In a historic unveiling set to align with Mardi Gras 2024, Qtopia Sydney is poised to open its doors this Friday, marking a monumental chapter in the preservation and celebration of Queer history and culture on a global scale.
Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s Darlinghurst, the expansive campus, spread across four iconic venues including 301 Forbes St, The Bandstand in Green Park, The Substation, and The Toilet Block, is set to become the world’s largest sanctuary of LGBTQIA+ history and cultural expression.
The grand opening, heralded by a collaboration of three tiers of government—Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, NSW Premier Chris Minns, and Lord Mayor Clover Moore—signals an unprecedented endorsement of the LGBTQIA+ community’s rich heritage and diverse narratives.
Qtopia Sydney’s CEO, Greg Fisher, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are thrilled to be welcoming Sydneysiders and both national and international guests to our home – one where we can encourage greater awareness for our LGBTQIA+ community through Queer storytelling – stories told through exhibitions, performances, community programs, and education.”
The project, a labyrinth of 17 thought-provoking and immersive exhibitions, is the fruit of the collaborative efforts of curators, researchers, historians, established museums, archivists, media organisations, and private collectors. Together, they have woven a tapestry of new stories that give voice to those historically marginalised.
Highlighting the significance of the venue of Qtopia Sydney’s new and permanent home in the former Darlinghurst Police Station, NSW Minister for the Arts John Graham said the heritage-listed building holds a lot of history for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It will provide a place for exploring ideas and foster a deeper understanding of history and current events,” Minister Graham said.
“I am pleased to see its reimagining as a much-needed cultural space in the centre of Sydney.”
The realisation of Qtopia Sydney was made possible through a combination of pro bono and low bono contributions, enthusiastic partnership with the City of Sydney Council, generous corporate funding from the Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch Foundation, and a $6.7 million provision by the NSW State Government.
Reflecting on the journey, Fisher added, “The opening of Qtopia Sydney represents one of the most colossal examples of community passion and determination ever seen.”
Qtopia Sydney not only pays tribute to the resilience and solidarity of the Queer community and its allies but also stands as a beacon of cultural and historical enrichment. With a vibrant schedule of theatre, cabaret, drag, music, and more set to commence in March across three performance venues, Qtopia Sydney is dedicated to the continuous evolution of Queer narratives, ensuring that the legacy and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community are celebrated, understood, and remembered for generations to come.
Qtopia Sydney will open to the public on Saturday 24 February from 10:30am until 4:30pm. Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30am to 4:30pm. For more details go here.
Last Updated on Feb 22, 2024
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