Pride concert will 'pull out the stops'
BBCA free concert to celebrate Pride in Sunderland will bring together a whole host of top entertainment, organisers say.
It is the culmination of a the month-long festival in June, which includes film screenings, a family picnic, and a tennis tournament.
Following the Pride march on Saturday 28 June, the free event in Keel Square is sponsored by Sunderland AFC and the Foundation of Light.
Organisers Out North East said their support would allow the concert to "pull out all the stops".
The concert will be hosted by Elijah Young, best known for playing Stuart on the hit TV show, Smoggie Queens, and the line up includes '90s icon Tina Cousins, London LGBTQ+ dance company Homoparody and showcase entertainers The Future Is Queer.
Peter Darrant, chair of Out North East said: "The support of Foundation of Light and SAFC means we can pull out all the stops, while ensuring that the concert is absolutely free and open to everyone.
"Pride in not just important for the LGBTQ+ community to show their visibility, it's also about us showing pride in our allies and their support.
"It is a really vital event to ensure that the voice of the community is heard, along with those invaluable individuals and organisations who stand with us!"
Foundation of Light CEO Lesley Spuhler said: "This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive community for everyone."
Sunderland AFC's chief business officer David Bruce said that as a club deeply rooted in the community, it was incredibly proud to be supporting Pride in Sunderland.
He added: "Football is for everyone, and we're privileged to play our part in making this event a vibrant and welcoming celebration for all."