An electronic queer “Eclipse” is happening in Aberdeen on the 30th of May and The Guardian sat down with its organiser, Monstera, to discuss it.
Monstera, a DJ, has set out to create an “authentically Queer” event in Aberdeen under her brand ‘Gore’, that she co-owns with her wife
The event will be the official opening night of Aberdeen pride. Monstera commented that for her this was “Mind blowing!.” And that, “It was only 3 years ago when I went to my first Pride March, and now being a part of it like this fills me with joy!”
Taking inspiration from her time in the London queer club scene she wants to create a safe space for queer people in Aberdeen. This felt particularly relevant with the ending of the sabotage clubbing events.
Why do you think it’s important for queer people to have a space like this?
Monstera highlighted the need for authentically queer spaces, where queer people can have fun and celebrate themselves. “We spend everyday having to be something,” Monstera said and this event is where people don’t need to pretend or conform.
“This is a place to be selfish and be authentic.”
How do you feel the English and Scottish queer scene differ?
In London in the goth, Queer community is about fashion, it’s about looking sexy and looking your best on camera, It’s about being raw and fearless.”
“London is extremely progressive and in Scotland there’s a little glass wall that needs to be broken through.”
Monstera emphasised that with her event, “You don’t need to go to London for a London queer event, you have Aberdeen.”
Do you have any advice for queer students struggling with their identity?
Monstera spoke of her own journey, “It’s not about the destination its about the journey. I’m nothing but proud of every wall I hit and climbed over.”
“There were bits that were absolute nightmares but it was fun to experiment. Embrace chaos, it’s okay to not know but it’s amazing to find out.”
Monstera ended her advice by saying, “It’s the things you don’t do in life that you end up regretting.”
Tickets for the event can be found at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eclipse-tickets-1982076120031