Sydney's Mardi Gras Flops

Sydney's annual Mardi Gras festival faces cancellation next year, after the organising company went into voluntary liquidation. This year's event was hit by declining numbers prompted by over-commercialisation and too many straight people, The Independent suggested. Growing tolerance for gays has also caused the world famous festival to lose its raison d'etre, according to Sydney journalist David Mills.

"In the early days, being seen at Mardi Gras was an incredibly courageous thing to do," he said. "People who have been marching for 20 years are wondering why it doesn't feel exciting anymore."

While locals maybe have become jaded, the event remains a huge draw for gays around the world, according to DJ Alan Thompson, who spoke to Skrufff earlier this year as he prepared to attend the event for the first time.

"I've never actually participated to Mardi Gras, not even as a punter," said Alan.

"I'm really excited about playing there, I expect it to be quite a special weekend. It's the biggest gay and lesbian festival in the world, it attracts people from all over the planet and I've always wanted to go. It's about being out and proud and celebrating our sexuality."

Despite going into liquidation, the organisers appear to be still trying to pull together an event next year, judging by a statement on their website.

"Like most community groups, Mardi Gras is doing it tough right now," it says.

"2003 is our 25th Anniversary, an important milestone in our history and we need your help to ensure that it is a unique and special celebration."

http://www.mardigras.com.au (next year's planned parade day is March 1)

http://www/djalanthompson.com
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