PRIDE in Liverpool has announced it will be adding an extra day to the festival this year.

Pride Classical will feature a 32-piece orchestra and LGBT artists take to the stage at Liverpool’s Waterfront to perform pride anthems of the last 50 years.

The ticketed event, which has never been performed on a Pride stage, is part of efforts to keep Saturday’s Pride march and festival free.

Andi Herring, CEO of LCR Pride Foundation, said: “We are thrilled to bring Pride Classical to the city as part of the Pride in Liverpool festival this year. It is a truly spectacular event that showcases the best of LGBT+ talent whilst uplifting our community’s voice.

“Buying a ticket to Pride Classical not only promises you an unforgettable night, but it also supports us in delivering Pride in Liverpool and keeping the event free for everyone – something that remains a top priority for us at LCR Pride Foundation.”

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 4 Winner and Liverpool-born drag artist Danny Beard is set to host the show which will take place on Friday, July 26.

Danny will be supported by Jerry Springer The Musical’s Alison Jiear. Alison is a regular soloist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Halle Orchestra.

Pride Classical Host Danny Beard said: “I can't wait to bring Pride Classical to my home city of Liverpool. You can expect classic queer anthems delivered with big beard energy - it's going to be an incredible night and I'm just so excited.”

Event organisers LCR Pride Foundation have confirmed that Pride in Liverpool’s main stage will return to the city’s waterfront site after a year hiatus and will not only play host to the free Saturday community-led festival, but also Pride Classical’s world-class orchestra and talent for a specially commissioned show.

Pride Classical co-creator Ben Hudson said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be joining Pride in Liverpool 2024 to kick off the opening night of the celebrations.

“The singers are beyond incredible, and we have designed DJ-style sets so we can build the energy, keep the party going and also to move you.

“It's going to be incredibly special for so many of us LGBTQI+ musicians being able to perform together for you, sharing the same energy, passion and connection to the music with you all.”

Pride Classical comes in collaboration between LCR Pride Foundation and multi award-winning orchestral production company, Carrot Productions.

The limited first-release tickets for Pride Classical begins from Tuesday April 30 priced at £25 plus booking fee. Tickets will be available via prideinliverpool.co.uk.