Melbourne's best drag shows and queer-friendly venues

From burlesque life drawing to campy cabaret and LGBTQIA+ friendly bars. Start your engines for these fierce events and inclusive venues. 

Drag ‘N’ Draw at Ferdydurke

Like the Polish novel it was named after, Ferdydurke is an exploration of identity and proudly non-conformist. If you’re feeling creative, this hidden laneway haunt is now hosting drag queen drawing classes. Head up to the loft bar, settle in with a complimentary bev and try your hand at capturing luxe couture looks. There’s a rotating line-up of queens, including local Drag Race alumni Aubrey Haive and Gabriella LaBucci. Expect over-the-top costumes and equally over-the-top hostesses. Keep an eye on Ferdydurke's socials for future Drag and Draw dates.

Butterfly Club 

A cosy temple to all things camp and kitsch, The Butterfly Club features a revolving door of cabaret, comedy, drag, burlesque and more. The queer-friendly club hosts multiple shows every night, with a focus on emerging acts. Catch a rowdy good-time cabaret show. Or join burlesque life drawing at the weekly salon and get well-acquainted with feathers, fishnets and all things glam.

Midsumma Festival

Midsumma Festival returns this summer for another sparkle-loaded celebration of all things queer and fabulous. The lineup is stacked with more than 200 events, featuring a diverse mix of LGBTIQ+ artists and performers. Kick things off in the Alexander Gardens at Midsumma Carnival, a massive free outdoor festival. Catch local and international artists across three stages. Explore pop-up bars and market stalls, and boogie under the stars until late.

Club Voltaire

Unique, intimate and grungy – who doesn’t want a night out like that every once in a while? Find all three things combined at Club Voltaire. A quaint and quirky theatre and performing arts space in Raglan Street, North Melbourne. Check out weekly events like stand-up comedy and see Melbourne’s emerging cabaret and burlesque talent. This underground haunt favours the most original, offbeat and edgy shows, so you’re bound to see something memorable. 

Speakeasy Theatre 

Gather some friends for a night of vintage vibes at Speakeasy Theatre. The Vaudeville Revue program features up to 15 artists per night, from jazz acts to stand-up comedy, dance and burlesque. Keep an eye out for tributes to the iconic Dolly Parton and jazz divas like Nina Simone and Billie Holiday. Or head along to one of the dozens of performances they have on every month.