This talk explores the evolving relationship between LGBTQIA+ people and intimacy in a digital world. As studio resident Tom launches his new project, with a working title: This Showgirl Is Offline. In this piece, he reflects on his own experiences of navigating queer connection from the pre-digital era of real-life encounters to the rise of online hookup culture.

Drawing on over 25 years of creative practice and more than 60 successful projects across theatre, cabaret, and museum audio tours. His visually striking and socially engaged work also offers deeply personal storytelling often centred on the LGBTQ+ experience and stories that are omitted through archival silence. 

In Queer Digital Intimacy, Tom invites us to consider how queer people navigate love, desire, and identity in an age of constant connectivity, and what artistic possibilities emerge from this shifting landscape. The talk also touches on the experience of ageing within this digital terrain, drawing inspiration from a zeitgeist of “showgirls” spanning from Pamela Anderson to Taylor Swift.

Join us online on YouTube Live, or in the building on Friday, the 31st of October 2025 at 1pm for the talk and to take part in the Q and A discussion afterwards. 

The Pervasive Media Studio is a partnership between the Watershed, University of the West of England and University of Bristol. The lunchtime talks are partly supported by MyWorld, a project led by the University of Bristol to support creative industries in the region. Watershed is supported by Arts Council England.

Address:

Watershed, 1 Canon's Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX

Directions:

The Lunchtime talks take place in the Pervasive Media Studio Event Space. To access the Studio, please go to the Main Watershed Box Office entrance and go upstairs to the Café Bar. Walk across the cafe bar, turn right and walk towards the double doors. Go through into the corridor and walk all the way down until you reach the Studio. A member of staff will sign you in, and check your ticket, if you have booked.

The Studio is wheelchair accessible, and the events space has a hearing loop. The last talk of every month is BSL interpreted. 

For more information on accessing the studio take a look here.

*Please note this is a hybrid event and will be live streamed so please be aware you will be in the live broadcast and recording when watching in the Studio.