THE REAL BLACK SWANN: Confessions of America’s First Black Drag Queen

What happens when you uncover a secret piece of history — and realize it’s part of your own story?

In THE REAL BLACK SWANN: Confessions of America’s First Black Drag Queen, acclaimed solo artist Les Kurkendaal-Barrett dives deep into the extraordinary life of William Dorsey Swann — a formerly enslaved man who became the first known drag performer and LGBTQ+ activist in the U.S.

What begins as Les getting a text before he goes into surgery turns into a captivating journey across time. As Les learns more about Swann — who organized drag balls in Washington D.C. in the 1880s and fought for queer freedom decades before Stonewall — he begins to see reflections of his own life and the power of reclaiming lost stories.

A funny, moving, and timely solo performance that weaves history, identity, and personal discovery, THE REAL BLACK SWANN will leave you inspired to reimagine the heroes of our past.

THE REAL BLACK SWANN has been recognized at festivals across the globe:

• Patrons' Pick - Orlando Fringe 
• Audience Pick - Prague Fringe 
• Best International show - Colchester Fringe
• Doric Wilson Award Dublin international Theatre Fest
   

“Powerful, heartfelt, and completely engaging… Les Kurkendaal-Barrett is a master storyteller.”
— Hollywood Fringe Festival 

“A fascinating and emotional tribute to an unsung hero of LGBTQ+ history. The audience was riveted.”
— Orlando Fringe Festival 

“Kurkendaal-Barrett brings humor, depth, and sincerity to a story that needs to be told.”
—  Minnesota Fringe
 

Les Kurkendaal-Barrett is a veteran solo performer and writer whose work has been showcased at top fringe and theater festivals around the globe, including the Edinburgh Fringe, Hollywood Fringe, and San Francisco Fringe. Known for his witty, heartfelt storytelling, Les explores themes of identity, race, and resilience with disarming honesty and humor. His past shows include Terror on the High Seas, Walking While Black in Moscow, and The Attack of the Roller Coaster of Love.

📅 Runs July 18–27, 2025 

Friday, Saturday 7:30 and Sunday at 6:00 with an additional performance on Thursday July 24 at 7:30