“The Maverick Voice of the Cape: Exploring the Enduring Legacy of That’s Entertainment – The Provincetown Independent”
Perched on the eastern tip of Massachusetts, Provincetown has long been a beacon for artists, outsiders, and free thinkers seeking refuge from the mainstream. And at the heart of this vibrant community has been a publication that has consistently defied convention – That’s Entertainment, the Provincetown Independent. Since its inception in 1976, this beloved newspaper has not only chronicled the highs and lows of life on the Cape, but has also become an indispensable part of the town’s fabric, serving as a mouthpiece for the voices that truly matter.
Dina Martina’s Enigmatic Appeal
Miss Richfield 1981, Varla Jean Merman, and Dina Martina continue their reign as the standard bearers for exceptional achievement in drag performance and the core of Provincetown’s seasonal offerings.
There is no other performer I know who can do what Miss Richfield 1981 can do. Her shows have the loosest of frameworks. The current show is titled “Bad Advice,” but they are mostly interchangeable from year to year. There’s just enough of a storyline to get the party started and to wrap it up beautifully in a feel-good song-and-dance (and a musical saw). The magic happens when Richfield interacts with her audience and mines them for comedy.
Each time I watch her begin to move from her script into audience engagement, my stomach drops with fear of the what-ifs: What if this audience is full of boring people who won’t play along? What if this is the audience that finally defeats her? But it has never happened. She kills it every time. Is there another comedian in America with Richfield’s track record of success? I doubt it.
So where are her annual Netflix specials? Speaking of comedians who deserve national attention, will someone in Hollywood please step up and put Varla Jean Merman’s “Stand By Your Drag” on television? This stellar production at the Crown & Anchor deserves to be seen by the greater American public.
Beyond the Big Names: Emerging Talent and Hidden Gems
Tina Burner’s Rise to Prominence
- Tina Burner is a New York City queen who is bringing Not only is it one of P-town’s most prominent facades, with its grand columned portico and tower, but performers from the Cabaret—usually in drag—boisterously regale passers-by.
- The hotel business is a sideline; this is the town’s “largest entertainment complex,” true to its roots in the mid-19th century, when Timothy P. Johnson built the Central House (its first name) as a public hall for shows and entertainment, a bowling alley and—quite as important—a saloon.
Allen Reed purchased the Central from Johnson’s heirs in 1868, enlarged it, added sleeping rooms and attached a bowling alley, so that the Central was the largest hotel in town, extending over the water on pilings.
Reed was succeeded in 1881 by his son, James A. Reed, the town customs officer, who conducted business “from a room fitted in the building for that purpose.”
Other Notable Performers
Brief Mentions of Other Talented Drag Artists
- Other notable performers in Provincetown include those who are bringing their own unique styles and strengths to the scene, such as
- Those who are pushing the boundaries of what drag can be, while still entertaining and engaging audiences.
Visitors to Provincetown can discover new favorites by exploring the various shows and venues on Commercial Street, and by talking to locals and other performers about their favorite acts.
The Heart of Provincetown: The Crown & Anchor Motor Inn
A Rich History
The Crown & Anchor Motor Inn has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century when it was built as the Central House by Timothy P. Johnson.
It was reopened as the Crown & Anchor Motor Inn in 1962 by Staniford Sorrentino, and has since become a hub for entertainment and LGBTQ+ tourism in Provincetown.
In 1999, the building was rebuilt after a fire in 1998, and has been under the stewardship of Jonathan Hawkins and Paolo Martini since 2021.
Hawkins and Martini are dedicated to honoring tradition, supporting the community, celebrating queer arts, and elevating the LGBTQ+ tourist experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of “That’s Entertainment – The Provincetown Independent” has delved into the rich cultural heritage and evolution of Provincetown’s thriving entertainment scene. We’ve discussed how this vibrant town has been a haven for artists, performers, and free-spirited individuals for decades, shaping its unique identity. From the iconic drag culture to the town’s eclectic music venues, we’ve highlighted the significance of Provincetown as a beacon of creative expression and inclusivity.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Provincetown’s entertainment scene will continue to be a driving force in shaping the town’s identity and appeal. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of preserving and celebrating local culture and heritage will only continue to grow. The Provincetown Independent’s commitment to showcasing the town’s diverse entertainment offerings serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community-driven initiatives in fostering creativity and inclusivity. As we move forward, it’s essential that we prioritize the preservation of these unique cultural gems and continue to support the talented individuals who bring them to life.
