LGBT History Month Workshop – Polari, the Secret Queer Language

Join with forum⁺ and Dan de la Motte for a fun interactive workshop on Polari, the Secret Queer Language.

‘How bona to vada your dolly old eek!’

In the decades before decriminalisation, gay and queer men spoke ‘Polari’ – a secret gay slang which was a patchwork language of Italian, Romany, Yiddish, Cockney Rhyming Slang, backslang and acronyms. By speaking Polari these men could ‘hide in plain sight’ – socialising, cottaging and cruising without fear of arrest or attack.

Polari is a playful, mischievous and sexy language, but also one that was spoken out of necessity. In this workshop, taught by Dan de la Motte, learn the ‘rules’ of the language, decipher words and phrases, and make up your own sentences and mini-scenes for others to work out.

LGBT History Month Workshop – Polari, the Secret Queer Language for the LGBT community, for ages 18+ and free to join. Pre booking is essential, with no walk-ins admitted on the evening.

Register for your place via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lgbt-history-month-workshop-polari-the-secret-queer-language-tickets-1980868441833

This event is part of the programme Camden & Islington LGBT History Month 2026 curated by charity forum+.