Two new queer shows set to premiere at Pride in Trafford 2025
Two bold and joyous new shows celebrating queer storytelling are set to premiere at Waterside in Sale this May, as part of the Pride in Trafford 2025 festival.
Manchester-based trans artist Hunter King (above), also known as Wolfy, will debut A Northern Tr*nny Hootenanny, a vibrant parody musical exploring themes of trans joy, self-discovery, and belonging. Inspired by Hunter’s personal journey of transition and love of musical theatre, the show blends country-western camp, Disney parodies and a Wild West hero’s journey, offering what early audiences have called “pure camp, country, comedy” and “a story that needs to be told, now more than ever.”
Hunter said: “My story is about trans hope and joy, internal struggle and the differences in humanity that make us beautiful. Waterside Arts and Creative Industries Trafford have shown me so much love and support, helping me follow my dreams into musical theatre.”
Holly Redford Jones by Lucy Ridges
The second premiere, I Was Dancing in the Lesbian Bar by Holly Redford-Jones, offers a witty, musical exploration of lesbian spaces past and present. Taking inspiration from Jonathan Richman’s cult song, Holly’s show is described as a "sonic love letter" to the lesbian bars of a bygone era, blending sharp social commentary with laugh-out-loud moments.
Following a popular preview performance earlier this year, Holly said: “The idea for this show came from singing 'I Was Dancing in the Lesbian Bar' in my hometown of Chesterfield, and watching the space transform into a temporary Lesbian Bar where everyone was welcome. I’m so grateful to Waterside Arts for supporting me to bring this to Pride in Trafford and later to the Edinburgh Fringe.”
Both shows were commissioned and developed by Waterside Arts and Creative Industries Trafford, organisations with a growing reputation for nurturing bold new work. Festival curator Darren Adams said: “Both Hunter and Holly have powerful stories to share, which challenge and entertain audiences, while celebrating Queer joy.”
The seventh annual Pride in Trafford runs from Tuesday 13 to Sunday 18 May 2025, with this year’s programme expanding into Altrincham for the first time. The festival offers a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ arts, creativity and community across the borough.
