Overview
- The Pearl, which announced Saturday it would close at the end of April, saw a GoFundMe top $83,296 by Sunday before owners paused donations for bank verification.
- Owners said the money will cover back rent and staff payroll, and they pledged clear updates once the funds are deposited.
- Co-owner Ashlee Cassity said expenses ballooned after relocating to the larger, older Mercury Cafe building and absorbing its events, staff, kitchen, and maintenance.
- The bar reports payroll is about $11,000 per week, a burn rate that points to a short-term reprieve rather than a lasting fix.
- The Pearl is widely described as Denver’s sole lesbian bar, and a boost from local drag performer Nini Coco helped rally donors who view the space as vital for queer, trans, and BIPOC communities.