More than 400,000 baht was raised for HIV/AIDS charities as nearly 300 people turned out for the annual Pattaya Pride Gay Festival.
Emceed by organizer Jim Lumsden, the Dec. 1 event at Cafe Royale featured entertainment from Philippine performer DJ, the Dolly Sisters and young exotic dancers from Boyz Town go-go bars. Cross-dressing Lumsden, as usual, camped it up with outlandish music and dance numbers while showing off dresses older than some of the male dancers.
“Madame” Jim Lumsden in top-form.
Pattaya Pride, which raises money for HEARTT2000 HIV and AIDS charity, which cares for more than 2,000 patients, received a 100,000 baht donation from Archie Dunlop and an equally large amount from Dennis Dewsnap.
AIDS specialist Dr. Philippe Seur spoke in Thai and English about the disease and thanked those who donated. The 400,000 baht total, however, paled in comparison to last year’s 700,000 baht raised.
Guests were also treated to games, including “The Biggest Loser,” based on the weight-loss reality television show. Cafe Royale Manager David Kerridge won first prize, having dropped 26 kg.
Dr. Philippe Seur thanks all guests and sponsors.
Archie Dunlop (left) and Dennis Dewsnap (right) receive flowers for their permanent help with donations.
