GradzCulture 😉

Divine Entertainment at DIVINE Bar

by Neele Völker

I remember when I first went to DIVINE Bar two years ago, I was mesmerized by the energy of the place — the staff, the queens, the guests; everyone was so nice and welcoming. We grabbed a table and were instantly pulled into a conversation with our neighbors; I had a lovely chat with one of the barkeepers about her stunning eyeshadow. The atmosphere was great even before the first act of the night started. We came for the show and stayed because the vibes were just immaculate. As someone who came out 3 years after graduating high school, I often felt like I did not belong in queer spaces, and I was honestly quite anxious before my first visit, but fortunately, DIVINE Bar is a place open to everyone, an attitude that is visible throughout the bar's entirety. 

DIVINE Bar, named after the 1980s drag icon Divine, reopened this year in April after a temporary renovation and restructuring period. The time was used to revamp the space and create an even stronger concept, going further than drinks and drag on Fridays and Saturdays. The bar is now owned by Felicitas Püttmann, Dennis Hülsmann and Ms Foxy Bless. Ms Foxy Bless has been part of DIVINE since its beginnings two years ago, as head of the creative concept. When the future of the bar’s existence was in question decided that DIVINE is too valuable and too much of an achievement to not be preserved.

DIVINE Bar is at Viehofer Str. 39, right here in the center of Essen, making it easily accessible via subway or a short walk, and is therefore the perfect space for late nights with friends. It takes only 15 min to get there from R12 (what’s better after long day of being an academic weapon than quality time with friends in an amazing atmosphere?). They even added a beer garden for warmer days. Alternatively, you can go to one of their other more chill events like poetry slams, Bingo, or just a cup of coffee and (vegan) cake in the afternoon. After all, supporting a small business just tastes better. During wine tastings with sommelier Feli, the focus is exclusively on wines from queer winemakers or women-led wineries, which can also be purchased on-site (I highly recommend the Badisch Rotgold by Betina Schuhmann). Open Wednesday- Saturday, DIVINE has an abundance of fun activities to participate in.

They also support queens who are just starting out, by hosting an open stage drag show, with no entrance fee (but tipping is encouraged as it benefits the queens 100%). Giving baby queens a way to shine without feeling pressured to compete with regular performers like Merrie Genesis, or Ms. Foxy Bless herself as well as guest performers like The Only Naomy. 
Have you always wanted to lip sync on a stage? This is your chance! LipSync4YourShot gives you the opportunity to perform a song of your choice, in hopes to win applause, glory and of course a free shot. They also started hosting drag brunches every first Sunday of the month for people who love a show but also a sensible bedtime. But it is best to check on their Instagram (@divine.essen) for the latest highlights.

Ms. Foxy Bless, owner and lady of the house, was kindly enough to sit down with me to talk more about the new concept and aspirations as part of the Nord Viertel and its many local businesses. One aspect that was the most present during our conversation was the ambition for DIVINE Bar to be a place that nurtures and uplifts communal values. From being an integral part of the Nord Viertel and having a close relationship with the other shop owners to supporting queer, women-owned wineries. Foxy explains further that DIVINE is meant to be vital and communal rather than anonymous and sterile. DIVINE Bar is more than just a nightlife spot; it is a cultural hub in the creative district of the Nord Viertel. 

I remember when I told some friends about my first visit to DIVINE that it is the perfect mix of glitz, glamour and the honesty, and straightforwardness of the Ruhrgebiet. You just have to love it. DIVINE Bar stands for openness, diversity, and community as a safe, welcoming place for the LGBTQIA+ community and everyone who appreciates a great atmosphere, creative shows, and socializing. Ms. Foxy pointed out that the best thing that could happen is someone coming for a nice drink and staying for the show, making art and culture accessible instead of putting it on a pedestal and behind bars.

Talking about art, the bar itself has been renovated but kept the original pieces by Maurizio Onano, a local artist, depicting the process of transformation from artist to drag queen throughout. But the walls and ceiling are now a blush pink, nicely contrasting with the green velvet and dark wood of the furniture. Foxy remarked that it was fun to redecorate the place like she was in a Schöner Wohnen campaign. But she repeatedly emphasises the importance of Felicitas Püttmann and Dennis Hülsmann because, as much fun as creative freedom is, it is essential to have a strong team to do the heavy lifting of running a business.
Queer spaces are needed more than ever. 

With the rise of conservative and fascist views, we are in desperate need of queer-owned spaces that create joy and a place to feel welcome. The DIVINE Bar is the perfect place for both. DIVINE Bar is a visible queer space but also open, receptive, connected to the place, the neighbourhood, and the people who want to pay it a visit, no matter who you are. You do not need to know anything or be anything in particular. You just have to show up, bring some time and respect for the other patrons. When asked directly why people should come to the DIVINE BAR Ms. Foxy Bless puts it simple: “Weil wir geil sind” and I could not agree more.