The writing's on the wall: pop superstar Sam Smith has just been announced as a special guest at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Smith will be appearing at the Mardi Gras Parade before they’ll have everyone dancing with a stranger with a special performance at the official Mardi Gras Party.
Smith has sold over 25 million albums worldwide and has been recognised at the highest level, earning four Grammy Awards, an Oscar, a Golden Globe and three BRIT Awards. Sam has used their platform to give visibility and advocate for a spectrum of queer issues. The singer came out publicity as non-binary in 2019 and uses they/them pronouns. By speaking openly about their experiences, Smith has helped to improve public understanding around what it means to be genderqueer.
Smith’s soulful voice has entranced many, and we defy anyone not to be feeling themselves as they bust a move to ‘Dancing With A Stranger’ or their latest banger ‘How Do You Sleep’ (the group choreography in that film clip is sheer queer excellence).
Smith will be joining an already stacked Mardi Gras line-up including pop sensation Dua Lipa and Brazilian drag superstar Pabllo Vittar. And the party won’t start until Kesha walks in to make an appearance we're sure will be talked about for years to come. With Smith’s name now on the bill, tickets are surely numbered. But don’t forget, Mardi Gras is more than one night – there are 17 days of festival fun coming up from February 14 to March 1.
Want to know what other magic to explore at Mardi Gras? Check out our round up of the best Sydney Mardi Gras events.