Following a successful virtual launch during the COVID-19 pandemic, Unleashed LGBTQ – a conference and festival in Dallas, Texas, that creates a space for brands, entertainers, and LGBTQ professionals to connect in a fun and interactive environment – proudly announces its return to an in-person format. The three-day event arrives in September 2023 at Gilley’s Dallas, one of the preeminent venues in North Texas, where attendees can learn about the latest products, services and campaigns entering the LGBTQ market in a variety of industries. Unleashed LGBTQ will host keynotes, panels, and performances from some of the biggest names in LGBTQ culture– including film, television, music, and business.
“You’ll love what these guys are doing… They’re basically creating a “Gay SXSW”
– Matt Skallerud/Pink Media
“We aim to create an environment where LGBTQ+ professionals from a variety of industries can connect, learn, and share ideas,” says founder Wesley Smoot.
Last year’s virtual events included a diverse slate of speakers and performers, among them comedian Matteo Lane (Netflix, Comedy Central), drag diva Carmen Carrera (RuPaul’s Drag Race, Victoria’s Secret fashion show), Brian Sims (State Representative from Pennsylvania), Stacey Chosed (CEO, League at AT&T), Michael Sam (first openly gay NFL draftee), Gravity Balmain (HBO Max’s Legendary), comedian Daniel Webb (Apple TV, Comedy Central), and trans activist Celia Sandhya Daniels (Trans Can Work).
“Last year, moderators came from The Advocate, Forbes, Gay Cities, #ILoveGay Today and more. We had LGBTQ+ brands like Grindr, Addicted, ToyboyX and Ride Bodyworx participating… Our corporate partners included Gilead Sciences and iHeartMedia,” Smoot says, “It was really exciting to see how many people came together for the Unleashed LGBTQ’s inaugural event – and you won’t believe what’s in-store for 2023.”
Unleashed LGBTQ and its participating brands will use experiential marketing to engage with attendees showcasing the latest (fashion, film, television, tech..etc) coming out in the LGBTQ market.
“We’re energized about creating unique branded activations with the award-winning event services company, Freeman. Also, the Unleashed LGBTQ event app (developed by WebEx/Cisco) will allow attendees to connect, schedule events, navigate floor plans, and more,” Smoot says. “We are working to make this event a high-tech showcase using the latest cutting-edge technology.”
Gilley’s Dallas, which will serve as the hub of the conference, boasts more than 92,000 square feet of public space across seven unique rooms. The venue has multiple stages for hosting a range of events, including a rooftop with spectacular views of the Dallas skyline. Conveniently, Gilley’s abuts the Cedars Alamo Drafthouse, a multi-screen theater where both film and television screenings from popular streaming services, film studios and networks will take place.
“Both venues are ideal size and have so much personality,” Smoot says. “We would not get the same effect from a sterile convention center.”
Gilley’s “literally has a mechanical bull,” says Arnold Wayne Jones, director of publicity for Unleashed LGBTQ. “Also, Alamo (Drafthouse Cinema) was one of the first theaters ever to serve hot food and offer a full bar. They are known for hosting events like these.”
Speakers and Entertainers for Unleashed LGBTQ 2023 will be announced in groups leading up to the event date. Like last year’s events, each day will begin with educational topics (e.g. DEI, Effective LGBTQ Marketing, Representation in 2023) and transition into entertaining events (e.g. panels from television shows, drag shows, stand-up comedy).
Unleashed LGBTQ will have designated areas for press to connect with talent and other industry professionals. Bloggers, journalists, and influencers can request press credentials by emailing press@unleashedlgbtq.com).
Unleashed LGBTQ is currently taking submissions for speakers, panelists and artists. Unleashed LGBTQ, LLC receives support, endorsements, and/or grants that include organizations DTPID (Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District), Visit Dallas, North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce, NLGCC (National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce), & IGLTA (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association).
For more information, visit their website at www.unleashedlgbtq.com.