesday's 12:30 A.M. -2:30AM) and then now Afrotransit(Thursday’s 5:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M) I continued with Aftrotransit on Radio Regent fur a few when CKLN folded. I am no longer on Radio Regent but catch me live around or in the occasional Podcast.

DJ Bigg Biggz

DJ Bigg Biggz

DJ Bigg Biggz Real Name: Shawn Castell Age: 33 Origin: Born in Jamaica, raised in Canada Introducing DJ Bigg Biggz, a dynamic and inspiring force in the music industry. Born in Jamaica in 1991 and relocating to Canada at the age of 12, Shawn Castell grew up immersed in a rich tapestry of cultures that shaped their musical journey. Introduced to music at a young age by their mother, a local artist, they discovered a passion that would lead them to become a prominent DJ. Since starting their DJ career at 17, DJ Bigg Biggz has consistently broken boundaries and shattered stereotypes in a male-dominated and often homophobic industry, particularly within the dancehall scene. As a four-time DJ clash winner, they have proven that talent, skill, and passion transcend societal norms and expectations. DJ Bigg Biggz is a testament to the belief that music is for everyone, regardless of background or identity. With a vibrant presence, DJ Bigg Biggz has performed across Canada and the Caribbean, bringing their unique sound to audiences far and wide. They are also deeply committed to giving back to the community, having participated in numerous charity events, including the Children’s Society, Eva’s Initiative, and the Boys and Girls Club. Their dedication to making a positive impact as a Black queer artist is unwavering, as they strive to uplift and inspire others in the music industry. DJ Bigg Biggz continues to pave the way for future generations of artists, encouraging fellow Black creatives to pursue their dreams and embrace their identities. Join them on this incredible journey as they spin tracks that unite, uplift, and celebrate the power of music.

Sonic Griot

Sonic Griot

Sonic Griot is a DJ and multidisciplinary creative who weaves the influences of her pan-African upbringing into her work and performance. A member of Toronto's Afrique Like Me collective, she has a broad-based taste in music that spans numerous genres. Sonic Griot is best known for curating vibes with African alternative and electronic dance music, her eclectic aesthetic, love of dance, energetic performance and deep connection with her audience.

JORDIOR

JORDIOR

DJ JORDIOR (Jordan Abdul) is a twenty-two year old sound curator based in Toronto, Canada and Brooklyn, New York City. He has been curating sounds since 2019, with a passion for Caribbean sounds coming from the islands. Jordior’s sound selection has explored and expanded to Afro Beats, Amapiano, Vogue, Hip Hop and may more. He is known for his strong trailblazing empowerment in music cultivating spaces for youth of the diaspora coming from all gender expressions. Jordior has curated sounds for major collectives such as Boiler Room, YesYesY’all (Toronto,) Bashment (Miami,) and has played at different venues across the United States and Canada notable mentions like Le Bain (NYC,) Elsewhere (NYC,) the Hollywood Palladium (LA,) and more. He also has supported sets for international acts such as Ebhoni Jade, Justine Skye, Jessie Reyez and more.

Kage Wolfe

Kage Wolfe

Kage Wolfe is a Burlesque performer and the Director of the QTBIPOC production brand Kreative Kulture. A Burlesque and Cabaret performer for over 10 years, they have performed at festivals all over Canada and have headlined shows from Nova Scotia to BC. As a queer award winning performer who is known for their on stage expression of black and Caribbean culture they live up to the moniker "The Kulture King of Toronto Burlesque."

Omari B Johnson

Omari B Johnson

Omari B Johnson is a self-taught dancer known for his smooth moves all around Ottawa's drag king scene. He’s been performing for over 4 years around Ottawa, Toronto and Calgary. He was crowned Mr Capital Pride 2023 and is a co-producer of monthly Captial Kingdom Drag King show in Ottawa. He enjoys using his platform to continue to support the bipoc, queer and drag communities. Look out Toronto your boy Omari is back to steal your heart.

AshaLee

AshaLee

By harnessing the universal charm of music, AshaLee sways listeners with passion and soul. This inspirational artist has earned her reputation as a talented musician and skillful performer. Through her music, which is reflective of her Jamaican roots, she strives to inspire positive changes within hearts and communities.

NeneGlamorous

NeneGlamorous

Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, hip hop artist and songwriter NeneGlamorous has always cherished her natural passion for creating music through lyrics and interpreting music through dance. NeneGlamorous is on the scene and ready for a full takeover! Throughout the exploration of her musical passions, NeneGlamorous has shown exceptional growth and knowledge of the entertainment industry over the years. A three-time featured Sunshine Girl model in one of Canada’s most widely circulated publications—The Toronto Sun newspaper. NeneGlamorous is also known as NeneGlam. Her unique sound very much reflects her versatile lifestyle with a mix of various sounds including pop, hip hop, rnb, house, afro beats & reggae. With this eclectic mix of influences, NeneGlam promotes her diverse musical skills in addition to her vibrant lifestyle. In September of 2020, NeneGlamorous gained enough recognition to be featured multiple times on Flow 93.5 FM’s “Made in Toronto Takeover”, “Fiyah Fiyah”, “Money Dance” and “Want it All” as well as these songs being featured on a very well known celebrity's instagram page Safaree. In February of 2021, NeneGlam was featured on Amber Rose' mixtape "Ambers Line Up". NeneGlamorous has been working throughout the entire year to complete her RnB and House Album. These albums are expected to take NeneGlamorous to the next level! Nene is ready to take her presence in the female hip hop scene to worldwide – get familiar with this vibrant and talented artist.

Devine Darlin

Devine Darlin

Old school drag performer with a mixture of reggae, caribbean and old school flare. Devine darlin has been a drag artist for 18yrs and is the daughter of legendary Michelle Ross.

LEXXICON

LEXXICON

Lexxicon is a trailblazing Dancehall/Hip-Hop artist, renowned for his unique infusion of Moombahton, Dembow, Reggaeton and upbeat dancehall rhythms. Lexxicon stands as a pioneer, making history as the first openly gay musician to release a Reggae/Dancehall album. Drawing parallels to influential figures like Lil Nas X & Kim Petras, he is breaking barriers and championing LGBTQ+ visibility in music. His sound is characterized by a deep resonance with themes of freedom and identity, echoes his Jamaican roots while embracing the diverse cultural tapestry of his hometown. Musically influenced by heavyweights like Sean Paul, Bad Bunny, Stefflon Don and Spice, Lexxicon’s sound is a vibrant testament to his heritage and his bold, eclectic personal style. Beyond his music, Lexxicon is known for his dynamic fashion sense, inspired by icons like Rihanna and ASAP Rocky, this shines through his music videos that feature urban street environments and tropical aesthetics, highlighting the vitality of diverse scenes. Lexxicon’s journey is one marked by passion and perseverance, earning acclaim from major media platforms including Billboard, Revolt TV, Complex, 6ixbuzz, Exclaim, Breakfast Television, e-Talk, NOW Magazine, and CBC Radio. His work continues to push the boundaries of Dancehall music, paving the way for future artists in the genre.

Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance

Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance

Celebrating Creativity. Empowering Identity. Building Community. The Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance (TKBA) is more than a community—it’s a culture of celebration, self-expression, artistry, and connection. Rooted in the rich culture of ballroom, we are dedicated to empowering Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities through events, education, and advocacy.

COOKIEDOH

COOKIEDOH

C O O K I E D O H is not your average DJ. Hailing from the diverse west-end neighborhood, her sound is a seamless blend of dancehall, reggae, afro-beats, reggaeton, hip-hop, and R&B, making her the go-to gyal for music enthusiasts. August 2023 Cookiedoh featured as the DJ in the Sprite 50 Years of Hip Hop Commercial with rapper Latto and legend Rakim. C O O K I E D O H's intuition and infectious energy create an unparalleled DJ experience. Don't miss out on the musical fusion she brings to every stage! Follow C O O K I E D O H on social media for updates, gigs, and exclusive mixes that'll keep you moving to the groove!

DJ Young Zee

DJ Young Zee

My Name is Dj Young Zee, I am a female dj living in Toronto, I have been djing for 5 years now. I started djing in quarantine as a way to help mentally heal from stress with family and loosing work. From there it became more than a hobby, it became a career that I loved. I’ve had the pleasure to play at many big stages while represent my country and culture. As an Afro - Caribbean entertainer I’ve learned that it is very important to put where you come from first, because there are many people who will look up to you and relate to you. I was born in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, I’ve played at many different carnivals and I’m truly excited to show you all my craft. - Young Zee

DJ Prestige

DJ Prestige

Prestige is one of Canada's Elite djs known for their unique style of blending Reggae, Dancehall, Hip-hop, Soca, Afrobeats to give you an energized and electrifying musical journey etc.... In addition to being apart of The GoHard Series team , DJ Prestige has played alongside some of Canadas Legendary Djs and many memorable events over the years including Pride Toronto, Blockorama, Blockobana, Pride Riser Stages, Go Hard Events Series, SmokedTo, StrappedTo, Polly Perry Events, Fundraisers, Charities and have also successfully curated their own annual event etc... DJ Prestige is always looking forward to taking their audience on a memorable experience worldwide.

Craig Dominic

Craig Dominic

Craig Dominic, 17 years into his career has changed the Toronto's DJ scene, blending top 40, R&B, Hip Hop, dancehall, soca, house & more into one cohesive experience like few others can. He is the project lead for Blackness Yes! where he programs Blockorama, and curates, funds and event manages Blockobana and Toronto Black Pride Weekend.

Amerie

Amerie

Amerie is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, producer, and writer. The daughter of a Korean artist and an African American military officer, Amerie was born in Massachusetts, raised all over the world, and graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s degree in English. She is the editor of the New York Times bestseller Because You Love to Hate Me (a Junior Library Guild Selection), the author of the children’s book You Will Do Great Things, and the founder of Amerie’s Book Club, which highlights diverse and unique perspectives and voices.

DJ Blackcat

DJ Blackcat

DJ BLACKCAT This funky dred has opened for Dancehall Queen Spice, City Girls, Saucy Santana, Canadian R&B Superstar & friend Jully Black & hard hitting superstar DJ`s like the late ICON DJ Vjuan Allure, DJ Mikeq & Bambii. He also works closely with the Ballroom community & is a member of the Kiiki Haus of Mulan Canadian Chapter & the mainstream House Of Monroe in Canada. The Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance (TKBA) & Van Vogue Jam in Vancouver. He also works with Pride Toronto as a Program Curator & consultant for the last 5yrs. Now that our city has opened up, GO HARD events continue to have great success in the community. We have even taken our crew to Ottawa with fantastic results. Now in it`s 14th year providing safer space in the 2SLGBTQ communities we have Montreal & Vancouver in our sites. @gohardevents @djblackcatt (instagram & Facebook). Voted Church Street's favorite DJ this year & recipient of the Inspire Awards “Lifetime Achievement Award” for his contributions the Black LGBTQ community & bringing the popular urban sound to Toronto`s LGBTQ club scene, this Black Cat never sleeps and neither will you if you're at one of his functions & dare to cross his path. His Annual Pride closing party is Sunday June 30th @ The Smith House 171 College St. Tickets are still available on Eventbrite.

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