Werk for the Residency
Think you've got what it takes to be the next big queer DJ? Gaydio, alongside AlphaTheta, want to hear from you!
Gaydio and AlphaTheta are on the hunt for the next big queer DJ, and this is your chance to take the spotlight! We're looking for fresh talent with serious energy - could this be you?! Up for grabs is set at the iconic Gaydio Dance Arena at Manchester Pride. But that’s just the beginning, you’ll also score a residency on Gaydio, hosting your own national radio show, plus AlphaTheta kit to power your sound. If you’ve got the vibe, the vision, and the beats to match, this is your chance!
We're committed to creating a platform that amplifies and uplifts underrepresented voices in the DJ scene, and especially encourage entries from female, trans, and non-binary artists. Queer nightlife has always been shaped by diverse talent, and we want to help create space for those who too often don’t get the recognition they deserve. This isn’t just about finding the next big name, it’s about pushing for real representation and celebrating the full spectrum of talent in our community
Meet The Judges
Kriss Herbert
Kriss Herbert is an experienced DJ, and known within the LGBTQ+ community as a daytime presenter on Gaydio, and also Saturday night in the mix DJ.
He’s played some of the biggest gay clubs across the UK, from Revenge in Brighton, to Cheerz in Aberdeen.
His love of commercial remixes, vocal house and anthems means he's warmed up for the likes of Rita Ora, Clean Bandit, Katy B, MNEK, and more. Over the past 20 years you would have seen him from smaller LGBTQ+ bars, to mains stages at pride playing to thousands. He's been a regular in the Gaydio Dance Arena at Manchester pride since it's very first launch, and in 2024 played the 4000 capacity dance tent at Brighton Pride
Kate Meyher
Kate Meyher is a LGBTQ+ house and techno DJ, radio presenter and all round lover of electronic dance. With significant experience in clubs and venues right across the West Midlands, her style and passion for music takes clubbers on a journey of discovery and emotion. Citing Annie Mac, Pete Tong, Ingrid, Stephan Bodzin and Gok Wan as inspirations, she hit the West Midlands electronic music scene in 2020 and has quickly built a reputation as a purveyor of chunky beats and technical wizardry. Her residencies include Mama Rouxs in Dibgeth, Boltz Club in Birmingham and Lion Bar in Walsall. She’s a familiar face playing at festivals and Pride’s right across the Midlands, and hosts two weekly radio shows on Gaydio – the UK’s largest LGBTQ+ radio station.
The Prize
1st Prize:
Win an AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO all-in-one DJ system, four Friday night ‘Gaydio Presents’ shows, and a live set at the iconic Gaydio Dance Arena at Manchester Pride.
2nd Prize:
Bag an AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 4-channel controller and a 15-minute guest mix on the Gaydio Weekend.
3rd Prize:
Take home a pair of AlphaTheta HDJ-F10TX Pro Wireless DJ Headphones
AlphaTheta
AlphaTheta is all about empowering DJs to find their sound and take up space in the music world. As the sister brand of Pioneer DJ, AlphaTheta creates products that empower DJs of all levels to express themselves – but what really sets them apart is their commitment to driving change.
AlphaTheta is passionate about breaking down barriers and lifting up new talent, especially from underrepresented communities. Whether you're mixing in your bedroom or dreaming of festival stages, their mission is to help you get there with the tools, support, and platform to make some serious noise.
What WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Our judging panel will be scoring entries based on technical ability, track transitions, song selection, and that all-important vibe. We want DJs who know how to read a crowd (even through the speakers), bring the energy, and create a mix that makes people feel something.
Since the winner will land their own show on Gaydio, we’re especially keen to hear sets that reflect the kind of music we play at the weekend - think pop bangers, upbeat dance anthems, and feel-good house. If your mix makes us want to turn it up and dance, you’re on the right track.
You will also need a working knowledge of industry standard DJ Kit as the winner will perform live at the Gaydio Dance Arena at Manchester Pride. Industry standard includes: Pioneer CDJ-3000, CDJ2000-NXS2, DJM-900NXS2, DJM-A9 or similar.
Enter Now
Entries open at 00:01 on Monday 14th July 2025 and close at 23:59 on Sunday 20th July 2025. You're playing across the Gaydio network and Terms & conditions apply. Good luck!
FEATURED
Gaydio Replay
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Dave Cooper - Gaydio Breakfast (8th December)Servin' big tunes, huge guests and guaranteed giggles
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Nat Evans (8th December)with Early Breakfast
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The Sunday Rewind (7th December)Bops and Bangers from back in the day.
