'The Red Rattler Is At Risk': Beloved Sydney Venue Turns To Punters For Support

Legendary Marrickville arts and music venue The Red Rattler Theatre is continuing to ask for community support amid the ongoing impact of the pandemic and inflation.

Established in 2009 the Rat, as it is affectionately known, is the creation of a collective dream of five local queer artists, namely Teresa Avila, Patsy Black, Annette Moore, Meredith Williams and Penelope Benton, who wanted to create a legal warehouse venue to showcase alternative Sydney arts, performance and grassroots activism.

In order to support ongoing costs, the group launched a fundraiser titled Count For The Rat, in which punters were encouraged to reach into their pockets before the end of the financial year to support the beloved Sydney venue - though it seems the fundraiser is still currently running until July 7.

The fundraising page reads: "The Red Rat Rattler Theatre is an important part of the local community and has been providing entertainment and joy to its audience for many years. As the end of the financial year approaches, we invite you to join us in supporting this beloved theatre by donating through Chuffed."

"Your generous contribution will help ensure that the theatre can continue to provide a platform for creativity, art, and culture for years to come."

It continued, "Like many venues, The Rat continues to be impacted by the pandemic and inflation, which has led to a significant decline in attendees as well as revenue. The very heart of The Red Rattler is at risk, leaving a void in our community that cannot be easily filled. That is why we are turning to you, our broad community, for support." 

At the time of writing, The Rat has secured over $8000 towards its $20,000 donation goal.

On June 25, Greens Member for Newtown Jenny Leong also took to social media to call on the public to support the iconic venue.

"The Red Rattler Theatre in Marrickville contributes so much to the amazing Inner West community, as a vibrant hub for queerness, diversity and inclusion," Leong said in a post to Facebook on June 25.

"As an entirely community-owned and run venue, The Rat - like many in our community - has been especially hard hit by the pandemic and increasing cost of living pressures."

"If you're in a position to do so, chip into their 'Count For The Rat' fundraiser to keep the space operating as a sanctuary for the community, and a platform for local artists," she said before linking the fundraiser, adding, "Long live The Rat and all our vital community spaces!"

You can donate to The Red Rattler Theatre here.

Purple Sneakers has reached out to The Rattler Theatre for comment.