OFM Breaking News: October Issue Edition

Lucid Closes After Nearly Two Years in Business

As the sun sets over the Rocky Mountains, voices singing “Seasons of Love” are carried out the open, second-story windows and down to the intersection of Colfax Avenue and Pearl Street. A group of bar regulars, past and current employees, and friends of Lucid’s owner, Sage, gathered in the small bar as they celebrated and mourned the loss of this communal space. 

Nestled just a block away from both X Bar and Charlie’s, the disco bar above Kyu Ramen provided, at times, a more intimate setting to grab a drink with friends and watch incredible drag performances. In late August, much to the dismay of staff and community members, Lucid posted on all social media that it close its doors on August 21 after nearly two years of operation.  

“What a journey this has been. We are saddened to have to close our door for now. We very much plan on a comeback tour. Unfortunately, a separation with previous ownership was inevitable. LUCID will be celebrating our final day this evening. Sunday 8.21.22 at 5 pm. Thank you all for your phenomenal support,” the social media post reads.

This is a seemingly abrupt end to a space that provided a home for many. Lucid’s almost-nightly shows featured some of Denver’s most entertaining drag, including but not limited to Simon Paul, Patricia Del Rosario, and Samora Kash. 

The mood at Lucid on its final night was not just one of sadness but of celebration, reflection, and community. Lucid was host to not only countless drag shows but fundraisers for critical organizations, queer speed dating, and even this year’s Pridefest Main Stage auditions. 

For its last night open, patrons of Lucid spent it much like they’d spend any night at Lucid: surrounded by good people, watching fantastic drag. Those wishing to say goodbye to the venue took to the floor for one last time, pouring their emotions into heartfelt performances. 

“Wherever you are in your life, wherever you are in your journey, whatever you want to do in your career, go forth and do that. Don’t let this moment define what ends here. What truly begins is what happens tomorrow morning when the doors are closed,” says Cameron Rogers, aka Samora Kash, as he hosted the venue’s last drag show.

“Tomorrow is your chance to continue doing drag, continue raising money for nonprofit organizations, to continue speaking up on Black lives, to continue speaking up on Black trans lives, to continue speaking up on women’s bodies,” Rogers says. “Because what was accomplished here wasn’t just done here.”

From speaking to many of the regulars and staff both past and present, one thing was made clear: Lucid was founded on a policy of tolerance and acceptance, of love for community, and a desire to give back. And as Lucid closes its doors, the ripple effects of its acting principles can still be felt throughout the community and in the lives of those lucky enough to have climbed those stairs.