Iconic Oxford Street Nightclub ARQ To Reopen

A longstanding institution of Sydney/Eora's Queer community, Oxford Street nightclub ARQ will reopen its doors next week on Friday the 16th of December. It will reopen with a new and improved entertainment offering including a new sound system and visuals from Australia's first moving lighting truss. 

ARQ owner Shadd Danesi says, "We have all come together again to not only revitalise ARQ, but the entire Australian nightlife industry.

"We believe we are finally in a position to revitalise Australian entertainment, starting with ARQ, reclaiming its position as the jewel in Oxford Street's crown."

The club initially closed its doors during the lockdowns of 2020. It then went on a hiatus for three years until today's announcement. The club is one of Sydney's longest running gay bars, opening in 1999. It has since achieved legendary status. During its period of closure, an online petition emerged in Setpember of 2021 urging Danesi to save the club. 

The survey read, “ARQ, Bodyline & Albion House has been a needed home for many, including the LGBTQIA+ Community spanning for over 2+ decades. The club’s loyal punters and the sauna’s regular patrons have patiently waited to experience the renovations promised to them earlier this year,” petition said, adding, “these spaces are crucial for the community and is here to stay for future generations to come.”

The relaunch on December the 16th features performances from Natalie Bassingthwaighte alongside drag queens and DJs. Across the weekend DJs including Jack Vidgen, Zoe Badwi and SGT Slick will perform.