Franks & Queens: Darcelle XV's 4th of July Barbecue

Tuesday, 06 July 2010 16:26 | Written by Byron

Teasing Trio: Walter Cole/Darcelle, Sharon Knorr and Kevin Cook/Poison Waters

GOD BLESS DARCELLE: As is his annual tradition, on the 4th of July, Walter Cole, aka Darcelle XV, swings opens the doors of the expansive Northeast mansion/castle/museum he shares with his partner, Roxy LaRoy, for a "little community barbecue."

And my what a weenie roast it was.

First off, if you've never been to their home, it's a little like stepping into a Disney movie as envisioned by Louis Malle. There is a bit of a Golden Girls meets Golden Child vibe, plus they seem to own every plate Marilyn Monroe has ever appeared on. And over-the-top Auntie Mame touches are everywhere. It really is a testament to Darcelle's rich history in Portland, and her status as a living local legend. If this doesn't become a museum, well...Darcelle still has plenty of spit and vinegar in his step. And that was evident at this barbecue that attracted all the chorus "girls" from Darcelle's long-running show at his Old Town club as well as every queen out of drag in town (they are so hard to recognize "untucked"). Others who joined the packed crowd on the back deck included local tv sweethearts Helen Raptis, Brenda Braxton, and a sweet pink-haired improv singer who recently got booted off America's Got Talent.