A 150-year-old deconsecrated Catholic church in Sydney's CBD briefly reopened as an LGBTQIA+ nightclub and performance space called Divine Playhouse.
Just days after its opening, the venue was forced to cancel all events and face eviction following massive public protests and landlord intervention over perceived religious mockery.
The Building's Heritage
Original Purpose:
Built in 1868, the Victorian Gothic structure located on 408 Kent Street was originally established as St John's Catholic Church.
Prior Use:
It was deconsecrated in 1932, served as the long-time home of the famed Genesian Theatre, and even fostered the early career of director Baz Luhrmann.
The Nightclub & Backlash
The Concept:
Nightlife organizer Kat Dopper reimagined the space as an inclusive, boundary-pushing creative arts space hosting cabarets, gospel choir-backed karaoke, and experimental art events.
The Controversy:
Christians and Catholic groups—such as The Prodigal Sons—were outraged by promotional materials and events like "Sunday Mess," as well as performances featuring drag artists dressed as nuns and mockings of the Eucharist.
The Protests:
Up to 70 demonstrators frequently picketed outside the venue's opening night, singing hymns and praying the Rosary.
The Shutdown
Eviction Notice:
Following sustained backlash and pressure from the Christian community, the building's landlord intervened, issuing the venue a breach notice to "cease carrying on offensive trade" to protect their lease.
Current Status:
The organizers officially halted operations, cancelled all upcoming programming, and had their social media accounts suspended