The Q Musicale is Toronto’s newest 2SLGBTQIA+ music festival that was created to fill a void for artists who lack opportunities for representation. This was the concept behind the producers desire to launch a festival that specifically celebrates queer music and song writing.

     

Founder Antoine Elhashem (from INspired Media, the leading LGBTQ+ media platforms and magazine) and founding partner Sherry Sylvain, are two passionate artists themselves, and understand the need for such a festival. This was confirmed by notable public figures and established organizations such as Pride Toronto, Church-Wellesley BIA, MPP Jill Andrew, and MPP Kristen Wong-Tam, each providing support letters to launch the festival.

Pride Toronto came on board as an affiliate partner, followed by the Church-Wellesley BIA, to make this event a new exciting part of Pride Toronto and the Church-Wellesley BIA Festival Street Closure, offering support and a location for the event at Barbara Hall Park. From 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., the community and the neighbourhood will enjoy performances by 20 plus queer artists and five fabulous hosts.

“I have dreamt of such a festival like this for a long time. The idea of a day to celebrate our community artists, our music, and party with our community and allies. I believe this will be a great initiative that will grow over the coming years” said Elhashem. Sherry Sylvain added, “I have long lamented the lack of 2SLGBTQ+ spaces for live music, where one could perform without facing homophobia/transphobia and other forms of discrimination which impede one’s ability to perform as their true selves, and share the full extent of their creativity, identity, and talent.”

The Q Musicale takes place at Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church St, Toronto – June 22, 2024, 1pm – 11pm. Check the website for a schedule of performances.

ABOUT The Q Musicale
Founded in 2024 by Antoine Elhashem and Sherry Sylvain, The Q Musicale Ltd are leading the charge in curating 2SLGBTQIA+ live entertainment festivals and initiatives. Armed with a mission to amplify the voices of queer artists, the determined duo’s goal is to provide space and exposure for both emerging and established 2SLGBTQ+ artists to share the immensity of their unrestricted talents and identities.

 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.