FORMED IN 2002 in Boston, All The Kings Men started as drag kings participating in open-mike nights and drag slams at local lesbian bars. While they are still often publicized as “kings,” the six female members work to surpass drag convention and create multifaceted, entertaining, gender-bending shows that incorporate a variety of performance genres. Using elements of traditional burlesque, sketch comedy, slam poetry, modern dance, satire, and Weimar-style cabaret, All The Kings Men is a group that innovates and redefines drag and queer performance while confronting gender issues through funny, audience-involving shows. ATKM is also the focus of the 2009 independent documentary Play in the Gray, already screened in many American cities and catching national attention.
All the Kings Men are Katie Allen, Julee Antonellis, Leighsa Burgin, Jill Gibson, Maria Kogan, and Karin Webb. I intereviewed them in person late last year.
