An interesting trip down memory lane ...
Can't believe I've only just got round to reading From the Closet to the Screen: Women at the Gateways Club 1945-85 by my friend Jill Gardiner, following the history and fortunes of the Gateways Club from its beginnings as a mixed venue in the 1930s with a reputation for welcoming 'outsiders (blacks, gays, 'theatrical types'), to its closure in 1985, having earned the reputation of being Europe's premier lesbian club.
Many, of course, will be familiar with 'The Gates' from the 1968 film 'The Killing Of Sister George', starring Beryl Reid and Susannah York (pictured on the front cover); the 'Gateways Scene' featured genuine regulars, who share their memories of all the excitement surrounding the filming, and their opinions of the three female leads. Some of us have more personal memories - including one from Yours Truly, quoted on page 212 with a reminiscence from 1977!
It's the personal stories from the women who found refuge, acceptance, solidarity, fun and romance at the Gates that make this an absolutely fascinating read, and we learn a lot about the changing reactions of mainstream society towards gay women from their stories. An absolute gem!
Many, of course, will be familiar with 'The Gates' from the 1968 film 'The Killing Of Sister George', starring Beryl Reid and Susannah York (pictured on the front cover); the 'Gateways Scene' featured genuine regulars, who share their memories of all the excitement surrounding the filming, and their opinions of the three female leads. Some of us have more personal memories - including one from Yours Truly, quoted on page 212 with a reminiscence from 1977!
It's the personal stories from the women who found refuge, acceptance, solidarity, fun and romance at the Gates that make this an absolutely fascinating read, and we learn a lot about the changing reactions of mainstream society towards gay women from their stories. An absolute gem!
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