In devastating news for Sydneysiders and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, iconic Redfern venue, The Bearded Tit, will be closing in November.
NO. I’M NOT OKAY.
For the last 11 years, The Bearded Tit has become ‘the spot’ for the queer community. It was a safe space that platformed emerging artists, a place for creatives to grow their confidence and for members of the LGBTQIA+ community to express themselves.
Like, if you were to search up the definition of “community”, The Bearded Tit would be right there!!!
But unfortunately, owner Joy Ng took to the venue’s official IG account to announce the news, penning that the decision to shut up shop came from a “deeply personal place” (we love you!).
“The Bearded Tit will be closing its doors in November this year,” the statement began.
“The decision comes from a deeply personal place. I am at a stage in my life where I want to expand my horizons and explore a career outside of hospitality. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be part of this community, to witness the joy, creativity, and resilience that have filled this space night after night.
“The Bearded Tit has been so much more than a bar. It has been a sancutary for queer, POC, and other historically underrepresented communities. Through our arts, performance, and cultural programs, we’ve had the honour of showcasing Sydney’s most exciting emerging creatives as well as artists beyond our shores. Every performance, every gathering, every moment of connection has been held by this community’s unwavering support.”
Furthermore, in the statement, Joy reassured punters that she doesn’t want the venue to be “saved” and that The Bearded Tit will not be for sale. She also asked for patrons to be kind to staff and to celebrate what The Bearded Tit Community have built over the last years.
And for those who want a piece of the beloved titty, a market day will happen shortly after closure.
“You will be able to purchase pieces of our fit-out or memorabilia for those you that want to take a tangible piece of this space with you,” she continued.
“I want to thank the hundreds of artists, performers, DJs, producers, party makers and arts workers who have contributed their talents and energy to this space. You have been the heartbeat of The Bearded Tit, bringing life, creativity, and magic to every corner of this venue.
“I want to thank the incredible staff and managers who have worked here and contributed to helping me steer this ship. Your dedication and care have made this place what it is, and you’ve been my partners in creating something truly special.”
At the end of the beautiful statement, Joy expressed that she was excited to see what comes next for Sydney’s queer nightlife.
The community responds to The Bearded Tit news
Shortly after Joy made the call, performers, creatives and punters who’ve graced the halls of the Tit flooded the IG post with messages of love, support and gratitude.
“Thank you, body. Truly. This has been sanctuary and will live on in all of our bodies as a way to keep being in this world. I love you,” performer Betty Grumble commented.
“So heartbroken to wake up to this news but beyond grateful for everything you’ve done for the community, Joy. This space has meant so much for us, I’ll never forget that you gave me one of my first ever residencies and this space that had endless hugs on tap and sacred good times with logical family and community. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Love to you and the Tit family,” DJ Charlie Villas penned.
“So many beautiful moments at this special space,” artist and performer Basjia wrote.
As someone who has spent a lot of nights at the Tit — with many, many pics in the gorgeous bathroom (no I will not be posting those) — it’s truly heartbreaking to see it shut down. However, at the same time, I am excited to see what’s next for Joy!
It’s a bittersweet goodbye, but at least we’ve got until November to celebrate the beautiful community she has cultivated.
LONG LIVE THE TIT.
The post Iconic Sydney Queer Sanctuary The Bearded Tit To Close After 11 Fabulous Years appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .
