Cancelled: The Real Black Swann: Confessions of America’s First Black Drag Queen

Unfortunately this scheduled performance of The Real Black Swann: Confessions of America’s First Black Drag Queen will not go ahead as programmed on Thursday 6 February. We are apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you purchased a ticket, we will be in touch shortly with an update and your refund.

The true story of William Dorsey Swann, former slave who became the Queen of Drag in the US in the late 1800’s, the first US Black Drag Queen and Queer Activist. Written and performed by Les Kurkendaal-Barrett, directed by Tom Trudgeon, with cultural consultation by Brittney S. Wheeler.

by Les Kurkendaal-Barrett.

Advance Prices:

• University of Essex students - £6
• Concessions (including University of Essex staff) - £10
• Full - £15

Show Guidance:

• Age Suitability: 12yrs+
• Sensitive Content: Strong Language/Swearing

Audience Reviews:

• I’m always grateful for the fact that storytelling is the way Les chooses to process major events and transitions in his life, because it means there’s always another great story around the corner for those of us in the audience.
• It’s not easy being Queen, and it’s not easy telling the Queen’s story in a 60-minute one-person show, either. A play this ambitious could easily slide into glib superficiality on the one hand, or pedanticism, on the other. But, instead, Kurdendall has created an engaging, approachable, forceful and fascinating tale that feels intimate while still addressing epic historical events and illustrating their relevance for social justice movements today. “The Real Black Swann” is that rarest of all things: A history lesson that feels like it actually happened to real human being.
• Urgent, important, innovative, engaging, and superbly executed by an able and talented artist. Everybody should see it. I hope to see it again.

Artist Bio:

Les Kurkendaal-Barrett is an actor, writer and storyteller based in Los Angeles. He has been touring Fringe Festivals around the world since 2000. He has done film, television but he has a special fondness for Fringe Festivals. He has also appeared on The Moth.