and Karaoke, an LGBTQ+ venue in , has ceased trading after five years, with founder Jade Phoenix promising a possible return.

The bar, based at 119 Hampstead Road, announced its closure on Friday (9 October), with Phoenix saying she was sharing the news “with a heavy heart”.

When did Zodiac Bar and Karaoke open?

Zodiac opened in November 2021, run by Phoenix and her partner David Hoskins. Its arrival was particularly significant for the area, with the venue described at the time as Camden’s first LGBTQ+ venue in more than three years, following the closure of Her Upstairs in 2018.

The venue grew out of LGBTQ+ events organised by the pair in Archway and Tufnell Park, before they raised £300,000 to establish a permanent bar and club on Hampstead Road.

Zodiac featured a cocktail bar alongside a basement club, hosting drag performances, karaoke, cabaret, live music, quizzes and club nights. Its programme also gave local performers a platform, with events designed to bring people together across the LGBTQ+ community.

What did Zodiac Bar’s founder say about the closure?

In her closure statement, Phoenix said, “I founded Zodiac because I wanted a happy, positive family vibe place and an all inclusive space.

“As a trans-founded and run venue, I wanted to bring people together from across the LGBTQ+ community and allies.”

She added that she was proud of the venue’s reputation as a karaoke destination, as well as the friendships and performances that had taken place there.

“At its home at 119 Hampstead Road, Zodiac has always sought to offer a warm welcome, a platform for performers and a place where friendships could grow,” Phoenix said.

“I recognise that this will be sad news for many” – Jade Phoenix on Zodiac Bar and Karaoke’s closure

She thanked the customers, staff, performers, DJs, hosts, promoters and community partners who had supported the venue over the past five years.

“I recognise that this will be sad news for many who found friendship and a sense of belonging at Zodiac,” she added.

However, Phoenix suggested the closure would not be the final chapter.

“I, Lady Phoenix will rise back from the ashes,” she said. “The Zodiac era may be over, but I intend to return stronger and mightier than before, so watch this space.”

Phoenix did not provide further details about her plans or give a reason for the closure.