Welcoming LGBTQ+ young people for a day of drag history, identity and celebration

The event, Cherry Liquor: The Legends of Drag, was developed and performed by Darren Purnell, an associate lecturer at the University who is also known as the drag artist Cherry Liquor and was hosted in collaboration with Breakout Youth, which supports LGBTQ+ young people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Darren Purnell, musical theatre and acting and performance associate lecturer said: “Together, we developed and delivered a collaboration that provided young people with the opportunity to visit the University and engage with a live theatre experience. The performance explored themes of bullying, identity, and what it's like growing up as a member of the LGBT+ community. It created a really powerful space for reflection, discussion, and representation, and I think that made it an especially impactful experience for the young people who came along.”

Cherry Liquor: The Legends of Drag took audiences on a journey through the history of drag, beginning as early as 1604, and paid tribute to iconic performers including Danny La Rue, Lily Savage and RuPaul.

The performance was organised in collaboration with Breakout Youth, giving LGBTQ+ young people access to an inclusive and exciting experience. Breakout Youth has supported LGBTQ+ young people for more than 30 years. A spokesperson from the charity said:

“LGBTQ+ young people involved with Breakout Youth often experience bullying, prejudice, and social isolation, which can negatively affect their mental health and confidence. Many lack positive role models who reflect their identities and life experiences.

“Opportunities to access inclusive cultural events are limited, particularly for young people from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. There is a need for safe, affirming experiences that reduce isolation, challenge stigma, celebrate diverse identities, and show young people that they can move from adversity to aspiration.”

The project reflects Solent's role as a civic university that is open, collaborative and rooted in its community, helping to build community cohesion, reduce prejudice, and create a space where young people could see their identities represented and celebrated.

Senior Lecturer Sarah Mepham who co-organised the event alongside Darren, added: “It was a privilege to welcome these young people onto campus and to be part of an event that gave them space to see their own experiences reflected on stage. Supporting projects like these matters because representation and safe, affirming spaces make a real difference to young people's confidence and wellbeing. I hope everyone who came left feeling a little more seen, and proud of who they are.”