Daisy Puller’s World AIDS Day Cabaret to return this month

Daisy Puller’s World AIDS Day Cabaret celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, marking half a decade of unapologetic queer brilliance, boundary-pushing performance and bold activism in the fight against HIV stigma.

For five fierce years, the show has brought together drag, cabaret and burlesque icons to raise vital funds for Positively UK, a peer-led charity supporting people living with HIV.

Recent figures from the UK Health Security Agency show HIV prevention efforts are working - but inequalities persist. New HIV diagnoses fell by 4% in 2024, thanks in part to the growing use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), which rose by 7.7% to more than 111,000 users. Yet gaps remain: testing rates among young people aged 15–24 have dropped by 7%; diagnoses are falling in London but rising outside the capital; and 42% of new cases are still diagnosed late, meaning people miss crucial opportunities for early treatment and prevention.

Sponsored by Preventx, the UK’s largest provider of online sexual health services, with support from Sexual Health London and Goudie Events, this year’s cabaret is more than a celebration - it’s a call to action. Hosted by HIV activist and drag powerhouse Daisy Puller, the event urges London’s LGBTQ+ community and allies to keep HIV awareness front and centre, support peer-led services, know their status through testing and continue smashing stigma.

Last year, the cabaret raised an incredible £20,000 for Positively UK, and organisers hope to surpass that figure this time. Event organiser and HIV activist Harun Tulunay said: “This event is a real labour of love for me. Every year takes months of planning and a whole lot of passion - but seeing our community come together makes it all worth it.

"Daisy Puller’s World AIDS Day Cabaret is more than a show; it’s a celebration of resilience, joy and solidarity. Every ticket sold and every donation help fund peer-led support for people living with HIV and keeps the fight against stigma alive.”

This year’s line-up promises an unforgettable night of talent and activism. Tom Aspaul, the critically acclaimed queer pop icon, will bring disco-drama and empowerment to the stage. Charra Tea and Kiki Snatch, both stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 6, return with sparkle, heart and high-energy performances. Drag king sensation Sigi Moonlight will deliver a mix of humour and defiance, while Coco Femme Fontaine brings fierce advocacy and stunning artistry. Burlesque and pole artist Ezme Pump rounds out the bill with electrifying moves and a powerful message.