In Conversation with Jill Nalder – “It’s a Sin” is in my view one of the most influential TV shows, telling the story of AIDS epidemic and the disproportional affect gay men. “It’s a Sin” focuses on the “Pink Palace”, which comes to life as a “lavish” student apartment in the heart of London. “It’s a Sin” is a fictional account of the 1980s AIDS epidemic, based on real locations and experiences like Jill Nalders “Pink Palace”. Jills “Pink Palace” was how I imagined, “Pink Walls” and over the top Chandeliers.
“In Conversation with Jill Nalder” hosted by Nathaniel J Hall, was the culmination “Turn on Fest”. “Turn on Fest” is the Annual Manchester LGBTQIA+ arts festival in collaboration with Hope Mill Theatre and Superbia MCR.
My highlight of the evening is Jill’s story about growing up a little awkward. There is a funny story from Jill’s time at West Glamorgan Youth Theatre Company, about a clumsy 14-year-old boy coming into the performance space. The boy turns out to be Russell T Davies, which led to the long-standing friendship, that in turn gave birth to “It’s a Sin”.
Jill lived in London during the late 70’s and 80’s, coinciding with the Aids epidemic. Jill shares stories in a their new book “Love From The Pink Palace”. Her love and sadness is clear to see from the stories of friends who died from AIDS in the 1980’s. She also highlighted the negativity of HIV and AIDS in the 1980’s and the long term effects still felt today.
Jill told stories about visiting friends in hospital and knowing that they would never leave. I can’t start to imagine the strength it took to retell these stories. Jill also brings to life their love for friends, of asking the medical profession questions, so friends wouldn’t have to out themselves. Jill’s love and activism carries on today through their work. Jill’s stories and host Nathaniel J Hall were magnificent and the whole experience was tremendous and hugely enjoyable.
Jill’s Nalder’s book “Love From The Pink Palace” is available in all good book shops including both Queer Lit and Gay Pride Shop.
Both are #canalstcardpartner
James Richardson for Ancoats Plus
