In a shocking turn of events, Sydney’s Divine Playhouse a vibrant hub for queer performing arts, has been served with an eviction notice just days after its grand opening. The venue, housed in a historic deconsecrated church at 420 Kent St in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, has become the epicenter of a heated debate over freedom of expression and religious intolerance.
The eviction notice, citing offensive trade a term from an 1842 NSW law originally intended to regulate industrial waste and foul smells, has sparked outrage among artists, performers, and LGBTQIA+ advocates. The landlord, Revelop has given the venue’s operators, Heaps Gay (HG) Events a mere three days to vacate the premises.
The Controversial Eviction Notice
The eviction notice, served on July 25 alleges that Divine Playhouse’s operations are offensive to the religious beliefs of millions of Christian Australians. This claim follows protests by radical fringe Christian groups, including The Prodigal Sons and Fit for the Kingdom who gathered outside the venue on its opening night, chanting hymns and hurling insults at attendees.
Kat Dopper, the founder of Divine Playhouse and HG Events, has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that the eviction is unlawful and unjust. She expressed her devastation and anger, emphasizing the venue’s role as a critical cultural home for diverse artists and communities across Sydney and New South Wales.
The Community’s Response
In response to the eviction notice, the LGBTQIA+ community and allies have rallied behind Divine Playhouse. A petition started by drag artist Fran Giapanni has garnered over 17,000 signatures in just four days. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $36,000 to support legal efforts and cover losses.
The community’s support culminates in a peaceful ‘sing-in’ protest planned for Saturday, July 25 at Sydney’s Hyde Park. Dopper has invited everyone to join, emphasizing that the fight is not just for Divine Playhouse but for the future of arts and culture in New South Wales.
The Fight for Freedom of Expression
Dopper has been vocal about the broader implications of the eviction. She argues that if a landlord’s personal beliefs can shut down an arts venue, no stage in the country is safe. She questions who decides what art is acceptable, stating that currently, the answer is whoever owns the building.
The eviction has also raised questions about the Create NSW grant of $100,000 awarded to support the project. Despite the backlash, a spokesperson for the NSW government reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring every person in NSW is free from discrimination, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and people of faith.
As Divine Playhouse searches for a new home, the community’s resolve to fight for freedom of expression and against religious intolerance grows stronger. The venue’s team is calling on developers, landowners, and private space holders to come forward and offer a unique space for the venue to continue its mission.
