WORST OF LAS VEGAS 2021 - Part Two

WORST TREND - Invasion of the Drag Queens

Our contributing writer Clay Bushes was totally on target when she proclaimed "Too much of a good thing spoils the fun for everyone". Of course, she was referring to the irritating swarm of drag queens that have taken over the city like an infection. Head to a hamburger joint...a drag queen might wait on you. Go to a stripper show...a drag queen will most likely be the host(ess). From The Garden to Senor Frog's, Flamingo's historic showroom to off-Strip country bars, men in dresses and tacky make-up have appropriated the entertainment and service industries. 

While there's definitely a place for female impersonation in live entertainment (Faaabulous! The Show, DIVAS, and Legends In Concert come to mind), the sideshow freaks that have spewed from RuPaul's over-exposed ass have bastardized a once-respected art form. Drag has been reduced to a cheap and nauseating way for desperately-untalented men to snatch dollars from the hands of bewildered Vegas tourists. These "queens" are like costumed beggars on the sidewalk, but you can't avoid them by looking away. They're taking your order at Chipotle.

For more insight on this volatile and touchy subject, check out the full essay here. 

SADDEST NON-RETURN - The 35 Cinema

Visitors are often surprised to learn that Las Vegas is not only a hotbed for avid moviegoing, but it's also a mini-Hollywood of sorts. Dozens of films and television shows are shot here, and our population is overflowing with talented performers who do wonderfully on the silver screen when not onstage. 

Along with a few dozen chains, Sin City boasts several independent movie theaters such as West Wind 6 Drive-in, downtown's The Art Houz, and most exciting of them all...The 35 Cinema. This unique concept is truly retro, projecting beloved classics on actual film reels using vintage projectors. They also whip up the best hot popcorn in Las Vegas.

Sadly, The 35 Cinema's first location on Fremont Street fell victim to a number of challenges that left owner John Lohmann struggling to find a new home. Targeted reopening dates at an expanded venue inside Sahara's Commercial Center have come and gone. Let's keep our fingers crossed that the magic of the movies can return once again in all its original glory. Are you listening, John? 

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