House of Mince has planned a full takeover of Oxford Street’s Colombian Hotel as part of a new phase for the venue.
The takeover, on Easter Sunday, will run for 15 hours from 5pm to 8am across the venue’s three floors.
It comes as founder Peter Shopovski is appointed Programming Director of the venue, where he will focus on music curation, performance and community-led nightlife.
The goal is to establish the venue as a key gathering place for Sydney’s queer community, he said.
“Sydney has lost several important queer spaces in recent years. With venues like Bearded Tit and Mirage KX now closed, the recent administration of Stonewall, and the loss of long-standing community spaces like The Bookshop Darlinghurst, it is more important than ever that we rebuild places where our community can gather, celebrate and express itself freely,” he said.
“The Colombian is a landmark on Oxford Street. My goal is to honour that history while bringing a clear sense of direction back to the venue.”
Shopovski has played a key role in Sydney’s nightlife through House of Mince, which is known for its Unknown Pleasures Mardi Gras party and its various Club Mince pop-up events.
As Programming Director, Shopovski said he will focus on consistency, a strong musical identity and opportunities for queer artists.
“We want people to feel that when they walk into the Colombian they are entering a space that is proudly queer, welcoming and creatively alive,” he said.
“Expect thoughtful curation, strong hosts, incredible DJs and space for both emerging and established artists. Most importantly, expect a venue that belongs to the community.”
City of Sydney Councillor Olly Arkins expressed faith in Shopovski’s appointment, saying he has consistently delivered vibrant queer nightlife in the city.
“This is exactly what Oxford Street needs right now,” she said.
“Like the rest of the strip, the Colombian has a special history and requires thoughtful reshaping for what our community wants today. With Peter directing its creative direction, the Colombian can continue to be a hub of queer, creative nightlife into the future.”
Further changes to the Colombian are expected to be rolled out over the coming months.
