Taking over Manchester’s newest outdoor party destination, The Progress Centre, FREAK queer rave is celebrating the city’s evocative underground party scene through a nine-hour get-together at the Ardwick mill.
Taking place on Saturday 20 May (because why should the partying stop between the bank holidays?) the event features a line-up of incredible DJs, alongside a masterclass in vogueing hosted by experienced performers Reece Daniels aka ReeRee and Daguwrlz.
Set to be a noteworthy date in spring’s party calendar, the FREAK day rave will celebrate LGBTQIA+ talent, including; Job Jobse, Angel D’Lite and Jaye Ward before heading to The Loft for an additional six hours of partying.
The vogue workshop will undoubtedly be a highlight of the Saturday, soundtracked by Manchester DJ duo and FREAK founders, High Hoops. The session will offer participants an opportunity to learn the basics of vogueing from some of the North West’s most talented and experienced Vogue performers.
Founded back in 2019, FREAK has been built upon inclusivity, queer energy and a passion for partying. Always soundtracked by an eclectic range of music, its events aim to provide an accessible safe space for everyone to dance together and celebrate self expression.
Marcos, one half of High Hoops and founder of FREAK, said: “We are excited to announce the return of our day party this May at Manchester’s latest club, The Progress Centre. FREAK is a celebration of the city’s queer culture and we are proud to showcase 15 hours of LGBTQIA+ talents throughout the day and night.”
Connor Cooper, operations manager at Progress Centre, added: “We’re delighted to host such an important event like FREAK at The Progress Centre, welcoming not only them but also the incredible people that attend their events. We have worked hard together, to create a space that allows the freedom of expression through music, creativity and dance, which is something we are proud to align ourselves with for what’s set to be a magical moment for Manchester.”
Although things at The Progress Centre grind to a halt at 11pm, the party continues over at The Loft, Manchester’s buzzing warehouse club in Miles Platting. Running from 11pm – 5am, the after-party will be graced by Flo Massé, Kiss Me Again and Fastlove, who will fill the early hours with unlimited grooves from across the house, disco, electronic and techno genres.
One of the most important parts of the FREAK rave, is its commitment to the safety and well-being of all attendees. Ambassadors from the local queer community will be present at the event and available as a point of contact for anyone who needs assistance or support throughout the day, working alongside the venue staff and security teams.
The event organisers are also proud to be supporting Albert Kennedy Trust, a local LGBTQ+ charity that works to support homeless people in the local community. They are also dedicated to using their platform to raise awareness and funds for this vital cause.
The Progress Centre is located at Charlton Place, Ardwick, Manchester M12 6HS. Tickets are now available to purchase via the link below.
FREAK queer rave
Date: Saturday 20 May
Time: 2-11pm / 11pm-5am
Venue: The Progress Centre / The Loft
Price: Day tickets £17.30 / day & night tickets £33.25
