BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A new chapter is unfolding in Birmingham’s Five Points South neighborhood as Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria prepares to open this June. The venue, which will serve tacos by day and host drag performances by night, aims to breathe life into a space marked by tragedy—the site of a mass shooting that claimed four lives and injured 17 others last September.
The shooting at the former Hush Lounge left a deep scar on the community, highlighting issues of gun violence and safety in entertainment districts. Now, Opulence’s owners, Scott Charby and Wade Brooks, are determined to transform the location into a beacon of inclusivity and resilience. The opening coincides with Pride Month, underscoring its commitment to celebrating diversity.
Five Points South has long been a hub for nightlife and culture, but the September 2024 shooting shook its foundation. Police described the incident as targeted violence involving automatic weapons, leaving families devastated and the neighborhood searching for healing. The reopening of this venue as Opulence marks both a symbolic and practical step forward for the area.
The drag lounge promises to be more than just an entertainment spot—it’s a statement against discrimination and a celebration of individual liberty. Amid growing national debates over LGBTQ+ rights, Opulence represents Birmingham’s progressive spirit. Its dual identity as a taqueria and drag venue reflects an effort to unite people across backgrounds, fostering community in an era of division.
Safety remains a priority for the new owners, who are implementing stringent measures to ensure patrons feel secure. The venue’s transformation from tragedy to triumph serves as a reminder that communities can rebuild and thrive despite adversity.
Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria is set to open its doors in June, offering Birmingham residents not just tacos and dazzling performances but hope for a brighter future in Five Points South.