Party rush for Sleaze

A late rush for tickets to last Saturday’s Sleaze Ball saved the event for the host organisers, Sydney Pride Centre.

Pride co-president Chris Maynard told Sydney Star Observer that five weeks of sleepless nights ended after over 1,000 tickets were purchased on the day of the party.

Approximately 6,500 tickets were sold in total, Maynard said, but the final crowd tally was closer to 7,000 after the inclusion of guest and complimentary tickets.

Asked why so many people bought tickets at the 11th hour, Maynard replied, It’s a bit of a mystery.

There may have been some hesitation about whether Sleaze was going to happen or not, he said.

Fortunately, the event proceeded without mishap.

Everything went like clockwork, Maynard said. No ambulances were called for the night at all. Medical incidents were very minor, and the police had a very dull night.

The same could not be said of the partygoers, who have generally hailed the music, the shows and the party’s in uniform dress theme.

We’ve had some great feedback, and people have been thanking Pride for putting the party on, Maynard said.

The success of Sleaze Ball confirmed Pride’s ability to produce events of that nature, Maynard said, while also providing continuity for New Mardi Gras.

By taking on Sleaze Ball we cleared an $80,000 liability off Mardi Gras’ books, he added.