Iconic Latinx Queer Sanctuary El Convento Rico Shuts Doors
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
The abrupt closure of the 35-year-old College Street staple marks a significant loss for Toronto's 2SLGBTQ+ and Latin communities.
El Convento Rico, a cornerstone of Toronto's Latin and 2SLGBTQ+ nightlife, has abruptly closed its doors at 750 College Street after 35 years in business. The closure was announced via social media on Thursday, Oct. 1, with the owners stating the move was due to "circumstances beyond our control," according to reporting from BlogTO and CityNews Toronto.
Established in 1992 in Little Italy, the venue served as a cultural hub featuring a mix of Top 40 and Latin music. For over three decades, the club hosted a midnight drag show that provided a platform for dozens of local performers. Van Goth, a star of Canada’s Drag Race, told CityNews Toronto that the closure is "very sad," noting that she played some of her first gigs at the venue and highlighting the broader struggles facing queer nightlife since the pandemic.
The sudden shutdown resulted in the cancellation of events scheduled for Friday and Saturday. In a heartfelt statement, the owners described the space as a "refuge," a "home," and a "family" for those who visited. While the physical location is closing, the owners reassured patrons through an Instagram post that the closure is the end of a chapter rather than a permanent end, stating, "El Convento Rico will rise again," as reported by BlogTO.
CityNews Toronto reached out to the owner for further details regarding the closure but has not yet received a response.