St Kilda’s Bizarre New Venue

Local News, By Travis de Jonk, 22nd October, 2009

An exciting new queer venue in St Kilda is about to be unveiled this week, which is the brain child of journalist and arts reviewer Daren Pope. If the name doesn’t ring a bell instantly, it’s because you might know him better as his alter ego, drag personality and cabaret superstar Kaye Sera.

Called Kaye Sera’s Bizzarre, the venue is currently an antiques and crafts shop with a wonderfully fun and camp sensibility. According to Pope this will expand over the coming weeks to include a licenced piano bar, performance space and art gallery, all of which will be ready to go by Midsumma 2010.

Both Daren Pope and Kaye Sera are well known and respected for their contribution to the community, media and the arts. But it was the popular Kaye Sera that got the branding rights on the venue because of her larger than life community profile. Pope told Same Same that the new shop is a way to bring together all his interests and contribute more.

“Everyone gasped when thay first found out about the Bizzarre… ‘Oh no, you’re not going to become a another retail queen’ they said. [laughs] It’s definitely not like that at all.” Pope told Same Same.

“I’ve been involved in so many areas over the years, from media to performing cabaret shows, emceeing community events, reviewing arts and cultural events. Those are the things that I guess I’m most publically known for. But there are things that I’ve kept more low key… for example, I collect antiques and collectables… some would say I hoard crap. But I do really love design, arts and crafts. I know I can spot a great bargain. I wanted to simplify my life and activities. To me the shop is a great way to bring together … consolidate all the things I’m passionate about and interested in… ”

Pope said his biggest inspiration were Melbourne’s long gone gay meeting places, which were usually shops and cafes. He said the shop would be open as a free meeting venue for community groups and events, as well as being a place where both local and international artists could hold exhibitions and community craftspeople could sell their unique work. Also a big inspiration is Melbourne’s infamous cabaret incubator, The Butterfly Club.

“There really aren’t those kinds of meeting places that there used to be for gays and lesbians. I think Melbourne is ready for that kind of venue again. And this side of town could certainly do with fresh performance venues. I really do hope that this is what I’ll be bringing to the community with Kaye Sera’s Bizzarre.”

Kaye Sera’s Bizzare has its grand opening this Friday 23rd October from 7pm at 108 St Kilda Road.