Bumhole Brunch | Gogo Bumhole, Adrian te Veluwe and The Burrow
Bumhole Brunch is Sunday mass done right.
On the first Sunday morning of every month at The Burrow in West End rising drag star (or drag gremlin as they’d like to call themself) GoGo Bumhole brings the drag brunch back its underground, community roots. Backed by a cavalcade of Meanjin’s finest cabaret performers, it’s an infectious morning of drinks, feasting, entertainment and dare I say community that’s bound to become a sold-out staple for those in the know. Trust me, one taste of Bumhole (and those mimosas) and you’re going to be hooked.
July’s Bumhole Brunch was the third and already there was a line of eager punters waiting outside for their first sip of both the bottomless mimosas and the chaos that only Gogo Bumhole can bring. It was a younger, more diverse, and probably queerer crowd than the other drag brunches in town. The crowd felt far warmer than the Winter’s morning that we’d overcome to be there. As the clock hit 10am, the masses filed into their new place of worship, snapping up the bountiful cocktails, pouring over the brunch menu and finding a space in the warm interior of The Burrow’s lower level. Many of the punters were already familiar with each other, but all shared smiles and chats as the venue quickly filled.
Word has already spread about this new Sunday morning institution, and the July slot was almost sold out. Sure, there aren’t many other lively events on a Sunday in Meanjin, but there was a buzz in the air and everyone was excited for what was to come.
The brainchild of The Burrow’s Adrian te Veluwe and Gogo Bumhole, Bumhole Brunch was created to give punters, “mimosas for days and the most dazzling and titillating live entertainment you've ever experienced before lunch.” And who better to host this queer little bubble of chaos than our very own drag legend, Gogo Bumhole? If you haven’t managed to catch Gogo yet, they’ve hit the scene with their unique mix of clown, body positivity and ode to all things femme, flavoured with a touch of Betty Grumble goodness. They have become one of the darlings of the scene, this year taking out Runner-up in Fluffy’s annual drag competition, Starlet, and now hosting their own drag brunch.
Image: Lindsay
Like a maestro conducting an orchestra, Gogo runs the brunch effortlessly, ensuring each guest feels like a member of the Bumhole family. On top of giving their own introductions, high-energy lip syncs, infectious charm and chaotic commetary, they also drew from the drama classes of their youth to bring the audience together with a range of theatre games. Possibly spurred on by at least three mimosas each, the punters launched into human sculptures in the effort to please out benevolent host. We all craved their approval as we created oysters, slides, cabinets and wearable sweaters. After tangling together, our guards were completely destroyed, and strangers became besties ready to revel in the entertainment to come.
On top of the fabulous exploits of Mx Bumhole, each month the brunch showcases a rotating roster of our best local talent. Art clown Micah Rustichelli and organiser Adrian te Veluwe supported Gogo Bumhole for July. Micah is another rising star of the local scene, having recently taken the title of alt’s altimate.SHOWDOWN Champion of Meanjin. We were given new approaches to portraiture and a unique ode to the hanky code. I won’t say more, because all of Micah’s acts defy expectations are better left unspoiled. Adrian gave us some Lipsynch gold to Noga Erez’s ‘End of the Road, before enticing punters to take the stage themselves. Adrian has also created Lipsync Party on top of Bumhole Brunch, and shows that lipsyncing isn’t just for the drag community.
The beauty of Bumhole Brunch lies not only in the bountiful beverages on offer, the tasty food and the stellar performances, but also in the community it fosters and its celebration of the arts’ scene of Meanjin. Gogo Bumhole's warmth and charm create an inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed and celebrated. Whether you're attending with friends, or as a solo adventurer, you'll find yourself embraced by the infectious energy and your fellow punters. And on a Sunday morning none the less.
Image: Lindsay
Led by one of our best drag entertainers and drawing from performers you need to see, this monthly queer extravaganza is fast becoming a staple and preferred place of worship for Meanjin’s arts scene. It’s the perfect way to start your art each month, so grab your loved ones, leave your inhibitions at the door, get your fill of mimosas and indulge in the magic of Bumhole Brunch. And get your tickets early, because it’s guaranteed to sell out.
Bumhole Brunch takes over The Burrow, West End on the first Sunday of the month from 10am - 12pm. Entrance includes bottomless mimosas. A limited brunch menu is available for purchase.
