The Backlot, one of Calgary’s oldest gay-owned and operated bars, has launched a GoFundMe to secure a new space.
In July 2024, The Backlot was forced to close its longstanding location at 209 10th Avenue SW due to the demolition of the building after operating in the space for 28 years.
Since its opening, the “West Hollywood”-style bar has been a welcoming space for Calgary’s 2SLGBTQIA+, hosting karaoke, drag shows, and live music.
In the GoFundMe, Mark Campbell, owner of The Backlot, said the bar had remained closed amid pandemic restrictions and used government loans to renovate before reopening.
However, Campbell was later notified by his landlords that The Backlot would have to vacate the space due to the demolition of the building.
He launched the fundraiser to secure a potential new home for the bar and to help pay off the loans.
“Five and a half months later I have a potential new home for the ‘Cheers of the Gay Community in Calgary,’ and greatly need funding to help pay for the government loan I still owe for, as well as start up costs for The Backlot Evolution Bar,” he added.
The GoFundMe campaign has a target of $9,000 and has a short way to go to meet this target. At the time of publication, the fundraiser had reached $8,925.
Hopefully, Calgarians will soon see a new evolution of The Backlot back on the scene.
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