On 6 December, owners of the beloved spot, John Sizzle, Jonny Woo and Colin Rothbart, took to social media to announce the bittersweet news.
“It’s with much sadness that we shall be closing the doors of The Glory, as we know it, on 31st January 2024,” they explained.
“For us all, the staff, performers, DJs AND our much-valued customers, we know this is upsetting, but we have decided to relocate as our building is finally being redeveloped and we simply can’t cannot continue to operate as we’d like.
The trio went on to explain that, despite the heartbreaking news that the current venue will be closing, a new premises has been secured to continue a “brand-new venture.”
“After 9 years here, it would be devastating if this were a last goodbye, but we have the keys to a new space close by and this brand-new venture will open before spring,” the team continued.
“The good news is we still have 2 months of festive events and closing parties planned. So, get down to The Glory and bid farewell to this legendary venue which our staff, performers, DJ’s and of course, all of you, have helped create. Let the celebrations commence!”
Following the announcement, regulars flocked to the comment section to declare it the “end of an era”.
One person wrote: “Thank you so much for providing the space and platform for so many of us to explore, develop and connect as a community- literally wouldn’t be who or where I am today without The Glory and this venue. Here’s to a new chapter.”
Another added: “So glad this is just a pause and not goodbye.”
Newly crowned winner of Drag Race UK season 5 Ginger Johnson joined in the heartfelt responses and said: “People will be talking about the fabulousness of The Glory for many, many years to come – one for the Queer history books! Can’t wait to see what this new adventure brings!”
I can’t believe the glory is closing down 🙁 I only got to go once for Jonbers show but it was fr one of my favourite days of this year and it was my fave venue I’ve ever been to in London, many of my fave people do alot there so it’s v sad 😔
— Alannah ♡s Ginger (@AlannahRose2003) December 6, 2023