Welcome back, The Apple Tree! Clerkenwell’s queer jewel joins an ever-growing list of LGBTQ+ venues that are thankfully reopening their doors to the community, following the Covid-19 lockdown. QX’s Jason Reid caught up with the venue’s co-owner, Lucy Fenton, to find out what lies ahead for them…
Hi Lucy! For those who’ve never been to The Apple Tree, how would you sum it up in a sentence?
An inclusive LGBTQ+/GSRD venue where everyone is welcome, as long they don’t behave like a dick.
What will the venue look like now and what changes have you implemented?
We’ve had a bit of a fresh coat of paint and a thorough cleaning. It’s going to feel roomier as we’ve spaced out the tables (for social distancing) and we’ve had to move the comfy sofa and chairs away. You’ll have a lot of elbow room and will have to learn the one-way system! We’ll have table service and some lovely familiar faces behind the bar as well as some wonderful new ones. Everyone has had training in the new system and knows about the guidelines. We won’t have the chalks in the toilets anymore either but feel free to graffiti the walls as usual if you bring your own chalks or chalk pens. Fleetwood Mac will still be on but very quietly!
Do you plan to have performances of any kind?
We’re looking into quizzes and bingo with some of our favourite folk but news on that to come.
Is the future of The Apple Tree secure, and what do you think that future holds?
We own the building so we’ve been much more fortunate in terms of not having to pay a landlord – just the bank! We’re planning a major refurbishment later on this year but hope to be able to keep the building open in some form while work is going on. We’re planning on adding a small, accessible cabaret space to the basement with all the bells and whistles. During lockdown, we also had time to focus more on our other projects, including Bohemia Media which is a new company to amplify marginalised voices in film, TV and performing arts. Our first film, Clemency, comes out over VOD this Friday (www.clemencythefilm.co.uk) – you can download at home to watch and support your local cinema or The Apple Tree itself.
What positives have you taken from lockdown?
We had time to do some of the stuff that never gets done when the building is running, such as filing. Not sure how much of a positive that is but very satisfying. It’s been nice to feel the sense of community around London as well, in terms of folk looking out for neighbours and seeing how supported the LGBTQ+ venues have been by their community.
The Apple Tree, 25 Mount Pleasant, London WC1X 0AE reopens on Wednesday 15th July.
