Ever fancied being a cheerleader?! The call is going out for volunteers for the Auckland Pride Parade, with everything from cheerleaders and roller bladers to choreographers and marshals being sought. The parade will be held on Saturday 16 February, from 4PM, on Ponsonby Rd. It will be a flagship event of the new Auckland Pride Festival. Coordinator Jonathan Smith has over 50 expressions of interest from people or groups who want to be involved. He says at least 16 are confirmed. “The logistic of holding the parade are in place and now we start the fun job of putting the show on the road - so to speak,” he says. One of the crucial tasks is now to gather volunteers, and the options for people who want to be involved range from those with a short pre-parade time commitment to others which are artistic and need a bigger commitment. Smith has offered a rundown of who he needs: ARTISTIC Cheerleaders x6 We need three hot girls and three hot boys to take on this role and be part of the Pride Lead Float. Some rehearsal time is required early in 2013. Costumes provided. Commitment: Attend at least 4 training sessions prior to the parade and work the parade. You might be required to attend promotional events. Roller Bladers x6 You need to be able to roller blade carrying a large flag in your hand. You will be part of the lead float. Costumes provided. Commitment: Attend at least four training sessions prior to the parade and work the parade. Choreographers x2 Needed for the Marching Boys and Marching Girls. “A big job but so, so rewarding,” Smith says. Special Cast Roles in the Lead Float x12 Need 12 people to support the Lead Float - as long as you can count to eight this fun cast member role is yours. Commitment: Attend some rehearsal prior to the day. We will provide costumes STREET VOLUNTEERS (as follows) - all these volunteers attend one training session. Will be supplied with a Pride T-shirt and cap. Check-in Agents x14 Responsible for checking each Parade Participant when they arrive at the mustering area that they have completed the required documentation AND attended the compulsory training session. Check-in Agents are re-deployed to the Parade Route Exit Coordinators and Dismantle Coordinators positions at the southern end of Ponsonby Road. North
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 13th November 2012 - 12:26pm