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A few weeks ago, we reported on an out-of-the-box new venue that had the potential to bring a whole heap of creative fun to Sydney. Now, just one week after opening its doors, Divine Playhouse has been forced to shut down – with all upcoming events cancelled while its operators pursue legal options in a bid to save the space.
The venue's founder, Kat Dopper – the creative force behind beloved queer events collective Heaps Gay – confirmed the closure in a public statement, saying the decision followed "pre-emptive action" by the venue's landlord.
Divine Playhouse opened its doors on Wednesday, July 8 as a pop-up cultural venue designed to support Sydney's independent arts scene. The closure comes after the venue became the centre of public controversy – opposition to the venue has come largely from Christian groups; an estimated 100 protestors took to the streets outside the venue on its opening night after taking offence to the LGBTQI+ programming being housed within a former church. Examples of events included 'Sunday Mess', "an unholy brunch party" and 'Holy Flesh', a late-night cabaret series.
The outcry prompted the organisers to make changes to elements of its programming ahead of launch. "While causing offence was not our intention, respectfully, we heard those concerns and in good faith promptly made changes prior to opening. Since opening seven days ago, the overwhelming support we have received from stakeholders, sector, supporters, artists and audiences has only reiterated the importance of this project," she said.
"Following pre-emptive action taken by our landlord, we have been forced to close the venue and cancel all events, while we explore our legal options regarding the future of the venue," she added.
Dopper says the project involved months of planning and investment, with the aim of creating a permanent home for live performance, community events and creative expression. "Divine Playhouse was created with a simple purpose: to provide a space where artists, performers, audiences and communities can come together through culture, creativity and connection. That purpose has not changed."
Dopper also revealed that Meta temporarily removed Divine Playhouse's social media accounts, along with personal accounts and several LGBTQIA+ community pages, including Heaps Gay, making it significantly harder for the organisation to communicate with audiences and ticket holders.
The closure of the venue has wider implications for Sydney's creative community. Divine Playhouse says it had planned to support more than 1,500 artists, performers, producers, technicians and creative workers over the next year, with an estimated $650,000 boost to the independent arts sector. As John Graham, NSW Minister for the Night-time Economy put it, "The Divine Playhouse closing its doors is a step backwards for Sydney."
For now, all events remain cancelled. Ticket holders have been advised that event organisers will contact them directly regarding refunds, postponements and any rescheduled dates as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, Divine Playhouse is calling on supporters to spread the word, sign its petition to keep the venue open, or offer practical assistance such as alternative event spaces or storage while it works towards reopening.
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