Today (Tuesday 6 August), Cheddar Gorgeous, academic and star of DragSOS and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has been announced as a headliner on the British Science Festival 2024 programme. The British Science Festival takes place 11-15 September, hosted by the University of East London.

Cheddar Gorgeous, also known as Dr Michael Atkins, will tackle the discussion of the role of AI in the arts.

Book your place at ‘In conversation with Cheddar Gorgeous: Ethical use of AI in the Arts’

In addition to being a nationally renowned drag performer, Cheddar has a background in visual anthropology, having completed their MA and PhD on contemporary urban gay villages and queer identities at the University of Manchester.

Cheddar’s academic work has its roots in underground queer club culture and activism. They have been a pioneer in catapulting drag into novel areas such as the Manchester Museum, Manchester Art Gallery and cultural centre, HOME Manchester.

Cheddar Gorgeous says:

“I’m so excited to be part of this year’s British Science Festival. The line up looks incredible, with so many different topics for Londoners to dive into.

“I can’t wait to sit down with people who know and understand AI and art deeply, and explore the interface between the two. We’re at such a significant moment in history where, in hundreds of years, people will look back and see a shift in the way we create, produce and imagine.

“I hope people will come to the event with open minds and help us navigate the future of art.”

James Brown, Director of the British Science Festival says:

“We’re absolutely delighted to have Cheddar host this discussion; they’re the perfect choice to bring together the worlds of AI and art. Their extensive knowledge and firsthand experience of the creative industry will bring a necessary perspective, and I know the audience will learn a great deal from the event.

“This is also the first time the British Science Festival programme has featured a star from RuPaul’s Drag Race – we’re definitely going to have to up our style game!”

With just over a month to go until the British Science Festival kicks off at the University of East London, excitement is building for the 90+ free events that will entertain and educate people across the Docklands and Stratford.

To find out more, browse the full programme at britishsciencefestival.org.