Key Highlights
- The Vivienne won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
- A number of venues across Liverpool, Chester, and Manchester will be lit up green on Saturday to commemorate The Vivienne’s one-year anniversary since their passing.
- The event aims to raise awareness for The House of the Vivienne charity, which supports individuals affected by substance use with a focus on ketamine awareness, education, and harm reduction.
A Tribute to The Vivienne: A Year Since Their Passing
Across Manchester and the north, venues will light up green this weekend in memory of James Lee Williams, better known as The Vivienne. This poignant tribute marks a year since his tragic passing on January 5, 2025. The event serves not only as a visual reminder of an iconic performer but also as a platform to raise awareness about substance use and support for affected individuals.
The Vivienne: A Star in the Making
James Lee Williams, or The Vivienne, was more than just a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK; he was a multifaceted performer with an impressive career. Having won the first series of the show in 2019, The Vivienne quickly made waves in both television and theater. Their journey from drag queen to stage actor showcased versatility that resonated with audiences across the United Kingdom.
One of their notable roles was playing the Wicked Witch in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Manchester’s Palace Theatre in May 2024, where they spoke about how fulfilling it was to have a varied career. “I’m happy I get to have my fingers in many pies,” they said, emphasizing their joy in working across different mediums.
A City’s Tribute and the House of the Vivienne
The remembrance event, curated by John Hyland, creator of the LGBTQ+ podcast Proudly Said, involves several prominent buildings and nightlife venues lighting up green on Saturday. In Liverpool, St George’s Hall, the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool ONE, and the Liverpool Empire will participate in this tribute. Chester’s Rainbow Tearooms and the Storyhouse are also part of the effort.
In Manchester, a number of venues in the Gay Village, including Iconic Bar on Richmond Street and Via on Canal Street, will join the lighting up to honor The Vivienne.
This collective illumination is meant to evoke shared feelings among those who knew him or were inspired by his work. It also serves as an opportunity for the community to reflect on how much they missed their friend.
John Hyland elaborated on the significance of this event: “A year on, a lot of people are still carrying the loss of James in their own ways. Putting together this visual tribute was about giving that feeling a shared outlet and letting those in the North West, across Liverpool, Chester, and Manchester, reflect what The Vivienne meant to them; whilst also raising awareness of The House of the Vivienne and the work they do to support others.”
Supporting Those Affected by Substance Use
The House of the Vivienne charity was established in memory of The Vivienne’s family, focusing on ketamine awareness, education, and harm reduction. This charity plays a crucial role in supporting individuals affected by substance use, providing vital resources and services.
This tribute is not just about remembrance; it’s also an acknowledgment of the impact The Vivienne had on the community. As the lights turn green across these cities, the hope is that they will also shine a light on the important work being done to help those in need.
