June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride month and the Neon Museum is recognizing Las Vegas’ notable gay entertainers during its guided tours throughout the month. Dennis McBride, director, Nevada State Museum, compiled information about notable LGBT individuals associated with businesses represented by signs on display in the Neon Boneyard.
Silver Slipper:
Boylesque opens at the Silver Slipper Casino’s Gaiety Theatre on Friday, May 13, 1977, setting a new standard for female impersonation productions.
El Cortez:
In November 1953, world-famous impersonator Lynne Carter, noted for his dead-on impersonations of female icons such as Pearl Bailey, opened in the Pirate’s Den lounge at the downtown El Cortez Hotel and Casino.
Flamingo:
In July 1970, famed female impersonator and five-time Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year Jim Bailey, best known for his Judy Garland impersonation, opened in the Flamingo Casino Theatre where he performed to sold-out audiences.
Stardust:
The Superstar Aid for AIDS Benefit, sponsored by Aid for AIDS of Nevada, took place in the Continental Theatre at the Stardust on June 14, 1987, and featured numerous celebrity performers.
Sahara:
On November 3, 1953, controversial transgender performer Christine Jorgensen, billed as “The World’s Most Talked-about Personality,” opened in the Sahara Hotel’s Congo Room.
“Las Vegas is known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, and the LGBT community has made invaluable contributions to this city through the years,” says Rob McCoy, president and chief executive officer, Neon Museum. “We are pleased to help illuminate Las Vegas’ diverse history through the signs in our collection.”
Day and night tours of the Neon Museum are available. All tours are guided, last approximately one hour and advance reservations are recommended. For more information about the Neon Museum’s tours, photo shoots and special events, go to www.neonmuseum.org or call (702) 387-6366.
