House Proud

Expect the unexpected at a series of special events across the South East this summer celebrating LGBTQ+ history and Pride season in stunning historical settings.

House Proud at South Foreland Lighthouse, Kent

Saturday 23 September 2023, from 3.30pm

The sea has been an inspiration for artists, poets, performers and storytellers throughout time. This summer, join the team at South Foreland Lighthouse for an evening of queer art, history and mythology at our immersive event 'To The Lighthouse!'

Book tickets here

Your journey begins along the iconic White Cliffs of Dover where you will be met by artists and performers and walk along the cliffs to South Foreland Lighthouse. There you will experience drag performances by Virgin Xtravaganzah, performance by Tom Marshman, historical moments from Rafael Montero and poetry from Keith Jarrett as well as refreshments, music and activities. Expect the unexpected, and celebrate Pride season and LGBTQ+ history in a stunning maritime setting!

Sheldon Goodman, historian, in front of fireplace in house at House Proud event Hatchlands Park Surrey — Sheldon Goodman at House Proud event Hatchlands Park Surrey | © Sheldon Goodman

House Proud at Nymans, West Sussex

Friday 18 August 2023, 6.30pm onwards

Historian Sacha Coward will delight with talks on leading set & costume designer for stage and film Oliver Messel, and his links to iconic playwright & performer Noel Coward. With talks and performances happening throughout the evening, and a complimentary welcome glass of pink Prosecco/soft drink on arrival, you'll be free to wander and revel at a pace to suit you.

Book tickets here

We're looking forward to a fabulous evening, sharing some fascinating stories and having fun in the most beautiful surroundings. Performances happening through the gardens include pageantry and theatrics from Tom Marshman, a pop-up escape room experience in the house within the iconic ruins and cheeky drag antics with the wonderful Sum Ting Wong from Ru Paul's Drag Race.

House Proud at Hatchlands Park, Surrey

Saturday 8 July 2023, 6.30pm - 10.00pm

Come see amazing drag performances, learn about the queer history of myths and legends hidden around the building, take part in a teddy bear hunt, listen to powerful poetry, and even discover a secret miniature escape room. We have rolled out the pink carpet to bring the LGBTQ+ history of this National Trust property to life, for one fun and immersive evening, where everyone is welcome.

We will be entertained and educated by historians Sacha Coward and Sheldon Goodman, performers Tanaka Mhishi and Keith Jarrett, and the Surrey Rainbow Choir with more to be announced.

I’m really excited to hopefully bring some new audiences to Hatchlands, and share some stories that might otherwise have been forgotten about. Growing up in the era of Section 28, I had no real concept that people like me existed throughout history, so I think it’s really important that we’re able to explore aspects of our past that were previously brushed under the carpet.