PGMC Remembers Darcelle XV

PGMC remembers Darcelle XV

A few weeks back Portland lost a legendary luminary with the passing of Darcelle XV.  PGMC was preparing for the opening of our Spring Concert “The Body Electric” and to honor Darcelle’s memory we dedicated that weekend of performances in her memory.  Many people have asked for us to share the dedication I delivered on stage, so as we prepare for Darcelle’s community-wide service on Tuesday, April 25th, we thought it would be an appropriate time to post PGMC’s dedication remarks.  Here is to an amazing artist whose life should be an inspiration to us all.

Iconic, Legendary, Fabulous, Magical, Beloved, Diva, these are just a few of the words we could use to describe one of PGMC’s longtime friends Walter Cole or as we have come to know him, the amazing Darcelle. 

To say that Darcelle was an Portland institution would be to understate the amazing legacy that this one person has had in our community.  PGMC was fortunate to have been a part of Darcelle’s world on numerous occasions, including most recently at our 2019 Stonewall Riot Concert when we celebrated all things Darcelle with our rousing tribute “Hello Darcelle”.

Darcelle lived to perform and the joy her amazing performances brought to countless fans will be sorely missed. But more than that, Darcelle loved this community and those most in need. If a life is measured by lives changed through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion, then Darcelle’s impact will be long remembered. 

So tonight, PGMC honors a life well lived by dedicating The Body Electric in Darcelle’s memory.   We hope that this small contribution in their memory will remind each of us of the incredible legacy Darcelle leaves behind.  We have lost a glittering light here in Portland, but I am sure we will soon be graced with a glittering new star in the firmaments about.  That is how it should be!  Thank you for being a part of our lives Darcelle – Rest in Peace!