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

by Les Kurkendaal-Barrett

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.

Audience Reviews

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Urgent, important, innovative, engaging, and superbly executed by an able and talented artist. Everybody should see it. I hope to see it again.

Awards

• Winner of the audience pick award Prague Fringe
• Winner of The Fringe Encore Producers pick Cincy Fringe
• Winner of The Doric Wilson award Dublin International Gay Theatre Festival
• Winner of the Pick of the Fringe 2024 (International) award Colchester Fringe Festival 2024

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.

Show Guidance

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