Darcelle XV
Country Western · Portland, OR
About
The air crackles with sequins and laughter at Darcelle XV, a Portland institution since 1967. This cabaret is the oldest continuously running drag show venue in the U.S., headlined by Darcelle herself—a Guinness World Record holder as the oldest working female impersonator. Expect a Vegas-style revue with burlesque, male strippers on weekends, and impersonations of icons like Whitney Houston and Elton John. The crowd skews mixed: gay, straight, bachelorette parties, and seasoned regulars.
Shows run select nights—check the schedule for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday matinees. The space is intimate; you'll be close to the stage, but note the center support beam that some guests find annoying. Reservations are recommended. Afterward, walk next door to CC Slaughters, another longtime gay bar.
Located in downtown Portland, this venue is surrounded by other nightlife spots and easy to reach by transit.
Features
- ✓Guinness World Record holder Darcelle performs live
- ✓Impersonations of Prince, Liza Minnelli, and more
- ✓Full bar with free WiFi and reservations
- ✓Bachelorette party favorite with mixed crowd
- ✓Intimate seating near the stage
Good for
Practical
Best nights: Thu, Fri, Sat
What people say
Rated from 161 reviews. 76 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“I love this place”
Always fun, with good drinks and a beautiful lady.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“This is my favorite”
This is my mom's favorite spot. When I turned 21 she brought me here, and I had the best night ever. The drag performances are amazing, especially the Elton John impersonation. Seriously, just go check it out. Great for bachelorette parties. Also, CCs is right next door.
A guest · Over a year ago
“Great show - small stage”
Visited on a long weekend and was squished against the wall, sitting sideways. It was so cramped that the woman next to us had her breast pop out. Some performers were just having fun while others lip-synced as if they were actually singing. Overall a wonderful show. It could really take off with a better facility. The big support beam in the center of the stage is terrible. As a gay couple, we felt we were treated specially but noticed the main audience was bachelorette parties. Worth seeing once, but I won't return.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
“A 100% Great Time”
One of the best drag shows I've seen in a long time. Witty, funny, and absolutely a great time. A must see.
A local visitor · Over a year ago
“Let Them Entertain U!”
You haven't seen a show like the one at Darcelle XV. If you like plenty of T&A in your cabaret, comedy, talent, and costume changes, and if you've seen every drag show around, you still haven't seen anything like this. I recommend it to anyone who thinks they've seen it all because these performers have it down to a science. Fabulous fun all in one, and Miss Darcelle herself will have you in stitches. This is one of the most amazing shows on earth. Tell her I sent you from Starky's and she'll give you a complimentary lap dance. It doesn't get any better.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code? +
No specific dress code is required, but many guests dress up for the occasion.
What nights are shows performed? +
Current show schedule: Tuesday 6-9pm, Friday 7-10pm, Saturday 7pm-12am, and Sunday 11:30am-2:30pm.
Can I make a reservation? +
Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended for popular shows.
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