A bit of QC History
In 2019 I was honoured to be asked by George’s Bar (since renamed Georgia’s Bar), Fitzroy, to host a regular ‘Queer Comedy’ night to fit into their weekly comedy nights. These nights ended up being variety nights, with musical and sketch acts making regular appearances and the occassional drag act. The nights had a great community and following. They provided an important, fun, and safe space for many performers from LGBTIQA+ communities.
As we all know in 2020 the entertainment industry in Melbourne came to a bit of a stand still. The team at George’s supported me in producing some online shows. I also got a regular gig hosting cabaret nights online for Club Voltaire, produced by the incredible Stella del Lure.
The online events kept me (a bit) sane, and when Melbourne EVENTUALLY came out of lockdowns in 2022 I was on the hunt for a new venue to host my variety nights, which I had decided would now be Cabaret nights in acknowledgement of the diverse artforms presented.
Having performed a short run of Disgraceful at The Motley Bauhaus in late 2022 (and a Keep The Change at their previous location), I knew I loved working with the Motley team. It’s a fabulous venue, that supports so many artists, has great drinks in a gorgeous setting, and is very inclusive and LGBTIQA+ friendly. So a monthly Queer Cabaret night was born!
After several monthly shows in 2023, I produced a series of Queer Cabaret nights for Melbourne Fringe in late 2023, all at The Motley Bauhaus. I also produced a Queer Cabaret Variety Night for Flinders Fringe in early 2024, showcasing local acts from the area. In June 2024 Queer Cabaret returned to Motley Bauhaus.
I love to produce these nights, connecting with other artists and supporting them to be part of fun and celebratory nights. I always try to support up and coming acts, as well as established acts wanting to try out new work or get in front of new audiences.
If you’d like to book a Queer Cabaret night at you venue or festival, or if you’re keen to perform please get in touch lucy@lucybest.com
