Gay bar lincoln ne

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Exiting my automobile, the bar's exterior fails to capture my attention. The letters 'HAUS' loom above the entrance, while subtle neon blue and purple hues flicker within the windows. Approaching the front door, the bar's expansive interior reveals itself, extending far into the building. Comfy, yet slightly worn, leather seating graces the right side of the entrance. Beyond this, a raised platform boasts additional leather armchairs and a projector. To the left, a couple of bartenders serve a small throng of patrons already occupying the lengthy bar at 10:15 PM.

The attractive male attendant, in charge of cover fees, is abrupt, gesturing for me to quickly remove my mask and tender the $10 fee. A neon yellow wristband is promptly bestowed upon me, along with my change. His gaze immediately shifts to the queue behind me. I retreat to the worn black sofas in the waiting area, anticipating my friends for tonight's drag performance, 'Purple Reign,' a tribute to Prince.

Prior to this performance, I had perused information about Das Haus. Meaning "the house" in German, Das Haus, owned by Adam Norris and Michael Bland, opened its doors in June of 2018. According to their online presence, Das Haus aims to inject a fresh aesthetic into the downtown area, featuring a main stage outfitted with over a hundred and thirty-two moving lights and Lincoln's first 25,000-watt, five-channel sound system, a characteristic typically found in prestigious European dance clubs. I've yet to visit a comparable European dance club, but at least now I'm aware of the ambiance that awaits. Das Haus, however, offers more than simply drag shows. They also host karaoke evenings, foam parties (a concept requiring further clarification), game nights, and even drag competitions.

My companions arrive a short while later, and as we traverse the bar towards the main performance area, we locate a table positioned directly on the stage's runway. While my gaydar isn't infallible, I discern a diverse audience composed of queer and non-queer individuals.

As advertised as a "lounge and cabaret" online, Das Haus embodies a seductive gothic mansion. Chandeliers and disco balls dangle from the ceiling, and the venue's black walls, dark lighting, and bass-heavy music create an ambiance suitable for pre-show anticipation. A second projector screen adjacent to the stage displays music videos, while an emcee keeps patrons updated regarding the arrival time of the upcoming performers.

Once the show commenced, the bar's growing popularity within the LGBTQ+ community in Lincoln, and even Omaha, became evident. The drag performers, expertly channeling the Prince aesthetic, showcased captivating Prince songs (naturally), purple attire, elaborate makeup, and unwavering confidence and poise.

A drag queen who performed regularly at Das Haus during its initial period recounts, 'Attendance at the bar, although sometimes modest in its early stages, has grown exponentially over time, establishing itself as the premier drag location in the state, and securing numerous annual awards.' In fact, Das Haus won Best Production at the All-American Gent national pageant in 2019.

Another friend notes that Das Haus has "created a unique space for many, unlike anything else in Nebraska. It's a place where everyone feels welcomed. Initially, I wasn't as drawn to it, but it's become a remarkably versatile venue for all."

As the drag show concludes, the performers gracefully acknowledge the audience while contemporary music fills the space. As a bisexual transgender man, I can affirm that Das Haus is a welcoming space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. The persistent dedication of the owners, staff, and performers has undeniably yielded significant results. Their performances are captivating, glamorous, and inclusive. If you have the opportunity, visit Das Haus!

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https://www.dashauslincoln.com/?fbclid=IwAR3dh5-OvwL1JtP2uPL2z_3RMd4qkNZafTszTA3MGABfpiTax6m0Rpk5URU

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Published on April 14, 2021. Last updated on May 12, 2021.