In our series opener, we’re taking a deep, occasionally dank, and wonderfully camp dive into the secretive world of Polari. Ever wondered where 'bona' or 'khazi' actually came from? We explore the linguistic underground used by the LGBTQ+ community, sailors, and even carnies to keep things 'discreet'.

What’s in the Bag?

• A Coded History: We trace Polari’s roots back to the 19th century—a cheeky mix of Italian, Romany, and back-slang.
• The Secret Handshake (but with words): Why having a private language was a survival necessity before decriminalisation.
• From Dockside to Diva: How it travelled from London’s West End theatres to the docks of the East End and eventually into the mainstream.
• Bona Words to Live By: A quick-fire glossary to get you speaking like a true 'ommee-palone.'

Featured 'Polari' Highlights

• The Origins: It wasn’t just for fun - it was a clever way to gossip right under the noses of the 'lily-law' (police) without getting pinched.
• Social Signalling: How using the right 'slang' word like lalleys (legs) could immediately tell you who was in the know.
• The Modern Legacy: Why Polari still matters today and how it has influenced the way we talk about queer culture now.

Our Special Guest

• The Polari Master: We are joined by artist and researcher Jez Dolan, who brings the history of this secret language to life with his incredible insight and a wink of mischief.

Links

Body Positive - ⁠⁠⁠bpcnw.co.uk⁠⁠⁠

Jez Dolan Instagram - @jezdolan

Studio production by Copperbeach - ⁠⁠copperbeach.co.uk⁠⁠