Head for bawdy, brilliant drag shows at Oscar's in Palm Springs

Big hair, tights and roller skates for artist Marina Mac, who brought
the house down with a high-stepping performance on Oscar's balcony.

DRAG DAZZLES THE DESERT BOARDS: QUALITY CABARET SHOWS OFFER A FUN REASON  TO VISIT PALM SPRINGS

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

Actor Anita Rose applies makeup to host a sold-out show.

KEEPING A small business afloat during a pandemic is no small challenge. 

But Dan Gore, owner and manager of Oscar's in Palm Springs, has survived a year that put many restaurants and bistros under.

It's flourishing now -- perhaps not economically, but certainly in spirit, because Gore believes in the power of performance and the human spirit to transcend and triumph.

"The pandemic has given us  opportunity to reflect on life and both personal and business goals," he muses. 

AFTER lockdown curtailed indoor activities and closed down his popular eatery and theater, Gore and company revived the vital connection with his cabaret's loyal following. Using the patio as its main venue, the format allows for distancing, fresh air and fun times. 

Emcee Anita Rose has a witty, fun and free-wheeling style -- and several
fetching costume changes -- to keep Oscar's shows lively.

Loyal locals and supportive tourists are the lifeblood of Oscar's, known for its gender-bending productions, excellent menu, reliable kitchen, and its fresh, funny stable of talent.

WE WERE THRILLED to be in the audience at a recent sold-out "Bitchiest Brunch" revival Sunday matinee with emcee Anita Rose flamboyant, accomplished and endearing.  Drag is a long-standing tradition in theater and at Oscar's and Rose adeptly sets the tone with good-natured, let's have fun banter.

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers
are happy to be once again at a live show.

"I felt it was important to keep this going," Gore said. "Entertainment is one of the most essential elements of human life -- a chance for the entertainer to become someone else."  In turn, he reflects, "a good show allows the audience to escape reality for a couple hours, to leave depressing thoughts or physical ailments behind, to fantasize."

Oscar's drag queens fulfill that in spades -- to the delight of packed houses. The result brings a smile to Gore's face. An entertainer, producer and director for three decades, he said he hasn't necessarily been financially rewarded by staying the course, "but there's no greater reward than bringing smiles to the faces of our show audiences. The spiritual value for audiences and performers alike is infinite."   

Mimosa Man are on tap at Oscar's Saturday;
the cabaret's menu offers tasty dining and 
beverages which can be served during the show

Rosemary -- audacious,
funny, pretty in pink.

  OSCAR'S IS presenting a variety of spirited live entertainment as we recover from the pandemic performance drought.

Oscar's owner Dan Gore is
optimistic about Oscar's future
 and devoted to live performance.

Such  delights as a male exotic revue, Latin drag show and wickedly entertaining Sunday "bitchiest brunch" with roller skating acts and big hair await those of us who have been performance-starved. All the action is outside with distanced tables, and includes: Mondays, Las Chicas Calientes drag show; Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 pm. the Kal David Trio blues band; Saturday, Mimosa Men; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bitchiest Brunch. Sunday's popular T-Dance Disco Party resumes as Covid restrictions lift.

Our hunt for live entertainment always includes a stop at this lively cabaret when we're anywhere near Palm Springs. Oscar's on its own is even reason enough for a visit. 

For reservations (recommended) or information: oscarspalmsprings.com; 760 325-1188.

The intriguing sculpture of artist Ricardo Breceda await
pleasure seekers in California's Anza Borrego desert.

UP NEXT: The desert calls us and we  answer, in southern California's beautiful nature-driven life away from big cities. Sculpture, flowers, and fun places to hike and picnic await. Come along, remembering to explore, learn and live and catch us each week for a fresh spin on travel, the arts, nature, family and more. Share links with like minded people: whereiscookie.com