You have someplace that you can perform that’s a safe space that you don’t have those pressures with,” Dhyne said. I think having a spot where if you’re in recovery and you’re a drag queen, you don’t have to be with the alcohol (is needed).
“ we have a higher rate of homelessness, we have a higher rate of alcoholism, and a lot of that is just the way that the world has treated us and what’s happened in our community. “I noticed there was a gap kind of in our needs for a performance space and just kind of a queer-friendly space that doesn’t serve alcohol.”ĭhyne added that while there are a few great gay establishments in the city, there’s a need for more diverse spaces as the community grows. “There’s a lot of people – not just in the LGBTQ community, but in the community overall – that struggle with addiction or alcoholism,” Dhyne said. The intent is to provide a sober space where the LGBTQ community – including youth and those in substance recovery – can partake in nightlife, dancing, performances, game nights, and open mic nights, all without alcohol. (WOOD) - A local artist and performer is working to bring what’s believed to be the first dry bar and nightclub for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people to Grand Rapids.īux Dhyne, the person behind the effort, says the bar will be called Joule’s Molly House.
