‘The Coronation’ brings Black drag king show, art exhibition to Philly

The Coronation drag king black excellence
Cyrus K. Stratton (producer and portrait artist), Simone Lawrence, Gemini Mxr (photographer), Sir Suavey, Mo Betta, Manny Lovett, Mr. Tee, Mister Right, Deej Nutz, Reese the Beast, are pictured.
Provided / Grayce Carson

The Brotherly Love Arts Company invites community members to the heart of Philadelphia’s Arts District for ‘The Coronation: An All-Black Drag King Show and Art Exhibition.’

On Saturday, Nov. 16, Prism Arts Philadelphia will host the event, which features fine art, highlights Black excellence, and showcases the diversity of Black drag kings. It will feature drag performers from Philadelphia Black Drag Kings Cyrus K. Stratton, Manny Lovett, Mo Betta, Mister Right, Gemini Mxr, Sir Suavey, Mr. Tee, Deej Nutz, Kyng Dom, and Reese the Beast. The event will also feature a gallery viewing of fine art, including original acrylic paintings by Cyrus K. Stratton and photographs by Gemini Mxr.

 The Coronation drag king black excellence
Provided / Grayce Carson

“My art has evolved into a combination of visual and performance arts to call attention to the marginalization that exists at the intersections of Blackness and queerness,” Cyrus K. Stratton said. “Black Drag Kings symbolize pride, talent, inspiration, and self-worth. Black Drag Kings have existed in Philadelphia for decades with prominent groups paving pathways for our success. Everyday, we dare to exist, to matter, to be remembered.”

 The Coronation drag king black excellence
Local artist Cyrus K. Stratton is pictured.Provided / Grayce Carson

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. The event will begin with the gallery viewing, lasting until 7:30 p.m., when the drag show will officially begin. Following the performances, there will be a meet and greet with the night’s performers.

Those who purchase tickets will receive 10% off orders on Support Local Drag merch.

For more information, visit mulletcreativeservices.com