Temptation

Context

Temptation developed into a way to bring people together around performance, queer celebration and charitable awareness. What began as a small idea quickly grew into a recurring, sold-out cabaret night with a loyal audience and an identity of its own.

The event originated from a World AIDS Day fundraising initiative led by UWE Bristol’s LGBT+ community in collaboration with Terrence Higgins Trust. I initially supported communications for the original Temptress event, then took on the concept the following year, developing it into a standalone charity cabaret night with a clear purpose and community focus.

The aim was simple: create an evening that uplifted people, showcased new talent and raised money for causes connected to the queer community.

Focus

Temptation was built around performance, celebration and collective energy. It offered a platform for upcoming drag artists, cabaret performers and queer creatives, while raising funds for charities such as Terrence Higgins Trust, Brigstowe, Off The Record and Bristol Pride.

The night was not commercial. It was purpose-driven, community-led and rooted in accessible, feel-good entertainment.

Approach

I produced and creatively led Temptation, but the night was only possible because everyone involved believed in its purpose. Performers, crew, venues and supporters all volunteered their time, talent and resources, creating a collaborative ecosystem built on trust and shared intention.

I shaped the concept, branding, staging and communications, while sourcing funding, sponsorships and partnerships that covered all costs and ensured the event remained a free platform for emerging talent. Venues contributed the full door take to charity, performers offered their work in support of each cause and the team around me helped bring each event to life with enthusiasm and care.

The approach centred on collective contribution, accessibility and creating a space where the mission of Temptation could thrive.

Themes

• queer performance and emerging talent

• immersive event design

• community celebration

• charity fundraising

• building cross-community connections

Outcomes

Across seven sold-out events, Temptation raised over £10,000 for charity and built a loyal community following. It became known for its atmosphere, inclusivity and the platform it provided to new performers. The night supported a wide range of acts and contributed to energising the local queer performance scene.

Reflection

Temptation remains one of the most meaningful projects in my practice. It taught me how community, creativity and purpose can shape an event, and how thoughtful design and atmosphere can bring people together. It also gave me early experience producing immersive environments, supporting performers and building something that resonated far beyond a typical student night. Even with its abrupt COVID end, the night’s impact and sense of community stay with me.