Twiggy: On the ever-changing Gay Village

With Eden finding a new home on Gooch Street, The Village Inn closing its doors on Hurst Street before re-opening in The Nightingale Club’s premises this week, and The Loft soon to follow in its footsteps, Birmingham’s Gay Village and its venues are shifting and changing, much like the rest of the city around it.

Opening night at the new Village Inn

Following The Village Inn’s successful re-opening on Kent Street on Thursday 3rd April, drag performer, Twiggy reflected on the changes. Writing on social media, Twiggy said: “Thank you, home city of Birmingham, for reinventing yourself again and providing amazing venues for locals and visitors. They [the venues] may not be on the same street like other cities but what we have is untouchable compared to other places.

“I never doubted the possibilities or success of a multi-storey 3 in 1 venue but they work so amazingly well.

“The new homes for Eden Bar and The Village Inn are outstanding, welcoming, creative and polished so must be visited and supported!

“People, including locals say 'the scene is dying' but for me, (a man whose glass is always half full, to overflowing), Birmingham is the second city, not a poor option. Nobody should ever whinge about the place they live, they should encourage, champion and above all, attend venues to prevent a 'dying scene'.

“None of the bars or clubs have closed or relocated due to lack of interest, it's because of new buildings and a growing population of city dwellers. None of the bars or clubs have an upper age limit so no matter who you are, don't feel left out or neglected. The older generation may sometimes feel they don't belong but they're the ones who laid the foundations for what is given to next generation so I encourage everyone to get out there and enjoy what’s on offer.

“It's your city and 'scene' so you should make it as amazing as I think it is.”

The Loft Bar will also be moving home, relocating to Kent Street on Friday 16th May, just in time for Birmingham Pride.