Project Pride SRQ announces Grand Carnival headliner

With Pride Month fast approaching, Project Pride SRQ is proud to announce the headliner for its signature gala fundraiser, Grand Carnival, which takes place on Saturday, May 31. Renowned American singer/songwriter John Duff – and his backing dancers – will rock the Sailor Circus Arena for an energetic set.

Duff, who grew up listening to pop music by artists such as Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, and Michael Jackson, got his first taste of the stage through talent shows and musical theater; he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater from Syracuse University.

He cultivated a significant presence on social media, posting videos addressing LGBTQ political issues and messages of positivity for the LGBTQ community, showcasing his life and his ability to sing. Duff rose to greater prominence following the release of several viral hit singles, including "Girly," "Rich," and "Hokie Pokie."

Duff spent six years working in musical theater in New York but was finding it to be creatively limiting as an actor. Following encouragement from Perez Hilton while working together in a different production in Toronto, he moved to West Hollywood to pursue his music career, eventually landing in Los Angeles in 2017.

He released his debut EP "Homo•Sapien" in June 2021 and has continued to release numerous singles since then. In 2024, he released the full-length album, “Greatest Hits Deluxe Edition,” inspired by multiple musical styles such as Motown, doo-wop, gospel, disco, musical theater and the mix of genres known as “The Great American Songbook.”

Edge Media Network called Duff “a multi-talented artist known for his dynamic presence” who is “proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry and beyond.” Out Magazine described him as "poised to become the next big gay pop star."

The theme of the gala this year is Grand Carnival: Palm Royale; the event will feature breathtaking décor and guests are being encouraged to dress on theme. SRQ Beats will be spinning the hottest tracks all night long from the DJ booth while attendees will also enjoy delicious lite bites and desserts, generously donated by local restaurants, and amazing cocktails. The bar vendor, Dive Wine & Spirits, will provide an excellent selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.

The Grand Carnival takes place 8-11 p.m. at the Circus Arts Conservatory's Sailor Circus Arena (2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota). Tickets, which include open bar, lite bites and entertainment, are $250/VIP (enables early entry at 7 p.m.), $125/early purchase general admission; door price is $175, subject to availability. Major sponsors are Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Hall Family Foundation.

“We have been delighted at the growth and success of our Grand Carnival events. Not only are they incredibly entertaining and fun, they also showcase the power of our community standing shoulder-to-shoulder, reminding us of the strength and unity that we have nurtured and enjoy here,” said Project Pride SRQ President Jason Champion. “It is thrilling to have an artist of John’s stature headlining our event, serving to launch Pride Month and helping to support Project Pride’s work throughout the region.”

For more about Project Pride SRQ and its Pride Month events, visit ppsrq.org.

About Project Pride SRQ
Project Pride SRQ is a Sarasota-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community by creating strategic partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and governments towards a shared goal. From providing youth scholarships to organizing local gatherings, Project Pride has brought together LGBTQ+ and allied partners since 2019 to build capacity, support, and a vision for an all-inclusive community where everyone is equally united, supported, and celebrated in Sarasota and beyond. For more information, visit ppsrq.org.