Ema Stafford has been running alternative queer night Sapphic Traffic at The Common Place for over two years. We catch up with her to talk about their second annual anti-Valentines night ‘My Heart Is a Vital Organ’ and all things gay Leeds.

GL: Why did you start Sapphic Traffic?

ES: A few years ago I was partying all the time, back in the days when I had a nice student loan and no responsibilities. I used to attend loads of DIY-queer-feminist-clubnights and gigs as well as being a regular at Homo at Mission. I really wanted to have some middle ground. Somewhere accessible from the gay scene, but with better music and no shitty bouncers - a creative safe space that offered a platform for people to perform/DJ regardless of race or gender.

GL: Why the name?

ES: ‘Sapphic’ pretty much means lesbian or fluid sexuality, and ‘Traffic’ rhymes, really nothing more to it. It came to me after about 20 rum and cokes. I saved it in ‘Drafts’.

GL: You originally started the night at Xibit, why did you move?

ES: Because they charged me loads of money, as a promoter, to fill the place with people. It wasn't sustainable for me and they wouldn't compromise. They went bankrupt shortly after.

GL: You're now at The Common Place - is that better?

ES: I love The Common Place. It’s a space where anyone can ‘have a go’ at running a clubnight or use the space if you need it for events. There are no people in charge telling us how to do things. Sapphic Traffic is totally not-for-profit and by running events at The Common Place all the profits go back into keeping the space open, to different charities or back into putting future nights on - not in anyone’s back pocket.

GL: What should people expect if they've never been before?

ES: The cheapest drinks pretty much anywhere in Leeds. An eclectic mix of music throughout the night. International, varied, creative and inspiring art and performances from loads of people. Loads of punters from different walks of life. Tolerance, respect and sometimes, we even have free cake.

GL: What do you think of the 'mainstream' Leeds gay scene?

ES: Been there, done that, probably got a T Shirt somewhere.

GL: You now DJ at His n Hers - are you enjoying it?

ES: I love it. It is a great alternative gay night. Tracey, the infamous bouncer, from Queens Court has asked me to DJ and I am really enjoying it. I used to really want to DJ at QC back in the day, it’s nice to get the opportunity, especially playing the kind of music I like. It’s a misconception that all gay people like the same music. It’s exciting seeing people dance to the likes of Le Tigre and Nine Inch Nails in QC.

GL: How do you get into DJ-ing/running club nights?

ES: You just need to book a date. I didn’t really start to plan my first events until I got a date in the diary. Speak to other people who are already doing nights and get some friends to help you. Make sure you are doing something there is a need for and you are being original. Don’t spend too much money, no point in running a loss. That’s my advice, but I reckon I still have a lot to learn.

GL: What do you do when you're not running amazing clubnights?

ES: I am a Youth Worker, hoping Cameron/Clegg don't wake up on the wrong side of the bed. I also sing and write music. I am in two bands, Manchester based band ‘Ten Rooms’ and my new Leeds based project ‘Black Dens’. I also DJ all over the north of England when I get chance – I’m available for Civil Partnerships and divorce parties.

GL: Tell us about the next Sapphic Traffic.

ES: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=182224825133469

19th February at The Common Place

‘My Heart Is A Vital Organ’

£2 door tax, cheap drinks.

An Anti-Valentine’s Day celebration. Loads of awesome guest DJ’s and a special performance from our lovely host Maria Millionaire. Come along and try let us heal your broken heart. (Or else just have a dance.)