Colchester drag venue celebrates first full year of bringing colour, creativity and queer joy to the city

Colchester’s pioneering drag venue, The Dragonfly Lounge, has celebrated its first full year of bringing colour, creativity and queer joy to the city, marking the milestone with what organisers described as a night of “glitter, grit and community.” 

Located in Long Wyre Street, The Dragonfly Lounge was founded in March last year by Jo Palmer‑Tweed and Dan Deller‑Thompson, who set out to create a dedicated space for drag performance, LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusive nightlife in the heart of Colchester. Over the past twelve months, it has grown into a thriving hub for cabaret, spoken word, drag kings and queens, comedy, quizzes and community events - all framed by its distinctive atmosphere and welcoming ethos.

The club’s anniversary marked not just the passing of a year, but the solidification of a cultural landmark for the local LGBTQ+ community. Since opening, the venue has been celebrated for its personality‑driven approach and its commitment to providing a safe and affirming environment where creativity can flourish. Described as Colchester’s “home for drag, live music and community spirit,” The Dragonfly Lounge has helped transform the city’s nightlife, offering a dedicated performance venue unlike anything that existed locally before.

Audiences have embraced the venue for its eclectic programming - from high‑energy drag shows to musical‑theatre nights, dragaoke sessions, cabaret showcases and themed events. The Dragonfly Lounge has also expanded into food‑and‑entertainment offerings, including its popular afternoon tea experiences served with live drag performances and bottomless cocktails.

As part of its anniversary celebrations, the venue underscored the importance of maintaining queer spaces in regional towns and cities. With its growing popularity and strong community ties, The Dragonfly Lounge continues to stand as a testament to Colchester’s evolving cultural landscape - one that increasingly embraces diversity and creative expression. 

The club’s team say they’re looking ahead to another year of bold performances, new events and continued community building - ensuring that drag, cabaret and queer culture remain firmly at the centre of Colchester’s nightlife.