The LGBTQ+ arts pop-up Divine Playhouse in Sydney's deconsecrated St John the Evangelist church was forced to close after just three days following protests from religious groups and a landlord eviction. The vibrant mural and queer absurdist art that took months to create were whitewashed as volunteers scrambled to vacate.
What Happened at Divine Playhouse?
Divine Playhouse opened on 8 July with a year-long permit, hosting an opening night party, a queer comedy night, and a disco. However, after religious groups protested outside and called on the New South Wales government to withdraw a $100,000 arts grant, the landlord ordered Heaps Gay Events to cease “engaging in offensive trade” or face eviction. The lease was terminated days later, giving the promoters only three days to clear the space.
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Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 8 July | Divine Playhouse opens with year-long permit |
| Shortly after | Religious groups protest outside |
| Within days | Landlord issues eviction notice citing “offensive trade” |
| By 5pm Friday | Premises vacated, mural whitewashed |
Key Takeaways
- Months of preparation undone in three days due to religious opposition and landlord pressure.
- Promoters are exploring legal action for damages and sex discrimination.
- The case raises issues of censorship and LGBTQ+ rights in public arts funding.
- Former church had been used for a school and theatre over the past century.
Legal and Social Implications
Kat Dopper, founder of Heaps Gay, stated: “It’s not just about Divine any more, it’s about censorship. If we were to walk away, these groups will just get stronger and more powerful.” Lawyers are examining whether a sex discrimination claim can be made under Australian law. The eviction has sparked debate over the balance between religious freedom and LGBTQ+ inclusivity in publicly funded arts.
FAQ
Why was Divine Playhouse shut down?
The pop-up was shut down after religious groups protested its opening and the landlord terminated the lease, citing “offensive trade.” The promoters were given three days to vacate.
What legal action is being considered?
Heaps Gay Events is exploring whether to sue for damages and file a sex discrimination claim under Australian law.
What was the venue's history?
St John the Evangelist church was deconsecrated in the 1930s and later housed a children’s school and a theatre before becoming Divine Playhouse.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ arts initiatives when met with religious opposition. The broader implications for free expression and inclusive spaces in Australia remain to be seen.
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