Liverpool's Pride Quarter nightclub donates profits to charity in tribute to The Vivienne
A nightclub is honouring the late drag performer The Vivienne by donating all of its profits from an event to a charity close to her heart.
OMG nightclub on Victoria Street, Liverpool, announced that funds raised during the event on 6 January will go to Sahir House, a Liverpool-based LGBT+ charity that provides support to those living with or affected by HIV.
The gesture comes in the wake of the tragic death of James Lee Williams, known to millions as The Vivienne, the first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
The news of The Vivienne’s passing was shared by her publicist, Simon Jones, who posted a heartfelt statement on Instagram over the weekend.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne – has passed this weekend,” Jones wrote.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle."
He requested privacy for the family as they process their loss, adding: “They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.”
In response to the news, OMG released a statement, addressing the challenge of deciding whether to open or close following such a loss. “Our queens are the heart and soul of our community here in Liverpool,” the statement read.
“Tonight, we will open, and all profit will be donated to The Vivienne’s favourite charity, Sahir House.
"Join us tonight in making a difference for a cause close to The Vivienne’s heart."
OMG also expressed solidarity with Liverpool’s Superstar Boudoir, another venue The Vivienne often frequented, and extended support to performers grieving the loss.
The Vivienne, who was a proud ambassador for Sahir House, used her platform to advocate for the charity’s mission.
In her final Instagram post, shared just four days before her death, she urged fans to support the organization, writing: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse, Liverpool's oldest LGBT+ charity!!!
"The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month – you won’t miss it.”
Sahir House also released a moving tribute, celebrating The Vivienne’s enduring impact on the LGBT+ community.
“You carried Liverpool’s spirit with pride, lighting up the world with your humour, heart, and courage,” the charity wrote. “You stood tall for our community and gave so many hope just by being unapologetically you.
"You’ve left an indelible mark, and we’ll never forget the joy and strength you brought to so many."