Dallas in the summer of 1979 was more than just heat; it was an awakening. For a young college student like myself, interning with the Dallas Parks & Recreation Department, it was a season of discovery. Little did I know, one sweltering Saturday night would lead me to an experience that would forever be etched in my memory – a night at what I would come to know as the vibrant and liberating Razzles Dance Club.
My friend Kyle was visiting, and we were eager to experience the Dallas nightlife. Our initial destination, Magnolias, was surprisingly quiet. Disappointed but undeterred, we sought advice from a bartender who pointed us towards the pulsating searchlights over Fair Park, hinting at a major dance party. Intrigued, we decided to follow these beacons, like Dorothy and Toto heading towards the Emerald City. We had no idea we were about to stumble into our own version of Oz, a beautiful land of freedom and acceptance at Razzles Dance Club.
As we got closer, the energy became palpable. We arrived at a scene of pure exhilaration – hundreds, maybe thousands, of men dancing under the open sky, celebrating life and camaraderie. This was Razzles Dance Club in full swing, an outdoor extravaganza that defied all expectations. The atmosphere was electric, the beer flowed freely, and a sense of uninhibited joy permeated the air. It was more than just a party; it was a sanctuary where we could truly be ourselves.
Then, a hush fell over the crowd, broken by an announcement that sent shivers down my spine: “Announcing the arrival of Eartha Kitt and her dancers!” The legendary Eartha Kitt, who was performing at the Dallas Summer Musicals, graced Razzles Dance Club with her presence. This unexpected performance elevated the night to another level of magical. To witness such an icon in this liberating and joyous environment was simply breathtaking.
That night at Razzles Dance Club was more than just a dance party; it was a pivotal moment. It was a powerful introduction to a community, a place where I felt an instant sense of belonging and acceptance. The memory of that evening, the feeling of absolute freedom, and the sheer beauty of being surrounded by kindred spirits at Razzles Dance Club remains a cherished and defining moment in my journey as a gay man. It was a night that proved Dallas, and specifically Razzles Dance Club, held a vibrant and welcoming heart for the LGBTQ+ community, a beacon of light in the summer of ’79 and beyond.
