Mardi Gras has kicked off again this year, though it’s looking a little different from the usual program. While COVID-19 may have thrown a spanner in the works, as organisers have been forced to abandon the event’s traditional parade along Oxford Street, Mardi Gras still promises an exciting hybrid experience for 2021. The parade will be hosted at the Sydney Cricket Ground on the 6th of March, boasting a diverse program of international headliners such as Courtney Act and Joel Creasey, alongside other artists. The new format will also manifest in other events across the next couple of weeks, including ‘Queer Thinking’ – a compelling talk series that grapples with high-level topics faced by the LGBTQ+ community, as well as ‘Laugh Out Proud’ – a comedy gala featuring a stellar line-up of Australian queer comedians. 

Alex James spoke with Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger to discuss the logistics and program for this year, and how the festival plans to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in a safe space.