News Summary
Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria is set to open in Birmingham’s Five Points South this June, just in time for Pride Month. The venue will serve as a taco bar during the day and transition to an entertainment hub featuring diverse drag performances at night. The owners, Scott Charby and Wade Brooks, aim to revitalize the area, ensuring safety and community engagement after the tragic events of the past. Opulence promises to be a vibrant addition to the local nightlife, focusing on inclusivity and community spirit.
Exciting New Drag Lounge Set to Open in Birmingham’s Five Points South!
Big news for the vibrant city of Birmingham! A brand-new venue is gearing up to open its doors in Five Points South, and it’s sure to bring a splash of flair and festive fun to the area. Introducing Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria, a lively spot that promises to be a hub of entertainment and delicious food, all set to launch later this year.
A New Beginning
Opulence will take over the former location of the Hush Lounge, a site recently hit by tragedy—the mass shooting on September 21, 2024, that sadly claimed four lives and injured 17 others. This unfortunate event left a significant mark on the community, but the team behind Opulence is eager to turn things around and breathe new life into the space.
Scott Charby and his partner Wade Brooks are the masterminds behind this exciting endeavor. They are currently in the process of remodeling the venue to ensure it is not just a place to eat and drink, but an all-around spectacular experience!
Pride Month Goals
The opening is targeted for Pride Month this June, making it a significant launch during a festive time focused on love and inclusivity. Opulence will operate as a taco bar during the day, serving satisfying bites from 10 a.m. till 7 p.m. Then, as the sun sets, the space will transform into a dazzling drag entertainment venue—a feast for the eyes and the stomach!
Diverse Entertainment Options
One of the unique aspects of Opulence is its commitment to diversity. Expect a wide variety of drag performances, from celebrity impersonators to group acts, and even performances from non-drag artists, as long as the atmosphere remains respectful and inclusive. The venue is designed to seat around 160 to 180 people, so there’s plenty of room for friends and family to come together for a night of fun.
Safety is Key
Given the venue’s history, the owners are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of their patrons. They plan to implement stringent security measures, allowing guests to enjoy their time without worry. Community support is essential, and the local district manager for REV Birmingham has highlighted how Opulence’s opening is significant for recovery efforts within the area.
Building a Community
To further this positive impact, Charby and Brooks are engaging with neighboring businesses to create a vibrant ecosystem that uplifts the whole community. They aim not just to bring in customers but to foster a sense of belonging where everyone feels welcome.
The Road Ahead
As we look forward to the grand opening of Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria, it is clear that this venue will stand as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Five Points South neighborhood. The tragic events of the past will not define this space—they will transform it into a haven of entertainment, friendship, and delicious tacos!
Come for the Tacos, Stay for the Show
Don’t miss your chance to check out what promises to be one of Birmingham’s hottest new spots! With its lively atmosphere, mouth-watering taco bar, and dazzling drag acts, Opulence is ready to become a beloved staple in the community. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the magic!
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Birmingham Drag Bar and Restaurant Opening
- Google Search: Birmingham Drag Bar
- 1819 News: Drag Lounge Replacement for Hush Lounge
- Google News: Drag Lounge Birmingham
- WBRC: New Business Moving into Old Hush Lounge
- Wikipedia: Five Points South
- MSN: New Businesses in Five Points South
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham
- 1819 News: Apryl Marie
- Google Scholar: Drag Culture
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
