Citywide Special: An Oral History of Philadelphia’s Drag Communities
- Eva Pensis
- Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies, School of Arts & Sciences, The Center for Research in Feminist, Queer, and Transgender Studies
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Project Support Grant
Lisa Lisa at Bob and Barbara's. From the personal archive of Lisa Thompson.
Opening its doors in 1969, Bob & Barbara’s (B&B) has two claims to its name: it is home to the “citywide special” (a shot of whiskey and a PBR can) and to the longest-running drag show in the nation. Hosted by Philadelphia-based performer Lisa Lisa, the drag show has operated over the past 30 years and welcomed hundreds of trans and queer drag entertainers in the process. Over the years, the show has carved a space for trans and queer drag entertainers as an anchor for queer and trans of color Philadelphia, featuring nationally-renowned entertainers who have been recognized in Miss Philadelphia Black Gay Pride Pageant, Miss Gay USofA Pageant, and the Miss Continental Pageant. While the weekly drag show remains unassuming in its appearance, it has been instrumental in creating a space where generations of racially and sexually marginalized drag entertainers are able to share their art and performance. This oral history project will conduct 8 in-depth interviews with entertainers and nightlife workers. Reflecting on the popularity and ubiquity of the citywide special, the project will culminate in an exhibition on the drag show in the context of its role within Black trans/queer nightlife and popular culture in Philadelphia, more broadly.