gay bar candy store

Sweet Escapes and Fierce Performances: Remembering the Candy Store's Legacy in LGBTQIA+ Culture

The name "Candy Store" evokes images of sugary treats and youthful indulgence. But for generations of LGBTQIA+ individuals, the name represents something far richer: a sanctuary, a stage, and a vital piece of cultural history. From the elegant piano bars of New York City to the vibrant drag scene of Columbia, South Carolina, the Candy Store became a haven where queer identities could be celebrated, nurtured, and fearlessly expressed.

The Candy Store: A Tale of Two Cities (and Beyond)

While seemingly disparate, the Candy Store concept manifested in different forms, each leaving an indelible mark. In New York City, the Candy Store on West 56th Street offered an upscale escape during the late '60s and '70s. Imagine a townhouse, transformed into a multi-level playground of queer expression. A sweeping grand staircase set the stage for dramatic entrances and exits. Ties and jackets were de rigueur, and the atmosphere was decidedly "swell-egant," attracting both gay men and their fiercely loyal "fag-hag" friends.

One patron reminisces, "You dressed up to go there." Can you picture it? A haven where men, often forced to hide their true selves during the work week, could finally exhale and embrace their authentic identities. Sunday nights were particularly special, featuring invitation-only buffets with real silverware, champagne, and an air of unapologetic extravagance. It was a place to see and be seen, a far cry from the gritty anonymity of the city streets.

From Cabaret to Community in Columbia, SC

Decades later, a different kind of Candy Shop emerged in Columbia, South Carolina. While smaller in scale, its impact was equally profound. This Candy Shop was a hub for Black LGBTQIA+ performers, a launching pad for drag queens, and a safe space for a community often marginalized within the larger queer community.

Hunter, a long-time show director at the Columbia Candy Shop, played a pivotal role in mentoring young talent. Dorae Saunders, a trans drag star and America's Got Talent quarterfinalist, credits her first drag show at the Candy Shop as a life-changing experience. It was a place where dreams were nurtured, and confidence was cultivated, all within the supportive embrace of a chosen family.

More Than Just a Bar: A Cultural Institution

What made these Candy Stores so special? It wasn't just the drinks or the entertainment; it was the sense of belonging, the feeling of being seen and accepted for who you truly are. In a time when LGBTQIA+ rights were still a distant dream, these spaces provided refuge from a hostile world. They were places where queer individuals could find community, forge friendships, and express themselves without fear of judgment.

The Columbia Candy Shop, despite its modest size, became known for its exceptional talent and late-night revelry. Even after the official closing time, the party would spill out into the parking lot, with conversations and connections continuing well into the night. This sense of community extended beyond the physical space, creating a network of support that lasted long after the music stopped.

The Enduring Legacy of the Candy Store

Why is it important to remember these spaces? Because they represent a crucial chapter in LGBTQIA+ history. They are a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of a community that has fought tirelessly for equality and acceptance. By preserving the stories of the Candy Store, we honor the pioneers who paved the way for future generations.

The Candy Store, in all its forms, served as a powerful symbol of resilience, creativity, and community. These spaces helped shape queer culture, providing a platform for self-expression, a sanctuary from oppression, and a lasting legacy of love and acceptance. So, the next time you hear the name "Candy Store," remember that it's more than just a sweet treat; it's a symbol of LGBTQIA+ history, a reminder of the power of community, and a testament to the enduring spirit of queer culture.

As one advocate poignantly stated, "There's still a need for us to know that we exist, to know we're not alone, to know there are others like us." The Candy Store, in its own unique way, provided that vital reassurance, leaving a sweet and lasting taste on the LGBTQIA+ landscape. What other untold stories are waiting to be rediscovered and celebrated?