Sydney LGBTQ+ club claims it’s being evicted under 18th century law
In response, the LGBTQ+ club pop-up is encouraging the community to come together for a peaceful sing-in rally
By Aaron Sugg
An LGBTQ+ pop-up club in Sydney, Australia, has had its lease terminated after the owners of a former church building claimed it was being used for “offensive trade”.
Divine Playhouse opened its Sydney establishment just a few weeks ago on Kent Street, at a site that used to belong to a church until it was deconsecrated in the 1930s.
What was meant to be a year-long lease has since been cut short after Heaps Gay Events confirmed to Rolling Stone Australia that the landlord told them to leave earlier this month.
“We believe this termination was unlawful and unjust” – Kat Dopper condemning the end of their lease
Speaking to the publication, founder of Heaps Gay Events, Kat Dopper, the company behind the pop-up, said Divine Playhouse had only a few days to move out of the premises.
“It’s over. Our lease terminated, our artists cancelled, our venue being cleared out. We believe this termination was unlawful and unjust. I am devastated. I am angry – for us, for our artists, for this city and its people.”
Speaking about the political climate, they continued: “That’s freedom of expression in Australia right now: some voices get amplified, others get evicted.”
What does “offensive trade” mean?
According to a statement obtained by the publication, the eviction is based on the legal grounds of “offensive trade”, referring to businesses involving biological processing or producing noxious smells – a breach of public health laws.
The term originates from an 1842 New South Wales law, which would evidently see businesses deemed unfit to operate – in this case, seemingly because they are an LGBTQ+ party in a former religious venue.
Dopper raised serious questions about the future of queer art: “If a landlord’s personal beliefs can shut down an arts venue, no stage in this country is safe. Who decides what art is acceptable?”
In light of the abrupt dismissal, the queer cooperative issued a public announcement via its Instagram page: “We love you, thank you so much for the support so far while we navigate this.”
Divine Playhouse are uniting the community with a peaceful protest
“The stage is dark this weekend. Ticket holders have been emailed. In the interest of everyone’s safety, please steer clear of Kent St tonight. Back soon with more information.”
In response, Divine Playhouse is encouraging the community to come together for a peaceful sing-in rally at 12PM (AEST) on 25 July in Sydney’s Hyde Park.
To regain momentum, the company are planning to put on fundraisers whilst they navigate future uncertainty.