The capital’s first permanent, Black-owned LGBTQ+ venue since the 70s just opened in Hackney Wick – and it’s celebrating Halloween 365 days a year
London’s Hackney Wick is known mostly for its sparse, industrial setting, hipster breweries and large warehouse community. In recent years, it’s become the go-to destination for after-parties too, known for its nightlife and home to some of the capital’s best rave venues: Number 90, Colour Factory, The Yard (RIP) and Fabwick, east London’s answer to Fabric.
For several years, it was the hub of the the city’s largest LGBTQ+ rave, Body Movements, as well as popular club nights such as Pxssy Palace and the more recent, much-hyped Uhaul Dyke raves. But while Hackney Wick regularly provides one-off events for the LGBTQ+ community, none of its permanent venues are specifically queer. That was, until last week, when the space above Fabwick was transformed into Coven, London’s latest permanent queer space.
Though its name might sound a little spooky, you don’t have to be a member of the occult to attend Coven (though don’t be surprised by the glossy black walls, blood red floors and tarot readings). Founded by actor Matthew Jacobs Morgan, Coven ventures beyond just nightlife, promising exhibitions, gigs, performance art and a wellness programme to support those who need it. There’s even a memorial to Sophie, complete with marble(ish) bust.
The venue also happens to be London’s first black-owned queer venue since Pearl Alcock’s infamous shebeen in the 70s. It’s open now, and with a busy summer programme ahead, we caught up with Jacobs Morgan to learn how we too can become a member of this particular Coven.
Who is Coven for?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: Queers who wear black.
When and why did you decide to start it?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: It’s been my dream for years to open a queer space, but like so many, I assumed it would only happen if I suddenly became rich! In a mad twist of fate, after hosting a few parties at the venue, the owners saw how electric the queer community was and offered me the upstairs space. Within a day of signing the contract, I was in there painting and building.
For someone who’s never been, what should they expect?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: So my gorgeous friend Hannah Jones, the fabulous actress from What It Feels Like For A Girl, recently said something which defined the space perfectly: ‘It’s not a witch-themed bar, it’s a place witches would go.’ But above all else, people should expect an environment which is both loving and cunty – we shouldn’t have to choose.
It’s not a witch-themed bar, it’s a place witches would go
Why is a space like Coven important?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: Because the world is a bit clapped right now. Queer joy has and will always be the remedy to hatred, bigotry and political injustice. When I look to some of the worst times in this past century, the queer community danced in the face of tragedy, and I hope that we at Coven can create a place of safety, love and support, away from the darkness of outside.
How does Coven separate itself from other LGBTQ+ venues in London?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: For starters, we’re the first black-owned queer bar in London since Pearl Alcock’s shebeen in the 70s. I only mention this because I think there’s something to being intersectional, which makes you more sensitive to the ways a space can make us feel welcome and how it might not.
We have a diverse team, who are all bringing their different backgrounds and experiences into the fabric of our community. We also have the freedom to be experimental. We want to bring back the grassroots culture, which is starting to wane in the face of the cost of living crisis, rapid gentrification, and the fatigue which comes with trying to survive in London.
What makes Hackney Wick the ideal location?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: It’s an area historically shaped by artists, DIY culture and radical expression, but like so many cultural enclaves, it’s also facing rapid gentrification, pricing out the very communities who built its reputation. This is the first time there has been a permanent queer venue in Hackney Wick, which is mad! It’s filled with some of the most wonderfully creative queers, and as a community we are constantly putting on events in spaces in the area.
Who’s a celebrity you’d love to host or have perform at Coven?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: I need to get Gaga to have her Mayhem post-show party here. Our space is so aligned with her creative ethos – I think she’s essentially the head witch of the world.
Can you describe the music in three words?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: Eclectic, sweaty and ass-shaking.
What have you got coming up that you’re excited about this summer?
Matthew Jacobs Morgan: We’re hosting an Alternative Pride party next Saturday, July 5. We’re having the first edition of our club night, VIXEN, with all doll DJs – the first of which will be curated by Danielle James. Plus, we’re curating our Wellness Sundays, which will entail life drawing, nude yoga, group therapy and a sober evening rave to dance the weekend to a close.
Learn more about Coven here