Refresher Magazine Debate: Queer Overlap in Czech and Slovak Music

In this discussion, hosted by Vojtěch Tkáč, we'll explore how the Czech queer music scene is "returning to its roots" while also defining the future.

Music has always been a key tool of queer revolution and an expression of freedom. Together with Czech drag queen Miss Petty and Slovak musician Meowlau, we'll look at how identity translates into creative work, whether queer artists still face prejudice or homophobia, and what the label "queer art" actually means. We'll also talk about the stereotypes that persist around queer people in music, about representation, and why it's important for as many different voices as possible to be heard on the scene.

How does queer identity reflect in contemporary Czech and Slovak music? What place do queer artists have on the domestic club and mainstream scenes? How do experiences differ between Czechia and Slovakia?

The speakers Miss Petty – Czech drag queen, performer, musician, and one of the most prominent figures of the domestic queer scene. In her work, she blends drag, pop, wit, and social commentary. She regularly performs at cultural events and festivals across the country and has long been involved in raising awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. In 2024 she released her debut album J'adore Petty, which uniquely mixes hyperpop, club music, and intimate storytelling.

Meowlau – Slovak musician, producer, and songwriter Laura Jašková. Alongside her previous project Meowlau x Val and the band Billy Barman, in recent years she has focused on her solo work. Her songs move between post-punk and alternative pop, often addressing personal themes and questions of identity. This year she released her solo debut album Kvety, one of the most notable Slovak records of the year.

Moderator Vojtěch Tkáč – editor-in-chief and Head of Content at Czech Refresher, where he leads the editorial team and shapes content across the website and social media. At Refresher he also hosts the music show Offstage, in which he interviews prominent figures of the Czech and Slovak music scene. He has long been dedicated to cultural and music journalism, spent seven years on air at Radio 1, and previously at Radio Wave. Since 2022 he has been the programmer of the concert series PULZ at Palác Akropolis, which has featured, among others, Miss Petty and Meowlau. He is a member of the Czech Music Academy and a curator of two Anděl Awards categories.

Admission – donation-based

Accessibility – suitable for teens, wheelchair accessible

Vibe check – intimate event (up to approx. 30 people), quiet event (no loud music, shouting, etc.), seating available, indoor venue

Trigger warnings – drugs, mental health, suicide or suicidal tendencies

Organized by – Refresher Refresher is the voice of the modern generation and a leading online lifestyle medium that has long been dedicated to opening up taboo social topics. Its mission is to educate, entertain, and connect. Through authentic content and events, it actively supports human rights, inclusion, and the visibility of LGBTQ+ people in Czechia. As an ally, it strives to create a safe environment for discussion and to share stories that change the way we see the world around us.