Downtown Cincinnati LGBTQ+ bar The Birdcage is spreading its wings to a new location, but it won’t be flying too far from the nest.
Ignite Entertainment says The Birdcage has relocated to the former Rebel Mettle space at 412 Central Ave. The 7,000 square-foot space will allow them to offer larger format shows, dance parties and other entertainment and events, according to a press release.
There will be two levels for nightlife, including two large bars, two stages and an expansive dance floor with a disco ball. Lounge and table seating will also be available.
“We knew we wanted to grow the brand before we opened the doors on Race Street, in 2018, but we couldn’t find the perfect location for us to expand until the Rebel Mettle space became an option. We’re excited to be able to continue doing what we love in a space that’s large enough for everyone,” owner Juan Imeroni said in the release. "We’re going to keep some of what made that space special, like the walls tagged by past and present military service members, the ‘EVERYONE IS WELCOME’ mural in the entryway, and other details that we have embraced."
The Birdcage plans to open its Central Avenue location later this month. The bar will offer draft cocktails and a signature drink menu, and every Friday and Saturday night, they’ll host a ticketed drag show led by a cast of queens curated by show directors Mirelle Jane Divine, Penny Tration, P.H. Dee and Quasi. The bar is also partnering with Louisville-based Hard Candy's Daniel Cole, who books for shows like RuPaul's Drag Race and Netflix's Dragula, to plan larger-scale shows.
Guests can also expect monthly drag brunches, starting with two back-to-back Taylor Swift brunches on June 30 and July 1 to coincide with her sold-out concerts. After that, brunches will be held every final Sunday of the month. Tea Dances will also be held every Sunday, starting at 3 p.m.
As for The Birdcage’s original venue at 927 Race St., that will transform into a laid-back ultra-lounge called The Flock. Ignite Entertainment says the space will be low-key, but polished and host acts like burlesque shows, karaoke, live music and more.
The Flock will open later this summer after renovations, and it’ll host shows every Friday and Saturday night. A shuttle will also be available to drive guests between The Birdcage and The Flock.
More info: thebirdcagecincinnati.com.
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