Backstage in Detroit during the 80s was more than just a restaurant with booze; it was an experience. Comparing it to an Eastside spot, think of Pinkey’s, but with a twist. While Pinkey’s might have edged it out in food and live music, Backstage attracted a crowd that was simply more… interesting. It wasn’t your typical gay bar, though it leaned that way nominally. Crucially, unlike some spots, Backstage played by the rules, closing at a legitimate hour, distinguishing itself as a late-night restaurant rather than an after-hours bar.
Located on Woodward Avenue, north of 7 Mile, Backstage occupied a quirky spot, almost in the no-man’s land between the gay bars and clubs clustered further south on Woodward and those up on 8 Mile. The décor was… unique. Imagine a bizarre blend of Elias Brothers diner aesthetics colliding with a 70s fern bar, all topped off with a Broadway theme. Yes, really. The menu was equally eclectic and surprisingly pricey, featuring everything from corned beef sandwiches to prime rib, pasta, massive salads, and decadent desserts. It probably did a decent pre-theater and date night business, but the real draw of Backstage was its late-night scene.
Late at night, Backstage became a melting pot, drawing the most diverse cross-section of metro Detroit you could imagine. On any given night, you might find older black church ladies, Detroit police honchos, middle-aged folks (both black and white), city VIPs, older men with younger companions (discreetly, of course), young and older gay men (closeted and out), hipsters, bar-hoppers, and even underage kids out way past curfew. Backstage seemed to stay open forever, a reliable spot even after Jimmie’s crowd thinned out on a random weeknight.
Later, Backstage relocated and reopened in Royal Oak. However, in the move to Royal Oak, something was lost. The magic that made the original Backstage so special just didn’t quite translate. While Royal Oak is now known for its vibrant nightlife and dance club scene, the unique, unpredictable charm of Backstage in its original Detroit location remains a singular memory for those who experienced it. Perhaps the spirit of Backstage, with its diverse crowd and anything-can-happen vibe, subtly paved the way for the inclusive and energetic atmosphere found in Royal Oak dance clubs today.
