Matinée is taking the reigns of New York Pride this year, presenting the city’s largest outdoor island spectacular. MATINÉE NEW YORK PRIDE FESTIVAL takes place Saturday, June 23rd from 4:00pm – midnight at Governor’s Beach Club. With giant waterslides and pools, it will mimic Matinée’s world-renowned CircuitFestival Barcelona waterpark party, a summer event that attracts over 70,000 attendees annually.
In fact, they’re even bringing in CircuitFestival Barcelona headliners, DJ Taito Tikaro and Hector Fonseca, to spin the beats with an opening set by Billy Lace. And, if that’s not enough, it’s rumored the surprise performer will be the biggest celebrity performance NYC Pride has seen since JLo six years ago. We spoke with producer Patrick Crough.
What makes this party such a unique experience?
Matinee is taking over one of the most remarkable island venues in the world for Gay Pride. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and there is something for everyone: We have a massive 4-story tented dancefloor with open walls, an open air beach with waterslides, pools, and the most spectacular views of New York City. We have sold thousands of tickets to men coming in from all over the world for this event.
How much work goes into planning a party at this scale?
Planning a party is always a lot of work. We pay special attention to every detail from the venue to the marketing and promotion to the logistics of customer service and satisfaction. It takes a lot to keep the boys happy and wanting more. Clubbers are a tough crowd, but that’s part of what makes the challenge so fun for us.
Is this party just an excuse to get guys dancing in their bikinis?
(Laughs) Bikinis, speedos, Brazilian-cuts or sports-shorts; all the boys are going to be bringing their best summer beach looks to this party! Let’s get soakin wet!
In this season of Pride, what are you most proud of?
I am very proud of what we recently accomplished in Las Vegas with the Matinee Vegas Festival. We hosted eight parties over Memorial Day Weekend. The shows were historic. It was our biggest feat to date.
What were some of the highlights?
There was a body balance duo that literally had the crowd screaming at the top of their lungs for more. It was brilliant. My personal favorite, however, was the closing pool party. Derek Montiero spun a truly out-of-this world set that had people kiki’ing like mad.
Will you be bringing any of the production from Vegas to New York?
New York City Pride is the Pride of Prides so people should expect something very special. The production is going to be as unique and original as New York City itself.
No one does pride better than New York.
And this year, more than ever: we have so much to be proud about. So let’s celebrate together!
Tickets starting at $49.00 are available now at www.matineenyc.com
By Keith Hubner
