THEGAYUK

Tag: Birmingham News

Get the latest LGBT+ Birmingham news from THEGAYUK. Breaking news, features and interviews from the gay community in Birmingham in the UK.

  • Popular gay bar says it might have to “call it a day” due to England’s Tier system

    Popular gay bar says it might have to “call it a day” due to England’s Tier system

    With England’s latest lockdown ending in just over a week many bars, and in particular many LGBT+ venues are really feeling the pinch. One gay bar in Birmingham has said it might be time to”call it a day”.

    One of the issues facing many bars, but in particular gay bars, is that many aren’t equipped to serve food – which is one of the requirements for pubs to be able to open in at least two Tiers of the Government’s system. Bars which solely sell drink are unable to open in Tier 2 and Tier 3. Only bars which sell “substantial” food can open in Tier 2 and can only operate as takeouts in Tier 3.

    With most of the country expected to be entered into Tier 2 or 3 when Boris Johnson announces the Tier system in the next few days, the Equator bar in Birmingham announced that it might have to close forever, adding “Equator bar is not a restaurant so will not be allowed to open in Tier 2” and added, “Maybe time to call it a day”.

    If the Equator Bar, which has been operating for over 15 years, does close it will be the second bar in Birmingham to have fallen victim to the economic woes faced by the hospitality industry due to the Government’s handling of the current Coronavirus pandemic.

    Numerous fans took to the bar’s Facebook page to share their sorrow that the bar may be forced to close.

    Speaking to THEGAYUK.com the owner said, “It’s devastating that customers cannot come to their local community bar. We haven’t had a single case that I know of…

    “I’ve been here 18 years and not sure how much longer we can stay closed with no help from the gov”.

    Give Equator Bar a follow on their Facebook page to keep up to date with them.

    Not the first victim of the devastating Tier system

    The Tier system used in England has brought economic hardship for many businesses, but in particular for social-based businesses like pubs and bars.

    Nightclubs have not been able to open since March.

    In Tier 2, which most of England is expected to enter come the 2nd of December does not allow for household mixing, meaning that friends and family from different households are unable to meet in public, including in pubs and restaurants. In Tier 3 all bars and restaurants must close and are only permitted to operate as a food takeaway.

    Bars and pubs across England have spent huge sums of money on becoming “COVID-secure” and have restricted their capacities in order to aid with social distancing, adding extra pressure on their bottom lines.

    Writing about the latest announcement from Boris Johnson, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern in London tweeted, “We are all stuck in the worst possible purgatory with the worst possible ruler”

    2020 has seen numerous gay bar closures. Earlier in the year, Birmingham’s Eden Bar was forced to close due to devastating restraints placed on the pub industry. Also in the West Midlands, Midland Zone magazine also fell victim to the economic downturn.

    gay Bar Broadway to close forever due to Covid

    Nottingham’s only LGBT+ club, Propaganda closed in May and in Brighton, two venues have already shuttered. This month The Broadway closed and earlier in the year Legends fell into administration, before being reopened by new owners.

    Birmingham has one of the largest gay scenes outside of London and is home to a number of LGBT+ venues.

  • One of Birmingham’s most famous LGBT+ bars to close thanks to devastating COVID restraints

    One of Birmingham’s most famous LGBT+ bars to close thanks to devastating COVID restraints

    Another LGBT+ bar has said it is to close after trading in 2020 became unsustainable due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions imposed by the government to try and curb the rising infections.

    Eden Bar in the heart of Birmingham‘s gay village wrote an emotional goodbye post on social media saying that it was closing with its last day of trading on the 24th October.

    The owners outlined how the government’s response to the pandemic had stretched many businesses, like theirs, beyond their limits, saying,

    “Like many small businesses, 2020 has stretched Eden beyond belief. A reduced capacity to 25% then further reduced to 10% under Region Tier 2, heavy staff costs due to the ongoing changing government guidelines, the recent 10 pm curfew and an imminent Region Tier 3 lockdown, has meant we have decided to bite the bullet, making this drastic commercial decision.”

    Closures across the Midlands due to COVID

    Eden had hoped that 2020 would be its most successful year to date and had plenty of events planned, which all had to be cancelled. It had also opened a new venue called Sherlocks in Blackpool, which they have had to “inject finance into… in order to stay afloat, despite adapting to the “new normal”

    Eden is not the only Midland’s LGBT business which has had to close. Very early on, Nottingham’s last LGBT+ nightclub, Propaganda shut and last month, Midlands Zone, the region’s LGBT print media also closed its doors.

    Hope on the horizon

    The statement, however, did state that the owners would be looking for new premises. They continued,

    “Our focus now is to look to the future with positive eyes, and wait for the pandemic to calm, albeit months. It has always been our long term plan to find alternative premises, therefore, once the pandemic calms, we will be taking active measures, looking for other premises in Birmingham, which we feel would be suitable for a ‘New Eden’

    “What is important, is that Eden’s closure is not clouded by COVID but instead, is celebrated for its fantastic atmosphere and countless acts and events, which have graced Eden over the last 13 years”.

    Read the full statement here:

    After careful consideration, it is with great sadness that we have to announce, Eden will be closing its doors for business, on Saturday 24th October 2020, at 10 pm. Like many small businesses, 2020 has stretched Eden beyond belief. A reduced capacity to 25% then further reduced to 10% under Region Tier 2, heavy staff costs due to the ongoing changing government guidelines, the recent 10 pm curfew and an imminent Region Tier 3 lockdown, has meant we have decided to bite the bullet, making this drastic commercial decision.

    Understandably, the fear of COVID is apparent, despite huge efforts to ensure a safe environment, making current conditions none financially viable. 2020 was set to be our best year, with many new events booked, the planned closure of Lower Hurst Street for “The Eden Pride Street Party” and the opening of Sherlock’s Blackpool. Instead of this anticipated bumper year, each week we have had to inject finance into the business in order to stay afloat, despite adapting to the “new normal”, being at full capacity and having to refuse entry. We have all worked so hard to try and make it work, but it is now apparent, we can no longer sustain this form of attack, without jeopardising Eden’s long term future.

    Even today’s government announcement is just too little too late. Sadly, now we have to remove emotion and let common-sense prevail. We can only give so much until there’s nothing left to give. Our focus now is to look to the future with positive eyes, and wait for the pandemic to calm, albeit months. It has always been our long term plan to find alternative premises, therefore, once the pandemic calms, we will be taking active measures, looking for other premises in Birmingham, which we feel would be suitable for a “New Eden”.

    It is not the bricks and mortar which makes Eden so special. Its a collection of people including our customers, fantastic staff, DJs, entertainment and those who work behind the scenes which share our vision. It is this vision which we believe can be transferred to another venue, once the pandemic calms.

    We see this as an opportunity to take stock of the business and come back stronger and fighting fit. In short, Sherlock’s will still go ahead next year, hopefully, once government guidelines are relaxed. For Eden, as stated, our plan is to look for alternative premises in Birmingham and re-establish, once we are in a position to.

    Putting the breaks on now will give us the opportunity to do this, protecting the Eden brand and future business, instead of trading at below breakeven using additional finance as a crutch, putting our long term future at risk. What is important, is that Eden’s closure is not clouded by COVID but instead, is celebrated for its fantastic atmosphere and countless acts and events, which have graced Eden over the last 13 years.

    Too many to mention individually, but we’re sure you all have your favourites, along with fond memories. We would like to thank all our staff, DJs, entertainment, community groups and customers, in particular those whom have continued to support Eden post lockdown, when we needed you most.

    We look forward to welcoming you all back once we are in a position to, along with the opening of Sherlock’s Blackpool next year. So please watch this space for our next chapter. Tickets for our final night will go on sale tonight at 7.30 pm. To open the night we have the fantastic Fanny Burns. There is however only one person who can close this current era, and that’s the fabulous La voix.

  • Birmingham stabbing suspect arrested

    A man has been arrested following a stabbing incident that left one man dead and seven others injured.

    According to a police report, The suspect was detained at an address in Selly Oak at around 4 am.

    The 27-year-old remains in police custody for questioning over the knife attacks that shocked the city in the early hours of Sunday morning.

    The first attack happened in Constitution Hill followed by further stabbings in Livery Street, Irving Street and finally Hurst Street.

    How the incident unfolded

    12:30 AM Police received their first call to Constitution Hill just after 12.30 am where a man received a superficial injury,

    12:50 AM A further call 20 minutes later to Livery Street. A 19-year-old man was critically injured and a woman was also injured.

    1.50 AM we were called to Irving Street where sadly one man lost his life and another man suffered serious injuries.

    2:00 AM Ten minutes later we were called to Hurst Street where a 32-year-old woman was seriously injured and two men received lesser injuries.

    “Officers worked through yesterday and into the early hours”

    Embed from Getty Images

    Birmingham Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, said, “Officers worked through yesterday and into the early hours of this morning in a bid to trace the man we believe responsible for these terrible crimes.

    “We issued CCTV footage of the suspect and had a strong response from the public. I’d like to thank everyone who shared our appeal and who provided information to the investigation.

    “One line of enquiry ultimately led us to an address in the Selly Oak area this morning where a man was arrested.

    “Clearly this is a crucial development but our investigation continues. We still need to speak to any witnesses who saw what happened who’ve not yet spoken to us, or anyone who may have video footage or photos of the incidents or the attacker.

    “We have a hotline number and a dedicated web page where you can submit information, photos and videos.”

    A Hotline has been set up for anyone with info. Please call 0800 056 0944

  • Birmingham cops: “stay vigilant” but fail to release a description of the suspect – 16 hours after the incident

    There are growing calls for Midland’s Police to issue a description of a suspect who allegedly killed at least one man and injured at least seven others in the early hours this morning, in Birmingham.

    There have been no arrests and a manhunt and murder investigation is now underway.

    Police were called to an incident at 12:30 AM in Birmingham’s gay village where sadly one man died from injuries sustained from a knife attack.

    Despite the city’s wide spread use of CCTV the authorities have yet to release any description of the man they say they wish to question in connection to the incident.

    The police have warned citizens to “remain vigilant” and that they would release more information in due course.

    The police have said that they do not believe the motive for the attack to be a hate crime, gang-related or terrorism, instead suggesting that the attacks were random.

    No description, but asked to remain vigilant.

    Embed from Getty Images

    However, more than 16 hours since the incident the police have yet to issue any formal description.

    Numerous people took to social media to question why are such a long time why the police had yet to release any further information on the suspect. One person wrote, “Surely 16 hours later you must know who you are looking for??? Wouldn’t it be in public interest to show who you are looking for???”

    While another added, “For a city centre covered in CCTV, I find it highly suspicious that you’ve yet to release a description or images of the attacker. Any reasonable explanation why?”

  • Murder investigation opened after “major incident” in Birmingham

    Murder investigation opened after “major incident” in Birmingham

    Police in Birmingham have confirmed that they have opened a murder investigation after a man died died and two further victims suffered serious injuries.

    Police also note that a further five people have been injured although their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

    A manhunt is now underway and no arrests have been made. The police have not released a description of the suspect.

    In a statement, police confirmed, “We believe the incidents, which took place between 12:30 am and 2:20 am, are linked and we’re doing all we can to find whoever was responsible.

    “Detectives are following a number of lines of enquiry and we’ve increased our uniformed and armed response in the city.

    “We continue to hold a number of scenes across the city, including Livery Street, Irving Street and Hurst Street.

    “We’re urging anyone who witnessed anything or anyone who has any CCTV or mobile phone footage to get in contact as soon as possible, as the information you have may be crucial to our investigation.

    “tragic, shocking and understandably frightening”

    Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, responsible for policing in Birmingham, said: “The events during the early hours of this morning are tragic, shocking and understandably frightening.

    “Please be assured that we are doing absolutely everything we can to find whoever was responsible and try to understand what exactly happened.

    “We have well-rehearsed plans for dealing with major incidents. Your safety is always our priority and that’s why you’ll see an increase in officers on the streets.

    “In the meantime, we’d ask anyone who’s in the city to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to us.”

    The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, said: “Last night’s events are truly terrible and have  shocked the people of Birmingham, the West Midlands and the country.

    “My first thoughts are with the victims and their families at this time. 

    “I have every faith in West Midlands Police who are working extremely quickly on this investigation.

    “My thanks also go to the ambulance and hospital staff who are working around the clock to help those who have been injured.”

    Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat on our website or call 101. If you are in danger please call 999.

  • Major incident declared in Birmingham’s gay quarter after multiple stabbings

    Major incident declared in Birmingham’s gay quarter after multiple stabbings

    *This is a live article and changes are being made as new and updated information is being released*

    Police in Birmingham said there have been multiple stabbings in the area near to the gay village.

    A murder investigation has now been opened after a man sadly died. A further two people were seriously injured and another five were left with less serious injuries.

    A manhunt is now underway and no arrests have been made. The police have not released a description of the suspect.

    ALSO READ: Murder investigation opened after attack in Birmingham city centre

    ALSO READ: Birmingham cops: “stay vigilant” but fail to release a description of the suspect – 16 hours after the incident

    Police say that at around 12:30 AM this morning there were reports of a stabbing in the city centre. A further number of stabbings happened after.

    Police have now cordoned off an area on Hurst Road, which has a number of LGBT+ venues and bars on it.

    The police have confirmed that a number of people have been injured. They said in a statement,

    “We are aware of a number of injured people, but at the moment we are not in a position to say how many or how serious. However, all emergency services are working together at the scene, and making sure that those who are injured receive medical care.”

    According to Midlands Zone, one bystander, Graham Littlewood from DevilsKitchen commented, “it appears around five people were stabbed, one possibly fatal. The police came to my burger van and told us to close immediately and for everyone to move out of the area.”

    Has anyone been arrested?

    There are reports on social media that a man has been caught, however, this is currently unconfirmed.

    The force said “Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything. At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident.”

    Gunshots?

    According to some reports, a number of people had heard what sounded like gunshots, however, police say they have found no evidence at this time, that a firearm had been fired.

    Midland’s Police said, “We’re aware of some comments that gunshots were fired, this has not been reported to us at this stage.”

    This is a breaking story. Please refresh to see new information.

  • Birmingham’s LGBT centre attacked for the second time this year

    Birmingham’s LGBT centre attacked for the second time this year

    “No one else has had their window targeted”

    Birmingham‘s very own LGBT Centre, which raises the awareness of the needs of LGBT people in Birmingham, has been vandalised for a second time in just a couple of months. In a tweet, the centre wrote that although the window-smashing might be the work of “petty vandalism” it also noted that none of the other shops or businesses in the immediate vicinity had their windows targeted.

    The centre added that the cost of replacing the window was an additional expense that they did not need. The centre doesn’t know whether the damage would be covered by insurance and may have to set up a fundraiser to have the window replaced.

    According to the centre, the damage has been reported to the police and the charity is in receipt of an incident number.

    In a statement on the official Facebook said, “We have reported to the police and will be getting the CCTV on the island checked we have an emergency contractor going out today to board it up and hopefully it will be covered by insurance if not we may well set up a fundraiser thanks for all who are contacting with offers of support”

    Birmingham is home to one of the UK’s largest LGBT scenes and a thriving bar and pride scene.

  • This Birmingham gay pub says Saturday’s takings “in line” with an average weekend

    This Birmingham gay pub says Saturday’s takings “in line” with an average weekend

    It seems as though people were out enjoying the gay scene over the weekend as one owner of a string of LGBT+ venues in Birmingham city centre spoke about the road to recovery for the sector.

    The majority of the UK’s pubs and bars have been on lockdown due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic for over 100 days and many are desperate to open in order to stay financially viable. As lockdown restrictions eased in England last weekend, the streets were filled with eager punters looking to enjoy a bit of normality.

    Lawrence Barton who owns three Birmingham venues (The Loft, The Village Inn and The Nightingale Club) and who is also the Festival Director for Birmingham Pride, spoke about how encouraged he feels after one of his venue’s takings were “in line with those of an average Saturday pre-lockdown”.

    Speaking about trading conditions, Barton told THEGAYUK

    “In spite of restrictions on customer numbers, volume of music, social distancing and a strict no bar service, one of our venues had takings that were in line with those of an average Saturday pre-lockdown. Meanwhile, despite takings at The Village Inn being fifty-five per cent down on pre-lockdown levels, these were in line with our forecasts. 

    “Reports in the media and elsewhere of widespread flouting of public health rules and requirements were not reflected here in Birmingham. I was enormously encouraged by the responsible behaviour demonstrated on the part of patrons in adhering to social distancing requirements and the pragmatic approach police adopted in ensuring adherence. 

    “I am confident that yesterday marks the start of a long road to recovery for both the sector and our economy as a whole.”

    Also commenting, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said,

    “Last night was very encouraging for the region’s hospitality sector, and I want to thank the vast majority of people who followed social distancing guidelines and behaved very responsibly.

    “There is no question that it is a long way back, but last night will help to give people confidence that they can safely enjoy a trip to a restaurant or pub.

    “We have seen how dangerous this virus can be and, as we slowly ease lockdown measures, everyone must continue to follow the Government guidelines and keep up the basics of hand washing and social distancing.”

  • Parents are permanently banned from protesting LGBT+ lessons outside schools

    Parents are permanently banned from protesting LGBT+ lessons outside schools

    Parents are no longer permitted to protest outside of primary schools over the teaching of subjects such as LGBT+ equality.

    A judge has ruled that parents, mainly from an Islamic background, but included members from other religious backgrounds, will not be able to protest outside a school in Birmingham.

    Parents were angered by the No Outsider lessons which said went against their religious beliefs. This led to reports that hundreds of pupils had been removed from the school by their parents. Parents have also claimed that the No Outsider lessons are not “age-appropriate”.

    Anderton Park School and Parkfield Primary School in Birmingham became the focal points for protesters earlier this year after the schools started to deliver lessons to students, which covered LGBT+ families and gender expressions.

    An injunction against the protesters was created back in June – and Birmingham City Council “sought a court order to further protect the school and extend the ban, which has now been granted by High Court judge Mr Justice Warby” according to Sky News.

    Birmingham City Council claimed that the noisy protesters were disrupting lessons and causing stress to students and staff at the school alike. According to sources, 21 staff members were treated for stress relating to the protests.

    The judge ruled that the injunction did not “amount to unlawful discrimination against the protesters” adding, that the protesters had misunderstood and misrepresented that is being taught at the school”

    Founder of the Birmingham South Asians LGBT group, Khakan Qureshi told THEGAYUK,

    “I’m absolutely elated though we do need clarity on several points raised. This includes how to identify people who take part in protests and how to bring them to justice and having tighter regulations in having the power to arrest. 

    “Bear in mind, it wasn’t the content of the lessons which were contested but the nature of the protests. They were anti-social, caused a nuisance, disrupted the teachings of young children and caused potentially psychological harm. 

    “On a practical level, the protestors obstructed the highway and disturbed residents in the neighbourhood. 

    “It’s a really good day for teachers, pupils, the education system, councils and the LGBT+ community when common sense prevails”

  • These are the best gay bars in Birmingham according to Google Reviewers

    These are the best gay bars in Birmingham according to Google Reviewers

    Birmingham has a great choice of LGBT+ venues, but which one has come out top in the Google reviews?

    The best gay bars in Birmingham
    12019 / Pixabay

    There are about 12 LGBT+ bars and clubs in Birmingham with the majority of them located in the gay village area of the city, which is in the south-east region of the city. Many of them are dotted around the famous Essex Street – Birmingham’s answer to Manchester’s Canal Street or London’s Old Compton Road.

    One of the major critcisms that bars revcieved in Birmingham was overzealous security and bouncer staff. It might worth noting that many bars do not directly hire bouncers but employ outside security contractors.

    So here are the best and worse gay bars in Birmingham ranked worst to best by Google Map users.

    Eden 4.6 stars out of 72 reviews

    (C) GOOGLE MAPS

    Eden is located on Sherlock Street and has been voted the best bar by Google reviewers, however, it only has 72 reviews, unlike the Fox which has a whopping 224 reviews. However punters like this bar for its friendly staff and the happy hour. However, some say that the beer is a little bit pricey when Happy Hour ends. One reviewer wrote it was their favourite bar in Birmingham because “ a sense of community here and the owners talk to their customers and care” Another added, “My time in Eden was certainly eye-opening… As soon as I entered the door I felt welcomed, the service was incredible and oh so friendly”.

    The Fox 4.5 stars out of 224 reviews

    (C) GOOGLE MAPS

    The Fox is one of the most reviewed “LGBT Friendly” bars in Birmingham with a whopping 224 reviews and it is only just pipped by 0.1 by Eden Bar. The Fox is located on Lower Essex Street in the heart of the gay village. One customer called The Fox the best place in town for a night out, while another loved the “cheap beer and friendly people”. One reviewer added “The Fox is a fantastic little bar. The staff are always friendly and professional. The music is great and there is a good atmosphere at weekends” another showed appreciation for the signage saying “The best gay bar in town. So much love for the “No TERFs on our turf” sign. Truly, my spiritual home“.

    Equator 4.3 stars out of 60 reviews

    (C) GOOGLE MAPS

    Located on Hurst Street the Equator is another one of Birmingham’s high ranking gay bars and it serves food – apparently “the best breakfast”. One reviewer suggested “A good bar to start your evening out, in the gay village. A very good atmosphere to meet friends to talk in a pleasant atmosphere. Another added, “Great cosy little bar … friendly staff and customers just a shame it often closes on a Sat night between 11- 11:30.“

    The Village Inn 4.0 stars out of 245 reviews

    (C) GOOGLE MAPS

    The Village Inn seems to be the most popular of all the gay bars in Birmingham with the most Google reviews. It has 245 of them – 21 more than The Fox.  Reviewers like the music, but some thought the bar staff were a bit rude and there have been complaints about the security staff. A one-star reviewer revealed, “Horrible, security I was pushed at the entrance and not let in with no reason…” However, others think that the place is great and it serves “first-rate” food.

    Boltz 4.0 stars out of 48 reviews

    If you’re looking for something a little more on the Fetish side then make sure Boltz is on your “to do” list. Customers love the staff and the prices of the drinks. One reviewer added “Not everybody’s cup of tea but sometimes you need a strong coffee.”

    The Core Club 4.0 stars out of 5 reviews

    Another more fetishy place is The Core. It has the fewest reviews of any of the gay bars in Birmingham but does manage to achieve a 4-star status.

    The Fountain Inn 3.8 stars out of 27 reviews

    C) Google Maps

    If you’re looking for something a little more traditional look for The Fountain Inn on the edge of the gay village. It has only 27 reviews but manages 3.8 stars. It’s fairly informal and what you see is what you get. Reviewers loved the food.

    Sidewalk 3.7 stars out of 102 reviews

    The Sidewalk is a trendy loft-style haunt in the centre of the gay village in Birmingham and does 2 for 1 cocktails during the earlier hours. Reviews are generally favourable but does manage to reach 4 stars. One reviewer wrote, “From the minute you walk off the pavement, I was greeted with friendliness and a warm welcome, from door staff, professional and friendly, to bar staff, polite, smiling and engaging. Had a lovely gin and tonic, comfy seat in the leather armchairs, that gives the place a gentlemen’s club feel – gentile. Great ambience”. Another added, “Like the Village, this is perhaps one of the only venues on Hurst Street that I would recommend. It is far classier than The Missing Bar in my humble opinion and you do not have to be on guard 100% of your visit. It is clean, staff are and always have been approachable and friendly, you have a generous selection of cocktails and beverages at the tip of your fingers, and the food is far from shabby too.”

    One reviewer did mention that the service could be quite slow writing “So initially this bar seemed quiet and cosy. We stood at the bar for around 5 minutes trying to get served baring in mind there was only a couple of people at the bar but the barman was too busy chatting away.“

    Missing Bar 3.7 stars out of 63 reviews

    Missing Bar is a popular bar in Birmingham and it manages a fairly respectable 3.7 stars. However one of the latest reviewers complained that the place felt “dreary” and felt that the drinks were expensive. Reviewers also noted that it had a “great buzz”.

    Nightingale Club 3.6 stars out of 117 reviews

    Another very busy place in Birmingham is the Nightingale Club which received over 117 reviews and it manages a fairly respectable 3.6 stars, however, reviewers complained about security being heavy-handed and “vile”. Reviewers have noted that there is a great atmosphere, with one writing “Great atmosphere, and a fabulous mix of music and entertainment in the different rooms. My only criticism is they need more staff on the bar”

    Glamorous Birmingham 3.2 stars out of 58 reviews

    Glamorous Birmingham is a club experience in Birmingham with an average rating of 3.2 stars. Some reviewers found the place to be friendly, with lovely bar staff, others had complaints about the security and sticky floors.

    Bar Jester 2.7 stars out of 38 reviews

    Bar Jester is a little way out of the gay village area of Birmingham and is a little venue, however, it doesn’t do so well in the eyes of Google reviewers. Again reviewers highlight issues with security staff – with one calling them “unprofessional”.

    Fancy meeting and chatting with other guys from Birmingham? Join our social media site for free.

     

  • THEATRE REVIEW | The Girl On The Train – Birmingham

    THEATRE REVIEW | The Girl On The Train – Birmingham

    ★★★ | The Girl On The Train – National Tour / Birmingham

    Based on the best selling book by Paula Hawkins, The Girl On The Train stars Samantha Womack (Eastenders) as Rachel Watson, a troubled woman who romanticises about a couple she sees from her commuter train window every day, as she imagines the life she could have had. When one of the couple goes missing, she finds herself drawn into the mystery; but the gaps in her memory and her inability to separate out reality from her fantasy leads to her becoming a suspect in the woman’s disappearance.

    Samantha Womack is entertaining as Rachel and she is ably supported by a small but proficient cast. The set changes are fairly slick, the set is sufficiently detailed, and the lighting and sound design all compliment the mood of the piece.

    But for a thriller to work, it’s the story that counts, and over the course of the first act, the plot developed nicely and pulled in the audience, with a narrative which blurred fact and fiction, and imagination and reality; but as the second act unfolded the story became increasingly convoluted with a few too many red herrings and clumsy plot twists for it to maintain its momentum.

    Having not read the book or seen the film, I’m not sure whether fans of either will find enjoyment or disappointment in this play, but as a standalone piece of theatre, it is competently presented and entertaining enough, but not a show which I would imagine will go on to become a classic.

    The Girl on the Train is at The Alexandra, Birmingham until the 31st August 2019. Book tickets now

    This review was taken from a showing at Sheffield and does not account for any cast changes or changes to the direction since then.*