In the gay community, drag shows are a staple. Admired by many people who come to see female impersonators, these shows are traditionally held at gay clubs or gay-friendly establishments. Austin, Texas is a major cultural center with a large gay community, and it hosts drag shows on a weekly basis.
Charlie’s Austin is one of the main gay clubs in Austin. In service for over 15 years, the establishment offers a full service bar, club music and a weekly drag show that takes place on Sunday evenings. The drag show features a slew of impersonators who mimic famous celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Beyonce. In addition, the club offers appearances from well-known female impersonators such as native Austin performer Layla Larue.
The Rusty Spurs is a gay club in downtown Austin, near the University of Texas campus. The location offers a plethora of drag shows weekly, ranging from cabaret performances to the club’s Dames of Deception drag show, held at least three Saturdays a month. The nightly drag shows feature various performers; however, the Dames of Deception are comprised of well-known, local female impersonators such as Alix Courtnie and Simone Riviera. Dames of Deception is hosted by Saffire T, who was awarded the Best Drag Queen of Austin award in 2007 by the Austin Chronicle.
Opened in 2008, the Rusty Spurs prides itself in being a warm and open environment for all people, although it is geared toward a gay clientele. The Rusty Spurs features a full service bar, happy hours and open doors all nights of the week except Monday. The club is divided into two separate areas: one features a dance floor, while the other is a small theater venue for the drag shows.
Austin360.com voted Oilcan Harry’s the best gay club in Austin; weekly drag shows are on offer. Various events include '80s night, $1 drink specials, electro music nights and Latin music nights. La Cage Sundays is a drag event featuring a Las Vegas showgirl theme. Mimosas are $1 all night long starting at 10 p.m., as of 2010. Show times and performers during the weeknights vary.
