Carlos Gu Brings Queer Asian Visibility to the Forefront with New Pride Event
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
Carlos Gu has become one of the UK’s most recognisable television personalities, but this July he is stepping into a new role as co-presenter of East & Southeast Asian Pride UK. Taking place at Electrowerkz in London on 24 July 2026, the event is dedicated to celebrating queer East and Southeast Asian communities through performance, connection and cultural exchange.
The professional dancer, who made history as Strictly Come Dancing’s first Asian and openly gay champion, has described the project as a way of giving back to the country that embraced him. His vision is simple but powerful: to create a platform where queer Asian people can see themselves represented and celebrated while enjoying a night of world-class entertainment.
Partnering with Carlos are two organisations with strong track records of championing East and Southeast Asian voices. The Bitten Peach has become a leading force in queer Asian cabaret since launching in 2019, while Kakilang has spent nearly two decades supporting East and Southeast Asian artists and communities through collaborations with some of the UK’s most respected cultural institutions.
Music and performance sit at the heart of the event. Audiences can expect a dynamic programme spanning live music, drag, dance, cabaret and burlesque before the venue transforms into a late-night club experience with DJs performing across multiple rooms. The format reflects the diversity and creativity that continue to shape queer Asian culture across the UK.
More than just a party, East & Southeast Asian Pride UK represents a growing movement for visibility and inclusion. By bringing together artists, community groups, allies and audiences under one roof, the event aims to create a space where celebration and representation go hand in hand.
