Merseyside is being graced with a massive free Paul O’Grady exhibition, bringing a delightful private selection of his life.
The Paul O’Grady Story exhibition is coming to Birkenhead on the Wirral, paying homage to Paul’s hometown. Taking place from December 4, 2026 until the end of 2027 at Williamson Art Gallery, the event boasts an extensive archive, contextualising Paul as an LGBTQIA+ icon, an award-winning broadcaster, passionate activist and someone who gave a voice to the voiceless as an animal lover.
The Paul O’Grady Story exhibition is supported by a grant of £241,484 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, while the Wirral Council has appointed Andre Portasio as Creative Consultant together with Joan Marshrons, alongside arts organisations Switchflicker and DuoVision.
Andre Portasio: “I will forever be in debt to Wirral Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Switchflicker and all the supporters who have made it possible for me to bring the boy from Birkenhead back to his hometown. This exhibition showcases a variety of objects and costumes that mark his incredible career, life, and legacy. I am delighted the exhibition will be free for everyone in the UK and beyond to enjoy and celebrate his journey. It is my heartfelt wish that those who visit will feel the warmth of his spirit and remember the joy he brought to so many.”
Paula Basnett, Wirral Council: “It is incredibly special to be welcoming Paul O’Grady home to Birkenhead in this way. Paul never forgot where he came from, and neither have we. To host this exhibition is a proud moment for our borough and a tribute to a man whose humour, courage and compassion touched millions. We are deeply grateful to Andre Portasio and our creative partners for helping us share Paul’s story with warmth, honesty and pride and to ensure it remains free and open to everyone.”
Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Paul O’Grady in his hometown of Birkenhead, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. The exhibition and wider project from Switchflicker will shine a light on LGBTQ+ heritage and Paul O’Gradys’ remarkable role in bringing that to the fore during his varied career.”
Jayne Compton, Executive Producer at Switchflicker: “Switchflicker is privileged to produce this project, Paul O’Grady didn’t just inhabit a character; he channelled the defiant spirit of a community. This exhibition unmasks the artistry and journey from radical drag performer to becoming a national treasure.”
James Lawler, Curator at DuoVision: “We’re excited to be given this opportunity to focus on the life and work of trailblazing artist Paul O’Grady. I had the pleasure of working with Paul in the 1980s, and it’s great to now have the chance to celebrate this unique character, his amazing talent and achievements.”