The spectacular Queen of the Whole Universe pageant will return to Auckland in 2007, and now looks set to hit the capital too – by popular demand. Pageant creator/director Jonathan Smith has confirmed that he has been asked by the New Zealand AIDS Foundation to explore the possibilities of holding this fundraising event in Wellington next year. The Wellington show will have the same theme as the Auckland 2006 event with some of the Auckland cast and crew traveling south with him however he will be seeking major input from the Wellington communities. ”This is so exciting,” gushes Smith. “I am in discussion with a number of venues and at this stage it appears the show will be held mid to late July. “Once the venue is confirmed I will commence working with the Wellington communities. This event is so reliant on volunteer support in many different roles including cast and crew members”. Smith is pleased to report that he was able to meet all the contracted objectives with this years Auckland show including increasing the NZAF member's database, increasing awareness of HIV/AIDS, increasing the public and media exposure for the sponsors and, ultimately raising funds for NZAF – as reported the event raised a net figure of $26,362.25 plus GST. ‘I am delighted that NZAF have agreed to be involved in this very successful fundraising event again next year' he says. Queen of the Whole Universe, Auckland, will return to the ASB Theatre stage on Friday 30 November 2007. If you live in the Wellington area and would like to be involved in the show as a volunteer cast or crew member, no experience needed, contact Smith by email: eventimento@xtra.co.nz. Ref: GayNZ.com (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Thursday, 21st December 2006 - 12:00pm