On Monday, September 29, Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester pulsed with energy as Bertha brought their unique blend of Grateful Dead spirit and theatrical flair to the stage.
Known not only for their musicianship but also for their bold use of drag and costuming, the band turned the intimate room into a kaleidoscope of sound, color, and character.
From the moment the group walked onstage, the crowd erupted — not just at the opening notes, but at the sheer spectacle of the performers themselves. Sequins, wigs, flowing gowns, and glam-rock accessories shimmered under the stage lights, creating a visual feast that matched the music’s vibrancy. Each member leaned fully into their character, blurring the lines between tribute, performance art, and pure celebration.
What makes Bertha so magnetic is how seamlessly they marry two art forms. Their drag-inspired presentation isn’t a gimmick — it’s an extension of the joy, playfulness, and freedom embedded in the Grateful Dead’s music. Theatrics flowed naturally alongside improvisation. The audience responded in kind, dancing with abandon, hooting at the dramatic flourishes, and fully embracing the communal spirit of the show.
The night was as much a visual performance as it was a musical one. At times, Garcia’s felt like a cosmic cabaret, where psychedelic jams and fierce runway confidence coexisted in perfect harmony. The combination of high-level musicianship and bold, inclusive artistry made the performance feel celebratory, defiant, and deeply alive.
As the encore closed and the lights came up, fans were buzzing not just about the music but about the entire spectacle Bertha created. The band has carved out a space where drag and Deadhead culture collide, and on this night in Port Chester, it was clear that their vision resonates. Bertha didn’t just perform — they transformed Garcia’s into a living, breathing work of art.
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