About this issue: Overview
With the popularity of RuPaul’s Drag Race, we take a tour of Manchester’s drag scene from the 19th century to the modern day. Michael Atkins, co-founder of drag night Cha Cha Boudoir, tells us why drag is now so popular with millennials and how it can be used to challenge inequality.
As the holidays beckon, we round up the best books to keep children young and old occupied over the lazy summer days. Children’s authors Polly Ho-Yen, Kiran Millwood Hargrave and Jarvis share their top tips and recommendations.
Next we take a step back in time to explore the history of Halifax’s grandiose Piece Hall, built in the 18th century. Its £19m restoration and conversion into a retail and entertainment hub could bring important change to the city.
On our news pages, you’ll find the latest information on the Liverpool waterfront controversy and hear about a social enterprise giving a lifeline to the homeless and disadvantaged in Hull.
Legendary theatre director Trevor Nunn discusses his big break in the industry, performance artist Nikhil Chopra talks about his new railway-inspired piece and, of course, there’s our entertainment reviews, fiendish crossword, Sudoku and more.