The encore staging of Don Horn’s production, That’s No Lady, pays homage to Portland’s legendary drag queen, Darcelle, also known as Walter Cole, blending humor, glamour, and heartfelt moments.
One of the standout moments in the show occurs when Walter—played by Kevin C. Loomis—sings the touching original song, Every Show Is a Love Song.
Accompanied by Scott Bradner on ukulele, this sweet and memorable tune reflects Walter’s deep affection for his late partner, Roxy/Roc Neuhardt, portrayed by James Sharinghousen.
Walter and Roxy shared an incredible 47-year partnership, which included running the Darcelle XV Showplace until Roxy’s passing in 2017.
The lyrics of this poignant song, penned by Horn with additional contributions from Storm Large, underscore the enduring power of love: “Even when we’re all dead and gone, all of this love goes on and on.”
This sentiment resonates throughout the entirety of Horn’s play, which not only commemorates Darcelle’s legacy, following her death in 2023, but also celebrates the vibrant community that flourished at the nightclub, welcoming gay, trans, and straight patrons alike.
The performance opens with Walter reminiscing from a wheelchair about his prior life as a tavern owner on Skid Row, where he was a married man with two children.
However, as the narrative unfolds, he rises from his chair and transitions into vivid scenes from his illustrious career.
One memorable moment is when he meets the enchanting Tina Sandell/Jerry Ferris, played by George Anthony Ashurst, who livens up the stage with her spirited rendition of Sam Cooke’s “Shake.”
As part of the act, Tina dares Walter to try on a floral dress, leading to comical yet tender moments as he awkwardly dons the outfit and attempts to lip-sync to Barbra Streisand’s “People.”
Although initially clumsy, Walter soon finds his rhythm, allowing his movements to embody the music’s essence, showcasing a pivotal transformation that occurs even later in life.
Loomis delivers this journey of self-discovery with a captivating performance, illustrating Walter’s joy and empowerment experienced at the age of 37.
This recent iteration of That’s No Lady, directed by Horn, skillfully intertwines Walter’s personal narration with lively musical numbers, including a striking rendition of “Cell Block Tango” from Chicago, performed by Roxy, Tina, and a third performer, Jack Harvison, who delights the audience by assuming various roles throughout the production.
The choreography by Sara Mishler Martins enhances the show, particularly during the strong, synchronized performance of the three blond-wigged dancers who enthusiastically bang their portable jail bars on the stage floor.
At times, Walter’s extensive monologues can feel reminiscent of a lengthy history lesson, yet this narrative is rich and significant.
Hearing about his and Roxy’s unwavering support for the Queer community during the AIDS crisis is an important part of their story, further emphasized by projected footage of Roxy dancing.
In a delightful display, Loomis performs in full drag, channeling Darcelle with a white meringue wig, artful winged eye makeup, and dazzling earrings that grace her shoulders.
That’s No Lady effectively highlights Walter’s indomitable spirit and commitment to the show must go on.
As part of this production, a special “Catch a Rising Star” segment allows emerging talents to shine, including Abby GoLucky’s vibrant performance on June 7, where she dazzled in a rainbow costume and pink puffy hair, perfectly embodying the night’s theme of acceptance and individuality: “You be you, I’ll be me.”
In one poignant scene, Walter reflects on personal loss with the death of his mother and the emotional void left by his father.
This heartfelt moment prompts audiences to ponder Walter’s own experience as a workaholic father.
Moreover, audience members may become intrigued about Tina, who hailed from the Klamath Falls Tribe, and Roxy, who once shared his teenage experience of winning a Halloween costume contest in one of his mother’s dresses during an interview.
In essence, That’s No Lady not only entertains but leaves viewers with a thirst for deeper understanding and connection to the stories shared, making it a true celebration of love, legacy, and the arts.
image source from：https://www.orartswatch.org/remembering-darcelle-sweet-cheeky-fun/
