Hiya Flock!
Spring has truly arrived in Leeds—and here at Flamingos, we’re leaning all the way into it. It feels like we’ve turned a corner: the days are longer, the coffee is flowing, and our calendar is looking absolutely fabulous.
I wanted to take a moment to share some of the magic we’ve got planned over the next few weeks. Whether you’re in the mood to make something, watch something, laugh, cry, or just have a really good cuppa in good company—there’s something here for you.
Trying Something New
Here we are—with our very first Stand Out Stand Up comedy night launching on Thursday 8 May! It’s a space for queer comedians to try out new material, test the waters, and make us laugh (or groan—we’ll take it either way). I’m excited, nervous, and honestly can’t wait to see how the room comes alive. It’s all about fun, community, and giving folks the space to try something new. If it’s your first time performing—or even watching something like this—you’ll be in good company.
Events That Make Us
Just before that, on Friday 25 April, we’re bringing back a Flamingos favourite: our Queer Open Mic Night. These nights are always something special. There’s something about seeing people get up and share a poem they’ve just scribbled on a napkin, or sing a song they’ve only ever performed in the shower. It’s raw, funny, tender—and exactly the kind of energy we love here. No polish required, just passion.
And if you’re the hands-on type, there’s plenty coming up for you too. Our Pottery Hand-Building Workshop on Thursday 24 April is a perfect chance to get creative without pressure. Whether you end up with a perfectly formed vase or a slightly sad-looking bowl, you’ll have made something real, with your own hands—and that’s always worth celebrating.
A few days later, on Monday 28 April, we’re cutting, pasting, and collaging our way through a Zine Making Workshop. These sessions are such a gorgeous mix of chaos and creativity, and I love seeing what people walk away with—little booklets full of thoughts, feelings, and sometimes just pure nonsense. It’s joyful.
The Camp Spectacle You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you’re looking for something to really mark in your calendar, though… look no further than Saturday 3 May.
That’s the night we transform into the S.S. Flamingo, and Marigold Addams becomes none other than Jane McDonald herself in our first ever Drag Cabaret Night. Think cruise ship fantasy, sequins, song, and silliness. We’re going full nautical glam – This is going to be one for the books.
Be Part of It
So yes—it’s a season of firsts for us. First comedy night. First drag cabaret. First time sponsoring Pride. And through it all, our little café remains exactly what we always wanted it to be: a place where everyone belongs.
If you’re reading this wondering if it’s for you… it is. Whether you want to perform, create, laugh, watch, or just sit quietly in the corner with a cup of tea and a piece of cake—you’re part of it the moment you walk through the door.
Hope to see you soon.
With love (and a bit of nervous-excited energy),
Thomas 🦩