A new docu-reality series follows the daily life of Club Cumming, the New York City bar owned by actor Alan Cumming. The six-episode program, produced by the team behind a popular drag competition franchise, is now available to stream.
The series spotlights the venue’s staff, including host and performer Daphne Always. Always has worked at the location since its earlier incarnation as a different East Village bar.
Club Cumming opened in September 2017 after a renovation of the former space. Always remained on staff through the transition and gradually shifted from drag performance to live musical acts.
Always described the environment as uniquely supportive. She noted that the bar attracts highly talented performers but maintains a culture free of conflict and focused on celebration.
For Always, the bar became a space to explore her identity as a trans woman. She changed her stage name from Daphne Sometimes to Daphne Always as her performance style evolved toward original music.
Cumming appears throughout the series alongside his employees. Always praised him as an unassuming, kind, and engaging host who fosters a welcoming atmosphere at the bar.
The show arrives amid heightened scrutiny and hostility toward queer communities. Always acknowledged that fear occasionally affects those who work and gather at the venue.
She recalled a conversation with a security guard who expressed concern about being the last line of defense for patrons. The club has largely avoided serious incidents, though one neighbor unsuccessfully challenged its cabaret license.
A central storyline in the first episode involves Always considering a move to Reykjavik, Iceland. She currently divides her time between performing and tutoring Latin, which she says keeps her grounded.
Always will host a Pride stage show in Reykjavik in the coming weeks. Whether she permanently relocates remains unresolved in the series, leaving viewers to watch for the outcome.
