In a notable shift within Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community, Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar has been rebranded as 254, following its sale and a change in management. This transition marks a significant moment for the venue and the neighborhood, especially given the history of the space, which previously housed the controversial iCandy Nightclub.

The new owners of Tabu, now operating under the name “254,” are Stephen Carlino and his business partner Randal Mrazik. They also own other local LGBTQ+ establishments, including Tavern on Camac and U Bar.

iCandy was a well-known Gayborhood venue but became infamous in 2016 after its owner, Darryl DePiano, was caught on video using a racial slur to describe Black patrons. This sparked outrage, leading to boycotts, protests, and a significant decline in business. Although DePiano issued a public apology, the damage to the nightclub’s reputation was long-lasting. Activist groups, including the Black and Brown Workers Collective, organized demonstrations, calling attention to systemic racism in Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ spaces. Despite efforts to rehabilitate the venue’s image, the stigma remained, making iCandy a symbol of racial discrimination within the community.

Tabu, which had been a progressive, inclusive sports bar and event space, eventually took over the iCandy building, seeking to expand its operations. The goal was to create a more expansive and inclusive environment, taking advantage of iCandy’s larger, multilevel space. With the move, Tabu management hoped to reshape the venue into a place where all feel welcome, particularly after outgrowing their original location. However, the change of hands did not come without its challenges.

In late 2023, Tabu, now known as 245, faced a new controversy involving the Gaza-Palestine conflict. A Palestinian burlesque performer, Leila Delicious, was censored after attempting to incorporate political messaging related to the Israel-Palestine situation in her performance. The management of Tabu prohibited her from displaying a sign calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, sparking outrage among performers and the community. The initial statement from Tabu’s management accused the performer of promoting antisemitism, which ignited further protests from both local drag performers and activists. Many performers, including prominent figures like Eric Jaffe and Bev, criticized the venue’s stance, asserting that queer spaces are inherently political and should allow expressions of solidarity with oppressed groups.

Following these events, Tabu issued an apology, acknowledging that their initial reaction may have been misguided and expressing a desire for constructive dialogue with the affected performer and community. Despite the apology, many in the community continue to express dissatisfaction, with some performers vowing not to return to the venue.

The journey of 254—from its history as iCandy, its controversial moments, and now its rebranding—reflects the complexities of running LGBTQ+ venues in today’s political and social climate. With its expanded space and renewed focus on inclusivity, 254aims to forge ahead, while acknowledging the need for constant dialogue and growth within the community.