Interview with BONEZ Alternative Queer Party director Sunny Dial
The alternative scene in Australia manages to grow bigger and bigger every year with new bands always emerging and exciting events kicking off that offer a great time for everyone in the scene. As we look at alternative events, one that stands out wholeheartedly is BONEZ Alternative Queer Party which is an absolute stellar event that provides a safe space for all of the LGBTIQ+ community to enjoy themselves, have fun, and feel comfortable. Sunny Dial is the incredible person behind this event who works hard to bring exciting entertainment to multiple venues around Aus, and makes sure to create a strong, inclusive environment which is so amazing to say the least.
We got the chance to do a mini interview - You can read it all below.
Tell us a little about BONEZ - Describe it as if you were telling someone who had never heard of it before.
BONEZ is a safe and inclusive party for the Alternative LGBTQI+ community and allies with bands, drag, burlesque, sideshow and DJ’s.
What inspired you to take that big step and create BONEZ?
It was a combination of wanting to play gigs to a queer audience (and connecting with my community) and wanting to experience more diverse in Queer nightlife.
I wanted to create a place for Alternative Queer people to belong.
Were there any challenges you had to face when starting it and if so, how did you overcome them?
I started BONEZ 5 years ago with no money and little experience, just a lot of passion and ambition so there were a lot of challenges in the beginning but the biggest challenge has always been finding the most inclusive and safe venues across the country to work with.
What is something you are most proud of when it comes to the event?
Honestly, so many things!
When someone becomes a fan of a band they saw at BONEZ, the people who get on stage for the first time in their lives to perform the BONEZ Lipsync, the friendships that are made and people who are wearing outfits they’ve always wanted to wear.
There’s a lot to be proud of.
Name an artist you dream of working with?
Stand Atlantic, Adore Delano, Against Me!
Give us a fun fact about yourself.
I met Joan Jett and she signed my arm so I absolutely had to get it tattooed. That’s fun!
Tell us your top 5 Aussie artists right now.
The Last Martyr
Downgirl
Cry Club
Blussh
Vilify
How do you hope that BONEZ will grow in the future - do you have any future goals for the event?
I’d love for it to continue to grow across the country and start touring international bands.
And lastly, What upcoming events can everyone look forward to?
October 8 - Melbourne (5th Birthday)
November 25 - Melbourne
November 26 - Adelaide
February 4 - Melbourne (Midsumma Festival)
March 3 - Sydney (WorldPride)
