When I first moved to Toronto, I wanted to explore the food scene, take in the cultural attractions… and I wanted to meet guys. And coming from a smallish town, I wanted to have the classic, full-on experience of the gay nightclub. The loud, dance-able music, the brightly coloured drinks, the sea of v-neck t-shirts… Buddies in Bad Times beckoned.
Buddies is a theatre by day, putting on plays with queer themes. But to raise money for their endeavours, on Saturday nights, they throw open their doors to the boys of the city. The cavernous theatre space is perfect for a giant, sweaty dance party.
The music is top 40, mixed with some classic diva tracks (Queen Madonna and her ilk), and everything is meant to be danced to. Have one too many vodka tonics, and you may find yourself up on the stage, making out with some gorgeous boy next to a drag queen belting out a disco version of “Wrecking Ball.” Not that I’ve ever experienced such a thing myself… I’ve just heard about it from friends…
I have my qualms with the place- the line can be very long, the space can be crowded, the bar is a bit small, and really, this place is high camp- bordering on almost TOO cliché. But, hey, you’re only in town for so long, and if you embrace it, it can be pure fun. Put on your tight and bright outfit, and get Into the Groove, darling.
