06/02/2002 "120,000 AMAZING EXPERIENCES AT SYDNEY 2002 GAY GAMES"

120,000 AMAZING EXPERIENCES AT SYDNEY 2002 GAY GAMES

On Wednesday 120,000 tickets went on sale for one of the most eagerly anticipated events in Australia this year, Sydney 2002 Gay Games VI. Through Sydney 2002's website, people from all over the world are now be able to log on and purchase tickets to everything from Broadway legend Bea Arthur to the finals of the Basketball competition, from the spectacular Opening Ceremony to the Let's Get Physical Physique Show, from Sunset Party under the stars next to Sydney Harbour to the new Australian opera Lindy under the roof of Sydney Opera House.

"We've got sport, arts, parties, spectaculars - there will be something for absolutely everyone at the Gay Games," Sydney 2002 Co-Chair Bev Lange said.

"Sport lovers will be inspired and uplifted by athletic performances on ice, the dance floor, in the pool, and on the running track. Culture vultures will be able to immerse themselves in two weeks of creative
expression from around the world that really harnesses the spirit of our diverse community, including cabaret, dance, visual arts, opera, chorales, drama and more.

"And remember, if just watching sport or culture is not enough and you want to participate, you've only got until 31 July to register."

Party-goers will be thrilled with the choice of five Celebrations to choose from, Lange said. "And we've also deliberately designed these events to appeal to those who may not have been on the dance floor for some time.

"For those who thought the 2000 Olympics set the standard for spectaculars - wait until they see what we've got in store for our Opening Ceremony! Over 14,000 participants and some of the world's best
performers will create an absolutely unforgettable night. It promises to be both respectful and irreverent, moving and funny, intimate and epic.

"Working with State and national sporting bodies, some of the most respected and innovative artistic institutions in the country, other stakeholders such as State and local government, and of course our
beloved sponsors, we've created an exciting program that will set the standard, not only for future Gay Games, but for all future sporting and cultural festivals," Lange said.

The Gay Games are held every four years, and Sydney 2002 will be the first time the event has ever been held in the southern hemisphere. From 2 to 9 November more than 12,500 people will participate in 31 sporting events in over 40 venues across Sydney. Thousands more will participate in and witness some of the best of the arts through the Cultural Festival. Seven conferences will cover issues such homosexual history and gay and lesbian health.

Built on the principles of inclusion, participation, and personal best, the Games is open to everyone, regardless of sexuality, skill level, ability, HIV status, age, gender, race or ethnic background, or
financial means. The event will bring tens of thousands of additional visitors to NSW and has been forecast to generate more than $100 million for the State economy.