Manchester Pride patron and friend Heather Peace blew us all away with her appearance at our 21st birthday celebrations this year, performing both with her band on stage and also alongisde Bruno Langley as a part of our Pride Fringe. Since then Heather has been extremely busy, working on television shows, her new album and preparing for an upcoming tour. We talk to Heather about her dream Pride line-up, the difference between touring and appearing at festivals and what we can expect from her in the future...

So, Heather, we know that you have a tour coming up soon... Are you excited?

I'm very excited about playing with the full band at the Union Chapel in London on the 28th November. The big gigs really give me a buzz, and having the girls on stage with me is just awesome. We are still developing the sound for the upcoming album so it's a great chance for me to assess that sound again.

The smaller intimate gigs at the Glee clubs will be lovely because I can see everyone in the audience and they become part of the show with the banter between myself and them. Having said that, I am more nervous about these gigs than excited. Playing on your own is very exposing, every note and nuance can be heard, including mistakes!

Manchester Pride was my favourite ever this year. Playing the main stage was just amazing, definitely the biggest audience I have played too so far. I thought the set up was just brilliant with the big screens and sound this year. My highlight was obviously the main stage and also the honour of reading at the Vigil on the Monday.

Who would be your dream Big Weekend line-up?

Dream Big Weekend line up, how many am I allowed? Just get Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys and I will be a very happy girl.

How does performing at festivals differ to your own tours?

The biggest difference performing at festivals is the sound, you very rarely get a sound check which always makes me nervous. I am very specific on the level of sound for each instrument. Plus the gretsch guitar I play has a very mellow sound and so many times the engineer tries to put too much top end on it which changes the feel completely. This was not the case at MP. The sound was just brilliant, they nailed it completely. The other advantage of festivals is to hopefully introduce your music to people who have never heard you before.

Speaking of the tour, your stripped back sessions include a meet-and-greet and signing of merchandise for those who attend. You seem to have a fantastic and close relationship with your fans; does this come organically or is it something you consciously strive for as an artist?

I do have a close relationship with my fans. It's not something I have consciously tried to do, it's just that I have been a gigging musician for 15 years and only now is it really happening, so I am thankful to everyone supporting me. I have always been of the opinion that essentially it's the fans who are employing me, it's only because of them that I have this amazing opportunity and job. I love being able to answer questions on twitter and get the genuine feedback good and bad.

Finally, what can we expect from Heather Peace in the near-future?

I am currently filming 'Waterloo Road' which will be out next Spring along with the already filmed second series of 'Lip Service' (which I am very proud of). Then in December I start in the studio with my Producer Nigel Wright putting down my first fully produced album entitled 'Sabotage'. It's all written so it's just the production now and I am so so excited about getting started on the actual recording of it!

Heather is coming to The Glee Clubs this November for a stripped back, intimate performance. Tickets are priced £28.50 which include a free item of merchandise (valued up to £15) and a meet-and-greet signing session with Heather herself. She is also performing at London's Union Chapel with a full band later the same month, where tickets can be purchased for £21.50. For more information, see Heather's personal website here.

Patron of Manchester Pride and singer Claire Mooney is coming to The Royal Exchange on Friday 14th October for her Special FX show which is free to attend and begins at 6pm (drinks reception from 5:30pm). This week we caught up with Claire to hear what she has been up to, her involvement with Manchester Pride and her highlights for this year and what we can expect from her in the future...

What can first-time Claire Mooney listeners expect from the performance?

Expect the unexpected I guess! A blend of passionate, political and playful tunes with a large slice of interactive banter - and a free raffle!!

You are somewhat of a social commentor both in Manchester and  beyond, voicing opinion and engaging in debate, most recently on panel at the LGF's Queer Question Time. Do you consciously try to represent the LGBT community and women when you are involved in these sorts of events?

I'm a strong believer that the LGBT community should represent itself in all its rainbow glory but, of course, I wear my politics on my sleeve which to me is all about being inclusive, tolerant, accepting - all of this can be mixed into serious fun and be entertaining!

You are one of Manchester Pride's patrons. What does this role involve?

I accepted the Manchester Pride patron role in order to encourage a grass roots surge in how Pride could be delivered - I'm pleased to say there were 50 fringe events in Pride 2011 and I attended a number of them. The events and people I met were exceptional, affirming and excellent.

Did you enjoy this year's Pride - what were your highlights?

I loved the Fringe events I attended, Women's Stage, the parade and vigil and meeting some old friends and some lovely people who had never been to Manchester Pride before.

What does the future hold for Claire Mooney?

The new album that has been coming out forever is still in the pipeline - the songs are written and some recorded - maybe I should do a CD single instead!? Also for those who keep asking me to record The Fleece Song - your wish may soon come true! I'm gigging up and down the country and I'm working on a number of radio ideas as well. Things ain't dull!

For more information on Claire's gig at The Royal Exchange, or to learn about their Special FX Fridays (offering free live entertainment to the public) please see here.

This week Manchester Pride have caught up with a very dear friend, Denise Black. You may know Denise from her role in Coronation Street, or Queer As Folk or for her 'The Screw Loose'  tour, which featured at Manchester Pride over our Big Weekend. We have a chat with Denise about more of 'The Screw Loose' gigs and her latest role - Mother Superior in the fabulous Sister Act...

Denise, tell us about your upcoming role in Sister Act, and your gig at Matt & Phred's Jazz Bar in the Northern Quarter?

I'm opening at the Opera House in Sister Act playing Mother Superior - the start of 8 shows a week until the end of time. Matt and Phreds is a chance to let my hair down and do what I love doing above all else. Singing. At a venue I love. I took The Loose Screw up to Edinburgh in '10 and it went a storm (I was dubbed 'busty dusty'), but I haven't had a chance till now to take it on the road. I've been looking after my mum who sadly died. But she was 90 and she was happy. So this tour's for her.

This gig, alongside rock guitarist Graeme Taylor, is a part of your Screw Loose tour, which has been called "vibrant, kooky and fun" (Classical Source). Where did you draw inspiration for the tour and how would you describe it to those who've not seen your performance?

Judy Garland was my first love. I used to do a mean impression. But her advice is “Be a first rate version of yourself, not a second rate version of someone else”. So that's the quest - to be true to yourself, write and sing songs about things that you are passionate about. I guess my first love is music and the second is making people happy. It's quite an eclectic bunch of songs - and I am a pretty quirky broad.

You performed the Screw Loose show in Sackville Gardens over our Big Weekend. How did you find that?

Bruno Langley was on before us. Just as he came off the heavens opened and it POURED! People took to the trees. But we drove away those clouds and had a ball. I was proud.

In addition to performing in and around Manchester as a singer, your actress roots here are firm too, with your past roles in both Coronation Street and Queer As Folk. What has turned your focus to singing, and do you prefer one over the other?

I was always a singer and an actress, but also a mother. 3 hats is too many - something had to give! So I concentrated on tv work - to enable me to be with the kids more. Now they are grown and I'm back - a mother, and a superior one! Yesterday our amazing young SA star Cynthia and I went down onto the Corrie cobbles in nun's habits for a laugh. New Corrie story line - Ken was such dynamite in bed, Denise took to the clothe....

Combining both your singing and acting talents, we know you are the new Mother Superior in the musical Sister Act. How did this opportunity come about and how are you finding it all?

Honestly, Sister Act has been a mountain to climb. It's my first true blue big musical. I am awe of the fitness of all these glorious music theatre boys and girls, so talented - not to mention in love with a very fine array of legs. The songs are fab. The costumes are fab. There are over 60 of us on the road! We've been directed by Mr Broadway himself. The self discipline required is quite something. Imagine. I've had to be teetotal weekdays!...well, some days.... But last night we played to over 2000 people who howled with laughter and gave us a standing ovation. So I'm happy!

Aside from the gigging and on-stage performances, what should we expect for Denise Black in the near future?

We're still rehearsing days, then performing nights - can you imagine how hot it is in a habit in this heatwave! So with luck in the imminent future, you will see a seriously streamline Denise down Canal Street or somewhere in the northern quarter building up her strength in a bar....

For more information on Denise's gig at Matt and Phred's, taking place on October 16, please see the jazz bar's website. To find out about purchasing tickets to see Black as Mother Superior in Sister Act, see here.

This week Manchester Pride were pleased to catch a few words with Gaydio host and Pride friend Chris Holliday, to talk all things radio and all things Pride!

So Chris we believe you’ve been involved in radio since you were 16 years old. Can you tell us about your career so far?

In fact I guess you could say I started earlier - making some classic radio using my double cassette 'boom box' in my bedroom with my friend Andrew Ford. Sybil, Madonna and Michael Jackson all featured heavily. At the age of 16, I started presenting a show on a community station in the town where I grew up - just outside of Bristol. Phone-ins involved friends’ Mums and competition prizes reached the dizzy heights of a box of Malteasers! But it was here where I started to love radio.

After Uni and a stint at the Financial Times in London, I was enticed back to radio by a friend from Uni: Toby Whitehouse. Toby (with his friend Ian) had the mad idea of setting up a gay radio station for Manchester. Initially the station was on air for 2 or 4 weeks at a time – I presented a show about Pride before moving onto breakfast.

Last year I decided to give up the suits and the stability of corporate life and plunged into the world of radio full time. I now present Breakfast on Gaydio (I have never used so much eye cream) and Saturday mornings for BBC Radio Manchester (up against Graham Norton on Radio 2) with my original radio wife from Gaydio – Emma Goswell.

I also look after outreach projects for Gaydio – teaching a range of groups about radio. I work six days a week, but I love it. I feel very lucky to be doing what I’m doing at the moment.

You presented live from Manchester Pride’s VIP marquee last year. Who was the most interesting celeb that you interviewed?

It was great fun - even though I was losing my voice and sounded like Dot Cotton (I blame a throat infection and not the partying). I thought it would be a laugh to try and get dates with as many celebs as possible…

Target 1 - the male one from Same Difference; he agreed to go for a drink with me even though he's straight - I think he was after my shirt.

Target 2 - Mario from Big Brother (I have no idea why); after several hours of eye-flirting - absolutely nothing - not one text message. Mario - I'm still waiting for your call.

Seriously though - Ian McKellan was a real gent. After a rocky start to the interview, in which I asked him if he'd be wearing hot pants in the parade, he really opened up. Hearing him talk about the fight for equality was really something. The man's an inspiration.

You’ve attended Manchester Pride for a number of years now what would you say was your main highlight?

I love Manchester Pride.

I love the parade - I do the commentary for BBC and Gaydio.

I love the acts – the Gossip in 2007 were pure, sweaty awesomeness.

I love the club nights - I'm forever getting lost in Uni Challenge.

But for me the most important part is the HIV Candlelight Vigil in Sackville Gardens. I remember taking my friend Jamie to it for the first time. It was then – stood next to my best friend – when I started to think about what it must have been like when the virus first hit. Suddenly people were losing people they loved – and they didn’t know why. Manchester was at forefront of the fight back. It’s part of the city’s history. It shaped the gay community that we know today. After all – it’s why Pride was first set up - we should definitely remember this.

It’s so important that we keep raising awareness of HIV/AIDS. People are getting complacent – they shouldn’t. It’s never been easier to get tested.

Apart from working in radio you also run a monthly cabaret night in Manchester called Mish Mash. For those who have yet to check it out how would you describe it?

It's a total Mish Mash of comedy (sketches and stand-up), poetry and amazing music. I set it up with my friend Julia after we went to a mainstream comedy night – all the acts performing at this night were young, straight, white men – most of them telling jokes about rape. I mean, when was that ever funny? Where were the women? Where were the gays? Where were the pensioners doing stand-up?! We try and book as wide a range of acts as possible - from well known names (Barbara Nice performed with us at Pride last year) to new and upcoming acts. We're particularly interested in hearing from outrageous drag kings and queens at the moment. Or if you've always wanted to share a special talent then come 'fill our slot' - an open 5 minute slot where you can try whatever you like- music, comedy, yodeling. We perform every last Friday of the month at the original Kro Bar on Oxford Rd (opposite the Contact Theatre) in central Manchester. Check out our website for more info - www.mishmash1.com

Have you attended other Pride’s around the UK or even the world? If so, how does Manchester compare?

I have! Brighton Pride is always good - here's hoping their new charging system works for them. I always used to find myself on the train back up to Manchester - still covered in facial glitter - wondering why people were looking at me funnily!

Sydney was pretty amazing; tops off dancing to the Freemasons.

But I've introduced several friends, from all over the world, to Manchester Pride and they agree with me – it’s pretty damn special. Something Manchester should be very proud of.

And finally, are you excited about Manchester Pride’s 21st birthday celebration?

Yes I am!! The plans are already underway at Gaydio for some great coverage and I'm already planning my outfit. Best of British?! Jane McDonald?! She's a little over 21 though. One thing is certain - I must remember the throat sweets this year - or perhaps I’ll just try and get some sleep. Bring it on!

Catch Chris on Gaydio weekdays 7am – 10am.

This week we caught up with our good friend John Barry. Here he recaps on the last 21 years and tells why he’s still proud to a part of the celebration.

You’ve been a proud supporter of Manchester Pride for a number of years now. What do you love about the festival?

There are many factors to the event but I love that the Gay Village actually becomes one large happy unit, due to Sackville Street being closed, originally for safety reasons, something that I pushed so hard to have done in 1994.

How important do you feel it is to support the LGBT community?

Take a look at how two men were killed in Iran, because they were caught having gay sex and the stigma that still goes on in different parts of the world, it makes you realise how lucky we are to have our LGBT community, support it.

How would you say Pride in Manchester has grown and developed over the years?

Looking back to when a few tressle tables featured outside the Rembrant, holding a Tombola and a wagon as a stage featuring myself and Lily Savage (Paul O'Grady) in Sackville Park, where we asked people to throw money into buckets, and to now and the size of it all, I'd say it's developed into a huge successful event.

We’re used to seeing you presenting on the Main Stage over the Big Weekend. Who has been the best person/celeb you have introduced?

This is a difficult question having introduced so many famous artistes/celebs. I think Irene Cara, singer/actress from the U.S.A. who appeared with her dancers, when she sang "Fame" and "What a Feeling" the atmosphere was electric and it meant so much because Irene doesn't make many appearances. She flew in especially.

And finally, are you looking forward to this year’s 21st celebration?

Very much so, for the past few years I have said to myself "John it's time to step down" but the public response has been overwhelming, people have stated "It wouldn't be Pride without you." Who would have thought 21 years later I'm still involved and still looking so young.

Following a recent interview with TV personality Jonathan Ross, it has come to light in the media and for the general public that his daughter Betty is a lesbian. Whilst this is not something that should be treated as particularly outrageous, we were thrilled to be able to catch up with the fabulous Betty for a quick interview. Betty discusses with us her coming out to friends and family and her new found status as a 'young, gay role model' in the UK.

How did it feel to be officially ‘outed’ by your dad last month?

To be honest, I didn't really see it as me being 'outed' because I've been out for over three years so everyone I know already knew I'm a lesbian and whatever. That, and the fact he was just answering a question I more just see it as him being like "well my daughter is gay so her bringing a woman home would be very unsurprising" rather than being like "GUESS WHAT GUYS OMG" or whatever.

Did you find it difficult coming out to your friends and family?

A little bit, I mean I kind of knew everyone would be fine with it because I'm lucky enough to have friends and family who are all pretty liberal and open and everything. I suppose I just found it hard because it's always going to be a hard thing to do but luckily everyone was really supportive so it all ended up well even if I got a bit worried.

You are now seen as a young gay role model. How does it feel, and what advice would you offer to anyone who is thinking of coming out for the first time?

It's really flattering, like after the whole thing happened I got a load of nice comments on my formspring like "this whole thing helped me come out" and being really sweet and it's like "awh everyone's so lovely" but I kind of feel like I've not really done anything to deserve everyone being this nice to me lol. Advice-wise I’d probably just say you'll feel so much better once your out and that Dr. Seuss quote "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" is so true. That and the fact that most discriminatory behavior is born from the individual being discriminatory but knowing enough about people in the group they're discriminating against so if you have friends or family members who you think aren't very friendly towards the LGBTQ community, they might become more open once they know that someone they know and love is a part of that.

And finally, we believe you may be attending Manchester Pride this summer, are you excited?

Indeed I am and I’m totally ecstatic. I’ve never been to Manchester before but have always wanted to because people I know who've been say it's aces and I've heard that Pride there is amazing so I’m really looking forward to it :-).

We’re looking forward to seeing you too Betty!

This week we caught up with the most recently crowned Pride’s Next Top Model Emma Speed. Emma talks us through her highlights from the Big Weekend and how it felt to win the competition.

Hi Emma congratulations on being chosen as Manchester Pride’s ‘Next Top Model’. How did it feel to win?

When I first received the call I was so surprised. I originally entered the competition with a little push from my partner who thought I would be ‘worthy’ - bless her. But wow I had got through to the final of Pride's Next Top Model and then to my amazement I won!! Then the nerves kicked in as I had never done anything like this before.

As part of your prize you got the chance to lead the parade along with Hollywood star Sir Ian Mckellen – can you tell us a little bit about the experience?

Amazing to say the least! Sir Ian was a true gentleman and it really was a pleasure to meet him. I was a little daunted by the thought of being right out there at the front of the parade but I soon relaxed and it was an experience I will never forget. It was pouring down with rain when we arrived but that certainly didn’t dampen the atmosphere, it was buzzing and everyone was so friendly including Anthony Cotton and all involved with the parade. As we set off leading the parade with Sir Ian the sun came out and crowds were cheering and it was exhilarating. what an experience!

Apart from meeting Sir Ian, what was your main highlight over the Big Weekend?

The parade has to be one of the main highlights of the weekend but apart from that I really enjoyed getting an insight into what goes on behind the scenes for Manchester Pride. I didn’t realise just how much money is raised for charity and the LGBT community. Also all the hard work which comes from the Pride staff, volunteers and organisers.

As an out and proud member of the gay community, what advice would you give to someone who is thinking of coming out for the first time?

This is difficult for me to answer as it is such a personal thing. All I can say is that in my experience I do have lots of regrets in waiting until I was turning 30 to come out to my family as they couldn’t have been more supportive and I had to deal with all those years of hiding who I was from them. I found it a lot easier to deal with by firstly coming out to friends and this can be a great support network for you before you feel it is the right time for you to come out to family. You’re not alone and there are lots of support groups out there if you need advice.

And finally, how important do you feel an event like Manchester Pride is to the LGBT community?

I feel the LGBT community would truly suffer without the support from Manchester Pride. It is like an epicentre for bringing these communities together and raising awareness. Not only does ‘The Big Weekend’ provide a reason for a lot of people to get together and party but also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of the LGBT community including art, culture, music, heritage and not forgetting raising a lot of money for charities including HIV awareness. It really is a great event and I’m looking forward to Pride 2011.

Harry Bradshaw may be a fresh face to many, perhaps you may recognise him from his latest role as a transgender character in a popular British teen soap. Despite being fairly new to the scene, Harry has begun to establish himself as a great award-winning UK talent, showcased both on the big and smaller screen. This week we were pleased to catch a few words with the young star...

You recently featured in Hollyoaks (Channel 4 soap), playing a transgender character named Tamara who was in a ‘gender disorder clinic’. How did you prepare for such a role?

As an actor, preparation is a key. No matter how big or small the part, the more you know about your character, the greater control you have in a performance. Therefore to be given a character like Tamara, in a platform like Hollyoaks, I knew it was fundamental for me to understand the world of the transgender community, and give a truthful portrayal. The way I work is more intellectual based with preparation. I tend not to meet people that are similar to characters I play otherwise I end up always thinking, “ how did so and so sit?” or “how did this person react?”. My main research for my character was based around forums and blogs by people writing about their transgender experiences. I came across so much, from people who are hiding their true gender, to people that are open and living the life as their true self. This is where the true stories are expressed, and you get to understand their real emotions. It was like reading peoples personal diaries and a real way of understand people’s way of life.

Tamara (and Jason, whom your character met in the Hollyoaks storyline) is the first transgender character we have seen on our TV screens in a long time. Why do you think this is?

To be truthful, I don’t think it is completely accepted in our community, which is really unfortunate. If the “issue” was accessible more on our televisions and the media, then we would see more transgender characters around. It’s great the soaps like Hollyoaks have main recurring gay and lesbian characters, as it shows the portrayal of real life. The next step for the industry is to portray these characters out of their stereotype, which I think Hollyoaks is brilliant at doing. For instance, you don’t have to be camp to be gay, you don’t have to be butch to be lesbian, and for my character Tamara, you don’t have to put on a facade to be male to female transgender. LGBT societies come in all shapes and forms, and I think the industry is getting there, and it’s exciting to be a part of it.

You have had esteemed roles Jonathan Harvey’s ‘Beautiful Thing’, in Prince Gomolvilas’ UK drama ‘Mysterious Skin’, and in the short named Hope, where you achieved an Accolade Film Festival award (2009). All of these, you played roles that were sexually charged and contain important messages for the LGBT community. Which of these do you think are most important?

I think they are all important in their own right. Each role and each piece has a different message. Of course ‘Beautiful Thing’ was huge in the 90’s when it first previewed. It captures the innocence of youth and exploration. I remember watching it with my friends when I was in my teens thinking, Jamie is me. This is practically my life, in a film. It’s a piece that makes young teens feel they are not alone. The play is so well written, I feel that it brings out some kind of emotion whether you’re gay or straight. ‘Mysterious Skin’ and ‘Hope’ are less about exploration of sexuality, but more about how the exploration of sex helps to bring a conclusion, so are less likely to be important to LGBT communities.

Despite being from down South, in Essex, have you seen much of Manchester and our Pride events?

I’ve been to Manchester a few times in the past, but haven’t been in a good few years. I don’t know whether born and bred Manchester folk agree with me, but it feels like an extension of London. It is lively, the place never seems to stop and it’s full of culture. I also understand your Pride events are as lively as London too. I’m hoping to head up to this year’s Manchester Pride. It’ll be my first time so you’ll have to all show me around.

It’s fantastic to talk to someone who is representing British acting in both television and film, and coincides well with our ‘Best of British’ theme for Pride 2011’s Big Parade. For you, what makes us such a culturally relevant country?

Capturing the British element is something to be proud of too. I’m not entirely sure what makes us culturally relevant, but I have to say I have a soft spot for the monarchy. What is there not to like? It is what fundamentally defines Britain. Having recently been in America, people would always be commenting on the Queen. I think we should take more pride in it.

Finally, what has 2011 got in-store for Harry Bradshaw?

All sorts of things. Work wise, there are a few projects possibly lined up, but nothing announced as yet. All updates are posted on my website when confirmed. In other areas of my life, I am teaching acting more, and hopefully passing on my wisdom to aspiring actors. And sticking to my new year’s resolution, I am being more proactive with my political side. Along with acting, politics is a big thing for me, and I am pursuing this as much as I can. You never know, you may see me at Manchester Pride on a certain LGBT stand.

http://www.harrybradshaw.co.uk/

This week caught up Manchester Pride DJ – Rivca.

You’re a Manchester Pride resident DJ. When and how did you first start DJing at Pride?

I first started DJing at Pride by royal invitation from Miss Crozier (festival director) who had been informed of my availability by Steph Kay of Vanilla, I played the launch night at Selfridges (deep end). I ended up playing alongside Frankmusik! From this I got asked to do a couple of little sets on the Main stage which was an incredible experience and it grew from there.

What advice would you give to young aspiring DJ's?

Have fun playing what you want to play and what makes your crowd dance and smile, don't conform to the usual.

What did it feel like to be on the same line-up as Kelis at Pride last year?

That was a sensational moment. The biggest highlight of my DJing career so far was playing to around 6,000 people on Dance day after Chicane had performed and ending the night with everyone dancing to MIA and the Killers (very 'un-dance'). Then playing on the Sunday with Kelis preparations going on behind me and Dragonette walking on stage was pretty cool!

Where are you DJing at the minute?

I currently DJ on and off at Baa Bar on Sackville St and the Islington Mill in Salford, but I’m always looking for gigs.

And finally, what would be your top three tunes to the get the crowd going at Pride?

• Eurythmics vs. Lady Gaga - Dance Dreams
• MIA - Paper Planes
• Bill Haley - (We're Gonna) Rock Around The Clock

We recently caught up with Bruno Langley, who is probably best known for playing Todd Grimshaw in Coronation Street. And rumour has it that he might even be returning to our favourite soap – watch this space.

You’re known for playing Todd Grimshaw in Coronation Street as the first openly gay character on the show. What kind of affect do you think this storyline has had on the LGBT community?

It's very strange, but when we did that story line it was in 2004, the press labelled it as sensational. How far we have come, it's now 2011, and those kinds of story lines are every where now, especially in soaps! I feel very privileged to be part of something that brought change to the way people think about things.

Apart from acting, you’re also a singer in your band ‘Bruno and the wonderland band’. For those who’ve never heard you perform before how would you describe your style?

Ah yes, well, the Wonderland Band performs only the best rock and roll / Blues / Jazz and, Swing stuff. I love doing new arrangements of cheesy pop tracks into jazz and swing versions!

You posed in our recent exhibition ‘Welcome to my World’. Can you tell us about the experience?

You mean the cowboy outfit? I had a wonderful time, and yes, I kept the outfit!

You’ve previously performed at Manchester Pride, did you have fun and what did you think of the festival?

I performed with just my pianist Bobby Birch on the Sackville Stage, and I had an amazing time! Manchester is home turf so performing there was brilliant, and my son Freddie was in the crowd watching which made me happy! We did a great version of Johnny be Goode which went down well.

And finally, what have you got lined-up for 2011?

I’m doing a tour of Calendar Girls which is a great play which tours the UK for three months and hits Manchester from 21st to 26th of February at the Palace Theatre. After that I'll be auditioning, writing songs, and performing with my band and most of all, enjoying being a Dad.