It seems the drag queens always get the crowning glory of media coverage and shows of their own. I'm only surprised that much more of the LGBTQ doesn't embrace the Drag King more. I mean, when was the last time you heard someone say, "Oh, we're going to a drag king show tonight."? I also don't personally know many people who could name drag kings like they could drag queens, with exception to Landon Cider and the fabulous and incomparable, mister showbiz himself, Murray Hill. So, this is my list of drag kings to know and start with, and the ones I feel are challenging gender perspectives. And shows of hilarity.
Adam All
Adam All leans heavily on the "geek chic" influences. A sharp suit in pink or a bowtie in lime green with Ray Ban style glasses to match. The accessories as well as sequins and glitter are essential. Adam can charm and alarm with equal appeal, l but is not the sharpest tool in the box. Adam spent his former life working as a decorator and carpenter on male dominated building sites and his character is developed from observation and combined with his own thoughts on masculinity. Adam likes to perform, even when inappropriate, one can tell he likes to explore gender dynamics. Kingspirations for Adam are Vesta Tilly, Storme De Larverie and Landon Cider.
Chiyo Gomes
Sammy identifies as a trans non-binary bear cub. He can flirt in between being non-binary and being a trans man. Gender is fluid and his gender identity he feels is constantly changing everyday. And Sammy's style? He is a stocky, furry bear cub. He'll rock a snapback, floral shirt, jeans and silver shoes. Or sometimes a top hat, a smart jacket and spats. Sammy is sassy, sexy and surreal. He loves dancing and throwing himself all over a stage. If he doesn't leave the stage in a heaping pile of sweat, he feels he hasn't done his job properly. He is a mixed bag. He is a Vlogger, has a You Tube full of sketches, comic rants, and just a few of his own original silly songs.
Drag kings ARE pretty rare but always worthwhile to go see! The only drag king I ever knew in real life was Carlos Las Vegas from Winnipeg who was relatively well known on the king circuit in the late 90s and early 00s but who has retired now.
ReplyDeleteI agree, The ones I saw were downright funny as hell. I have caught Murray Hill several times and was left in stiches.
DeleteI don't think I've ever seen one in person
ReplyDeleteHow interesting. This is the first time I've heard of a Drag King.
ReplyDeleteIm so glad I did the post now. Thanks Shirley!!!
DeleteThese are great. Will start watching them all. Thanks as always.
ReplyDeleteDrag Kings are fantastic.
ReplyDeleteNot only because their sense of humor is hysterical, but because of the way they also bend gender norms. Many do identify as gender-non-conforming, I've found. Which adds to the mix.
XOXO
I'm glad to see equal time given to them.
ReplyDeleteI like the sharing of the stage between the queens and the kings!
ReplyDeleteI never heard of a drag king. But regardless I think it would be a blast to masquerade more than Halloween. Maybe every new moon or last Saturday of each month. Although I don't think any should do same dress up gear more than once.
ReplyDeleteCoffee is on and stay safe
We were out once about three years ago, and I hit on a drag king once he was that convincing. Like Adam All, he looks adorable!!!
ReplyDeleteI loved this post. I knew drag queens existed, but I have never seen one perform. They are just as good as drag queens, but I often wondered why we don't see them more or hear of people wanting to go to see a show.
ReplyDeleteI really liked this Post Mads that gives a shout out to the Drag Kings and Gender Fluid Entertainers. Since The Grandson is Gender Fluid I've come to learn more about how a person lives with not necessarily identifying with a particular Gender at all.
ReplyDeleteThank you Dawn! Yes, I agree, the gender fluid don't always get the fair shake. We're invested far more into drag queens.
DeleteI have never heard of drag kings! There's always something new to learn it you keep an open mind.
ReplyDeleteAnd Drah Kings have been around pretty far back in the 1900's. They have been around longer then we think.
DeleteAt the last drag show I was at, there were a couple kings, not many but a couple. I don't think they were as fab as the queens, but I do give them props! And they did look like kings. Maybe it is cause they weren't as funny or as campy?
ReplyDeleteThat is great!!!!! Yes, some of the drag kings are not always as entertaining as the queens, but the notable ones have excellent shows. If you ever get the chance, see Murray Hill if he makes it to Ohio. Total hilarity.
DeleteDrag Kings always catch me off guard. One of them, by the way, has a major supporting role in Amy Schumer's new Hulu show. I remember them hosting a mixed drag event... so, seeing them on the show was sort of a - wow, Dorothy, we're not in Kansas anymore - moment. Kizzes.
ReplyDeleteAnd then there are those that are downright hot as hell!!!!! Hell, Id date Adam All!!!
DeleteI agree. To my knowledge, a drag competition show called Dragula, has featured kings.
ReplyDeleteOh I want to see a drag king show! How fascinating and fun this looks.
ReplyDelete